Eli Tomac Leads Team USA’s Dominant Charge to Triumph at the 2024 Motocross of Nations, Cementing His Legacy in Global Motocross History
The 2024 Motocross of Nations (MXoN) proved to be a historic and electrifying chapter in the annals of motocross, as Team USA, under the leadership of seasoned veteran Eli Tomac, reclaimed the prestigious Chamberlain Trophy. The world’s premier motocross event, held at Ernée, France, saw 34 nations compete for the ultimate bragging rights in a display of grit, speed, and unparalleled skill. While every rider played a part in the spectacle, it was Tomac who emerged as the beacon for Team USA, guiding them to their first MXoN victory in several years and cementing his status as one of the greatest to ever race on dirt.
The Build-Up to Glory: Tomac’s Return to MXoN
Eli Tomac’s return to the 2024 MXoN came after much anticipation. Having skipped recent editions due to injuries and scheduling conflicts, fans and experts were eager to see how the multi-time AMA Supercross and Motocross champion would fare on the international stage. Despite facing intense competition from top-tier riders across Europe and Australia, Tomac remained laser-focused on one goal: bringing Team USA back to the top of the motocross world.
With his vast experience, including multiple national championships and previous MXoN appearances, Tomac was tasked with not only performing on the track but also acting as a mentor for younger riders. Alongside him, rising stars Chase Sexton and R.J. Hampshire completed a strong Team USA lineup, making this year’s squad one of the most well-rounded and formidable in recent history.
Race Day: Ernée Becomes a Battleground
As race day dawned at the iconic Ernée circuit, the atmosphere was thick with excitement. Thousands of motocross enthusiasts packed the grandstands, waving flags, cheering for their respective nations, and waiting for the drama to unfold. The track itself, notorious for its steep elevation changes, technical corners, and deep ruts, was a perfect test of a rider’s physical and mental endurance.
From the moment the first gate dropped, it was evident that Team USA had come prepared to put on a masterclass. Tomac, true to his reputation, wasted no time asserting himself as the dominant force. In the first of three motos, he launched off the start with precision, battling through a fiercely competitive field that included reigning MXGP champion Romain Febvre, Australian sensation Jett Lawrence, and the Belgian powerhouse Jago Geerts. Tomac’s bike skills were on full display as he effortlessly navigated the trickiest sections of the track, keeping a relentless pace that forced his rivals into making mistakes.
Though the competition was fierce, Tomac’s sheer determination and poise set him apart. He managed to hold off several charging riders to finish first in the moto, securing vital points for Team USA. His composure under pressure was nothing short of masterful, as he outpaced not only his younger counterparts but also the seasoned veterans of the sport.
Teamwork: Sexton and Hampshire Deliver
While Tomac was undoubtedly the cornerstone of Team USA’s success, the contributions of Chase Sexton and R.J. Hampshire cannot be overlooked. Sexton, who has blossomed into one of the top talents in AMA racing, showcased his growing maturity and race craft. In Moto 2, he fought hard to finish in the top three, battling with European riders in what was arguably the most competitive race of the day. Sexton’s smooth riding style, combined with his ability to control the pace, was instrumental in keeping Team USA at the forefront.
R.J. Hampshire, meanwhile, proved to be the wildcard for the team. Known for his aggressive and fearless style, Hampshire rose to the occasion, putting together consistent finishes that kept the pressure on Team USA’s rivals. His tenacity and refusal to back down, even in the face of a stacked field, made him a key contributor to the overall team effort.
Together, the three riders formed a cohesive unit, each playing to their strengths while covering for one another’s weaknesses. It was this teamwork that allowed Team USA to accumulate points across all motos and remain in contention for the title.
The Final Push: Tomac Seals the Deal
The final moto was where legends are made. With the title still up for grabs and several nations in close contention, it was once again Tomac who rose to the occasion. The American veteran’s experience and mental toughness shone brightly in the pressure-cooker atmosphere. While other riders faltered under the weight of the moment, Tomac remained calm, executing his race plan with precision.
As the laps wound down, the battle for the lead intensified, with France’s Romain Febvre and Australia’s Jett Lawrence pushing Tomac to the limit. But just as he had done in the earlier races, Tomac dug deep, finding an extra gear to pull away from the chasing pack. His ability to maintain blistering speed, even in the latter stages of the race, was a testament to his unrivaled fitness and preparation.
When the checkered flag finally waved, it was Tomac who crossed the line first, to the deafening roar of the American fans in attendance. His dominant performance throughout the day, coupled with the solid efforts from Sexton and Hampshire, secured Team USA’s first MXoN title since 2011. The win was not just a victory for the team; it was a personal triumph for Tomac, whose name will now forever be etched in motocross history.
Legacy Cemented
For Eli Tomac, the 2024 Motocross of Nations victory was the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. After experiencing heartbreak and setbacks in previous MXoN campaigns, this triumph served as the crowning achievement of his illustrious career. Tomac’s legacy, already filled with multiple AMA titles and Supercross championships, now includes the prestigious Chamberlain Trophy—a fitting reward for one of the sport’s greatest ambassadors.
In the aftermath of the race, Tomac was quick to share the glory with his teammates and the entire Team USA crew. “This is a team sport, and we couldn’t have done this without everyone working together,” Tomac said during the post-race press conference. “I’m proud of the way we fought today. It wasn’t easy, but we dug deep and got the job done. This is what motocross is all about—fighting for every inch, every second, and doing it for your country.”
The Global Impact: Motocross of Nations 2024
The 2024 MXoN victory for Team USA was more than just a personal triumph for Tomac and his teammates—it signaled a resurgence of American dominance in the sport. After years of European riders and teams reigning supreme on the global stage, this victory marked a turning point. It showed that American riders could still compete with the world’s best and that the USA, the birthplace of so many motocross legends, was back on top.
The 2024 edition of MXoN will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most exciting and closely contested events in recent memory. From the intense battles between the sport’s biggest names to the passionate support from fans worldwide, it was a spectacle that highlighted everything that makes motocross unique.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles on Ernée’s storied track, attention will soon turn to the 2025 season and the challenges that lie ahead for Tomac and Team USA. With young stars like Sexton and Hampshire continuing to improve, and Tomac showing no signs of slowing down, the future looks bright for American motocross.
But for now, the motocross world celebrates Eli Tomac’s extraordinary leadership and Team USA’s triumphant return to the top. The 2024 Motocross of Nations will forever be remembered as the year Tomac solidified his legacy as one of the greatest to ever race on dirt, and the year Team USA reestablished itself as the standard-bearer of global motocross excellence.
