Ricky Carmichael, the legendary Supercross champion, has sparked controversy with his recent comments about Malcolm Stewart’s victory at the 2025 450SX race in Tampa. While Stewart’s win was widely celebrated as a milestone in his career, Carmichael has publicly dismissed the victory, claiming that it was only possible because key riders like Eli Tomac and Jett Lawrence were sidelined by injuries. According to Carmichael, Stewart’s win in Tampa was a fluke, and he stood by his previous statement that Stewart could not compete against the “tough” riders of today, like Tomac.
In his criticism, Carmichael, who holds the title of “G.O.A.T.” (Greatest of All Time) in Supercross, said, “I remember when I said you can’t compete against tough riders like Eli Tomac, and I still stand on that. You are a weak rider, and this will be your only win.” His words have caused a stir in the Supercross community, especially considering the impressive performance Stewart displayed during the Tampa race. Carmichael’s suggestion that Stewart’s success was due to the misfortunes of others has raised eyebrows and ignited debates on social media and among fellow riders.
Many have found Carmichael’s comments dismissive of Stewart’s abilities and achievements. After all, winning a prestigious 450SX race is no easy feat, and Stewart’s victory in Tampa was the result of skill, strategy, and sheer determination. While injuries to riders like Tomac and Lawrence certainly altered the dynamic of the competition, Stewart’s success cannot be reduced to mere luck. He has consistently proven his capabilities on the track and has built a reputation as a tenacious and talented competitor.
Carmichael’s remarks, however, are rooted in his belief that the current generation of riders, including Stewart, has not faced the same level of toughness and grit that he and others from his era were known for. Carmichael has long been a vocal advocate for what he views as the “old-school” mentality in racing—riders who push through adversity and battle for every position, regardless of the circumstances. In contrast, he believes that modern riders, with their advanced training and technology, lack the same mental fortitude.
Stewart, on the other hand, has not been shy about defending his position. In his own response, he pointed out that the sport has evolved over the years, and the challenges riders face today are different, yet equally demanding. He also emphasized that no rider can control the outcome of others’ injuries, and winning a race is a testament to their own performance, not simply because of the absence of competitors.
Despite Carmichael’s criticism, Stewart’s Tampa win serves as a reminder that success in Supercross requires more than just surviving the competition. It’s about skill, preparation, and resilience—traits that Stewart continues to showcase, no matter what Carmichael or anyone else might say. As the 2025 season progresses, it will be interesting to see if Stewart can prove his doubters wrong and continue to challenge the established order in Supercross.
