Supercross legend to make Sydney comeback

Four-time AMA World Supercross champion Ryan Villopoto is set to come out of retirement to compete at the AUS-X Open at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena in November.

The American rider has been a dominant force on the global Supercross scene winning four consecutive world titles from 2011-2014 before sensationally stepping away from the sport last year.

The 27-year-old has not ridden competitively since but the lure of the November 12-13 Sydney event has prompted a comeback ride.

He is expected to face up against Australian two-time world champion Chad Reed who confirmed his return to the event earlier this month.

Villopoto is fifth on the all-time AMA Supercross winners list having won 41 races.

“I’m really excited to announce that I’ll be lining up behind a supercross gate again in Sydney, Australia, this November for the second AUS-X Open event,” said Villopoto.

“Racing (against) Chad will be awesome. I think that not only will Australian fans be tuning in, but the world also.

“It’s a unique opportunity for supercross fans – it’ll be a thing like, ‘cool, Chad’s there and so is Ryan – lets see how this pans out’ – which will be exciting.

“I’ve chosen the AUS-X Open event (to race at) because of the vibe. Obviously there are other races that are similar, however I generally looked at those as ‘headache’ events.

“The AUS-X Open seems a bit different; a lot more laid back and just a hell of a time.”

VIDEO: Ryan Villopoto to contest AUS-X Open