Nicolai Skovbjerg has enjoyed a breakout season so far in 2025, competing in the EMX250 championship and taking part in selected MX2 rounds when the calendars don’t clash. The Danish talent secured his maiden EMX250 podium in Finland — a remarkable weekend in which he displayed immense pace, charging through the pack to claim second place.

His performance in Lommel, however, was arguably even more impressive, securing 8th overall ahead of a host of factory-backed competitors. Remarkably, the young Dane was the highest scoring Yamaha rider on the weekend – an outstanding achievement considering the small, family supported privateer effort behind his racing dream. With it now seemingly falling into place and the strong results are following, many could wonder if there has been any significant changes in his program heading into the season, or if it simply clicked this season.

“It’s been quite a good season up until this point” he told Cult Moto. “Of course, there have been some ups and downs, but that’s motorsport. Everything is pretty much the same as last year – no big changes at all. It has just clicked a bit more, and everything behind closed doors has been great.”

Currently riding for the Wozniak MX Racing Team, Skovbjerg truly operates as a privateer, with the involvement of both his mother and father playing a pivotal role in his success. As anyone in the sport knows, motocross is tough on families chasing the dream – financially, logistically, and in terms of the risk-to-reward ratio, which often doesn’t make sense to outsiders. While some riders thrive under the intimacy and low pressure environment of a small organisation, there’s no denying that greater support makes every aspect of racing easier – which only underlines how impressive Skovbjerg’s achievements have been this year.

“It just makes the results feel a little bit better” he reflected. “Most of all because everyone is doing what they can to improve as much as possible everywhere, with what we have. Regarding a ride for next year, I’m not sure what I’ll do yet. Emil Larsen is the one keeping the overview of what possibilities I have. He knows what I want and is doing all he can to find another great, but new, home for next year. I’ve been super happy to ride for the Wozniak MX Racing Team, but I’m ready for a new step and to be moving away from home.”

It’s refreshing to see a young talent willing to step outside their comfort zone and take the necessary steps to become one of the sport’s elite. Skovbjerg now faces a crucial crossroads for 2026; either remain in the EMX250 class to mount a title challenge or step up to MX2 full time. From a career progression standpoint, I believe riders should compete in MX2 rather than EMX250. However, in Skovbjerg’s case, if the necessary support isn’t in place, the EMX route could prove more realistic – and potentially more attractive to sponsors -especially with strong podium performances like his breakthrough in Finland.

“Honestly, I’m ready for both! I believe that with a good winter, I could be a contender for the EMX250 title, but also be competing inside the top 10 of the MX2 class” he said, when asked about his preference of racing for next year.

With two rounds remaining in the EMX250 championship in Sweden and The Netherlands, the Danish talent is a rider you should watch closely.