The incident between Max Anstie and Haiden Deegan The moment had barely passed when the discussion began. The moment was too obvious, the scene too crucial for the outcome of the 250SX Western Division race.
Anstie was in the lead, controlling the race, while Deegan was applying pressure from behind. When the young American finally attacked, there was contact in a left-hand corner. Anstie went down, while Deegan was able to continue. For one, the race was practically over; for the other, the path to the front opened up.
What followed can be summarized quickly from a sporting perspective. But more interesting than the result itself was the reaction afterwards.
Max Anstie deliberately avoided grand pronouncements. No blame, no veiled barbs. Instead, he spoke calmly about knowing exactly who he was racing against. Deegan was fast, determined, always ready to exploit any gap. That was something one had to reckon with – even if one wished certain situations would turn out differently.
"That's part of it," Anstie implied. It wasn't a statement of resignation, but one of acceptance. A painful moment, yes. But not one that obscures the view of the future.
One thing was particularly striking: Anstie immediately looked for the fault within himself. He spoke of not having been quite sharp enough, of the bike standing up, and of everything happening very quickly. Instead of anger, there was appreciation. "Fair play," he said – and he meant it.
The fact that the contact was with a teammate changed little for him. Racing is racing. Whoever is in front knows they'll be attacked. And whoever wears the red plate rides with a goal on their back.
Despite the setback, Anstie remained remarkably calm. He's now only one point behind Deegan in the championship. Nothing is lost, everything is still possible. His starts are good, his pace is right, and he has confidence in his car. That's exactly what he wants to build on.
This composure doesn't come about by chance. At 32, Anstie no longer speaks like someone who lets every incident throw him off balance. He puts things into perspective, takes what he can learn – and moves on. The years in the GP and Supercross circuit have left their mark. A positive one.
In the end, not a single harsh word was spoken. On the contrary. Anstie praised Deegan's pace and determination. Decisions at the limit are part of this sport. Sometimes they work out well, sometimes not.
Thus, this incident remains less of a conflict than a learning experience. One that Max Anstie seems to be moving on from more quickly than many would expect. And therein perhaps lies his greatest strength.