The 2026 Penrite Racing Empire Kawasaki (Empire Kawasaki) rider line-up is now complete with the exciting announcement of four-time ProMX Champion Dean Ferris officially joining the team. Partnering with teammate Brad West, the newly appointed MX1-only Empire Kawasaki program will aim to chase its first professional championship when the gates drop at Wonthaggi in March.
Ferris is one of the most accomplished riders in ProMX history, with 69 moto wins, 32 overall victories, and four premier-class MX1 championships. His return to racing, following an extended break after injury in the 2024 season, marks a new chapter in his storied career.
“I’m beyond thankful to be signing with Empire Kawasaki for the 2026 season.”
“Everyone is aware of the phases I’ve had in my career, and although I stepped away from racing in the middle of 2024 following my small injury and team split, I never officially retired and remained open to returning to racing on the right program for me.”
“It has been a very organic process where I began to see what was available for 2026, and Empire Kawasaki was forthcoming with the intention to go after a ProMX Championship with me in 2026.”
“To be able to reunite with Brad McAlpine, who was my crew chief for three of my MX1 Championships and is now the Empire Kawasaki Team Manager, is an amazing opportunity, and I am already loving being on the KX450 and working with the team.”
“I am aware of the current level in MX1 and under no illusions that I have a lot of work ahead of me, but with that being said, the feeling I have on the bike already makes me feel confident I will be competitive and challenge at the front of the field,” concluded Ferris.
Empire Kawasaki Team Owner Tyson Cherry also shared his thoughts on the new signing.
“We have made a big push for 2026 and progressed our relationship with Kawasaki Australia, moving into a new focus as an MX1-only program.”
“For us to sign a rider of Dean’s calibre elevates our entire program, and it was such a great fit with Brad McAlpine having a rich history working with Dean across many of his championship years.”
“It’s early days, but Dean looks great on the bike, and we are excited to work over the off-season and come out swinging at Wonthaggi.”
Dean Ferris will make his debut for the Penrite Racing Empire Kawasaki Team at Wonthaggi for the Opening Round of the ProMX Championship on the weekend of March 21st and 22nd, 2026.
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