Former factory KTM rider Dean Wilson will start the Supercross season on a privateer Yamaha YZF450 after failing to be picked up by any major team. The former US 250 champ, who has been injured every season since he won the title for Kawasaki, was hoping to get a Yamaha supported ride but that’s fallen through.

“Don’t feel bad for me. I’m good! I’m going to be racing – I’m gonna do my best. I’m working hard and doing all I can do to be at the races,” he said on social media.

“Thanks to everyone that supports me and everyone who has helped me put parts together for my bike and will help me at the races.

“So I will be betting on myself this time around. Unfortunately I never cut the mustard for a team but hoping I can get back there eventually.”

He’s not the only championship-winning rider without a team slot as current 250 East Supercross champ Malcolm Stewart is without a team, as is his brother, ex champ James Stewart.