Tomac Out of Tampa Supercross Qualifying with Leg Injury

TAMPA, Fla. — Defending 450SX Champion Eli Tomac withdrew from the second qualifying session during the Tampa Supercross event Saturday after suffering an apparent leg injury, casting uncertainty over his participation in the main event. Tomac, riding for the Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing team, was competing in the 450SX group A qualifying session when he appeared to favor his left leg following a minor incident in a turn.

According to eyewitnesses and video footage, Tomac dabbed his left knee during a turn before pulling off the track to assess the issue. He was seen conversing with the Alpinestars medical team and his mechanic. The racer limped back to the pits, where his bike was pushed through the dead engines zone. Despite the visible discomfort, Tomac walked under his own power, a positive sign for his condition.

This incident follows a similar event last week in Arizona, where Tomac suffered a torn ACL, requiring surgery and effectively ending his 2024 title defense. Saturday’s injury bore resemblance to the left Achilles tendon injury he sustained at the 2023 Denver Supercross, which also forced him to withdraw from competition.

‘We’re monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available,’ said a spokesperson for the Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing team. ‘The health and safety of our riders is always the top priority.’

Tomac’s absence from qualifying could have significant implications for the 450SX standings, as the Tampa round is a critical point in the season. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting further updates on the extent of his injury and his potential return to competition.

The Tampa Supercross event continues with the 450SX and 250SX main events later this evening. Stay tuned for further developments on Tomac’s condition and the race outcomes.