Interview: Benoit Paturel – “I don’t know where a door will open, but I’ll be ready”

French motocross rider Benoit Paturel is preparing for a competitive return in 2026 after a challenging period marked by last-minute setbacks. Initially planning to continue with HEP Suzuki in the USA for the 2026 outdoor season, Paturel’s contract was unexpectedly cancelled late in 2025. A promising opportunity with Yamaha in Brazil also fell through when the ride was awarded to another rider. Faced with limited options and uncertainty, Paturel took time to reflect before recommitting to training intensively with the aim of competing again in the US motocross scene the following year. Paturel’s experience racing in the United States in 2025 was a mixed but valuable one. He managed to independently organise his campaign, securing private sponsorship and purchasing a bike locally. Despite some mechanical issues and race incidents, he appreciated the professionalism of working with a factory team and the challenge of competing on iconic American tracks. His best performance came at Pala, where familiarity with the circuit helped him achieve a strong result, though overall he finished 15th in the championship, believing he had the potential to place in the top ten. The rider also explained why he chose not to pursue Supercross, a discipline he felt unprepared for at 31 years old. After a heavy crash at Budds Creek and limited Supercross experience, Paturel and his team agreed to skip the Supercross season, citing the need for more preparation and the physical demands of the sport. He contrasted his situation with that of Valentin Guillod, who successfully competes in both 250SX and 450MX classes, noting that Supercross requires early and dedicated development that he has not had. Returning to competition in Europe, Paturel recently raced at Thomer-la-Sôgne after five months off, describing his performance as average due to lack of bike time and some physical discomfort. Despite mixed feelings about the race, he viewed it as a useful reset and a chance to regain race sharpness. Looking ahead, he plans to compete at Sainte-Austreberthe and remains hopeful about securing a ride in the US for the 2026 season, leveraging contacts and experience to find the right opportunity as the season approaches.