Pala, California – May 24, 2025 — The 2025 Pro Motocross Championship roared to life this past Saturday with Round One at Fox Raceway in Pala, California. Anticipation was high, especially for Twisted Tea Suzuki presented by Progressive Insurance, as the team arrived with momentum and new talent.
Colt Nichols entered the weekend fresh off a dominant victory at the Glen Helen Stopwatch National, where he led every lap aboard his #45 Suzuki RM-Z450. Meanwhile, the team proudly introduced new international recruit Benoit Paturel, who made his U.S. debut on the #102 Twisted Tea Suzuki.
“We did fairly good today,” said Team Manager Larry Brooks. “Benoit went 11-10 for 10th overall—he rode solid and fought hard all the way. Colt went 13-DNF for 16th overall. Obviously, it would’ve been better if Colt didn’t go down, but overall it was a good weekend for the team.”
Nichols showed early promise with a 13th-place finish in Moto 1. Unfortunately, his day was cut short after a first-lap crash in Moto 2 left his bike too damaged to continue. Despite the setback, Nichols remains optimistic.
“Yeah, the day was a bit up and down for me,” said Colt Nichols. “Qualifying didn’t go great, but I battled back to 13th in the first moto after a crash. In Moto 2, I came together with another rider and destroyed the bike—there wasn’t much we could do. We’ll regroup and come back stronger next weekend.”
For Paturel, the day marked a dream come true. The Frenchman impressed with consistent results and aggressive starts, including a top-five jump off the gate in Moto 2, ultimately securing 10th overall (11-10) in his first-ever Pro Motocross National.
“I’m so grateful and lucky to be here,” said Benoit Paturel. “We improved every session and made progress throughout the day. I’m really happy with the team—they’ve given me this amazing opportunity. It’s truly a dream to race in the U.S., and I can’t wait for next weekend.”
The 2025 Pro Motocross Championship continues with Round Two this Saturday, May 31st, at the legendary Hangtown National in Prairie City, California. Fans can catch all the action live on the Peacock TV App, with Race Day Live kicking off at 10:00 AM PST and the first gate drop at 1:00 PM PST.
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Photos by Chase Lennemann
Partners:
TWISTED TEA/ HEP SUZUKI: Twisted Tea Hard Iced Tea, Suzuki Motor of America, INC. (SMAI), Progressive Insurance, ECSTAR, Dixxon Flannel Co, Albek, Cycle Gear, Leatt, Pro Circuit, Twisted Development, SKDA Graphics, WD-40 Brand, DID, Dunlop, JE Pistons, Hinson Clutch Components, Mika Metals, DT1 Air Filters, Nissin Brake Components, Galfer Brakes, Acerbis, Boyesen, GUTS Factory Seats, Motion Pro, Works Chassis Lab, Works Connection, Scar, CV-4, Crank Works, XTRIG, Midland Tractor, Showa, record7.
Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki: Progressive Insurance, Suzuki Motor of America, INC. (SMAI), ECSTAR, Dixxon Flannel Co, Albek, Cycle Gear, Pro Circuit, Renthal, Twisted Development, SKDA Graphics, WD-40 Brand, DID, Dunlop, JE Pistons, Hinson Clutch Components, DT1 Air Filters, Nissin Brake Components, Galfer Brakes, Acerbis, Boyesen, GUTS Factory Seats, Motion Pro, Works Chassis Lab, Works Connection, Scar, CV-4, Crank Works, XTRIG, Midland Tractor, Showa, record7.
