Interview: Brian Hsu – “I’ve got the fun back and I enjoy riding”

Brian Hsu, once hailed as a rising star in motocross with a promising start in the EMX125 class, is making a determined return to Grand Prix racing after a five-year absence. The German-born rider of Taiwanese descent, who initially raced for Suzuki and captured the EMX125 title as a teenager, faced setbacks including injuries and missed opportunities that interrupted his career trajectory. Now 28 and based in Italy, Hsu has been rebuilding his form through the Italian Championship, achieving podium finishes before stepping back into the MXGP World Championship aboard Honda machinery. While his results are still developing, Hsu’s renewed passion and commitment to the sport are clear as he adapts to the demands of top-level racing once again. Hsu’s comeback has been marked by a gradual progression, starting with the 250cc class in 2025 where he finished fifth overall in the Italian series. This performance earned him a promotion to the 450cc class this year, where he is still gaining experience and adjusting to the faster pace and intensity of MXGP competition. The speed of the current field poses a significant challenge, with Hsu acknowledging the difficulty of translating his mental readiness to the track. Despite these hurdles, he remains focused on steady improvement, prioritising consistency and injury avoidance as he rebuilds his confidence and racecraft. Reflecting on his recent races, Hsu expressed satisfaction with scoring points in only his second MXGP outing on the 450cc bike, though he admitted that physical factors such as heat and track conditions affected his performance in France. His time away from the sport has required a mental recalibration; the youthful fire that once propelled him to early success has had to be rekindled. Now, with enjoyment restored and bike setup dialled in, Hsu is rediscovering the motivation to compete and believes in his potential to climb higher in the standings. Living in Italy since 2008 and racing for an Italian team, Hsu has embraced his adopted home, which he describes as feeling like “home” despite occasional visits back to Germany. His experience in the Italian Championship has been positive, with podium finishes reinforcing his progress and providing valuable race experience against strong competition. Looking ahead, Hsu plans to participate selectively in MXGP rounds, focusing on nearby hard-pack tracks rather than sand rounds, and intends to take his comeback one race at a time. Beyond motocross, Hsu remains interested in Supercross, viewing it as a complementary challenge that helps maintain his fitness and competitive edge. While his immediate focus is on regaining form and consistency in MXGP, he is open to opportunities in Supercross should they arise. Hsu’s journey reflects a rider rediscovering his passion and resilience, determined to carve out a renewed presence in the sport after years away from the spotlight.