The motocross world recently erupted in debate after Eli Tomac shattered Ricky Carmichael’s long-standing record at the St. Louis Triple Crown event. While fans and analysts praised Tomac’s remarkable achievement, some went a step further, anointing him as the new “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT), surpassing Carmichael’s legendary status. However, the GOAT himself wasn’t about to let the discussion go without offering his perspective.
Carmichael, often regarded as the most dominant motocross rider in history, addressed the comparisons head-on in a recent interview. He began by expressing admiration for Tomac’s skill and dedication.
“Eli’s a phenomenal rider, and I have all the respect in the world for him. What he’s achieved is nothing short of amazing, but you’ve got to look at the full picture when comparing eras.”
The Role of Technology in Modern Motocross
Carmichael pointed out how advancements in bike technology have fundamentally changed the sport. With improved suspension systems, electronics, and overall bike performance, today’s riders have access to tools that didn’t exist during his time.
“Back in my era, we didn’t have the luxury of bikes that practically do half the work for you. You had to rely on pure grit, endurance, and technique. Don’t get me wrong, today’s riders are incredibly skilled, but the bikes have leveled the playing field in ways people don’t realize.”
This perspective raises an interesting question: are modern riders benefiting more from technology than raw skill? While no one denies Tomac’s talent, Carmichael suggests that the evolution of the sport has made direct comparisons between eras difficult.
Pioneering Techniques That Shaped the Sport
Carmichael also emphasized the contributions his generation made in advancing riding techniques. Many of the strategies considered standard today—such as scrubbing, increased cornering speed, and improved body positioning—were innovations developed during his time.
“The techniques that are standard now? They were born in my era. Riders today are building on a foundation we laid down.”
By highlighting the innovations that came from his generation, Carmichael underscored how each era builds upon the one before it, making it unfair to judge riders solely by statistics.
The GOAT Debate: A Matter of Perspective
The discussion ultimately boils down to how greatness is defined. Carmichael compared the motocross debate to discussions in other sports.
“It’s like comparing Michael Jordan to LeBron James. They’re both incredible athletes, but they played in different times, with different challenges. The same goes for motocross.”
Despite standing firm on his stance, Carmichael made it clear that he wasn’t trying to diminish Tomac’s success.
“I’m not here to take anything away from Eli. Breaking records is hard, no matter what era you’re in. He deserves all the accolades he’s getting.”
A Legacy That Transcends Records
Carmichael’s response has only fueled more debate among fans, with some agreeing that technology makes comparisons unfair, while others argue that records speak for themselves. However, Carmichael remains confident in his legacy.
“At the end of the day, records are meant to be broken. But being the greatest isn’t just about numbers—it’s about what you leave behind for the next generation. And I’m proud of the mark I’ve made on this sport.”
While the debate over the GOAT title may never be fully settled, one thing remains clear: Ricky Carmichael’s influence on motocross is undeniable. His impact goes beyond wins and records—it represents the evolution of the sport itself. Rather than comparing riders across generations, perhaps the best approach is to appreciate the greatness of both Tomac and Carmichael and celebrate the legacy they’ve built for future riders.
