For Benoit Paturel, 2025 marks an exciting new chapter in a career that has already taken him across Europe’s toughest motocross circuits. The French rider, known for his grit and perseverance in the MXGP paddock, made the leap this season to compete in the AMA Pro Motocross Championship — and so far, the journey has been equal parts challenging and rewarding.
We sat down with Paturel during a short break between rounds to get his candid thoughts on what it’s really like racing in the USA, how he’s adapting, and what goals he’s set for himself as he chases results in one of the most demanding motocross series in the world.
Adjusting to American soil
For many European riders, the AMA Pro Motocross Championship represents a unique test. The tracks are faster, rougher in different ways, and the racing style is often more aggressive than what’s typical in the MXGP series. Paturel admits that the transition has required a lot of quick learning.
“Honestly, it’s been a big adjustment,” he says. “Back home, I was used to more hard-pack tracks and sometimes deep sand, but here in the U.S., every track seems to have its own personality. The ruts form differently, the bumps come up differently, and the pace in the opening laps is really intense.”
Paturel points to races like RedBud and High Point as eye-openers. “At RedBud, the fans are amazing — it’s like a festival — but the track is rough and the jumps are huge. It took me a moto or two to get comfortable sending it over some of those sections!”
Battling the best
Beyond the tracks themselves, Paturel has found himself lining up against some of the fastest riders America has to offer. From established stars like Jett Lawrence and Chase Sexton to young guns eager to make their mark, every gate drop means full commitment.
“The level here is really high,” Paturel says. “It’s not just the top guys. Even riders back in 15th place are pushing so hard, every moto. There’s no moment to rest, and that pushes you to find something extra inside yourself.”
Despite the stiff competition, Paturel has had flashes of brilliance. He’s scored points in nearly every round so far and has cracked the top 10 a few times — not bad for someone still getting familiar with new bikes, new teams, and a new lifestyle.
Culture shock — and a warm welcome
Moving to America for a racing season is about more than just riding a dirt bike. There’s the travel, the food, the language differences, and the homesickness that can creep in when you’re far from family and friends. For Paturel, the U.S. has proven welcoming — but there have been some moments that reminded him he’s far from home.
“People here are very friendly,” he says with a smile. “They come up and want to talk at the races. They know everything about you — your results from five years ago! But food is different. I miss my French bread, you know? I found a good café near where I’m staying, so that helps.”
He’s also appreciative of the support he’s received from his American team and fans. “I didn’t know what to expect, but everyone wants you to succeed. They cheer for you no matter where you finish. That’s special.”
Lessons learned and goals ahead
As the season moves into its second half, Paturel is clear-eyed about his objectives. For him, 2025 is not just about results — it’s about laying the groundwork for more.
“Right now, I just want to finish strong, stay healthy, and keep learning,” he says. “Every moto I learn something new — about the bike, the lines, the starts. It’s small steps, but they add up. I want to show that I belong here.”
When asked if he sees himself staying in the AMA paddock long-term, Paturel doesn’t hesitate. “If I have the opportunity, yes. I love Europe, but the vibe here is amazing. It’s fresh motivation for me. Maybe one day I can get a podium or even a win — that’s the dream.”
Fans behind him
For fans back in France and new ones in the States, Paturel’s American adventure is an underdog story worth following. In a sport where confidence is built lap by lap, Benoit Paturel’s story is a reminder that chasing a dream often means leaving your comfort zone — and finding out what you’re truly made of.
As the gate drops on the remaining rounds, you can bet Paturel will be there, elbows up, ready to fight for every position — and every lesson learned will be another building block in what’
s already a remarkable motocross journey.
