Hailsham's Fearless Freddy, 10, becomes youth motocross champ

Freddy Budgen, 10 from Hailsham has been scooping up the honours in this demanding sport, often competing against some of the best young riders in the country. Having starting riding motocross at the age of six, what began as a hobby has developed into something his dad, Jay, says he's incredibly passionate about and dedicated to. Jay says he hopes one day to start competing professionally.

Fearless Freddy has enjoyed a fantastic rookie season finishing third overall in the NORA British Cup, fourth overall in the British Youth Motocross Championship, fifth overall in the Plews British Masters and a stunning first in the 2026 Compass Cup. He's also achieved multiple podium finishes across all three national championships, alongside an unbeaten record at regional level.

Jay said: "We're incredibly proud of what he's achieved, particularly given his age and the level of competition. The sport is incredibly demanding. I think most people would be surprised by just how much time, dedication and preparation goes into competing at this level, especially for someone so young."

Freddy travels up north at least once a week and sometimes twice, travelling as far as Newcastle to attend his motocross academy where he trains alongside other talented young riders. That's alongside attending Chiddingly Primary School, keeping up with his schoolwork, physical training and travelling around the country most weekends to compete in national championships.

Jay went on: "It's certainly not your typical routine for a 10-year-old, and balancing everything can be challenging at times, but he absolutely loves it. As parents, we're also very conscious of making sure he still gets to enjoy his childhood alongside the demands of racing.

"With his first national season now behind him, we're already preparing for an even bigger challenge next year. Freddy is considered one of the leading contenders for the 2027 British 65cc Championship, and our ambition is to challenge for the British title.

"We're also planning to take his racing onto the European stage, competing in selected rounds of the European Motocross Championship (EMX), with the aim of qualifying for the European finals. It will be another significant step up in competition, but one we're really excited about. One thing I'd particularly like to acknowledge is the incredible support Freddy has received from the businesses and individuals who have helped him throughout 2026."

Jay notes motocross has proved an expensive sport at this level with the costs of bikes, maintenance, equipment, training, travel and race entries quickly adding up. Without the generosity of his sponsors, much of what Freddy has achieved this year simply wouldn't have been possible.

As the family prepares for the increased demands of racing both nationally and internationally in 2027, they are hoping to attract further interest from local businesses who might like to become part of his journey. And they've recently put together a 2027 partnership proposal for anyone interested in finding out more.

Away from racing, Freddy is a normal 10-year-old who enjoys spending time with his friends and family. But when it comes to motocross, he's incredibly focused and determined. Despite the results he's achieved, he understands there's still an enormous amount to learn, and his dad is keen to make sure he continues enjoying the sport whilst developing as a rider.