Charli Cannon Battles Through Injury to Secure First U.S. Podium Finish!

Just 14 days after undergoing surgery to repair a broken and dislocated index finger, Australian motocross talent Charli Cannon delivered a courageous performance to claim her first podium finish in the United States, finishing third overall in Round 2 of the Women’s Pro Motocross Championship.

The injury, which required two plates to stabilise the finger, would typically sideline most athletes for six to eight weeks. However, Cannon defied expectations and raced through visible pain and discomfort for a second weekend in a row.

Team Principal Martin Davalos praised her determination and grit:

“Most athletes—men or women—wouldn’t return to competition for at least six weeks after an injury like this. What makes it even more incredible is that it’s the index finger, which is critical for both gripping the handlebar and operating the clutch. The swelling is still obvious; it can’t be comfortable. For Charli to finish 2nd and 3rd and take 3rd overall is a testament to her courage and desire to succeed.”

Cannon’s 2-3 moto finishes placed her equal second in points, third overall on countback, keeping her championship hopes very much alive despite the circumstances.

“I’m not overly happy, I’m still frustrated about the crash that caused the injury. I feel like I let myself and others down. But I’m not a quitter,” Cannon said after the race.

She acknowledged the strength of the American competition and the added challenge of competing on unfamiliar tracks.

“The girls over here are fast and confident, you can see it. They know these tracks well, and that’s a big advantage. I’m not making excuses, this is outside my comfort zone, and on top of that, I haven’t been able to train during the week due to my hand. The next round is this coming weekend, and the injury is still fresh at just 21 days. I’m hoping the pain eases a little more, so I can push through both motos and minimise the points deficit. I’ll be aiming to come back at full strength for the final three rounds after the Australian championships conclude in August. You need to bring your A-game to beat these girls.”

The championship continues this weekend with Round 3, as Cannon aims to maintain her momentum and build on her remarkable journey.

For more information, visit www.mxsports.com or follow the team’s official channels.