Ryan Villopoto has confirmed he will come out of retirement in a standalone appearance to race the entire 2016 AUS-X Open program inside Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on 12-13 November.

The 2016 AUS-X Open event will serve as four-time Monster Energy AMA Supercross Champion Villopoto’s first full-schedule racing appearance since his retirement from professional competition last year.

Initially confirmed to be competing last Friday, Villopoto recognised the world-class level of the AUS-X Open event and looks forward to lining up behind the gates for its second-annual running later this year.

“I’m really excited to announce that I’ll be lining up behind a Supercross gate again in Sydney, Australia, this November for the second AUS-X Open event!” said Villopoto. “I’ve chosen the AUS-X Open event because of the vibe. Obviously there are other races that are similar, however I generally looked at those as ‘headache’ events.”

The relaxed atmosphere of the AUS-X Open and the chance to race against former rival and teammate Chad Reed is also an exciting prospect according to the Monster Energy Kawasaki-supported rider.

“The AUS-X Open seems a bit different, a lot more laid back and just a hell of a time,” he added. “Racing Chad will be awesome. I think that not only will Australian fans be tuning in, but the world also.”

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events and Minister for Sport, Stuart Ayres, states having Villopoto competing in Australia is a fantastic opportunity for fans.

“Ryan Villopoto is a legend of world Supercross and it’s great to see him come out of retirement to compete at this year’s AUS-X Open,” he said. “The event has been secured exclusively for Sydney by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW and with an all-star field announced, it promises to be a must-see event.”

Tickets for the 2016 AUS-X Open are now available at www.ticketek.com or further information can be found at www.ausxopen.com.