The Autotrader/Yoshimura/Suzuki Factory Racing Team is pleased to announce that amateur star Enzo Lopes will be making his professional racing debut at the opening round of the 2018 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. The Brazilian is scheduled to contest several Nationals on the Suzuki RM-Z250 for the Autotrader/Yoshimura/Suzuki Factory Racing Team while Jimmy Decotis is out of action.
Lopes has established himself as a premiere amateur racer in the United States. The 18-year-old from Lajeado, Brazil, has steadily worked up the ranks, most recently winning the 250 Pro Class at the California Classic. In total, Lopes has 11 Brazilian National Championships and multiple U.S. titles. He is slated to make his professional debut at the Hangtown National on May 19th in Rancho Cordova, Calif. The Brazilian will be filling in on the RM-Z250 until Jimmy Decotis returns to action.
“This is a dream come true! Being a kid from Brazil, it’s amazing to think that I’m part of the Autotrader/Yoshimura/Suzuki Factory Racing team,” stated Lopes. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I’m so thankful. I like North Carolina, because it reminds me of home. My first day on the Suzuki RM-Z250 was so much fun. The bike felt perfect right away, as it is very fast and handles well. I’m really looking forward to Hangtown.”
Autotrader/Yoshimura/Suzuki Factory Racing team manager Jeremy Albrecht is eager to see what Lopes can accomplish. “It’s exciting to give a young kid and promising amateur this opportunity. We’re interested to see what he’s capable of. He will be spending the next few weeks riding in North Carolina in preparation for the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. I’m happy to support Enzo. Hopefully he can achieve his goals. We expect that he will race the opening three or four Nationals.”
The 2018 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship will open at Hangtown in Rancho Cordova, Calif. on Saturday, May 19th. Look for the #816 of Enzo Lopes under the Autotrader/Yoshimura/Suzuki Factory Racing Team awning. Please visit www.jgrmxraceteam.com for more team news.
