Image: Supplied.

Penrite Racing Empire Kawasaki has officially confirmed four-time ProMX champion Dean Ferris will make a comeback in 2026, signing with the Victorian-based team alongside Brad West in an all-new roster.

Ferris, 35, is among Australia’s most decorated premier class riders, securing three-straight MX1 titles in 2016, 2017 and 2018, before adding a fourth crown in 2023.

The 2024 season saw Ferris reunited with Monster Energy CDR Yamaha with the number one plate, however, a mid-season hand injury brought his campaign – and time with the team – to a close altogether.

After spending this past season on the sidelines, the New South Welshman will now make a return aboard the official Kawasaki team’s KX450, reuniting with former crew chief and now Empire Kawasaki team manager Brad McAlpine as he targets a fifth championship.

“I’m beyond thankful to be signing with Empire Kawasaki for the 2026 season,” said Ferris. “Everyone is aware of the phases I’ve had in my career, and although I stepped away from racing in the middle of 2024 following my small injury and team split, I never officially retired and remained open to returning to racing on the right program for me.

“It has been a very organic process where I began to see what was available for 2026, and Empire Kawasaki was forthcoming with the intention to go after a ProMX championship with me.

“To be able to reunite with Brad McAlpine, who was my crew chief for three of my MX1 championships and is now the Empire Kawasaki team manager, is an amazing opportunity, and I am already loving being on the KX450 and working with the team.

“I am aware of the current level in MX1 and under no illusions that I have a lot of work ahead of me, but with that being said, the feeling I have on the bike already makes me feel confident I will be competitive and challenge at the front of the field.”

Team owner Tyson Cherry said the signing marks a major step as Empire Kawasaki ramps up its commitment as an MX1-only team for 2026: “We have made a big push for 2026 and progressed our relationship with Kawasaki Australia, moving into a new focus as an MX1-only program.

“For us to sign a rider of Dean’s calibre elevates our entire program, and it was such a great fit with Brad McAlpine, having a rich history working with Dean across many of his championship years. It’s early days, but Dean looks great on the bike and we are excited to work over the off-season and come out swinging at Wonthaggi.”