The 2026 MXGB season kicks off this weekend at Hawkstone Park, and both the MX1 and MX2 classes look set to be highly competitive as world-level riders join the series, adding serious depth to what promises to be a great season of racing.

Defending champion Conrad Mewse is, quite literally, untouchable on home soil. Last year he showcased that he was in a world of his own most weekends, and honestly, if he replicates that level with this current field, we collectively need to get the man back to GPs as soon as possible! However, to repeat last season’s dominance, he will have to deal with some high-level operators alongside existing competitors who have progressed over the off-season.

Oriol Oliver is a name British fans are familiar with after racing nearly every round of the championship last season in the MX2 class. The Gabriel SS24 Spaniard debuted in the MXGP class in Bariloche, Argentina last weekend, and now turns his focus toward the MXGB series with his sights set on capturing the MX1 title for the team. Whilst still technically a rookie in the class, Oliver brings serious pedigree, and if the #83 can get out of the gate, there is no reason he can’t be a threat for the championship.

Ben Watson is back! He really doesn’t need much of an introduction, let’s be honest. A former Grand Prix winner in the MX2 class, Watson has joined forces with the Dirt Store Triumph Racing squad for 2026, which will see him make another run at the British title. In theory, Watson has the best chance of stopping the seemingly dominant Conrad Mewse on home soil, but as we all know, Mewse is a different animal in Britain – so this could turn into a very interesting battle to watch unfold.

Adam Sterry has more than enough to capture the title as well. The Chambers Racing rider is certainly fed up with second-place finishes, and his goal for the season is simple – to win the championship. Look for the #811 to be closer to the front throughout this season, and if given the chance again, he’ll be looking to turn the long list of laps he led in 2025 into race wins in 2026.

Josh Gilbert quietly pieced together a strong campaign last season with the Lexa MX team. For 2026 he remains on Honda machinery but makes the switch to the Apico Honda squad as he lines up for another run in the British Championship. Gilbert has shown on multiple occasions that he has the pace to run at the front, but bridging the gap to the very top step of the podium will be the clear target this season. If the #3 can consistently put himself in the fight at the front, he could become another rider firmly in the mix throughout the championship.

Outside of the ‘main five’, the likes of Tristan Purdon, Bobby Bruce, Brad Todd, Taylor Hammal and Eddie Wade all possess the ability to piece together strong campaigns. It really is shaping up to be a great season across the board. From podium spots to the top ten, the racing is going to be competitive!