Jett Lawrence Targets Motocross Opener in Recovery from Ankle Injury After Supercross Absence

Jett Lawrence, 22, is targeting the May 30 Pro Motocross opener at Fox Raceway in Pala as he recovers from a fractured talus and navicular bones in his right ankle sustained in a December training crash in Florida. Team Honda HRC Progressive confirmed Lawrence underwent surgery in late December and has been progressing slowly due to the injury’s complexity and limited blood flow to the talus bone.

Lawrence’s injury has sidelined him for the entire 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship, including the season opener at Anaheim One on January 10. Team Honda HRC Progressive confirmed that Lawrence underwent surgery in late December, the day after his crash at the Dog Pound training facility in Florida. Officials said the surgery addressed fractures to the talus and navicular bones in his right ankle, injuries complicated by the talus bone’s limited blood flow, which slows healing.

Lawrence underwent surgery in late December, the day after his crash at the Dog Pound training facility in Florida, to address fractures to the talus and navicular bones in his right ankle.

According to Lawrence, who spoke during an NBC broadcast from Nashville, his recovery has been slower than from a previous ACL injury. “It’s been a kind of a slow process,” he said, adding, “It hasn’t been as easy as the ACL, for sure. But we’re getting there.” He described how initial attempts to ride were hindered by vibrations from the bike, but recent progress includes riding on flat terrain to help break up scar tissue that cannot be fully treated by hand. “New injuries, so I have no experience in these fields,” Lawrence said, emphasizing the challenges posed by the talus fracture.

Lawrence is targeting the Pro Motocross season opener on May 30 at Fox Raceway in Pala, California. When asked about his readiness, he said, “I would say yes,” expressing confidence in lining up for the race despite not being at full strength. The two-time 450MX champion, who won titles in 2023 and 2025, aims to return to competitive form and “make the 2026 season as successful as we can,” according to statements relayed by Team Honda HRC Progressive and MotoOnline.com.

The recovery timeline for Lawrence is expected to extend at least three months, with rehabilitation progressing week by week. Team Honda HRC Progressive officials confirmed that Lawrence has recently begun riding lightly on flat surfaces, a step forward in his rehabilitation. His teammate Hunter Lawrence represented Honda at the Supercross season start aboard the CRF450RWE, while Chance Hymas competed on the CRF250RWE. Another teammate, Jo Shimoda, remains sidelined due to a neck injury.

Medical experts note that fractures to the talus bone are particularly challenging because the bone receives limited blood flow, which can delay healing and complicate recovery. Lawrence’s surgery took place the Saturday following his crash on a Friday in December 2025. Since then, his rehabilitation has involved cautious progression to avoid setbacks. “My goal is to get this ankle fully healed up and return as competitive as ever,” Lawrence said in recent interviews.

The injury forced Lawrence to miss the entire Supercross season, including the high-profile Anaheim One event, where his absence was notable. Honda HRC Progressive confirmed that the team has adjusted its lineup accordingly, with Hunter Lawrence and Chance Hymas stepping into key roles. Lawrence’s recovery and return to racing remain closely monitored by his team and medical staff, with updates provided through official channels and broadcasts.

As Lawrence continues his rehabilitation, the focus remains on his ability to compete in the upcoming Pro Motocross series, where he will defend his 450MX championship titles. His progress will be assessed in the coming weeks as he works toward regaining strength and mobility in his right ankle. The Fox Raceway opener on May 30 stands as a critical milestone in his recovery and return to professional motocross competition.

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