As the 2025 season barrels toward its climax, all eyes in the motocross world are on two names: Chase Sexton and Eli Tomac. The reigning 450 Supercross champion and the veteran icon are at the center of contract rumors and speculation that could reshape the 2026 racing landscape. While much remains under wraps, insiders agree: the moves these two riders make in the coming months will dictate team strategies, manufacturer involvement, and even the sport’s future development paths.
The Sexton Decision
Chase Sexton’s future remains the biggest question mark. After securing the 450 title and establishing himself as one of the sport’s premier talents, Sexton is now the most sought-after rider on the market. Red Bull KTM, his current team, is naturally keen to retain him, especially after extending Aaron Plessinger’s contract and watching Tom Vialle inch closer to a 250 title that would merit promotion to the 450 class.
But despite media reports and insider chatter about deals being done, Sexton himself has consistently said that a final decision won’t come until around the Salt Lake City round—the final race of the Supercross season. It’s a wait that has put multiple factory teams, not just KTM, in a holding pattern.
If Sexton stays with KTM, it would solidify a power-packed trio in the 450 class: Sexton, Plessinger, and Vialle. Such a lineup would give Red Bull KTM arguably the deepest team in the paddock, combining experience, youth, and championship pedigree. The chemistry already 
But if Sexton departs, the team would be left scrambling to fill a gaping hole at the top. And that’s where Eli Tomac comes into the picture.
Eli Tomac: The Wild Card
Tomac, long a fixture in the elite ranks, returned from injury in 2024 and has continued to show flashes of brilliance. While he’s toward the end of his career, his competitive fire hasn’t dimmed, and his name still commands respect across the industry. In recent months, rumors have swirled that Ducati—a new player in the Supercross arena—is aggressively pursuing Tomac to lead its debut campaign.
Ducati’s interest makes sense: the Italian manufacturer is attempting to transition its global motorsports prestige into the off-road world, and Tomac would provide instant credibility and attention. However, questions remain about the readiness of Ducati’s Supercross bike. Development timelines are tight, and many wonder whether the machine will be race-ready by the start of 2026.
KTM, on the other hand, offers a tried-and-true platform. Their equipment has consistently been at the front of the pack, and their infrastructure is already built around a winning formula. If Sexton were to move on—possibly to Kawasaki, which has been loosely linked to him—KTM could offer Tomac a final shot at another title with a proven machine. Reports indicate that either testing has already begun between Tomac and KTM or is set to happen soon, depending on what Sexton decides.
A Domino Effect
What makes this situation so fascinating is how interconnected it all is. Sexton’s decision will trigger a chain reaction that could redefine the 450 class heading into 2026. If he stays with KTM, Tomac may opt for the riskier Ducati project or even consider retirement if a solid opportunity doesn’t emerge. If Sexton leaves, KTM will likely shift into high gear to secure Tomac and stabilize their roster.
Moreover, if Tomac joins KTM and Ducati delays its entry, the buzz around their program could lose momentum. Conversely, if Tomac chooses Ducati, it could accelerate their Supercross ambitions and bring them instant fanfare, regardless of early-season results.
There’s also the ripple effect to consider across other teams. Monster Energy Kawasaki, which hasn’t confirmed any new signings, could become a surprise landing spot for Sexton. Meanwhile, Honda and Yamaha are watching closely, weighing their own moves as the offseason approaches.
The Waiting Game
For now, the sport holds its breath. Chase Sexton has earned the right to take his time—his next decision will define the landscape for the next few years. And in a sport where fractions of seconds and inches of dirt determine legacies, the right team, bike, and setup can make all the difference.
One way or another, when the 2026 gates drop, it will be clear that the future of motocross was decided in the tense weeks following Salt Lake City 2025. Until then, speculation will continue, and fans and teams alike will keep watching the movements of Sexton and Tomac—two giants whose next steps will echo across the sport.
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