Interview: Liam Owens – “I’ve had to reinvent myself”

Liam Owens entered the 2026 EMX250 season with high hopes following a strong previous year, but the early rounds proved challenging. Despite glimpses of his natural speed, a combination of crashes and discomfort with his bike setup hindered his ability to consistently fight at the front of the pack. However, an extended mid-season break allowed Owens and his team to focus on testing and bike development, leading to a marked improvement in his performance at the latest round in Germany, where he impressively climbed through the field to secure a third-place finish in the opening moto. Owens attributed the turnaround to technical adjustments that made the bike feel more comfortable and better suited to his riding style. He explained that while the previous machine was not inherently bad, it simply did not match his preferences, which affected his confidence and results. The significant work done during the break, including changes to gearing and bike setup, helped him regain the pace and aggression that characterised his previous campaigns. Owens also highlighted the importance of making decisive overtakes, acknowledging that in the highly competitive EMX250 class, riders must take risks to contend for victories. Reflecting on his mindset, Owens admitted that the pressure of being considered a championship contender for the first time had influenced his approach early in the season. He recognised that he had been tentative, perhaps waiting for success to come rather than actively seizing opportunities on track. This realisation prompted a shift in attitude, with Owens now embracing a more aggressive style that involves taking calculated risks to secure podium positions. Despite the setbacks, he maintained a positive outlook and emphasised the need to evolve as a rider, recognising that he must reinvent himself as he matures and adapts to new challenges. The Australian rider also spoke candidly about the mental and physical hurdles he faced, particularly after a difficult race in Arco that left his confidence shaken. He described the process of going "back to the drawing board" and finding a new approach to his racing rather than chasing the same strategies that had worked in the past. The break in the calendar proved crucial for this transformation, allowing him to focus on refining his starts, adjusting gear ratios, and improving his overall racecraft. Owens is optimistic that these changes will pay dividends in the second half of the season as he targets stronger results and a sustained challenge for the championship.