AMA Supercross Championship
AMA Supercross Championship: The Ultimate Dirt Bike Racing Showdown
The AMA Supercross Championship is one of the most thrilling and high-octane motorsport events in the world, showcasing the best dirt bike riders as they battle it out for the coveted title. Sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), Supercross is a premier indoor motorcycle racing series, known for its intense competition, spectacular stunts, and dedicated fanbase.
What is AMA Supercross?
Supercross refers to a specific style of off-road motorcycle racing that takes place in stadiums or arenas, as opposed to the more traditional outdoor motocross races. The races are held on man-made dirt tracks, which feature jumps, tight corners, and obstacles that test the riders' agility, speed, and endurance. The event typically features two main classes: 450SX (the premier class) and 250SX (the entry-level class), with riders from all over the world vying for the title.
The AMA Supercross Championship is a part of the FIM World Supercross Championship, making it a key event in global motocross. However, AMA Supercross stands as one of the most prestigious and popular forms of motorcycle racing, offering thrilling competitions in packed stadiums across the United States.
How Does Supercross Work?
The AMA Supercross season consists of a series of races or rounds, which typically take place in major stadiums and arenas in cities throughout the United States. The tracks are specially built for each event, with challenging obstacles such as large doubles, triples, and whoops (a series of small, steep bumps). The tracks are designed to test the riders' technical skills and ability to maintain speed while navigating treacherous terrain.
Race Format:
- Heat Races: Riders start by competing in heat races, which are shorter events where the top riders move on to the main event.
- Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ): For riders who don’t finish high enough in the heats, the LCQ provides one final opportunity to make it into the main event.
- Main Event: The main event is the premier race of the night, where the top riders battle it out for the overall win in each class. The races are typically 20 laps long, and riders earn points based on their finishing position.
Point System:
- Riders accumulate points based on their finish in each race, with 1st place earning 25 points, 2nd place earning 22 points, and so on.
- Consistency is key, as riders who finish consistently high in the standings over the course of the season will be in contention for the championship.
Key Classes in AMA Supercross:
- 450SX Class: This is the premier class, where the sport’s top riders compete. The 450SX class is known for its powerful machines and high-speed action, with riders often pushing their limits to secure victory. Riders in this class typically compete on 450cc four-stroke motorcycles.
- 250SX Class: This class is more entry-level but still incredibly competitive. The 250SX riders race with 250cc motorcycles, and it often serves as a proving ground for younger riders looking to make their mark and eventually step up to the 450SX class.
Top Riders in AMA Supercross History:
Over the years, the AMA Supercross Championship has been graced by many legendary riders, each leaving their mark on the sport. Some of the greatest names in the history of Supercross include:
- Jeremy McGrath: Often referred to as the "King of Supercross," Jeremy McGrath is widely considered the most successful Supercross rider of all time, with 7 Supercross championships to his name.
- Ricky Carmichael: A dominant figure in both Supercross and Motocross, Ricky Carmichael has won multiple Supercross championships and is known for his relentless work ethic and fierce competitiveness.
- James Stewart: One of the most exciting riders in the sport's history, James Stewart had an illustrious career, earning multiple Supercross titles and revolutionizing the sport with his daring riding style and innovative techniques.
- Ryan Dungey: With four Supercross titles, Ryan Dungey is considered one of the most consistent and successful riders of the past decade.
- Eli Tomac: One of the modern stars of Supercross, Eli Tomac has become a fan favorite with his aggressive riding style and multiple championship victories, securing several AMA Supercross titles in recent years.
- Cooper Webb: A rising star in Supercross, Cooper Webb has proven himself to be a tough competitor, securing multiple Supercross championships and continuously battling for the top spots.
AMA Supercross Championship Schedule:
The AMA Supercross Championship typically runs from January to May and features races in stadiums across major cities, including places like Anaheim, Houston, Atlanta, Indianapolis, and Las Vegas. The championship often culminates in the Las Vegas finale, where the season's final points tally determines the champion.
Notable Races:
- Anaheim 1: This race is considered the unofficial "kick-off" to the Supercross season, with a packed stadium and high expectations.
- Daytona Supercross: Held at the famous Daytona International Speedway, this race is one of the most unique and prestigious events in the series.
- Indianapolis Supercross: Known for its challenging track and passionate fanbase, the Indianapolis race is a staple on the Supercross calendar.
Supercross Riders and Fans:
- Riders: Supercross riders are some of the best athletes in the world, requiring a mix of strength, agility, precision, and endurance. Their training is intense, with off-season conditioning, bike practice, and mental preparation.
- Fans: Supercross fans are known for their enthusiasm and loyalty, filling stadiums every weekend to cheer on their favorite riders. The sport has a strong following, particularly in the United States, with fans from all walks of life coming together to support the riders and enjoy the spectacle.
The Future of AMA Supercross:
As one of the most exciting motorsports in the world, AMA Supercross continues to evolve and attract new talent. With the sport's growing popularity, Supercross is expanding internationally, introducing new venues and raising the stakes for every rider. The 2025 season promises to bring even more competition, with younger riders continuing to make waves and veterans pushing the limits of what's possible on a dirt bike.
Supercross' future looks bright, with the sport maintaining its position as one of the top motorsports series in the world. With high-speed racing, fearless riders, and passionate fans, AMA Supercross will continue to be an adrenaline-fueled spectacle for years to come.
The AMA Supercross Championship is a thrilling, action-packed series that brings together the best riders in the world. With intense competition, talented athletes, and a dedicated fan base, Supercross has cemented itself as one of the premier motorsport events in the world. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the sport, the AMA Supercross series offers an unforgettable experience.
Main Event
See the world's elite off-road motorcycle riders as they compete head-to-head for the 2025 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship. Watch the sport's top stars like Jett Lawrence and Cooper Webb in the premier 450 class, as well as Haiden Deegan and more in the 250 class, as they put it all on the line for the coveted title of Supercross Champion. Experience the intense on-track action and electric atmosphere LIVE over the course of a 17-round season in which riders face off on the nation's most technically-demanding stadium tracks. Competitors earn points towards the 2025 SuperMotocross World Championship Finals fueled by Monster Energy.
FanFest
With your ticket to FanFest*, see the world's elite riders as they prepare, practice and qualify for the races! Meet your favorite riders, see the bikes up close, interact with sponsor displays and watch exclusive entertainment before the excitement of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross race.
*FanFest tickets must be accompanied by an event ticket. The Monster Energy Supercross FanFest is a pre-race event taking place from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Ages 2 and up require a ticket. Activities vary by location.
Click here for more event details!
