Eli Tomac Tops 450SX Q1 in Tampa Supercross 2025, While Jett Lawrence Skips Track Session

 

The 2025 Supercross season is heating up, and the Tampa round has certainly brought some exciting drama, especially in the 450SX class. Eli Tomac, a perennial contender in the premier division, proved once again that he’s a force to be reckoned with by topping the first qualifying session (Q1) on Saturday night. However, the spotlight was not solely on Tomac’s performance. The absence of rising star Jett Lawrence from the track during Q1 has sparked discussions, with fans and experts alike speculating on his readiness for the main event.

Eli Tomac Dominates Q1

Eli Tomac’s performance in Q1 was nothing short of spectacular. The Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing rider wasted no time in showcasing his incredible skill and experience, setting the fastest lap time of the session. Tomac, who has already proven himself as one of the greatest Supercross riders of his generation, looked smooth and confident as he powered through the rough Tampa track. His ability to navigate tight corners, handle jumps, and maintain speed in the whoops section solidified his position at the top.

While Q1 is just a qualifier, it is an early indication of Tomac’s form and determination heading into the night program. Fans have come to expect a high level of performance from the 450SX veteran, but with a season that is growing more competitive every week, Tomac’s success in Q1 gives him an early advantage in the race for the championship.

The Curious Case of Jett Lawrence’s Absence

Jett Lawrence, one of the brightest stars in motocross, was notably absent from the track during Q1. With his impressive performances in the 250SX class and his move up to the 450SX category, Lawrence has

been one of the riders to watch in 2025. His absence from the session, however, left fans and pundits wondering about the state of his health and race preparation.

While the reasons for his absence were not immediately clear, rumors circulated suggesting that Lawrence could have been dealing with a minor injury or perhaps opting to focus on his strategy for the night show. After all, Supercross is as much about pacing as it is about speed, and with a long season ahead, it’s possible that Lawrence’s team chose to err on the side of caution.

This has led to a bit of speculation about his readiness for the evening’s main event. Would Lawrence make an appearance in the second qualifying session (Q2)? Would he be able to recover mentally and physically for the race? These are the questions that many were eagerly anticipating answers to.

What’s Next for the 450SX Class?

With Tomac showing his strength early and the uncertainty surrounding Jett Lawrence’s status, the 450SX class is shaping up to be more unpredictable than ever. Tomac, along with other veterans like Chase Sexton and Cooper Webb, will surely bring their A-game as the season progresses. Meanwhile, the absence of Lawrence in Q1 has thrown a curveball into the championship race, raising questions about how the young talent will fare once he gets back into competition mode.

The 2025 season is still young, and while Q1 is just one snapshot of what’s to come, it has certainly set the stage for a thrilling championship battle. With Tomac’s impressive showing, Lawrence’s uncertain status, and the fierce competition throughout the grid, it’s clear that fans are in for an unforgettable Supercross season.