Russell Pauses Retirement, Joins AmPro Yamaha
Cycle News Staff | December 10, 2024
The AmPro Yamaha Racing Off-Road Team acquired one of GNCC’s most successful racers by signing eight-time GNCC Champion Kailub Russell.
GNCC Champion Kailub Russell is coming out of retirement to seek a ninth title. This time, he’ll pilot an AmPro Yamaha alongside teammate Liam Draper.
Russell retired from professional racing in 2021 after 16 years with KTM; the 34-year-old (he’ll be 35 in February 2025) says he wants to go racing again.
“I’m very excited to come back to GNCC after four years of watching,” Russell said. “I was at a point where I just needed a break from racing. I realize now that life goes by even faster away from racing, and I don’t want to miss out on being able to do what I love.
“I’m very happy AmPro Yamaha is giving me the opportunity to come back. It’s exciting to see how stoked the whole team is to have me join, and I can’t wait to return to the races!”
“When this opportunity came up, I was pretty excited,” said Team Owner Randy Hawkins. “I’ve known Kailub since he was riding 85s, and he’s always had such a passion for winning, and that hasn’t changed. So, having him come back from retirement and want to join the team and put his trust in our program is a big deal for us. I also think that it is good not only for the team and Yamaha to have Kailub back racing but also for the sport.”
Donnie Luce, Amateur MX/ ATV / Off-Road Coordinator for YMUS, said, “Having an eight-time champion join your team only further validates what Randy Hawkins and his entire AmPro Yamaha team have been building for over 25 years. We look forward to seeing him back in action and representing the bLU cRU in the premier class.”
Russell will make his debut aboard the number-557 AmPro Yamaha Racing/bLU cRU YZ450FX at the opening round of the 2025 season in March.CN
