There were still loose ends in domestic championships to be tied up after the doors closed on the 2025 FIM Grand Prix season, but plans are already afoot for the new 2026 campaign. We welcome the return of established partnerships, but equally there is the annual mystique in the game of “Musical Chairs”.
Early announcements are already out, the most notable so far being the continuation of the Brett Wilkinson/Joe Millard partnership into another year. I can only imagine the soul-searching and deep thought given to this momentous decision for veteran passenger Millard.
Source: @brettwilkinson1, Instagram
Now in his late thirties, the commitment over the closed season in terms of time spent training, with family life an ever-increasing consideration, is enormous. The British pair enjoyed their best season ever this year and clearly feel there is still more to come. For Brett’s part, he too will be involved in extensive physical readiness, as well as being an integral part of machine preparation. The “P-Power” four-stroke engine worked well for them in 2025, so I will be surprised if any changes come in that regard.
From Germany comes the news that the colourful on-track partnership of Patrick Hengster/Celina Jahn is on hold for 2026, due to a leg injury for Celina which needs rest and time to heal. Her place for the new season will be taken by experienced passenger Justin Blume, he having deputised alongside several different drivers at Grand Prix level in recent seasons as well as enjoying success in the German Championship. We expect to see Celina at the races, so her winning smile and happy personality will still be in the paddock. Meanwhile, she carries our best wishes for a speedy recovery and a return to racing action.
Source: @das.bluemchen, Instagram, C. Hoffmann Sidecarcross Pictures
Regularly consistent, and something of an all-round specialist, Dutchman Stephan Wijers is teaming up with Joel Hoffmann, former sidekick to fellow German Adrian Peter. Stephan will complete his domestic season before signing off with Han Van Hall, with whom he finished ninth in the world rankings this year. They have ended their partnership amicably, each keen to pursue new challenges.
Source: @wijers418, Instagram
Just one place behind them in tenth place after a frustrating 2025 season, sits Tim Prummer from Germany, whose young Belgian passenger Jarno Steegmans has been plagued with injury over the past two years. There is no doubting their speed together, but the injury problems have been slow to heal, therefore making a quick return to action unwise and risky.
Tim Prümmer has announced he will be joining forces with Loet van der Putten, a very experienced twenty-five-year-old who has enjoyed success with Stephan Wijers and Jason van Daele to name but two high-profile drivers. Loet’s sand experience will complement Tim, who has himself become a very prolific master of the soft stuff.
Source: @timme777, Instagram
This is only the start, because as well know, the jungle drums will be beating at all levels, with reigning champion Koen Hermans top of the list. He has publicly stated he expects five-times champion Ben van den Bogaart to fulfil his intention to step down, so the hunt is on for a replacement.
Dan Foden has cemented his relationship with Noah Weinmann, now a done deal for 2026, but doubtless there will be many more announcements over the coming weeks.
Source: @danfoden, Instagram, Ilsa Photography
Look out for all that new information and other news as it becomes available on www.fimsidecarcross.com along with all our social media outlets.
From Barry Nutley
