News and stories from the world of Powersports business.
BRP Announces Appointment of Denis Le Vot as President and Chief Executive Officer
BRP Inc. (NASDAQ/TSX: DOO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Denis Le Vot as President and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), effective February 1st, 2026, at which time José Boisjoli will retire as President and CEO of BRP and step down from his role as Chair of the Board of Directors (“Board”), as previously announced. Mr. Le Vot will also become a member of the Board of BRP. In addition, BRP announces that Pierre Beaudoin is appointed Chair of the Board effective February 1st, 2026, while Barbara Samardzich will remain Lead Independent Director of the Board.
“On behalf of the Board, I wish to welcome Denis to BRP. On the heels of a successful 30-year career in the automotive industry, Denis is poised to leverage his expertise to create value for all our stakeholders. The automotive industry shares multiple similar market dynamics with the powersports industry and we look forward to drawing on his wealth of experience in this sector,” said Barbara Samardzich, Lead Independent Director. “We are confident that Denis, along with BRP’s seasoned executive team, will advance the Company’s M28 strategic plan and drive long-term growth to ensure it continues to solidify its position as a leading global powersports OEM.”
Mr. Le Vot is a dynamic leader with a proven track record across multiple key executive roles in different countries, driving international growth. His ability to manage global dealer networks combined with his visionary approach to brand building and customer experience will be important assets for BRP.
“I’m grateful for the trust the Board has placed in me, and I’m truly excited to embark on this new adventure and lead BRP into a new chapter,” said Denis Le Vot. “BRP is a company that distinguishes itself as a leader and has built a strong foundation for future growth. Its reputation for technological expertise, bold design vision, and market-shaping products is unmatched. I look forward to collaborating with the talented teams to further enhance BRP’s customers and dealers’ experience, and continue shaping the powersports industry.”
Ms. Samardzich stated: “The Board wants to thank José for his remarkable 36-year tenure with BRP, including 22 years as President and CEO. He spearheaded the Company’s growth story, from a private company spin-off to a publicly-traded, global leading powersports OEM. We would like to express our gratitude to José for all his achievements throughout the years.”
Mr. Le Vot added: “It’s also a privilege to continue the journey José started 20+ years ago, and I would like to congratulate him on his contribution to moving the industry forward.”
“As I conclude my time at BRP, I’m proud of what we have become. I’m confident that BRP is the best-positioned OEM in the industry and the timing could not be better for me to hand over the wheel to Denis, who will work alongside a solid executive team,” said José Boisjoli, Chair of the Board and President and CEO of BRP. “I want to congratulate Denis on his appointment and wish him, and everyone at BRP, a successful adventure ahead.”
Biography of Mr. Denis Le Vot
Denis Le Vot holds an engineering degree from the École des Mines de Paris (France). He joined Renault Group in 1990, where he gained experience and expertise over the next 30 years by holding several leadership positions in Marketing, Sales, After-Sale Services, as well as in Operations and Supply Chain management, mainly in France, Russia, Belgium, Turkey and the United States. He has namely spent six years as the head of the Renault brand in Russia, before successively becoming Senior VP and Chairman of Eurasia Region in 2016, and then Senior VP and Chairman of Nissan North America. In 2019, he returned to France as Senior VP, Light Commercial Vehicles Business Unit, Alliance Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi, and became a member of Renault Group’s Management Committee. In 2021, he was appointed Executive VP, Chief Executive Officer, Dacia Brand. Mr. Le Vot recently decided to leave Renault Group and will join BRP as President and Chief Executive Officer as of February 1st, 2026.
Biography of Mr. Pierre Beaudoin
Pierre Beaudoin is a corporate director. Mr. Beaudoin joined the Marine Products division of Bombardier Inc. in 1985. Over the following years, he held vice-presidential positions for the Sea-Doo/Ski-Doo division before being appointed President of Bombardier Inc. in 1994. In 1996, he was promoted to President and Chief Operating Officer of Bombardier Recreational Products. In 2001, he made the leap to Bombardier’s aerospace business and rose through the ranks to become President and Chief Operating Officer of Bombardier Aerospace Services Limited. In 2004, in addition to his duties, he was appointed Executive VP of Bombardier Inc. and became a member of its board of directors. It was in 2008 that he was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Bombardier Inc., a position he held until 2015. He became Executive Chairman of the board of Bombardier Inc. in 2015, then Chairman in 2017, a role he still holds today. The complete biography of Mr. Beaudoin is available on BRP’s website.
