In a recent interview with Motocross World, Jorge Prado didn’t hold back when discussing his thoughts on Ken Roczen’s performance and approach to racing in the 2024 season. The Spanish motocross star, known for his precision and aggressive style on the track, didn’t mince words when asked about Roczen’s ongoing struggles in the premier class of the FIM Motocross World Championship.
Prado, who has become a dominant force in MXGP, compared Roczen’s current form to his previous years of dominance and voiced his frustration with the German rider’s apparent inability to adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of motocross.
“I respect what Ken has done in the past, no doubt. He’s been one of the best in the world at one point. But now, it feels like he’s living in the past,” Prado stated bluntly. “You can’t keep relying on what you did five years ago. The sport has evolved. It’s faster, it’s tougher, and if you’re stuck in your old ways, you’re just going to fall behind.”
Prado pointed out that Roczen’s style and mindset seem “outdated,” particularly when it comes to adapting to the changing technical and physical demands of the sport. “When you’re racing against guys like me, who are constantly pushing the limits and adapting, it’s clear that Ken just hasn’t kept up. He’s not the same rider he was even a couple of seasons ago,” Prado continued. “I think he’s too comfortable with what he’s done, and that’s not going to help him stay competitive.”
Despite Roczen’s undeniable talent and his previous success in the AMA Supercross and Motocross series, Prado seems to believe that the 30-year-old rider is now past his prime. “He’s not the young guy who could challenge the new generation,” Prado added. “The new riders, myself included, we’re more aggressive, we’re more consistent, and we’re always improving. Ken is not showing that kind of progress anymore.”
Prado, who is fresh off a dominant season in MXGP, has consistently been at the top of his game, winning titles and making waves with his relentless work ethic. For Prado, maintaining focus on the present is key to his continued success, something he believes Roczen may be overlooking.
“I understand it’s tough to accept when you’ve been on top, but the reality is, time moves on, and so does the competition,” Prado said. “Ken’s had his time, and now it’s our turn. I think he needs to realize that if he wants to keep up, he has to stop living in the past.”
Roczen, who has faced several setbacks in recent years including injuries and bike issues, has yet to respond publicly to Prado’s comments. However, it’s clear that Prado’s blunt assessment is a reflection of the cutthroat nature of modern motocross—where champions must continuously evolve or risk being left behind.
The rivalry between Prado and Roczen is only heating up as both riders prepare for the next round of competition. With Prado’s confidence soaring and his eyes firmly set on continuing his dominance in MXGP, it remains to be seen how Roczen will respond to the challenges ahead—both on the track and in terms of his mindset.
For now, Prado’s words are a stark reminder that in the world of motocross, what you’ve done in the past doesn’t guarantee success in the future. You have to stay hungry, stay adaptable, and most importantly, keep moving forward. And for Jorge Prado, that’s exactly what he intends to do.
