Ricky Carmichael Criticizes the Impact of Evolution on Modern Motocross and Rider Injuries in the 2025 Season.
Motocross legend Ricky Carmichael, often regarded as the greatest motocross rider of all time, has weighed in on the state of modern motocross, expressing concern over the increasing number of injuries among today’s elite riders. In a recent discussion regarding the 2025 Supercross and Motocross seasons, Carmichael compared the sport’s past with its present, lamenting how, despite advancements in training and recovery methods, injuries continue to plague top riders like Jett and Hunter Lawrence, as well as Eli Tomac.
Carmichael’s Take on the Changing Landscape of Motocross
Carmichael, who dominated the sport in the early 2000s, highlighted how motocross has evolved in terms of technology, training, and rider preparation. “Back when I was racing, we didn’t have the recovery tools and methods that riders have now, but the zeal to win was there,” he said. “Now, the riders have more sophisticated training programs and recovery strategies, but it’s a shame to see these guys, who have given so much to the sport, struggle with injuries and can’t stay on the bike.”
Carmichael’s comments strike at the heart of a growing debate in the motocross community: Is the sport’s evolution actually making it more dangerous for its riders? While modern training regimens have made riders stronger and more capable than ever before, the increased speed, intensity, and competitiveness of the sport have seemingly led to a rise in severe injuries.
The Toll on Today’s Stars
The 2025 season has been particularly tough on some of the sport’s biggest names. Jett and Hunter Lawrence, two of the most talented and talked-about riders in recent years, have both battled injuries that have hampered their performances. Jett, the 2023 and 2024 AMA Pro Motocross 450 champion, has struggled with setbacks that have kept him from maintaining his dominance. Meanwhile, his brother Hunter has also dealt with crashes and injuries, preventing him from fully capitalizing on his potential.
Eli Tomac, a veteran of the sport, has also faced significant struggles. Having already endured a season-ending Achilles injury in 2023, his return to racing was met with further challenges. Despite his experience and resilience, the brutal nature of modern motocross continues to take a toll on even the most battle-tested riders.
Is Modern Motocross Too Demanding?
Carmichael’s concern isn’t just about individual injuries—it’s about the direction the sport is taking. The tracks have become more technical, the bikes more powerful, and the competition fiercer than ever. Riders are pushing themselves to the absolute limit, and as a result, the margin for error has become razor-thin.
The increased demands of training and recovery also put more pressure on riders. While sports science has advanced significantly, enabling athletes to optimize their conditioning, it doesn’t necessarily prevent injuries. In some cases, it may even contribute to them, as riders push their bodies to the extreme with rigorous training schedules, aggressive riding styles, and relentless travel demands.
Carmichael’s Call for Change
Carmichael’s perspective is invaluable, given his unparalleled success in the sport. He believes motocross needs to strike a better balance between competitiveness and rider safety. While technological advancements in equipment and training are beneficial, they must be complemented by smarter track designs, improved safety measures, and perhaps even adjustments to race formats to ensure riders have longer, healthier careers.
“Motocross has always been tough, but we need to look at what’s happening,” Carmichael emphasized. “If we’re losing our best riders every season to injuries, what does that say about where we’re headed?”
His words serve as both a reflection on the past and a warning for the future. While the evolution of motocross has brought incredible excitement and progression, it has also come at a cost. If the sport continues down its current path, there may be even more consequences for its top athletes.
As the 2025 season unfolds, the motocross community must consider Carmichael’s words carefully. Will changes be made to prioritize rider longevity, or will the sport continue to push its athletes beyond their limits? One thing is certain—motocross remains as thrilling and dangerous as ever, and the conversation about safety is far from ov er.
