The 250SX East main event in Detroit on February 15, 2025, left many fans scratching their heads after the race was controversially restarted with just seven seconds left on the clock. The decision sparked confusion and debates among spectators, but AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier quickly addressed the issue, clarifying that the restart was in accordance with the official rulebook.
Under the new 2024/2025 racing rules, there is a specific procedure for races that are stopped after the leader has completed three laps but before the race clock expires. According to the rule, the race must be restarted from a staggered standing start as soon as possible. Pelletier explained that this is exactly what happened in Detroit when the red flag was waved with only seven seconds left on the clock. The rulebook mandates that the race continue with a fresh start after this kind of stoppage, ensuring fairness for all riders.
Additionally, the rule specifies that a minimum of three laps must be run after a restart, regardless of how much time remains on the clock. Pelletier emphasized this point, ensuring that the integrity of the event was maintained. “In all cases, the remaining race distance following a restart will be at least three laps,” Pelletier said, reinforcing the importance of consistency in race rules.
While the restart followed the rulebook precisely, confusion arose from a television graphic that showed the old 90% rule, which was no longer in effect. This graphic was a production error and not a miscommunication from the AMA, Pelletier clarified. The 90% rule, which had previously been used to determine whether a race could be considered official, was removed in the latest rule changes to provide greater clarity and eliminate ambiguity for both riders and fans.
The restart, while adhering to the new regulations, had significant consequences for the riders. Max Anstie, who was leading the race before the red flag, lost his advantage after the restart but managed to finish in second place, extending his championship lead to nine points. Levi Kitchen, who took advantage of the fresh start, capitalized on the opportunity and secured the win in Detroit, showcasing the unpredictable nature of Supercross racing.
Despite the confusion caused by the restart, Pelletier’s explanation of the rules and their application reassured fans that the decision was in line with the updated regulations, ensuring fairness and consistency for all riders in the 2024/2025 season.
