Haiden Deegan revealed that his biggest inspiration in the sport is none other than Eli Tomac, one of the most successful and dominant riders of the modern era. Deegan, who has been making waves in the motocross community with his impressive performances, opened up about his admiration for Tomac and how the legendary rider has influenced his own career.
At just 16 years old, Haiden Deegan has already established himself as one of the most promising young talents in motocross. The son of freestyle motocross icon Brian Deegan, Haiden has grown up surrounded by the sport, but it’s his own skill and determination that have earned him attention from fans and experts alike. Despite his early success, Deegan is quick to acknowledge that the journey ahead is long and full of challenges, and he’s drawn inspiration from riders who have proven themselves time and again on the track.
“I think Eli Tomac is my role model, honestly,” Haiden said in the interview, his voice full of admiration. “The way he approaches racing, his consistency, and his ability to perform under pressure are all things I look up to. He’s always been someone who’s mentally strong, and that’s something I strive to emulate.”
Tomac’s career is one of unparalleled success in the world of motocross. Over the years, the Colorado native has amassed multiple AMA Supercross and Motocross Championships, cementing his place as one of the sport’s greats. Known for his aggressive riding style, exceptional fitness, and incredible speed, Eli has become a symbol of what it takes to compete at the highest level in motocross. His dominance in both the Supercross and outdoor motocross series has made him a household name among fans, and Deegan’s acknowledgment of Tomac as a role model highlights the respect that even young riders like Haiden have for the veteran’s work ethic and determination.
For Deegan, the influence of Tomac is not just about his success on the track, but also about his mental approach to racing. “Eli has shown me that it’s not just about being fast, it’s about being mentally prepared and being able to fight through those tough moments in a race,” Haiden explained. “I know I have the talent, but I’ve been learning a lot from Eli about staying focused, staying patient, and trusting my abilities, no matter what the situation is.”
Deegan’s admiration for Tomac is evident in the way he carries himself on and off the track. Despite his young age, Haiden has already demonstrated a level of maturity that belies his years. Whether it’s dealing with the pressure of competition or balancing the demands of a rapidly growing career, Deegan has handled it with a calm and focused attitude, much like his role model. And while he’s only just beginning to carve out his own path in the sport, his respect for the veteran riders who have come before him, particularly Tomac, speaks volumes about his approach to the sport and his desire to learn from the best.
The relationship between Tomac and Deegan isn’t just one of admiration from afar; the two riders have crossed paths on a number of occasions, with Tomac offering advice and encouragement to the young racer. Deegan has been spotted at various events supporting Tomac, and it’s clear that the bond between them is built on mutual respect. Haiden has mentioned in previous interviews that he values the insights and tips he’s received from Eli, especially when it comes to managing the physical and mental demands of racing at the highest level.
“I’ve talked to Eli a couple of times, and every time I do, I learn something new,” Haiden said. “He’s always been willing to share his knowledge, and that’s really helped me stay grounded. Having someone like him to look up to, someone who’s been through it all and achieved so much, gives me the confidence that I can do the same if I put in the work.”
As Haiden Deegan continues to rise through the ranks of motocross, it’s clear that his admiration for Eli Tomac is more than just fan appreciation. It’s a genuine respect for a rider who has set the standard in the sport, and a desire to follow in those footsteps. Deegan’s focus, combined with his undeniable talent, makes him one of the most exciting prospects in motocross today. And with Tomac as his role model, there’s little doubt that Haiden is on the path to becoming one of the sport’s next big stars.
For fans of motocross, this dynamic between Deegan and Tomac is one to watch closely. As Haiden continues to develop his skills and gain experience, the influence of his role model may very well shape the next chapter of his career—one that could see him competing at the very top of the sport, just like Eli Tomac.