Massimo Group Announces Plans to Introduce Sentinel 1500 UTV With Fully Enclosed Cab and Integrated HVAC in Q1 2026
Massimo Group (NASDAQ: MAMO), a manufacturer and distributor of powersports and electric vehicles, today announced plans to introduce the Sentinel 1500, a next-generation utility task vehicle featuring a fully enclosed factory cab with integrated heating and air conditioning, in Q1 2026 as part of the company’s Sentinel Series product roadmap.
The Sentinel 1500 is being developed as a fully enclosed, all-season vehicle, designed to support year-round operation across a wide range of climates while delivering enhanced performance, comfort, and reliability for work and recreational applications.
The Sentinel 1500 is expected to be introduced initially in a four-door crew configuration with seating for up to six passengers. Additional Sentinel 1500 variants are anticipated to follow later in 2026 as part of a phased product rollout.
Integrated HVAC System Developed In-House for All-Climate Performance
A key feature of the Sentinel 1500 is its Massimo-developed heating and air conditioning system, engineered to deliver strong cooling performance, high efficiency, and dependable heating. While Massimo is headquartered in Texas—where extreme heat conditions helped inform system design—the HVAC system is intended to provide consistent comfort and reliability for customers operating in diverse environments.
The HVAC system is being paired with Massimo’s upcoming four-cylinder, 1499cc engine platform, which is under development to deliver the power and torque necessary to support both vehicle performance and the demands of a high-capacity climate-control system.
“As we look ahead to 2026, our product roadmap reflects the progress we have made strengthening our development and manufacturing foundation,” said David Shan, Chief Executive Officer of Massimo Group. “We believe that the Sentinel 1500 represents a step forward in higher-value, engineering-driven product development, and as we continue to invest in advanced platforms, we are creating a pathway that may support greater manufacturing localization over time, including potential U.S.-based production, as market conditions allow.”
Positioned for 2026 Following 2025 Operational Progress
The planned introduction of the Sentinel 1500 follows a year of focused execution during 2025, as Massimo implemented initiatives aimed at strengthening its operating foundation and supporting future product launches. These initiatives included:
- Expansion of production capabilities in Vietnam to enhance supply chain flexibility and mitigate tariff exposure
- Nearshoring and supplier diversification efforts to improve efficiency, lead times, and quality control
- Continued investment in engineering, manufacturing processes, and next-generation vehicle platforms
These actions are intended to support disciplined growth, improved execution, and long-term value creation as the company enters 2026.
Looking Ahead
The Sentinel 1500 remains under development, and additional information regarding specifications, features, and availability is expected to be provided closer to its planned introduction. The Sentinel Series is expected to play an important role in Massimo’s 2026 product strategy as the company continues to prioritize innovation, quality, and responsible execution.
About Massimo Group (NASDAQ: MAMO)
Massimo Group is a manufacturer and distributor of powersports and electric vehicles headquartered in Garland, Texas. The company’s portfolio includes UTVs, ATVs, e-bikes, and electric utility vehicles known for performance, reliability and value.
Mathew Grynwald Named 2025 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year
The American Motorcyclist Association congratulates the 2025 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year, Mathew Grynwald, who played a significant role in the efforts to pass an inherent risk law in Texas in 2025.
“Mathew Grynwald’s selfless work to secure inherent risk legislation in Texas has benefitted the sport of motorcycling immeasurably,” said AMA Board of Directors Chairman Russ Ehnes. “He was an exceptional choice for 2025 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year.”
Grynwald, a Texas-based attorney and long-time AMA member, was a key player in the passage of HB 5624, which aimed to create a more consistent and predictable liability environment for property owners and off-road riding enthusiasts.
As the unavailability of insurance has become a prevalent challenge facing the motorcycle competition industry, Grynwald’s pro-bono work pushing inherent risk legislation is a significant step in keeping motorcycling events viable.
In addition to Grynwald, the AMA also honored a trio of influential motorcyclists with AMA Board of Directors Awards. Wiltz Wagner earned the AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award, Raycin Kyler emerged as the recipient for the AMA Hazel Kolb Brighter Image Award and Tameka Singleton was honored with the AMA Bessie Stringfield Award.
“There were countless individuals and groups that had major impacts on our sport and lifestyle this year, but a select few rose above and beyond the rest with their commitment and dedication to motorcycling and our community,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said. “Mathew, Wiltz, Raycin and Tameka all have exemplified what it means to be a motorcyclist over the past year, and we are so grateful for their contributions to strengthening our lifestyle as a whole.”
