- Club teams from across New Zealand compete in a unique team-versus-team motocross format.
- Funds raised will support New Zealand’s 2026 Motocross of Nations campaign in France.
- Several former MXoN representatives, including Cody Cooper and Josiah Natzke, are expected to race.
The annual Battle of the Clubs heads to Taupō this Saturday, bringing together many of New Zealand’s top motocross riders while raising funds to help send the national team to this year’s Motocross of Nations in France.
Photo: MNZ/Derek Morrison
Teams from across New Zealand will converge on Taupō this weekend for one of the country’s most unique motocross events, with the annual Battle of the Clubs once again doubling as a fundraiser to help send New Zealand riders to the 2026 Motocross of Nations.
Held at the Digger McEwen Motocross Park on Saturday, July 11, the popular Taupō Motorcycle Club event swaps the usual manufacturer and professional team rivalries for club pride, with riders representing their local clubs in a format inspired by the prestigious Motocross of Nations (MXoN).
Often described as the “Olympics of Motocross”, the MXoN sees national teams from around the world compete for international honours. This year’s event will be held at Ernée in north-west France on October 3-4, with funds raised at Battle of the Clubs helping support New Zealand’s campaign.
Motorcycling New Zealand Operations Manager Vicky Hicks says the event highlights the importance of local clubs to the sport.
“Clubs are the heartbeat of our sport. Our clubs have an impact from grassroots right through to our international stars. They’re a big reason why New Zealand punches above its weight on the international motorcycle racing stage, and this event embodies that passion and energy.”
“Battle of the Clubs caters for every level of the sport, with racing for mini riders, juniors, women, seniors and veterans, creating a full day of competition while raising money for one of New Zealand motocross’ biggest international commitments.”
Battle of the Clubs caters for every level of the sport, with racing for mini riders, juniors, women, seniors and veterans, creating a full day of competition while raising money for one of New Zealand motocross’ biggest international commitments.
New Zealand has a proud history at the Motocross of Nations, having finished on the overall podium three times – in England in 1998, Belgium in 2001 and England again in 2006. With Kiwi riders continuing to impress on the international stage, hopes remain high for another strong showing in France later this year.
Photo: MNZ/Derek Morrison
Saturday’s event is also expected to feature several riders with previous MXoN experience, including Cody Cooper, James Scott, Josiah Natzke and Maximus Purvis, all racing for their respective clubs rather than their usual teams.
Strong entries have been received from around the country, including several South Island clubs making the trip north. Despite difficult winter weather and travel challenges, Southland Motorcycle Club is expected to field a competitive line-up featuring current New Zealand MX1 number three Jack Symon, MX2 rider Jack Treloar, veterans competitor Justin McDonald and juniors Ryan Keen, Ben Costello and Riki Butson.
With bragging rights on the line and the added incentive of helping fund New Zealand’s Motocross of Nations campaign, Battle of the Clubs continues to be one of the most distinctive events on the domestic motocross calendar.
Battle of the Clubs takes place on Saturday, July 11, at Digger McEwen Motocross Park, Taupō.
For further info head to: www.taupomcc.co.nz
Source: Motorcycling New Zealand
