DPH Motorsport Husqvarna has confirmed Hayden Mellross will return to the squad for a third-consecutive year in the Australian Supercross Championship.

Mellross, who’s coming off a campaign in both the Monster Energy AMA Supercross and Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross championships, will make the transition from Yamaha machinery as he endeavours to earn an elusive SX2 crown.

“It’s great to be back home,” said Mellross. “I just landed yesterday and I’m excited to join back up with DPH Motorsport, with the help and support of Husqvarna and my mechanic Marty. This is my third supercross season with the team and it really does feel like home.

“I’ve ridden the bike today at home in Young for the first time and I love it, giving my confidence another boost that I will be battling for that title.”

As a result of Mellross’ appointment to contest the SX2 title alongside team regular Dylan Wills and the provisional suspension of Kade Mosig, the team has elected to solely focus on the 250 title and will not field a rider in the premier class.

“It’s been a tough year for our team,” team owner Dale Hocking commented. “Our elation at becoming the Husqvarna factory team to the disappointment of Kade’s suspension from racing. We’re a close-knit team and it really affects everyone, so closing the chapter on the MX Nationals and starting fresh with supercross is a great feeling.

“Dylan is riding really well after resting his knee and we’re excited to have Hayden back in the truck. We’ve made the decision to run the two racers on FC250’s and really go after that SX2 Championship. The motivation to succeed is the highest I’ve seen it in the workshop, so I’m looking forward to setting the truck up in Jimboomba and getting after it.”

After leading the championship in 2017, Mellross’ season was cut short due to internal injuries sustained at the Bacchus Marsh stop of the series. The opening round of the 2018 Australian Supercross Championship is set be hosted at Jimboomba in Queensland on 15 September.