As the gates dropped on the highly anticipated motocross season opener, fans expected some clear answers to the debates that had fueled endless bench-racing chatter in recent weeks. Instead, what they got was a weekend full of surprises, more questions, and a serious shake-up in the early-season narrative. One thing that did become glaringly clear: Jett Lawrence is nothing short of a freak of nature on the bike, and Eli Tomac continues to build a case for his spot among the sport’s all-time greats.
Lawrence came into the season with high expectations—and somehow exceeded them. His speed, control, and decision-making on the bike looked effortless, even on a course that proved to be among the most demanding on the circuit. And while all eyes were on the young star, Tomac showed once again why his name belongs in the GOAT conversation. His calculated aggression and unwavering focus under pressure kept him at the sharp end of the field all day, reminding fans and fellow racers alike that he’s not ready to pass the torch just yet.
To gain deeper insight into what we witnessed, we tapped former pro racer and NBC Sports reporter Jason Thomas for his thoughts on the track conditions and overall vibe of the weekend. According to Thomas, the track was its usual self—brutal and unforgiving—but surprisingly, it held together better than expected for a national event.
“This track is always brutal. It’s not the roughest national, but it’s incredibly tricky,” Thomas explained. “The deteriorating traction forces riders into this uncomfortable zone where they have to push when caution is probably the smarter choice.”
Thomas recounted a post-race conversation with Aaron Plessinger, in which both agreed the track demanded a kind of bravery few possess. “I told AP7 how impressed I was by how far these guys were pushing the limit on such a treacherous surface,” he said. “He pretty much said it’s not much fun taking risks on a track like that.”
Despite the challenges, the surface held up remarkably well considering the pounding it took. Thomas attributes this to solid prep and the unique terrain that forces riders to adapt constantly, even if it means riding on the edge of control.
In the end, while the opener didn’t answer every question, it made one thing very clear—this season is going to be one for the books. Whether you’re marveling at Lawrence’s raw talent or appreciating Tomac’s enduring greatness, there’s no denying the excitement is just getting started.