The 2026 AMA Pro Motocross Championship's seventh round at Spring Creek National in Millville, Minnesota, was a thrilling spectacle. With big track changes, intense battles, and pileups, it left us with plenty of questions. We tapped former pro and NBC on-track analyst, Jason Thomas, for insights.
Track Changes: Safety vs. Speed
The track's huge up and downhill sections, known as Mt. Martin, underwent significant changes to slow down the section and enhance safety. Thomas acknowledges the challenge of balancing speed and risk, especially with faster bikes and less predictable tires. He supports the changes, recognizing the potential for accidents in high-speed, downhill sections.
Pileup in the 250s
The opening lap of the first 250 moto was chaotic, triggered by Carson Wood's youthful exuberance and big chances. Wood, an inexperienced 16-year-old, nearly pushed his championship-leading teammate, Levi Kitchen, into a dangerous situation. Thomas emphasizes the importance of trust and smart decision-making at the top level, highlighting the consequences of swerving across the track.
Impact of the Pileup
The pileup claimed Kitchen and Cole Davies, both forced to race for the championship from behind. Davies eventually DNF'd due to a fuel tank hole, but the question arises: in such a situation, is one more focused on moving forward or beating their main competitor? Thomas suggests a balance between the two, acknowledging the importance of both gaining points and surpassing rivals.
Julien Beaumer's Fitness
Beaumer's fitness and staying power were notable, as evidenced by his moto one win. Thomas attributes his success to elite fitness, enabling him to close gaps and push into the red on the last lap. The second moto lull might be linked to redlining in the first moto, suggesting that hot races in the final few could favor Beaumer.
Marking Riders on a Unique Track
Mosiman's comment about not knowing Beaumer's proximity raises questions about marking riders on a track with limited parallel lanes. Thomas explains that marking is challenging due to the lack of parallel lanes and the unique dynamics of the track, where sand whoops offer limited visibility.
Breakout Rides in the 250 Class
Chance Hymas and Carson Mumford's impressive finishes in the 250 Class were attributed to chaos behind them, including Jo Shimoda's absence, Sacha Coenen's return to Europe, Davies' crashes, and Kitchen's leg injury. Thomas highlights the importance of stepping up and capitalizing on opportunities, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of racing.
450 Moto Incidents
Haiden Deegan's wide start in the first 450 moto and Justin Barcia's block pass on Deegan raised questions. Thomas explains that Barcia's action was a welcoming gesture to the 450 rookie, acknowledging the risks of passing on the outside. Hunter Lawrence's dominance in the first 450 moto was a result of both his skill and Jett Lawrence's early concession.
Jett Lawrence's Crash
Jett Lawrence's crash while leading in the second moto, caused by a front tire loss, was analyzed. Thomas suggests that the inability to weigh the outside peg might have contributed to the crash, raising questions about the impact of ankle strength on stability.