Wagner — an AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer — earned the AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award for his lifelong dedication to growing the sport of trials in the United States.
Wagner was instrumental in the return of TrialGP to the United States, which held its first round on American soil since 2017 in July in Rhode Island and was on hand to present the Wagner Cup to Spainard Toni Bou.
During the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship, Kyler made history as the first female rider to ever win an Open Class. For her groundbreaking accomplishments, Kyler earned national recognition, appearing on several national TV shows — including Fox & Friends.
As she directed the national spotlight to the sport of motocross, Kyler earned the AMA Hazel Kolb Brighter Image Award, which acknowledges an individual who generates positive publicity for motorcycling.
As National President of the Bessie Belles Riding Club Inc., Singleton has provided an inclusive environment in motorcycling by promoting recreational riding opportunities among minority groups across the United States. Singleton was formerly the creator and chairperson of The Bessie Stringfield All-Female Ride, an annual, three-day motorcycle ride for women bikers from all corners of the country.
Singleton’s efforts made her an excellent choice for the AMA Bessie Stringfield Award, which honors an individual who has been instrumental in introducing or promoting motorcycling to emerging markets.
Wild Ass Seat Cushions Teams Up with Industry Veteran Larry Middleton
Wild Ass, the Minnesota-based innovator known for premium motorcycle air seat cushions, is expanding its reach by hiring Larry Middleton to implement an outgoing call and customer service center to build a stronger and more well-trained dealer base. Middleton started work in the powersports industry in 1984 working as a road rep for smaller mid-western distributors and then as a warehouse manager for Tucker Rocky. He returned to the “road” for Tucker Rocky in the Minnesota area for 20 years before buying a resort and building a hospitality business.
“When I heard the Middletons sold their resort, I knew he was my guy! We needed someone with his powersports skillset here at Wild Ass and the timing was perfect. I am excited to have him officially on the team!” says owner/founder Craig Johnson. Larry will be calling on dealers across the country to pay special attention to the effectiveness of the Wild Ass seat cushions, but also the profitability of selling the product.
“It keeps people riding longer,” says Middleton. “I have worked seasonally with Craig and the crew at Daytona Bike Week the last few years and it’s amazing to see what these medically engineered cushions can do to revolutionize one’s ride.” Stay in touch with Larry Middleton at larrym@wild-ass.com or call him during business hours at 612-986-6060 direct to see how Wild Ass products can make your customers keep riding longer.
For more information, visit www.wild-ass.com.
LeMans Corporation Powers into AIMExpo Anaheim as Exclusive Coffee Sponsor and Official Exhibitor
LeMans Corporation, parent company of Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties, returns to AIMExpo 2026 as both official exhibitor and exclusive coffee sponsor. Attendees at the January 7–9 show can connect with LeMans on the floor and explore new products and incentives for the year ahead.
Timed to coincide with the opening weekend of Monster Energy AMA Supercross at nearby Angel Stadium, the event promises an action-packed atmosphere for powersports enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
“At LeMans Corporation, we’re stepping up to ensure the powersports industry thrives,” said Paul Devine, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, LeMans Corporation. “By partnering with AIMExpo Anaheim and becoming the exclusive coffee sponsor, we’re not only fueling dealer engagement — we’re also amplifying our brand presence as Supercross kicks off just blocks away. We are pumped to have the Bagger Build-Off at the Drag Specialties Semi and to continue supporting the Bagger Racing League.”
The Drag Specialties semi returns to AIMExpo as the backdrop for the Bagger Racing League Bagger Build-Off, giving attendees a front-row look at craftsmanship, performance, and innovation in action. Nearby at the AIMExpo Starting Line, the Parts Unlimited/Drag Specialties booth will showcase a lineup of new products across LeMans’s brands.
Attendees can start each morning at the AIMExpo Starting Line, where Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited will be just inside the main entrance. Dealers can also connect with LeMans representatives on the show floor to learn about exclusive event‑only incentives available during AIMExpo.
AIMExpo comes just weeks ahead of LeMans Corporation’s 2026 NVP Product Expo in Louisville, highlighting the company’s ongoing engagement with dealers throughout the season.
“AIMExpo thrives because of partners like LeMans that show up and bring renewed energy year after year,” said Andre Albert, MIC Director of Marketing and Events. “They help set the tone for what this event is all about — connecting people, driving progress, and keeping the industry moving forward.”
