Malcolm Stewart has a home for 2015. Since the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship finale at Utah, the rumor front has been quiet on where Stewart may land next year. Stewart raced Red Bull Straight Rhythm and the Monster Energy Cup on a Seven backed Honda.
"I'm excited for this opportunity," Stewart said in a statement. "Obviously, the GEICO Honda team is a top-tier group that is always in contention. I think my previous experience in the 250 class, especially in 250SX West, will help make this transition easier and get us off to a fast start. I'm hoping to start the year off strong and get the results I think we are capable of achieving."
Last year with Lucas Oil/Troy Lee Designs Honda, Stewart finished sixth in the 250SX West Region, including three podiums. The deal announced today will have Stewart returning to the West Region in 2015. No announcement was made in regards to the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship.
"We like to put our best foot forward on the West Coast," GEICO Honda team manager Mike LaRocco said in a statement. "Not only is the majority of the industry located in this region but the West riders kind of dictate the rest of the racing. The other riders really get to build some momentum off the West guys if they're running well, and that's what we like to try to ensure.
"Running in both the 450 and 250 classes, we like to keep a good balance of experienced riders and rookies on the team," he added. "We think Malcolm will help bring that balance. The kid's got speed and hopefully, in the right environment, we can get some podium results out of him."
Stewart will join rookies RJ Hampshire and Jordon Smith as well as the returning 2014 250SX East Region Champion Justin Bogle and Matt Bisceglia on the GEICO team.