Industry Seating Podcast Summary: Ep. 194 - Anaheim 1, 2025

Host: Jason Thomas
Release Date: January 5, 2025

Introduction: Kicking Off the 2025 Season in Anaheim

In Episode 194 of Industry Seating, host Jason Thomas provides an in-depth preview of the upcoming 2025 Supercross and Motocross seasons, with a special focus on the opening race in Anaheim. Released on January 5, 2025, the episode serves as a comprehensive guide for fans eager to understand the dynamics and expectations for the new season.

Sponsor Updates and Industry Insights

Jason begins by addressing changes in podcast sponsorships, noting the departure of Pirelli Tires due to their exit from North American racing in 2025. He expresses gratitude towards longstanding sponsors like Guts Racing and introduces new partners such as Wash Works Connection, Bass Foundry, TL Speed Shop Concept, Cod Design Co., Grandstone Boots, Fly Racing, and Pro Glow Wash. Jason emphasizes the fluctuating nature of sponsorships in the industry, attributing recent changes to the broader economic pullback following the COVID-19 boom.

Season Preview: Rider Analysis and Expectations

Jason delves into his analysis of key riders in the 450 class, outlining their prospects, strengths, and potential challenges for the 2025 season. He meticulously examines each rider's capabilities and the factors that could influence their performance throughout the year.

1. Jet Lawrence: The Favorite Under Pressure

   Jason identifies Jet Lawrence as the favorite for both the Anaheim opening race and the overall championship. He highlights Jet’s ability to manage pressure effectively, stating, “He doesn't go into some warp speed, that risk is outweighing the reward. You don't see that from Jet” (05:30). Jason praises Jet’s strategic approach, noting his skill in maintaining a comfortable lead and responding adeptly to closing gaps with superior speed. However, he raises a critical question about Jet’s composure under adverse conditions: “If he doesn't get the start in the main event, can he stay calm and methodically work through the pack?” (12:45).

2. Cooper Webb: Consistency Over Pressure

   Describing Cooper Webb as a seasoned and strategic competitor, Jason emphasizes Webb’s focus on consistent performance rather than succumbing to the intense pressure that plagues some of his peers. He remarks, “Webb knows this game very well. I don't think he's going into A1 going, I got to win where Jet is” (18:10). Jason believes Webb’s ability to execute a solid race plan—qualifying well, securing good heat race finishes, and maintaining composure—positions him as a strong contender for podium finishes and a championship challenge.

3. Chase Sexton: Speed and Start Challenges

   Chase Sexton is lauded for his raw speed, with Jason recalling his past performance: “He was the fastest qualifier 13 out of 17 times” (25:00). However, Jason points out Sexton’s struggles with starts: “We have to see better starts. If he wants to be the guy where everybody's saying, yep, he and Jet Lawrence, the future belongs to them” (27:30). He underscores the necessity for Sexton to refine his starting technique to remain a championship contender amidst fierce competition from riders like Jet, Eli Tomac, and Cooper Webb.

4. Eli Tomac: Balancing Legacy and Current Form

   As Eli Tomac enters his last full year, Jason evaluates his form and potential to clinch another championship. He acknowledges Tomac’s impressive capabilities but questions whether his best performance can rival Jet Lawrence’s: “One of them has to be better than the other” (35:20). Jason suggests that while Tomac can certainly win races and demonstrate his enduring talent, the overall championship may heavily favor Jet if he maintains his top form throughout the season.

5. Ken Rockson: The Wild Card

   Ken Rockson is portrayed as a wildcard with opportunities to surprise observers, particularly in high-pressure opening races. Jason notes, “Kenny's a wild card, and I think he has an opportunity to surprise everyone at A1” (42:10). Despite health concerns and aging, Rockson’s ability to remain calm and execute sprint laps could offer him a competitive edge, especially if other riders falter under pressure.

6. Hunter: Steady Execution Needed

   Hunter’s strategy is straightforward: execute the race plan without overreaching. Jason advises, “Just do your thing. You don’t have to try to do anything over the top” (48:45). By focusing on qualifying well and maintaining consistency, Hunter can secure respectable finishes and build momentum for the season.

7. Jason Anderson: A Critical Contract Year

   In a pivotal contract year, Jason Anderson must demonstrate his ongoing value to secure future factory rides. He emphasizes the importance of consistency and podium finishes: “He's got to win a couple races that will get him a factory contract” (55:30). The pressure to perform is immense, as failure to do so could jeopardize Anderson’s standing with current and prospective teams.

8. Justin Barcia and Justin Cooper: Differing Paths

   Justin Barcia is viewed with skepticism due to past struggles, while Justin Cooper is seen as having a clear path to advancement through consistent performances. Jason states about Cooper, “He has to be the guy you used to be” (65:00), highlighting the straightforward relationship between performance and contract security.

9. Jorge Prado: Learning and Minimizing Risk

   Jorge Prado is expected to prioritize learning and risk management in his inaugural Supercross season. Jason advises Prado to “stay healthy” and avoid unnecessary risks: “Stay healthy at all costs” (73:20). By focusing on motocross, Prado can build momentum and aim for championships without overstressing his Supercross endeavors.

10. Malcolm Stewart: Seeking a Breakout Year

    Malcolm Stewart faces declining results and aging, making it essential for him to have a breakout year to secure a factory ride. Jason underscores the necessity for Stewart to demonstrate renewed speed and competitiveness: “The only way you're going to get a factory ride in that scenario is to have a breakout year” (80:15).

Mental Fortitude: Navigating Pressure and Expectations

A recurrent theme in Jason’s analysis is the mental aspect of racing. He discusses how pressure and expectations can significantly impact performance, particularly in opening races where anticipation can lead to nerves and subpar performances. Jason emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, advising riders like Jet Lawrence to maintain composure even when facing setbacks: “If he allows himself mentally to slow down and just execute the game plan... just press pause on that first lap or two” (12:50).

Similarly, Jason addresses Chase Sexton’s emotional management, suggesting techniques like taking a nap to reset after poor qualifying sessions: “Taking a nap... helps a lot because it's kind of a reset button” (30:10).

Conclusion: Anticipation and Final Thoughts

Jason wraps up the episode by reiterating his excitement for the upcoming season and the Anaheim 1 race. He extends gratitude to all sponsors and invites potential new sponsors to collaborate, emphasizing the podcast’s commitment to delivering insightful and engaging content. As the season approaches, listeners are assured of more detailed analyses and updates on rider performances and season developments.

“It's almost go time and I could not be more excited about it. See you.” (90:00)

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• “He doesn't go into some warp speed, that risk is outweighing the reward. You don't see that from Jet.” (05:30)
• “If he allows himself mentally to slow down and just execute the game plan... just press pause on that first lap or two.” (12:50)
• “Webb knows this game very well. I don't think he's going into A1 going, I got to win where Jet is.” (18:10)
• “He was the fastest qualifier 13 out of 17 times.” (25:00)
• “Stay healthy at all costs.” (73:20)
• “Taking a nap... helps a lot because it's kind of a reset button.” (30:10)
• “It's almost go time and I could not be more excited about it. See you.” (90:00)

Final Thoughts

Jason Thomas delivers a thorough and insightful preview of the 2025 Supercross and Motocross seasons, focusing on the critical aspects that will shape riders’ performances and championship standings. His analysis underscores the intricate balance between raw speed, strategic thinking, and mental resilience required to excel in the high-stakes world of professional racing.