MX of Nations Team USA and major sponsorship announced

It's official: Team USA in the Motocross of Nations set for September 23 at Budd's Creek in Maryland will be Ryan Villopoto, James Stewart and Ricky Carmichael.

And Monster energy drinks has stepped up to provide major sponsorship for Team USA in its bid this year to retain the Chamberlain Cup that is given to the team that wins the Motocross of Nations each year.

AMA Supercross/Motocross Manager Steve Whitelock made the announcements Tuesday night to hundreds of motocross fans who attended a rally to show their support for Team USA during the Air Nautiques AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships at Loretta Lynn's in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee.

"It's an honor to be on the team and to be picked," said Carmichael, who was on hand for the announcement. "I'm really excited about doing this race.

"Apart from the Daytona Supercross, it's the biggest race of the year, no doubt about it," he said.

Villopoto, who was on America's successful Motocross of Nations team last year, noted that European fans go crazy at the event when it is hosted in their home countries.

"It's up to us to bring the people and fans and get as crazy as they do over there," he said.

Carmichael agreed.

"It's an amazing event, just the excitement and the atmosphere. If you ever want this race back here again, you need to show up. I want to be able to say the American fans are the best fans ever," Carmichael said.

"I know we can win. I'm really excited and I hope to see all you guys there," he said.

Stewart was unable to attend the rally.