The 2006 Motocross of Nations race was held at Matterley Basin in Winchester, England this September. The powerhouse Team USA of James Stewart, Ryan Villopoto and Ivan Tedesco (who filled in for the injured Ricky Carmichael) made our country proud by bringing home the overall win! Check out a few of the many highlights from this fantastic weekend of international racing…

The start of Moto #2 (MX2/MX3) saw both Tedesco (#3) and Villopoto (#2) take to the front of the pack. Tedesco grabbed the lead, with Villopoto not far behind. Villopoto had a slight mishap a few laps in, landing off the side of a berm and practically off the track. He managed to stay upright, got back on the gas and was able to make up the time lost. At the end of the moto, Tedesco had faded back to sixth, while Villopoto finished second.

After Ricky Carmichael’s unfortunate injury at the Glen Helen National, RC’s Suzuki teammate Ivan Tedesco was chosen to accompany the team to England, to fill in for Ricky in case he wasn’t able to race. Ultimately, it was decided that Ricky was not feeling healthy enough come race day and Ivan stepped in. Tedesco put in solid MX3 performances, helping Team USA take home the overall win.

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto put in superstar performances at his first Motocross of Nations. The young Thor rider scored strong second place finishes in both Moto #1 (MX1/MX2) and Moto #2 (MX2/MX3).

James Stewart and Stefan Everts share a congratulatory moment following the 2006 Motocross of Nations. Stewart had impressive second place finishes in Motos #1 and #2, while Everts took home the win in both those motos.

Team USA, Class of 2006: (left to right) Ryan Villopoto, James Stewart and Ivan Tedesco.