Deegan, the Lawrences, and the 2024 AUSX Open: A Tale of Tensions and Missed Opportunities

 

As the 2024 Australian Supercross (AUSX) Open approaches, excitement is building among fans who are eager for the event’s return after a hiatus. Headlining the show will be the Lawrence brothers, Jett and Hunter, who aren’t just competing but also co-promoting the event. However, the drama surrounding negotiations between Deegan’s camp and the Lawrences has added a layer of tension to what should be a thrilling showcase of Supercross talent.

The issue began when Deegan, fresh off his recovery from injury, made a late push to participate in the AUSX Open. Deegan, known for his meteoric rise in the sport and his growing fan base, wanted to race alongside the Lawrence brothers. But while Deegan’s intentions were clear, the logistics of making it happen were more complicated. Deegan’s camp hoped to negotiate a spot at the event, but talks quickly broke down over financial terms, timing, and underlying tensions between Deegan and the Lawrences.

As co-promoters, the Lawrence brothers wield significant influence over the AUSX Open, and any paid-to-enter riders require their approval. When Deegan’s camp approached the promoters, the Lawrences

ultimately decided not to green-light his participation. They cited concerns over the late timing of Deegan’s push and questioned whether his inclusion would add value to the event given the already packed roster of talent.

This decision didn’t sit well with Deegan’s camp. Feeling sidelined, they expressed frustration, suggesting that they had not been fully aware of the extent to which the Lawrences were involved in the event’s management. Some even went so far as to claim that Deegan was being “blackballed” from the event, implying that personal history and previous tensions between Deegan and the Lawrences played a role in the decision. However, the event promoters clarified that Deegan wasn’t banned from competing, but rather that they were simply unable to reach an agreement on his appearance fee due to disagreements among the various stakeholders, including the Lawrences themselves.

Adding a twist to the drama, Jason Anderson, another prominent rider, briefly joined the conversation. Anderson, known for his playful social media presence, made some lighthearted comments about Deegan’s exclusion from the event. While Anderson’s remarks seemed to stir the pot, it became clear that he was never seriously considered as a replacement for Deegan due to Kawasaki’s restrictions on off-season events. This only served to amplify the story in the media and among fans.

Despite the drama, the AUSX Open is set to be a major success. With ticket sales already surging and the Lawrence brothers headlining, the event is sure to deliver thrilling action, even without Deegan’s presence on the starting line. The promoters are confident that the star power of Jett and Hunter Lawrence, along with other top riders, will create an unforgettable event for Supercross fans.

The saga surrounding Deegan and the Lawrences underscores the complexity of Supercross negotiations, where business decisions often intersect with personal rivalries and emotions. While Deegan’s absence may leave some fans disappointed, it also sets the stage for a highly anticipated showdown in future seasons. With the possibility of Deegan and the Lawrences facing off in the premier 450 class, the drama surrounding this year’s AUSX Open is likely to fuel even greater anticipation for next season’s races.

For now, though, the stage is set for an intense AUSX Open. It’s a mix of strategic decisions, bruised egos, and the promise of thrilling racing action. Whether or not Deegan is part of the equation, one thing is certain: the world of Supercross has never been more exciting.