In the world of motocross, few riders have had as much of an impact as Eli Tomac. The 31-year-old Kawasaki rider has proven time and again that he’s one of the best to ever do it, with a career full of championships, race wins, and iconic moments. Now, the younger generation of riders is beginning to take notice, and one of the brightest stars of that group, Haiden Deegan, recently shared his deep admiration for Tomac in a candid interview.
Deegan, who has quickly become a fan favorite thanks to his impressive performances in both Supercross and motocross, has grown up watching Tomac dominate the sport. Speaking after a recent race, Deegan couldn’t help but express how much he looks up to the seasoned veteran.
“He is One of a Kind”
When asked about Tomac’s legacy in the sport, Deegan was quick to point out that Eli is in a league of his own.
“Eli’s just one of a kind,” Deegan said, reflecting on the depth of respect he holds for Tomac. “You don’t see many riders with that kind of consistency, speed, and mental toughness. He’s been at the top for so long, and it’s not just about raw talent. It’s about his work ethic, his ability to stay focused, and his sheer determination to keep pushing, no matter what.”
Deegan went on to describe Tomac as a rider who’s always evolving, constantly adjusting his technique and mindset to stay ahead of the competition.
“I think one of the things that makes him so special is how he adapts. Whether it’s changing bike setups or tweaking his race strategy, Eli is always learning and getting better. He’s been through the highs and lows of the sport, but he never loses that hunger to be the best. It’s honestly something I admire a lot,” Deegan added.
“Sometimes on the Track, He Just Takes Over”
For any up-and-coming rider, having a role model to look up to is crucial. Deegan admits that when he’s out on the track, he’s always observing Tomac’s every move.
“Sometimes on the track, Eli just takes over,” Haiden continued. “He has this ability to dominate a race in a way that makes it look effortless. I’ve watched him make moves that seem impossible, and he always seems to be in control. That’s the kind of rider I want to be—someone who can take charge of a race and just not let go.”
Tomac’s ability to handle pressure and perform in critical moments is something that Deegan particularly admires. Whether it’s a last-lap battle or a mid-race recovery, Eli has a way of finding another gear when it counts the most.
“His confidence and control on the bike, even when the race is tight or the track is tough, is unreal. That’s something I really want to learn from him as I continue to grow in this sport,” Deegan explained.
A Rivalry for the Ages?
As the new generation of riders, including Haiden Deegan, begins to rise up through the ranks, many are wondering if a rivalry between the two will develop in the coming years. With Deegan’s undeniable talent and Tomac’s veteran status, it’s certainly a possibility. But for now, Deegan is focused on learning as much as possible from the man who’s set the standard for modern motocross.
“I’m just trying to keep my head down and focus on getting better, but I have a lot of respect for Eli. I don’t know what the future holds, but right now, I’m just soaking in everything I can from the guys like Eli who’ve been at the top for so long,” Haiden concluded.
Conclusion
As Haiden Deegan’s career continues to unfold, his respect and admiration for Eli Tomac will likely remain a key part of his journey. Tomac’s legendary status in the sport has undoubtedly inspired a new generation of riders, and Haiden Deegan is proving to be one of the most promising among them. Whether or not the two will share a fierce rivalry in the years to come remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Tomac’s influence on Deegan’s career is undeniable.
For fans of the sport, it’s exciting to think about the potential future battles between these two incredible riders, both of whom are pushing the limits of motocross every time they hit the track.
