For years, Eli Tomac and Ken Roczen have been fierce competitors, battling wheel-to-wheel in some of the most intense Supercross and Motocross races. Their rivalry has been defined by aggressive passes, championship showdowns, and moments of controversy. However, a recent interaction between the two legendary riders has shown a different side to their relationship—one of mutual respect
Since stepping onto the professional scene, Tomac and Roczen have been two of the biggest names in the sport. Both have fought for championships, exchanged race wins, and pushed each other to their limits on the track. Their battles have sometimes led to heated moments, with fans debating their aggressive riding styles and tactics. Despite this, their competition has elevated the sport, drawing massive crowds and keeping Supercross and Motocross fans on the edge of their seats.
In a post-race moment that caught many by surprise, Tomac and Roczen were seen having a candid conversation, sharing a handshake and a laugh. While their words weren’t broadcasted, the body language between the two spoke volumes. The interaction hinted at a deep appreciation for what each has brought to the sport, acknowledging the countless battles they’ve shared.
When asked about the moment, Roczen admitted, “We’ve had our ups and downs on the track, but at the end of the day, we push each other to be better. I respect Eli a lot for what he’s done in this sport.” Tomac echoed a similar sentiment, saying, “Ken has always been one of the toughest guys to race against. We’ve both had our struggles, but we’ve also had some of the greatest battles in Supercross history.”
Supercross fans have long been divided between Team Tomac and Team Roczen, but this moment of sportsmanship resonated with many. Social media erupted with positive reactions, with fans expressing appreciation for seeing two of the sport’s biggest stars put competition aside—if only for a moment.
One fan commented, “This is what the sport is all about. They’ve fought hard against each other for years, but at the end of the day, there’s still respect.” Another added, “Seeing Tomac and Roczen like this reminds me of past legends who left everything on the track but still appreciated their rivalries.”
While this moment of respect was refreshing, it doesn’t mean the rivalry is over. With both riders still competing at the highest level, fans can expect more epic battles in the future. However, it’s clear that their years of competition have fostered a unique bond—one built not on animosity, but on a shared understanding of what it takes to be great.
As the season continues, one thing is certain: whether they are fighting for a championship or simply lining up next to each other at the gate, the Tomac-Roczen rivalry will remain one of the most compelling stories in Supercross history.