“Motocross is going downhill” – Tabea Zimmermann speaks plainly
Tabea Zimmermann, herself a passionate motocross rider and owner of the company founded in 2021 TZ Designs It doesn't beat around the bush. No scripted pathos, no influencer platitudes – just an honest, uncomfortable statement from the scene, for the scene. The trigger is several career endings that are currently causing consternation: that of Sarah Andersen and that of Tanja Schlosser, who had to explain their retirement from competitive sports despite their athletic prowess and even European Championship titles. The reason is the same – and it hurts: money.
Not talent. Not speed. But the system.
Motocross is expensive. That's nothing new. But according to Zimmermann, a point has now been reached where even ambitious competitive sport is simply no longer feasible with a normal income. At the national top level, at the latest, costs explode: engines, travel, spare parts, entry fees. Anyone who takes this seriously needs more than passion – they need a stable financial foundation.
And that's precisely where the problem lies.
Sponsorship is no longer what many believe it to be.
Zimmermann dispels one of the biggest myths: Sponsorship no longer simply means "slap a logo on the bike, and you're done." Anyone seeking support today must offer something in return – reach, content, creativity, reliability. Percentage deals and equipment discounts alone won't sustain a season.
She speaks openly about how much invisible work goes into seemingly "free" helmets, clothing, or parts. Years of building a network, social media, video production, constant availability. Sponsorship is work – not a gift.
The scene is devouring itself.
One of the toughest, but most important points of their statement: The money must not come from within the scene itself. If motocross companies finance motocross riders who in turn spend their money there, no growth occurs – only a closed cycle that bleeds itself dry.
Zimmermann advises approaching external sponsors – brands that have nothing to do with motocross but can benefit from its image. That's precisely where the real potential lies to make the sport bigger, more professional, and more sustainable.
Success alone is no longer enough
One sentence sticks in your mind: Riding a motorcycle fast is no longer enough. Successes are hardly impressive anymore if they aren't told, showcased, and emotionally charged. Content beats trophies – as harsh as that sounds. Those who ignore this remain invisible.
Not an attack – but a wake-up call
Important: This statement is not an attack on any individual riders. On the contrary. Zimmermann expressly emphasizes her respect and closeness to the athletes mentioned. Her concern is not about blame, but about awareness, responsibility, and the question of how motocross can even have a future in German-speaking countries.
Honest, uncomfortable – but necessary
Tabea Zimmermann voices what many think but few say. Her conclusion is clear: Motocross isn't in a sporting crisis – it's in a structural one. Those who love the sport need to start rethinking their approach. They need to become more creative. They need to become more professional. And they need to accept that passion alone won't pay the bills.
Or, to sum it up in her words: Nothing comes from nothing. And those who stand still get overtaken – not just on the track. You can find Tabea's video on her Youtube channel.