Official: Freddie Bartlett signs with Absolute MX KTM Powered by Mark McCann 64

Freddie Bartlett, a promising young British motocross rider, has officially signed with the Absolute MX KTM Powered by Mark McCann 64 team, marking a pivotal development in his 2026 racing season. At just 16 years old, Bartlett began the year competing on a 450cc bike but will now transition to a 250cc machine to focus on the MX2 British Championship. This move is seen as a crucial step in his career, providing him with the professional support and resources necessary to compete against some of the UK’s leading MX2 riders. Bartlett’s initial choice to race on a 450cc bike earlier in the season was a strategic decision driven by budget considerations and the opportunity to achieve results on a stock machine. He explained that the plan was always to leverage those performances in MX1 to secure a place on an MX2 team, which has now been realised with his signing. Returning to KTM machinery, a brand he is well acquainted with from his 125cc days, Bartlett has quickly settled back into the rhythm of riding a 250cc bike, aided by some suspension adjustments to suit his style. The young racer has adopted a measured approach to his expectations, focusing on doing his best rather than setting high-pressure targets. His immediate goal is to adapt fully to the 250cc class and build momentum within the British domestic scene. However, Bartlett is also considering the possibility of expanding his horizons by competing in European events later in the year, contingent on his progress and results at home. With the backing of Absolute MX KTM Powered by Mark McCann 64, Bartlett now has a solid foundation to push forward in his career. The partnership not only offers technical and logistical support but also positions him as one of the UK’s emerging talents in the MX2 category. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Bartlett to see how he capitalises on this opportunity and whether he can establish himself among Britain’s top young motocross riders.