Supercross, with its heart-pounding races and gravity-defying jumps, has given us legendary riders that fans won’t soon forget. From daring stunts to nail-biting finishes, these athletes have etched their names in the annals of history. As we rev up our engines and dive into the world of dirt and adrenaline, let’s countdown the top 10 Supercross riders who have truly defined the sport.
Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or new to the tracks, this list promises to take you on a thrilling ride through Supercross lore. Strap in and get ready to meet the best of the best!
Legends of The Top 10 Supercross Riders: A Countdown
Before diving into the roar of engines and the thrill of dirt-filled arenas, it’s essential to acknowledge the icons who transformed Supercross into the sensation it is today. These athletes, with their unparalleled skill and unwavering determination, set the bar high for future generations.
Here’s a tribute to the top 10 Supercross riders whose legacies continue to inspire and shape the world of motorsport. Let the countdown begin!
1. Jeremy McGrath (72 wins)
The champion of champions, Jeremy McGrath, boasts a remarkable 72 SX wins. Known as ‘The King,’ he dominated the 1990s with seven 250cc titles between 1993 and 2000. Even after a pre-season injury in 2003 and a brief retirement, McGrath made a successful comeback in 2005, showcasing his enduring talent at the age of 34.
2. Eli Tomac (51 wins)
Eli Tomac, a motocross powerhouse, has notched 51 career wins. He’s a four-time AMA Pro Motocross Championships 450 Champion (2022, 2019, 2018, 2017) and a two-time Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championships 450SX Champion (2022, 2020). Tomac ranks 4th in all-time 450 wins and 2nd in 450SX wins, earning the 2022 Best Athlete, Men’s Action Sports ESPY Award.
3. James ‘Bubba’ Stewart (50 wins)
James Stewart Jr., a motocross sensation, boasts 50 career wins. He secured the 2008 AMA Pro Motocross Championship MX title and two Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championships SX victories in 2009 and 2007. With 20 career wins in the AMA Pro Motocross Championship 450 category, Stewart ranks 3rd in all-time 450SX wins, 1st in 250 wins, and 6th in 250SX West wins. He was also the 2002 AMA Motocross/Supercross Rookie of the Year.
4. Ricky Carmichael (48 wins)
Ricky Carmichael, a motocross legend, boasts 48 career wins. He’s a seven-time AMA Pro Motocross Championships MX Champion (2000-2006) and five-time Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championships SX Champion (2001-2003, 2005-2006). Carmichael also clinched three AMA Pro Motocross Championships 125MX titles (1997-1999). With 76 wins in AMA Pro Motocross Championship MX, he leads the all-time 450 wins list, ranking 4th in 450SX wins, 2nd in 250 wins, and 2nd in 250SX East wins.
5. Chad Reed (44 wins)
Australian rider Chad Reed had a standout career with 44 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship 450SX wins, making him 5th on the all-time 450SX wins list. He secured two SX championships (2008 and 2004) and clinched the 2009 AMA Pro Motocross Championship 450 title, along with being the 2004 AMA Pro Motocross Championship 250MX Runner-Up.
6. Ryan Villopoto (41 wins)
Kawasaki stalwart Ryan Villopoto’s early retirement in 2015 followed an attempt to conquer the MX World Championship. With seven AMA titles (four in Supercross and three in Motocross) and a remarkable 72 wins (41 in SX and 31 in MX), his career achievements are the stuff of dreams.
7. Ryan Dungey (34 wins)
Ryan Dungey, already has 34 wins to his name. The Minnesota native has etched his name firmly in the history books. He aims to surpass Ryan Villopoto’s remarkable 41 race wins to further solidify his legend.
8. Ricky Johnson (28 wins)
Ricky Johnson, a true legend of the sport, boasts 28 wins. His legendary head-to-head races with David Bailey solidified his status as a Supercross deity. Johnson’s 1987 win in LA is widely regarded as one of the greatest races of all time.
9. Bob ‘Hurricane’ Hannah (27 wins)
Bob ‘Hurricane’ Hannah, hailing from California, amassed an impressive 27 victories. He engaged in epic battles with his teammate Broc Glover while riding his famous yellow Yamaha.
10. Ken Roczen (21 wins)
Ken Roczen, the German motocross and supercross sensation, boasts 21 career wins. His victories span MX2 (12 wins), AMA Supercross 250cc (6 wins), and AMA Motocross 250cc (2 wins). Roczen’s dominance extends to AMA Supercross 450cc, where he’s secured 21 wins since 2011, showcasing his remarkable talent.
Final Words
In the world of Supercross, these legendary riders have soared to incredible heights, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s history. From the heart-pounding races to gravity-defying jumps, their fearless feats have etched their names in the annals of motorsport.
Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the tracks, this countdown promises a thrilling ride through Supercross lore. As we celebrate these icons who have set the bar high, their enduring legacies continue to inspire.
So, let’s salute the best of the best and remember the Legends of Supercross who have defined this electrifying sport for generations to come.
