AMA names 2005 Motocross of Nations line-up.

AMA Pro Racing has revealed that Mike Brown, Ricky Carmichael and Kevin Windham will represent the United States at the 2005 Motocross of Nations [MXdN] at Ernee in France on 25 September.

Motocross/supercross series manager Steve Whitelock made the announcement at Thunder Valley Motocross Park, scene of round seven of the AMA Motocross Championship at the weekend.

"Brown, Carmichael and Windham are three of the best motocross riders in the world, and are the ideal team to represent the United States," he reasoned, "We're thrilled that they have agreed to participate, and also appreciate that Honda and Suzuki have agreed to provide the equipment and support that will give these riders the best chance of winning."

Honda will provide support for Brown and Windham, while Suzuki will support Carmichael.

Whitelock also confirmed that five-time world champion, and current Team Makita Suzuki manager, Roger de Coster would again manage the American effort. Over a ten-year span, from 1969 to 1979, de Coster helped his native Belgium win the event six times. He began managing the American team in 1981.

"Roger's background as both a rider and team manager is unparalleled," Whitelock said, "There's no-one better suited to lead this team."

The United States last sent a team to the MXdN - historically referred to as the 'Olympics of Motorcycling' - in 2003, when Carmichael (top pic), Tim Ferry and Ryan Hughes finished second to the Belgian team of Stefan Everts, Steve Ramon and Joel Smets.

The last American team to win the MXdN title included Carmichael, Hughes and Travis Pastrana, who captured victory in 2000 at another French venue, St Jean d' Angely. From 1981 to 1993, however, the US remained undefeated, winning the prestigious event a remarkable 13 straight times.

"Last year, we ultimately decided to not field an American team, and the reasons and process were well documented," Whitelock commented, "Our plan now is to put all of that behind us and concentrate on the future. We have three, well-supported riders all eager to go to the MXdN and do their best to win. Those are the necessary ingredients for success."