Eli Tomac Reflects on Team USA’s Resilience at MXoN: Proud of Cooper and Aaron, Grateful for the Effort, and Honored to Fight Until the Final Checkered Flag
The 2024 Motocross of Nations (MXoN) proved once again why it is regarded as the pinnacle of international motocross competition. For Team USA, the event was not just a showcase of talent but also a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and grit. Eli Tomac, a legend of the sport and a true ambassador for American motocross, took the time to reflect on the event with heartfelt pride, especially in his teammates Cooper Webb and Aaron Plessinger.
While the ultimate prize—victory and the coveted Chamberlain Trophy—remained elusive for Team USA this year, the journey and the fight to the very end were filled with moments of inspiration and unwavering determination. “We came up a bit short of the gold,” Tomac admitted, “but the way we stayed in the fight until the very last lap is something I’ll always be proud of. Cooper and Aaron gave it everything they had, and so did everyone behind the scenes who made this effort possible.”
The Race That Tested Every Ounce of Determination
MXoN is no ordinary race. The stakes are higher, the competition fiercer, and the pressure unlike anything seen in a typical motocross season. For Team USA, competing against the world’s best riders meant navigating a demanding track, unpredictable weather, and a field filled with talent from powerhouse nations such as France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
In the qualifying rounds, Team USA faced stiff challenges, with each rider battling to find their rhythm on the track. Tomac himself was sidelined earlier in the season due to injury, and while his presence in the 2024 MXoN was more as a guiding force rather than a competitor, his influence on the team was profound. From the pits, Tomac provided invaluable advice, analyzing track conditions and encouraging his teammates to adapt their lines and strategies.
Cooper Webb, known for his grit and tenacity, showed flashes of brilliance during his motos. Despite facing setbacks, his determination to claw back positions reflected the fighting spirit that Team USA is known for. Aaron Plessinger, a rider whose exuberance and energy light up any event, delivered a consistent performance, showcasing both skill and heart as he took on some of the toughest competitors in the world.
Teamwork Beyond the Track
Tomac emphasized that MXoN is not just about individual performances but about a collective effort. From the riders to the mechanics, team managers, and support staff, every person involved played a crucial role in Team USA’s campaign. “What people don’t see is the hours spent behind the scenes,” Tomac shared. “From setting up the bikes to analyzing every lap, every person involved in this effort gave 110%. It’s a humbling experience to be part of something bigger than yourself.”
The logistics alone are staggering. Shipping bikes, spare parts, and equipment overseas while ensuring the riders are mentally and physically prepared is no small feat. For Tomac, this level of commitment from everyone involved underscored the spirit of MXoN. “This event isn’t just about one day or one race. It’s about months of preparation, sacrifices, and a shared belief that we can compete with the best.”
Reflecting on What Could Have Been
Though Team USA fell short of the top step of the podium, Tomac remained optimistic. He acknowledged the dominance of other teams, particularly Team France, who showcased impeccable skill and strategy to clinch the gold. “Hats off to the winners—they earned it,” Tomac said. “But I know we left it all out there. Sometimes, it’s not about the result; it’s about the effort and heart you show on the track.”
Tomac also highlighted the challenges of adapting to the unique nature of MXoN. Riders are thrust into an unfamiliar environment, facing different soil compositions, track designs, and weather conditions that differ greatly from the AMA circuits they dominate. Despite these challenges, Team USA proved they could hold their own.
Gratitude for the Fans and the Legacy of MXoN
One of the standout aspects of the event for Tomac was the overwhelming support from fans. Whether they were cheering from the grandstands or following the action from home, the passion of American motocross enthusiasts never wavered. “The energy the fans bring is unmatched,” Tomac said. “Knowing that people are rooting for you, no matter where you are in the standings, is a feeling I’ll never forget.”
For Tomac, MXoN is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of the sport he loves. It’s about bringing together riders and fans from across the globe, all united by their passion for motocross. “This event is special,” Tomac concluded. “It reminds us why we fell in love with this sport in the first place. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the community, the camaraderie, and the sheer thrill of racing at the highest level.”
As the dust settles on the 2024 MXoN, Tomac remains hopeful for the future of Team USA. With younger riders coming up the ranks and veterans like Webb and Plessinger continuing to refine their craft, the prospects look bright. “This is just the beginning,” Tomac said with a smile. “We’ll regroup, learn from this experience, and come back stronger. I believe in this team, and I believe in what we can achieve.”
In the end, the 2024 MXoN will be remembered not just for the results but for the stories of resilience, effort, and heart that defined it. For Eli Tomac and Team USA, it was a journey worth every moment—one that reaffirmed their passion for motocross and their determination to compete at the highest level.
