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SMX Explainers

What Are the SuperMotocross Playoffs? A Complete Fan Guide

September 7, 2026 · By SuperMotocross Playoffs Staff
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The SuperMotocross Playoffs are the postseason of the combined American Supercross and Pro Motocross season. They bring the leading 450 and 250 riders from both disciplines into a short championship run on tracks designed to mix stadium-style precision with outdoor motocross speed.

Where the SuperMotocross Playoffs fit in the season

The season begins with AMA Supercross, where riders race on compact, purpose-built stadium tracks. It continues during the summer with AMA Pro Motocross on longer natural-terrain circuits. Results from both championships contribute to the combined standings that establish SuperMotocross postseason qualification and seeding.

Supercross and Pro Motocross still crown their own champions. The SMX postseason then creates a third title that measures performance across the full racing year.

Why SuperMotocross was created

For decades, fans followed Supercross and motocross as related but separate championships. The SuperMotocross World Championship created a connected season story: indoor racing, outdoor racing and a decisive postseason. The first SMX postseason was held in 2023.

What makes an SMX track different?

An SMX course is intended to test a broader range of skills than a typical stadium round. A layout can include rhythm lanes, whoops and sharply defined jumps associated with Supercross alongside faster sections, wider turns, elevation changes and rougher terrain associated with motocross.

Which classes compete?

450SMX

450SMX is the premier class. It brings together established stars and leading riders from the 450SX and 450 motocross championships.

250SMX

250SMX features the top developing professionals from the regional 250SX divisions and the national 250 motocross championship.

How the champions are decided

Regular-season performance determines playoff position, but the points are reset to compact seed totals before the postseason. Riders then earn championship points at each SMX round, with progressively greater weight placed on the later events. Read our complete explanation of how SuperMotocross playoff points work.

For the full origin story, past champions and frequently asked questions, visit our SuperMotocross Playoffs history and championship guide. Current rules and event information should always be verified through the official SuperMotocross website.