SX2 series leader Max Anstie completed the formality of his 2025 world championship in South Africa. The #99 scored three 2nd positions and ranked as runner-up behind Shane McElrath across a loose and dusty track in the buzzing metropolis of Cape Town this evening. Thanks to his points, Anstie conquered the series at the first ever South African World Supercross GP in front of a busy and noisy crowd at the DHL Stadium and capped a dominant campaign in the class.

The 32 year old stamped the #1 with a solid ride behind outgoing champ McElrath in the first Sprint race; P2 was all Anstie needed to begin the celebrations. On the night however McElrath proved tough to beat. The North Carolinian seized three clean starts and set the pace ahead of the Brit.

The South African dirt was slick in sections but McElrath was largely faultless as Anstie applied pressure in the second Sprint and then was less than a second from the rear wheel of the Quad Lock Honda until a small slip on the last lap of Race 3.

“We persevered and it was an uphill battle,” said McElrath, immediately after his first overall triumph of the season. “We learned a lot this year as a team and [me] also personally. The fans here in South Africa have been a real treat and I’m proud to hear the American anthem. We’re excited to end-up on top tonight.”

Max Anstie: “The fans here in South Africa have been a real treat and I’m proud to hear the American anthem. We’re excited to end-up on top tonight. Pretty awesome! it’s been a great season and so cool to be able to visit all these countries and be a part of this world championship,” he said, moments after inking the history books. I cannot give it up enough to my wife and little son and the whole Star Yamaha crew back in America. The bike never missed a beat and, of course, Serge and all the guys at the GSM team here. It’s awesome to make this whole collaboration work. Supercross felt like such a dream … and it took me so long to get to the top. I’m in a solid spot in my career.”