MXGP vs. AMA: Luongo's dream of a big US duel lives on

A joint race featuring the best MXGP and AMA riders remains on the wish list of Infront Moto Racing President David Luongo. An idea discussed for years could one day become a US Grand Prix, where significantly more top riders from both series would compete than at the Motocross of Nations.

Luongo recently spoke about the project on the MXGP podcast with Lewis Phillips and Adam Wheeler. His statements align with previous interviews in which he confirmed that Infront Moto Racing is in talks with MX Sports and Feld about closer collaboration. He already described a joint MXGP/AMA race as a project they are still working on in the spring.

Ironman provides Luongo with the template

The Motocross of Nations plays a key role in these considerations. According to Luongo, cooperation with the American organizers is now significantly better than it was a few years ago.

The Infront CEO cited their joint appearance at the MXoN in Ironman as an example in an interview with Vital MX. He stated that the organization, presentation, and collaboration surrounding the event demonstrated what is possible when different parties work together on an event.

Luongo therefore sees a USGP as a possible next step. His father, Giuseppe, had already made similar statements. He also confirmed that work was underway on bringing the Motocross World Championship back to the USA, but pointed to several open questions.

More riders than at the Motocross of Nations

Luongo's vision goes beyond a normal Grand Prix with a few additional American guest riders. He's drawn to a starting field where a large portion of the MXGP elite could directly compete against the fastest riders from AMA Pro Motocross.

This is precisely where the concept differs from the MXoN. In the Nations, participating countries each send three riders to the race. A joint USGP could bring significantly more of the best international motocross riders to the same starting gate.

Luongo told Vital MX that he expects around 20 top riders from the GP paddock and 20 top riders from the USA. This number is not yet a confirmed starting number or a final rule, but rather describes his vision for such an event.

The appeal is obvious. Instead of the endless debate about whether MXGP or AMA riders are faster in motocross, significantly more direct comparisons on the same track and under the same conditions would be possible.

The MX2 and the US 250cc bikes don't quite fit together yet.

However, the sporting goal is easier said than done. Above all, those in charge have to reconcile the differing rules of the two systems.

This affects, among others, the MX2 and American 250cc classes. The two categories do not follow the same regulations in all aspects. If a joint race is to be created, rules are needed to ensure that riders from both championships can compete under fair conditions.

Luongo therefore suggested that special regulations or exceptions might be necessary for this one event. According to him, Infront does not intend to organize a USGP alone, but rather develop it jointly with its American partners.

The idea has not yet become a finished race.

This is precisely where expectations should be tempered. Discussions and mutual interest do not yet mean that a date, a route, or finalized regulations already exist.

Luongo had stated just a few months ago that there was still a long way to go for those involved in a joint MXGP/AMA event. The project was worth the effort, but not something to be expected in the short term.

Scheduling will also likely play a role. A race of this magnitude only works if the top drivers from both championships are available. Added to this are contracts, manufacturer interests, and the question of how such an event can be integrated into existing programs.

Relations with MX Sports and Feld have become closer.

A key difference from previous USGP discussions lies in the behind-the-scenes collaboration. Luongo now describes the relationship with MX Sports and the field as close. Information and experience are exchanged when it is helpful for the respective series.

He confirmed this development in other interviews as well. There he spoke of very good relations between Infront Moto Racing and the American promoters, and that both sides are continuing to work on future MXGP events in the USA.

For the time being, this means that exactly what has accompanied this project for years remains: a concrete idea, great interest, and several open questions.

Should Infront Moto Racing, MX Sports, and the relevant governing bodies reach a consensus on regulations and scheduling, a USGP could evolve into something far more than a typical World Championship race. Luongo's wish is clear: to have as many of the best motocross riders from MXGP and AMA as possible on the starting grid.