It was a tough weekend for motocross star Eli Tomac, and naturally, the speculation has already begun. After an uncharacteristic performance, some analysts have started questioning Tomac’s motivation and suggesting that his focus may be fading since he’s no longer in the running for the outdoor championship this season. One of the most vocal opinions came from James Stewart, who implied that because Eli can’t win the title this year, his competitive drive has taken a hit.
However, many fans—and those who know Eli Tomac’s racing mindset—are pushing back hard against that narrative.
Let’s set the record straight: Eli Tomac is a multi-time champion, a fierce competitor, and a racer who has built his career on grit, determination, and a relentless drive to win. The idea that he’s suddenly lacking motivation because of the points standings is simply not believable. Tomac isn’t the kind of athlete who shows up just to check the box. He wants to win every time he lines up at the gate—period.
For those who follow Tomac’s career closely, it’s no secret that the ET3 camp keeps things tight-lipped. His team rarely offers detailed updates about his health or behind-the-scenes struggles. But if you look at his recent races, it’s clear that something may be off. Many fans believe Eli might be battling an illness, which could easily explain why his performance dipped this past weekend. It’s worth noting that similar situations have happened recently with other top riders like Jason Anderson and Aaron Plessinger, both of whom faced illness that affected their race days.
In a physically demanding sport like motocross, it’s not unusual for riders to push through health issues without making public announcements. Athletes at this level are wired to compete no matter what, even when they aren’t at 100%. That’s part of what makes them champions. If Tomac is indeed fighting off an illness, it would explain the recent struggles while still preserving the truth of who he is: a racer who gives his all, no matter the circumstances.
Fans of Eli Tomac know that this is just a bump in the road. Beast Mode isn’t gone—he’s just recharging. Throughout his career, Tomac has shown resilience in the face of adversity, and there’s no reason to believe this moment will be any different. When he’s back at full strength, expect him to return to the front of the pack, doing what he does best.
In the meantime, the motocross community is rallying around him. Social media is buzzing with support as fans post their favorite photos of Eli, sharing memories of his greatest rides and moments that have inspired them over the years. Whether it’s past championship wins, epic comebacks, or simply a snapshot of his laser-focused race face, the message is clear: Eli Tomac has the support of his fans, and everyone is looking forward to seeing Beast Mode return soon.