All eyes will be on Ugandan motorcross rider Miguel Joel Nkayivu Katende as he captains the MX Cranes in the 2025 FIM Junior Motocross World Championship, starting tomorrow, July 5th-6th, in Romagne, France.
Katende, riding bike number 199, will compete in the MX 85cc class alongside his brother Jonathan Katende and other top riders from around the world including Hason Dominik from Czech Republic, South Africa’s Frost Evan and Bircher Brody among others..
Global Competition
The championship will feature riders from 38 nations, including established European countries like France, Italy, and Great Britain, as well as exciting nations like the USA, Australia, and Argentina. For the first time, riders from Madagascar and Zimbabwe will also participate, reflecting the growing popularity of motocross worldwide.

Katende’s Confidence
Katende, who made his debut in the event two years ago in Romania, is optimistic about his chances. “Am ready for the challenge ahead. I have been at this championship before, and I know the weight it carries. I’m ready to showcase what my future in the sport holds ahead,” he stated. In 2024, Katende was the only Ugandan to earn qualification at the event.
Ugandan Representation
A team of eight talented riders will represent Uganda in the championship, competing in various classes. Dan Mitima and Jerome Junior Mubiru will be in MX125cc, Adam Kabuye, Isaac Mutima, Jonathan Semakula Katende, and Miguel Katende (MX85cc) as Ethan Paul Musede and Jamairah Makumbi in MX65cc.

A Showcase of Talent
The 2025 FIM Junior Motocross World Championship promises to be an exciting showcase of motocross’s next generation on the global stage. With riders from around the world competing, it’s set to be a thrilling event that will highlight the skills and talent of young riders.