The REAL Reason Chase Sexton Crashed at Ironman
It wasn’t rider error. It wasn’t a mechanical oversight. The crash that ended Chase Sexton’s second moto at Ironman was the result of something far less predictable — a small piece of debris.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager Ian Harrison has clarified what really happened after reviewing data and inspecting the bike. Early speculation pointed to a front brake issue, but Harrison says the truth is more complicated — and more frustrating.
“After inspecting the bike Saturday evening, and reviewing the bike data, we now have a clearer understanding of what led up to Chase’s crash in moto two at Ironman, and I want to clarify that it was neither rider nor mechanic error,” Harrison stated.
According to the team’s findings, debris entered the rear brake system, rendering it unusable. That left Sexton relying entirely on the front brake to control speed — an extremely risky situation at pro motocross pace. On the fateful lap, Sexton hit a jump with more speed than at any other point during the race.
That added momentum, combined with a lack of rear braking, led to a hard crash. When the bike landed on its right side, the front brake lever packed with mud and locked up, preventing Chase from continuing the race.
“It’s a tough blow for Chase, for the team, and for the fans,” said Harrison. “Motocross is brutal on equipment, and when you push the limits like our riders do, small issues can have big consequences.”
KTM is now working to find ways to prevent a similar failure in the future. While crashes are part of racing, this one was especially bitter — because it wasn’t anyone’s fault. Just bad luck, amplified at the highest level of competition.
