As winter 2026 approaches, anticipation is building across the snowmobile racing world — and no one is more eager than Team Arctic.
Determined to reclaim its place atop the cross-country scene, Arctic Cat has revealed a revitalized factory race team for the upcoming Cor PowerSports season. With a mix of proven champions and hungry young talent, the brand is gearing up for a thrilling year of competition.
A Strong, Unified Team for 2026
After an intense 2025 season filled with both triumphs and challenges, Team Arctic enters the new campaign with a sharper focus and a reinforced lineup.
The talented Jesse Hallstrom joins forces with legendary racer Zach Herfindahl in the Pro classes, while Derek Kloety returns to chase titles in Semi-Pro.
All three riders will race aboard ZR 600 R-XC sleds built on the revolutionary Catalyst chassis — machines that have quickly earned a reputation for their balance, agility, and raw trail-proven power.
Hometown Hero: Jesse Hallstrom Returns to His Roots
At just 19 years old, Jesse Hallstrom from Thief River Falls, Minnesota, is already a name to watch in cross-country snowmobile racing.
He first threw a leg over an Arctic Cat at age four, discovering early what it takes to reach the podium. After spending the past three seasons racing with another team, he’s returning home — both literally and figuratively.
“I’m thankful for where I’ve been, but being back on an Arctic Cat feels right. It’s home for me,” Hallstrom shared.
With his natural speed, technical precision, and renewed motivation, Hallstrom represents the next generation of Arctic Cat racers — passionate, determined, and proud to wear the green.
Zach Herfindahl: The Reigning Veteran
Joining Hallstrom in the Team Arctic trailer is a true icon of the sport.
Zach Herfindahl, 29, from Eagle River, Wisconsin, is one of the most successful cross-country racers of his generation.
His résumé includes 14 points championships, five I-500 victories, and a Soo I-500 enduro win — all achieved on Arctic Cat machines.
“These are exciting times for Team Arctic,” Herfindahl said. “Jesse’s addition brings fresh energy to the program, and I’m pumped for what’s ahead.”
Herfindahl’s consistency, experience, and relentless drive will be key assets for the factory program as the team pushes toward another championship season.
Derek Kloety: Young, Fast, and Focused
At 21 years old, Derek Kloety of St. Hilaire, Minnesota, continues to build his reputation as one of the sport’s rising stars.
Last season, he finished fourth overall in the Semi-Pro Improved Stock class, earning two podium finishes in five rounds — an impressive feat that speaks to his growing confidence and skill.
“It’s awesome to have Jesse back on Cats where he belongs,” said Kloety. “We’ve got great chemistry as a team and keep pushing each other to get faster every weekend.”
His dedication and teamwork perfectly embody the spirit of the brand: loyal, focused, and relentlessly competitive.
A Unified Vision for Success
Team Arctic Race Manager Mike Kloety sees this new lineup as a perfect blend of youth, experience, and passion.
“Jesse’s return adds raw talent, energy, and strong Arctic Cat heritage to our program,” he explained. “Having another top-level rider in the factory trailer helps us gather more feedback, which improves how quickly we can support all of Cat’s racers.”
That cooperative spirit is the secret to Arctic Cat’s enduring success. Every lap, every race, and every rider contributes valuable insights that drive future performance and product innovation.
Ready for the Cor PowerSports Circuit
Throughout the 2026 season, Team Arctic’s factory race trailer will once again be on-site at every Cor PowerSports event, providing mechanical support, parts, and technical expertise to all Arctic Cat racers.
This ongoing presence underscores the company’s deep commitment to competition — not just at the factory level, but across the entire Arctic Cat racing family.
Expect to see plenty of green sleds leading the pack this winter as Team Arctic charges forward, fueled by talent, teamwork, and an unshakable passion for racing.
About Arctic Cat
Founded in 1962, Arctic Cat has been a pioneer in the powersports industry for over six decades. The brand designs, engineers, and markets a full line of snowmobiles, ATVs, and side-by-sides, distributed through independent dealers across the United States, Canada, and international markets including Europe, South America, the Middle East, and Asia.
More than a manufacturer, Arctic Cat represents a way of life — one driven by innovation, adventure, and a deep love for the ride.
