Tomac to MXoN “Well, it’s gonna be a race that’s got to have…”

Chase Sexton’s Collision and Its Impact on Team USA for the MXoN

Chase Sexton’s collision with Justin Barcia during the first 450SMX moto of the SuperMotocross World Championship Final in Las Vegas has sent shockwaves through the motocross community.

The incident, which occurred just moments into the race, not only affected the immediate championship standings but also jeopardized Sexton’s participation in the upcoming Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN).

Red Bull KTM Team Manager Ian Harrison revealed to NBC/Peacock reporter Will Christien that Sexton sustained a hand injury from the crash, necessitating X-rays to assess the damage. This injury poses significant implications for Team USA, where Sexton was slated to compete in the MXGP class.

As anticipation builds around Sexton’s condition, the motocross world is left wondering: what happens if he cannot race? Eli Tomac, a top candidate for replacement,

had previously opted out of consideration for the team, believing that Sexton and Aaron Plessinger were more deserving riders. However, with the potential for Sexton’s absence, Tomac’s name has resurfaced in discussions.

In a recent post-race press conference, Tomac addressed the possibility of stepping in. “Well, I mean, it’s gonna be a discussion that’s gonna be had over the next couple of days,” he stated, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the situation.

Adding to the complexity, Chance Hymas, the original MX2 selection, is out with a knee injury and has been replaced by Cooper Webb. Meanwhile, Plessinger has also faced challenges, tweaking his shoulder at the first SMX race in North Carolina but remains optimistic about being fit for the MXoN.

With the event set for October 5-6, the clock is ticking. The pressing questions remain: Will Sexton recover in time to compete? Can Tomac fill the gap if needed? What if neither rider is available? These uncertainties have prompted inquiries to the AMA for updates, as fans and team officials alike await crucial information.

Update: 4:20 p.m. Eastern

In a recent announcement, Yamaha confirmed that Eli Tomac will officially replace Sexton as the MXGP rider for Team USA at the MXoN. Tomac expressed his readiness to step up in a Yamaha press release, stating, “Due to the unfortunate racing incident Chase was involved in at the final round of SMX, I was the next one in line to take his place for Team USA. Aaron, Cooper, and I are ready to give it our best effort at Matterley Basin. This is very short notice for my team, but we are going to make it happen.”

As Team USA prepares for the MXoN, the stakes have never been higher. The team will rely on Tomac’s experience and skill to carry their hopes forward, all while navigating the challenges of last-minute changes. The motocross community will be watching closely, eager to see how the events unfold in the days leading up to the race.