Chongqing - Chongqing-based Junchi Motorcycle (JHL) made history at the 2026 FIM Motocross World Championship (MXGP) Shanghai round, becoming the first Chinese manufacturer team to compete in the century-old international series.

Held from September 11 to 13, the event brought together motorcycle manufacturers, parts suppliers, professional riders and industry investors from around the world, turning the race into a global showcase for motorcycle technology and business opportunities.

For Chongqing, one of China's largest motorcycle manufacturing hubs, the event highlighted a challenge facing the industry: its manufacturing scale has grown rapidly, but international brand recognition has yet to match its production strength.

Industry observers say global racing could help bridge that gap. Competing under extreme conditions allows manufacturers to collect real-world performance data, refine their products and demonstrate their engineering capabilities to international markets.

A rider performs a wheelie through a wave section during the MXGP race in 2026. (Photo/Xie Zhiqiang)

Hu Tinggang, general manager of Chongqing Junchi Motorcycle Co., Ltd., said the company gained valuable data from its MXGP debut and will spend the next year analyzing race results and improving its technology. The company also plans to participate regularly in future MXGP events.

As Chinese motorcycle brands move beyond domestic competition and expand into global markets, international racing is becoming more than a sporting contest. It provides a real-world test for technology, helps build brand credibility among global riders and consumers, and creates a pathway for Chinese manufacturers to enter overseas markets.

Several Chongqing companies have already used global racing events to strengthen their international presence. ZXMOTO has reached the podium in the WorldSBK series, while electric motorcycle maker SUR-RON has achieved breakthroughs in global off-road endurance racing.

According to the organizer of the MXGP China round, the 2027 event is expected to feature a new lineup, with three Chongqing motorcycle brands — JHL, KOVE and ZXMOTO — competing on the global stage. Their participation is expected to further strengthen the influence of Chinese motorcycle manufacturers and raise the international profile of domestic brands.