San Diego...Who's Up?

San Diego Supercross: History behind them, unfinished business in their luggage

Ralph Marzahn

Can Tomac conquer San Diego again?

All eyes will once again be on So Tomac He's headed for victory. The opening-round winner travels with momentum to a place that suits him: He already won the first 450SX Main Event held at Snapdragon Stadium and secured his only win of the season there last year. San Diego knows Tomac – and Tomac knows San Diego.

However, statistics advise caution: Only around 40 percent The 450SX winner in San Diego later went on to become champion. The track is considered treacherous, the time of year unpredictable. This is precisely where riders like Ken Roczen Roczen will benefit. The multiple Anaheim Open winner not only brings experience but also arrives in San Diego with a podium finish under his belt. The Pacific coast city has often been a reliable venue for Roczen in the past – a victory there would make him an early title contender.

Special attention is also paid to Jorge PradoAfter his first 450SX podium at the season opener, the MXGP champion arrives with growing confidence. San Diego could be the place where Prado's strong debut turns into genuine ambitions for victory.

Behind them lurk drivers with unpaid bills: Hunter Lawrence showed a significant increase recently, while Jason Anderson traditionally scores solidly in San Diego. Cooper Webb However, he will do everything he can to put his difficult start to the season behind him – San Diego would be the perfect place for that. Chase Sexton also wants to put his rather average Anaheim result behind him.

A stadium with a past – and little predictability.

San Diego has been a fixture in Supercross history since 1980. From the early years at Jack Murphy Stadium, through the time at PETCO Park, to the modern Snapdragon Stadium, the character of the race has changed – but not its significance. This is only the third time the Snapdragon Stadium has hosted the event, but one thing is already certain: stories will be made here, not titles guaranteed.

Early signpost in the West

San Diego also promises excitement in the 250SX class. The opening winner Max Anstie He arrives as the man of the moment. With his experience and momentum, he could establish himself early as a constant in the title fight – something that is worth its weight in gold in the often chaotic Western Division.

But the pressure is mounting. Chance Hymas has proven that he is capable of reaching the podium even under normal conditions. Ryder DiFrancesco He comes with a lot of self-confidence after his breakthrough, while Haiden Deegan He wants to take his first step towards the podium in San Diego. A victory here would be a clear statement – ​​not only in terms of performance, but also mentally.

Historically, San Diego is a good indicator: Around 44 percent The winners of the 250SX Western Division were ultimately able to take the title. Whoever wins here quickly earns respect in the paddock.

More than just round two

San Diego is no ordinary race. It's a place where veterans shine, newcomers grow – and favorites can stumble. The season is still young, but the second round could already paint the first lines in the title picture.

Whether the opening winners establish themselves or new names come to the fore will be decided this weekend under floodlights at the Snapdragon Stadium.