Following the news that the NSA Yamaha Factory Amateur Team was shutting down, many fans and members of the industry wondered what would happen to the team's riders. Some landed with other brands (Max Shane switching to Husqvarna), others started self-funded Yamaha efforts (Kade Johnson), and others did not make any announcements on what is next.
Top 250 and 450 pro sport rider Avery Long still received support from the team at the THOR Mini O's in late November, as he claimed two titles (SX Open Pro Sport and MX 450 Pro Sport) even after being landed on in the middle of the week. But after the event, Long thanked the team in an Instagram post:
"Man, I cannot thank the @nsafactoryamteam enough for the last 3 years of opportunity. Danny, thank you for taking me in under your wing and treating me like family. You took a chance on me, seen the potential, and we haven’t looked back since. We have accomplished many things together, had so many highs, but also so many lows and you’ve been there for me through it all. I have loved everything this team has stood for and wouldn’t have wanted to represent anyone else more over the last 3 years. I also want to thank Jake, Ed, and Donnie for everything they have done for me as well. Many long days spent with everyone and I can’t thank them enough for all the hard work and time they have sacrificed for me to be the best I can be.
Forever family 💙
Long burst onto the scene after a dominating week in the B class at the 2022 Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch, which earned him Amateur Rider of the Year after joining the team just a few months prior.
Steve Matthes reported on X (formerly “Twitter”) last week that Long would be joining the AEO Powersports KTM Racing.
I think Avery Long will be on AEO KTM which seems like a good fit for both sides.
— Steve Matthes (@pulpmx) December 20, 2024
Now, Long has officially been announced as a part of the team.
The following press release is from AEO Powersports KTM Racing:
AEO Powersports KTM Racing is pleased to announce their 2025 SuperMotocross lineup. Come Anaheim 1, the team will be represented by returning talents Talon Hawkins and Lux Turner, with rookie Avery Long making his pro debut alongside them. The team’s second rookie, CJ Bernard, will join the team come the Pro Motocross series. 🟠
Jeremy Scism – Team Manager and Owner:
“The 2025 racing season for our team is shaping up to be our best yet! We’re excited to have the incredible support of our amazing partners and such a motivated and talented team.” 🏁
2025 marks the team’s fourth complete season of racing, continuing their mission to bring young and promising talent to the forefront of AMA professional racing.
Long posted on his own Instagram:
I’m super excited to formally announce that I’ll be racing for @aeopowersportsktmracing this upcoming SuperMotocross campaign. I can’t wait to start my professional career with this amazing group of people. See y’all at A1 👊🏻 #dreamcometrue
Main image by Mitch Kendra
