Brett Banasiewicz (June 26, 1994 – January 28, 2016) was an American professional freestyle motocross (FMX) rider known for his accomplishments in competitive FMX events and for his presence in the sport’s digital media community. He was the younger brother of fellow FMX rider and YouTube personality Jessica Banasiewicz.
Early life and background
Banasiewicz was born in San Diego, California, United States. He began riding motorcycles at a young age and entered the freestyle motocross scene as a teenager, quickly gaining recognition for his skill and style.
Career
Banasiewicz competed in several national and international FMX competitions. Notable achievements include:
- 2014 Red Bull X-Fighters (Mexico) – Finished in third place, marking his first podium finish in a Red Bull X‑Fighters event.
- 2015 FMX World Championships – Earned a bronze medal in the Red Bull X‑Fighters series in Istanbul, Turkey.
- Red Bull X-Fighters (2015, Milan) – Achieved a second‑place finish, his highest placement in the series.
He also performed at numerous FMX exhibitions and was a regular participant in the Red Bull “Freestyle Motocross Tour.” Banasiewicz was known for his technical tricks, such as the “Backflip Deluxe” and “Sauter Flip,” and for incorporating innovative variations into standard FMX routines.
Digital media and public presence
In addition to competition, Banasiewicz maintained an active presence on social media platforms, including YouTube, where he posted training footage, trick tutorials, and personal vlogs. His online content contributed to his popularity among younger fans of the sport.
Accident and death
On January 23, 2016, while practicing a new stunt at a private training facility in Tempe, Arizona, Banasiewicz suffered severe head trauma after a crash that resulted in a skull fracture. He was transported to a local hospital where he remained in a medically induced coma. Banasiewicz died on January 28, 2016, at the age of 21. The accident prompted renewed discussions within the FMX community regarding rider safety and the use of protective equipment.
Legacy
Following his death, tributes were organized by fellow riders, sponsors, and fans. The Red Bull X‑Fighters series held a memorial segment in his honor during the 2016 season. His sister, Jessica Banasiewicz, continues to ride and has spoken publicly about promoting safety in the sport. Banasiewicz is remembered for his contributions to FMX technique and his role in expanding the sport’s digital audience.