Eli Tomac, widely regarded as one of the best motocross riders of his generation, has firmly established himself as a dominant force in the world of off-road racing. With multiple AMA Supercross and Motocross Championship titles to his name, Tomac’s skill, work ethic, and dedication to the sport have made him a household name among fans and a respected figure among his peers. However, even in a sport as fiercely competitive as motocross, Tomac has shown a remarkable level of humility and respect for his fellow competitors. One such individual he has singled out for special recognition is Tim Gajser, the Slovenian motocross sensation who has been a formidable force in the FIM Motocross World Championship (MXGP). In interviews and discussions about the best in the sport, Tomac has made it clear that he views Gajser as the only rider who currently stands above him.
Tomac’s acknowledgment of Gajser as the rider who surpasses him in the sport speaks volumes not only about the Slovenian’s talent but also about Tomac’s self-awareness and his understanding of the evolving dynamics of the motocross world. To truly understand this sentiment, it is important to explore the careers and achievements of both riders.
### Eli Tomac’s Legacy in American Motocross
Eli Tomac’s rise to prominence in American motocross is nothing short of remarkable. From a young age, Tomac showed immense promise, following in the footsteps of his father, John Tomac, a former professional mountain bike racer. Eli initially made a name for himself in amateur motocross, quickly becoming one of the top prospects in the sport. His transition to professional racing was seamless, and it didn’t take long before he was competing at the highest level.
Tomac’s breakthrough came in 2012 when he won his first AMA Supercross race, and soon after, he claimed his first AMA Pro Motocross Championship in 2017. Since then, Tomac has continued to dominate the American motocross scene, winning multiple Supercross and Motocross titles. His relentless speed, technical skill, and ability to handle pressure have made him one of the most feared riders in the world.
Tomac’s style is a mix of aggression and precision, often making bold moves on the track while maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure. His powerful starts, quick lap times, and remarkable consistency have enabled him to consistently battle for championships. In recent years, Tomac has solidified his reputation as a rider who excels in both Supercross and outdoor motocross, winning titles in both disciplines.
### Tim Gajser’s Rise to Dominance in MXGP
While Tomac has ruled American motocross, Tim Gajser has been the king of the FIM Motocross World Championship (MXGP). Gajser, who hails from Slovenia, began his professional motocross career in 2012, and it didn’t take long for him to make an impact. He won his first world title in 2015 in the MX2 class, and by 2016, he had already made the jump to the premier MXGP class, where he would continue to excel.
Over the years, Gajser has become one of the most dominant riders in the MXGP series. His first MXGP title came in 2016, and since then, he has gone on to claim multiple championships, including in 2019 and 2020. Gajser’s riding style is characterized by his exceptional bike control, speed, and ability to adapt to various conditions. Whether it’s navigating muddy tracks or maintaining a strong pace in dry, dusty conditions, Gajser has proven time and again that he is capable of handling any challenge that comes his way.
Gajser’s remarkable consistency, combined with his ability to perform at an elite level in both the heat of competition and in varying conditions, has made him a consistent contender in MXGP. He has been a standout rider in one of the toughest and most competitive motocross series in the world, and his dominance on the global stage has cemented his place as one of the best motocross riders of his era.
### Mutual Respect Between Tomac and Gajser
Eli Tomac’s respect for Tim Gajser is a reflection of the mutual admiration that exists between two of the most talented and successful riders in motocross. Tomac has often spoken about Gajser in interviews, acknowledging his dominance in MXGP and the level of competition he faces in the European circuit. By calling Gajser the “only person above him,” Tomac is recognizing that Gajser’s achievements in the FIM Motocross World Championship rival his own accomplishments in the American scene.
This sentiment also highlights a deeper understanding of the sport’s global nature. While Tomac is a legend in the United States, Gajser’s consistency and victories in the MXGP series have established him as a world-class rider with an unmatched ability to compete at the highest level in the global motocross arena. Tomac’s comments reflect an appreciation for the level of talent that exists outside of the American borders and underscore the universal nature of excellence in the sport.
### Conclusion
The rivalry between Eli Tomac and Tim Gajser, although not direct on the track due to competing in different series, represents a fascinating comparison between two of the sport’s most accomplished riders. Tomac’s recognition of Gajser as the “only person above him” serves as a powerful statement about Gajser’s skill and accomplishments on the world stage. It also emphasizes Tomac’s own confidence and understanding of where he stands in the global hierarchy of motocross.
Ultimately, both riders have demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and resilience in their respective careers. Whether on the dirt tracks of America or the fields of Europe, Tomac and Gajser have left an indelible mark on the sport of motocross, and their continued success promises to inspire future generations of riders.
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