In one of the most remarkable—and painful—stories of the 2025 Supercross season, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac demonstrated grit and determination of legendary proportions. After sustaining what was initially believed to be a minor leg injury during timed qualifying at the Tampa Supercross, it was later revealed that Tomac had actually broken his fibula. Incredibly, he still went on to race that night.
The incident occurred during Saturday’s qualifying session at Raymond James Stadium. At the time, Tomac and the team assumed he had merely suffered a bruised calf or possibly a sprained ankle when he dabbed his foot to the ground awkwardly during a rhythm section. Though he was in visible discomfort, Tomac continued riding, showing signs of pain but not enough to suggest anything more than a typical Supercross knock.
As the day went on, Tomac chose to suit up for the evening program, pushing through the pain and uncertainty. He rode in his heat race, where he advanced to the main event. Despite the injury, Tomac managed to finish 17th in the main—a testament to his determination and experience. While 17th is far from his usual top-tier results, the fact that he even competed at all under such conditions is what fans and industry insiders are talking about.
It wasn’t until after the race that further medical evaluation was done, and the full extent of the damage was revealed: a broken fibula in his left leg. The fibula, a bone running along the outer part of the lower leg, plays a crucial role in balance and stability—essential functions for a motocross rider. Racing with such an injury not only intensified the pain but also risked further damage.
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing later confirmed the injury via an official statement, expressing both their admiration for Tomac’s toughness and the seriousness of the injury. As of now, the team has not provided a clear timeline for his return. Tomac’s participation in upcoming rounds is highly unlikely, at least in the short term, as he will require time to heal fully before getting back on the bike.
This incident raises serious questions about Tomac’s 2025 championship hopes. While it’s still early in the season, missing several rounds—or even racing at less than 100%—could derail any realistic chance of contending for the title. Still, if there’s one rider capable of mounting a comeback, it’s Eli Tomac. The multi-time champion is known for his resilience, having bounced back from injuries and setbacks multiple times throughout his decorated career.
Fans and fellow riders alike have flooded social media with messages of support for Tomac, lauding his heart and commitment. His willingness to push through a broken leg to earn points is something rarely seen in professional sports—especially in a sport as physically demanding as Supercross.
Tomac’s injury serves as a reminder of the brutal physical toll the sport takes on its athletes. Behind every gate drop, highlight reel jump, and podium celebration is a rider risking it all. While fans will certainly miss seeing #3 on the track in the coming weeks, his courageous ride in Tampa won’t soon be forgotten.
For now, the focus shifts to recovery. Whether Tomac can return later this season remains to be seen, but if this weekend is any indication, he won’t go down without a fight.