Aden Keefer is set to make his pro debut with the Phoenix Racing Honda team as he’ll compete in the full AMA Pro Motocross Championship this summer. With Cullin Park and Evan Ferry sidelined for the early portion of the season, the team explored their options for filling the seat alongside Gavin Towers. Rather than bringing in a short-term replacement, Phoenix Racing opted to sign Keefer for the full 11-round series, giving the California native an opportunity to transition into the pro ranks earlier than planned.
“My main goal for 2026 has been to prepare myself to make the transition into the pro ranks and earn an opportunity along the way,” said Keefer. “Getting the call to take that next step and line up for all 22 motos this summer is something I couldn’t pass up, especially with the chance to do it aboard a Phoenix Racing Honda CRF250R. The past year and a half has had its share of dark times and tough moments, at times I wasn’t sure an opportunity like this would come. Now that it’s here, I’m ready to put my head down, work all summer, and prove that I belong at this level. To get to this point, I’ve had a lot of support from my personal partners and sponsors, and the relationships I’ve built with those people and companies will stay with me for a long time. I’m truly thankful for each and every one of them, and I appreciate their support in allowing me to make this move mid-season and take the next step in my career.”
“Across all of our programs, whether it’s GNCC, ATVs, or Supercross, we’ve always tried to give that next generation, especially those who may be overlooked, a real shot,” said team owner David Eller. “After meeting Aden and his family and seeing how he fit in with our crew, it was clear he’s the kind of rider we want to work with. He’s hungry, he wants the opportunity, and we’re excited to see what he can do this summer and how he develops with our program.”
Team manager Gary Schlentz echoed that sentiment, noting that the decision was made with both immediate and long-term goals in mind.
“With some of our regular riders out this summer, we had to take a hard look at the best option heading into Pro Motocross,” Schlentz said. “We could’ve gone the route of a short-term fill-in, but we felt it was more valuable to have another rider on the bike all summer. That allows us to evaluate the program alongside Towers and track our progress week in and week out. Aden’s name kept coming up when we spoke with our partners, and after our first day with him, it was clear why. He’s someone we see real value in developing, and he’s willing to put in the work.”
Keefer is expected to line up with the number 147 at the season opener at Pala, one hour from his hometown, marking the beginning of his professional career on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
