August is a poignant moment in time for off-road enthusiasts – it marks a furious sprint towards the finale in multiple series across the world. In fact, that is true about most motorsports. It is not that championship conclusion that captures the attention of our fans though, no, it’s the prospect of what could occur at the annual Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations.
Words | Lewis Philips
Announcements regarding the riders for each nation are right around the corner. The most intriguing, the three riders who will represent the United States, will not be named for some time though, as the AMA is adopting a tentative approach with countless riders in a state of flux. What is known?
MXGP: A CLEAR LEADER
Chase Sexton’s all but confirmed to lead the team in the MXGP division. There is no reason to doubt that at all unless, of course, he opts out, which is unlikely. Sexton is the obvious choice – there is no reason to dedicate more time to his potential selection.
MX2: DEEGAN IN DOUBT
One would think that Haiden Deegan is an automatic pick for the MX2 division, but speculation is running rampant at this point. Is he the best pick for the MX2 berth? Yes, of course, but it is possible that he will need to have hardware removed from his wrist after the SuperMotocross finale in Las Vegas. Will he forgo the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations to ensure that his pre-season preparation for 2025 Monster Energy Supercross is uninterrupted? Most likely, yes. Chance Hymas is therefore the favorite to jump into the MX2 class, as Kawasaki has little to no interest in supporting the tradition behind the MXoN.
OPEN: MULTIPLE OPTIONS
The situation surrounding the Open position is fluid. Aaron Plessinger and Justin Cooper are the most attractive candidates based on recent form. The former especially, because of his ‘brand’ and support from the Pierer Mobility Group. The final three fixtures of 2024 Pro Motocross – starting with Unadilla on Saturday – will see a couple of additional candidates walk into the mix though. Cooper Webb will race on Saturday, August 10, and then Eli Tomac should return at Budds Creek a week later. Each rider is motivated to race in the United Kingdom. Simply, who would ignore such off-road giants?
Webb, with just one 450MX triumph to his name, would be a shock entrant. ‘2’ has proven that he always rises to the occasion at the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations, but his outdoor prowess leaves a little to be desired. It is possible that Cooper and Plessinger will outperform him over the last three races and eliminate him from the discussion. Unless he shocks everyone and posts a podium or two before the final round of 2025, he would be an outside bet for the team. Capable, sure, but there are more sensible riders who are chomping at the bit.
Enter Eli Tomac. Tomac has not competed in a motocross race in 702 days and so it is impossible to predict how he will fare. There is no doubt that he will return to his best level at some point – the MXoN is just two months away though. Time is limited and that is what the AMA must wrestle with. It is unrealistic to think that he will show his best self before the team is finalized, so do you bet on the fact that he’ll be on top form when it is time to leave for Matterley Basin? It is worth considering that a lesser version of Tomac could still be similar to the current form of Cooper, however.
A PREDICITION?
It is impossible to predict who’ll compete for Team USA: External pressure could even force a decision. Roger DeCoster would prefer to send Plessinger, because of his role inside of the Pierer Mobility Group, so could that push him onto a plane? In opposition, there are countless influential people who will believe in Tomac’s potential. Does that mean that the on-track action will be rendered irrelevant and the decision makers will bet on the probable? Team USA is, and will always be, a thrilling point of discussion. Such fanfare will ensure that their selection process dominates midweek chatter for some time. Watch this space.
