Jett and Hunter Lawrence speak on why there Split with Long-Time Manager Lucas Mirtl Over Misappropriation of Funds
In a surprising turn of events, motocross stars Jett and Hunter Lawrence have severed ties with their long-time manager, Lucas Mirtl, following allegations of “misappropriation of funds.” The news broke on January 23, when a statement attributed to the Lawrence brothers was published by prominent US-based motocross journalist Lewis Phillips. The statement revealed that the brothers had uncovered potentially fraudulent activity regarding one of their business accounts, prompting the immediate termination of Mirtl’s services.
Allegations of Fraudulent Activity
The Lawrences disclosed that over the past two weeks, they had grown increasingly suspicious of irregularities in their financial dealings. After conducting an initial investigation, they discovered evidence of misused funds by their former agent, Lucas Mirtl, which they claimed were being redirected for Mirtl’s personal benefit.
“Over the last two weeks, we became suspicious of potentially fraudulent activity related to one of our business accounts,” the statement read. “Following an initial investigation, we became aware of and in possession of evidence of misuse and misappropriation of our personal funds by our agent Lucas Mirtl for his benefit. As of 9:00 AM EST this morning, we have fired him.”
The Lawrence brothers further revealed that Mirtl’s dismissal was not only their own decision but also supported by
“Wasserman will continue to represent us with Jacob Hayes and Travis Clarke taking over management duties,” the statement concluded.
A Key Figure in Their Career Transition
Lucas Mirtl played a crucial role in the Lawrence brothers’ rise in the sport, particularly facilitating their transition from the European-based MXGP circuit to racing in the United States. In 2019, Mirtl helped Jett and Hunter Lawrence move to the highly competitive American scene, where they soon made their mark in AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross.
Both brothers have enjoyed remarkable success since their move to the US. Jett, in particular, has risen to prominence with dominant performances in both AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross. In 2023, he became the third rider in history to win every moto of an AMA Pro Motocross season and was the first rookie since Jeremy McGrath in 1993 to secure the AMA Supercross premier class title.
Hunter, too, has established himself as a formidable competitor, earning titles in the 250SX and 250MX classes. The success of both riders has solidified the Lawrence brothers as two of the most exciting talents in motocross, making Mirtl’s departure all the more surprising given his integral role in their U.S. careers.
The Fallout and Next Steps
The Lawrences’ decision to part ways with Mirtl is a significant one, particularly given their history together. Mirtl’s involvement in the brothers’ professional lives has been a cornerstone of their careers, and the financial mismanagement allegations have understandably shaken the motocross world. While the Lawrences are committed to continuing their career under Wasserman’s management, the scandal has raised questions about the challenges that professional athletes face when it comes to financial and managerial trust.
With the change in management, Jacob Hayes and Travis Clarke from Wasserman are set to take over the Lawrence brothers’ representation. The ongoing investigation into Mirtl’s actions suggests that this saga is far from over, and further legal action may follow as the brothers seek to recover their misappropriated funds.
The Future of the Lawrence Brothers
Despite the setback, the Lawrence brothers have remained focused on their future in motocross. Jett’s meteoric rise to the top of both Supercross and Pro Motocross is a testament to his undeniable talent, and Hunter’s continued success in the 250SX and 250MX classes makes him one of the sport’s most consistent competitors.
As the investigation into Mirtl unfolds, the brothers will no doubt focus on their upcoming racing seasons, with fans eagerly awaiting their next moves both on and off the track. Given their recent successes and the support of Wasserman’s experienced team, the future looks bright for the Lawrence brothers as they continue to build their legacies in the sport of motocross.
In the world of professional motorsports, where the balance of talent, business, and personal trust is delicate, the Lawrence brothers’ decision to address this financial mismanagement head-on marks an important moment in their careers—one that reflects their commitment to maintaining both their integrity and their focus on success.
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