​Triumph Factory Racing rider Austin Forkner has announced his retirement from professional AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross competition. After turning pro in 2016, Forkner quickly established himself as one of the sport’s most naturally gifted competitors. The Missouri native built a reputation as a standout in AMA Supercross, racking up 13 Main Event victories in the 250SX class and earning seven additional podium finishes. In Pro Motocross, he claimed one overall win at Ironman Raceway and earned six more podiums over a decade-long career.
Forkner joined Triumph Factory Racing for the 2025 season to campaign the TF 250-X. In 250SX, he finished seventh on two occasions and earned his best Pro Motocross result of fifth at the Washougal National later that year. For 2026, he made history by becoming the first rider to compete aboard the TF 450-X in the premier 450SX division of AMA Supercross.
The decision to retire comes after a year that tested his physical and mental endurance. Forkner had planned to complete the full season, but a crash at the May 2 round in Denver prompted him to reevaluate his future. Throughout his career, he has endured a series of injuries, and he also carries a medical history of arteriovenous malformations, which required brain surgery in 2024. In a candid reflection on his retirement, Forkner stated, “I feel like the physical and mental toll this sport takes on you is a lot, and I just don’t have a lot left to give anymore. I planned on making it to the end of the year, but after my crash in Colorado, my mind is no longer in it, and I feel like finishing the year isn’t smart. My health and family are being put first now, so although it’s a tough decision, it’s one I can be happy with. I’d like to thank the whole Triumph team for all the hard work over the past couple of years. It’s been fun, and we achieved some good results together. I’d also like to thank the fans who have stuck behind me through the years. I’m thankful for it all and for those I’ve met and connected with along the way. Thank you.”
In reflecting on his career, Forkner also highlighted the intangible achievements that define him as a competitor. His approach to injuries and comebacks has been marked by resilience and determination, underscoring a mindset that helped him rebound after significant medical challenges. His return to the highest level of competition, including a brain surgery performed during medical investigations, showcased a level of tenacity that has earned him widespread respect among peers, teams, and fans alike.
Beyond race results, Forkner’s character and work ethic have left a lasting imprint on Triumph Factory Racing and the broader sport. His perseverance through adversity and his ability to maintain a positive outlook in the face of setbacks have made him a role model for aspiring riders. As he transitions away from full-time competition, Forkner’s impact will be remembered not only for his podium finishes and race wins but also for the mentality and grit he displayed throughout his career.
Forkner’s retirement marks the end of a significant era for Triumph Factory Racing as they reflect on the collaborations that helped shape their program. The team has expressed gratitude for his contributions and the efforts he invested in pushing the TF 250-X and TF 450-X programs forward during his time with Triumph. As Forkner steps away from racing, fans and the sport alike look back on a career defined by talent, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to competing at the highest level.