Austin Forkner announced his retirement from professional racing today with the news taking immediate effect. The 5.11 Triumph Factory Racing rider did not line up for the RedBud National and says the decision comes from factors that include a lingering nerve issue in his left arm, the crash from Arlington in 2024 and the brain surgery that followed shortly after, and his growing family. You can see his full announcement in the self-published video below.
Forkner’s Announcement
Forkner turned pro in 2016 after a standout amateur career with titles at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch and really burst onto the scene by winning the Supermini class in the early days of the Monster Energy Cup. During his 250cc tenure, he captured 13 250SX divisional wins with the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki team which puts him in a four-way tie for third all time. Forkner’s 10-year career has been plagued with injuries, all while bouncing back with race-winning speed. He totaled 116 SMX League starts between 2016 and 2026 and ends this chapter with a final result at the Hangtown National where he finished 18-26 for 22nd overall.
