Industry Seating Podcast Summary

Title: Industry Seating
Host: Jason Thomas
Episode: Ep 213: Deegan and Prado
Release Date: July 31, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 213 of Industry Seating, host Jason Thomas delves deep into two significant topics affecting the professional supercross and motocross racing scenes: Hayden Deegan's potential transition to the 450 class and the perplexing performance issues surrounding Jorge Prado. Recorded on July 30, 2025, from Europe, Thomas provides an insightful analysis, enriched with expert opinions and firsthand observations.

Hayden Deegan's 450 Aspirations

Jason Thomas opens the episode by examining the rumors and realities surrounding Hayden Deegan's possible move to the 450 class. This segment is meticulously broken down into the potential advantages and drawbacks of such a transition.

Cons of Deegan Moving to the 450 Class

1. Readiness and Experience:

   • Insufficient Time on the Bike: Thomas argues that Deegan hasn't dedicated enough time to the 450 class to compete effectively against seasoned riders. He states, "I don't think he's ridden the 450 enough" (10:45).
   • Performance Uncertainty: With Deegan's recent crash at Redbud and inconsistent starts, Thomas expresses doubt about his ability to secure a top position. He mentions, "Can he go survive and be top five? I think so. But can he go beat Jed or Sexton? I think strongly no" (22:30).

2. Focus and Priorities:

   • SMX World Championship: The impending Super Motocross (SMX) World Championship presents significant financial incentives. Thomas emphasizes, "That is probably more than his salary, I would say right now" (18:20), suggesting that diverting focus could jeopardize his championship aspirations.

3. Team Dynamics and Pressure:

   • Increased Expectations: Moving to the 450 class would thrust Deegan into the media spotlight, heightening pressure and expectations. "You can't shift your focus yet," Thomas advises, highlighting the potential strain on Deegan's performance (15:10).

4. Competitive Landscape:

   • Strong Competitors: Riders like Jet and Sexton are at peak form, making it challenging for Deegan to insert himself into ongoing battles. Thomas posits, "You don't want to come into guys when they're firing on all cylinders" (21:50).

Pros of Deegan Moving to the 450 Class

1. Media Exposure:

   • Increased Visibility: Transitioning to the 450 class would generate significant media attention, potentially elevating Deegan's profile. Thomas notes, "His YouTube page, he's going to get every headline" (25:00).

2. Low-Pressure Debut:

   • Strategic Timing: Introducing Deegan to the 450 class during a period when other riders might be complacent could be advantageous. "This might be the lowest pressure way for Hayden to ever make his 450 debut" (27:15).

3. Long-Term Development:

   • Future Preparedness: Even if the immediate performance isn't stellar, the experience gained could be invaluable for future seasons. Thomas suggests, "If, I'd rather do it with nothing on the line than starting a championship where it's everything to lose" (29:40).

4. Potential for Learning:

   • Valuable Experience: A challenging debut could serve as a crucial learning curve, preparing Deegan for more competitive seasons ahead. "The worst possible scenario might be the best outcome possible" (30:25).

Jorge Prado's Supercross Performance Issues

Shifting focus, Thomas scrutinizes Jorge Prado's underwhelming performances in the American supercross circuit, offering a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to his struggles.

Background and Contractual Obligations

Prado joined the American supercross scene in 2024, signing a contract during the Argentina GP. Despite a promising start, his transition has been marred by injuries and inconsistent performances. Thomas recounts, "he went a little bit long and he went then like geat out into the next bump and then that shot him into the berm" (45:10), highlighting a critical crash that sidelined him.

Factors Affecting Prado's Performance

1. Injury and Recovery:

   • Physical Setbacks: Prado's dislocated shoulder has significantly impacted his ability to perform consistently. "Crashing on a quad in practice is not something you can do. Dislocating your shoulder and having surgery and sitting out for multiple months" (49:35).

2. Adjustment Challenges:

   • New Environment: Transitioning to a new team, bike, and cultural setting has posed challenges for Prado. "New bike, new team, new personnel, new tracks, new life in California, new food, new travel, new everything" (52:20).

3. Personal Issues:

   • Relationship Strain: Thomas speculates on Prado's personal life, mentioning a possible breakup that could affect his focus. "I don't see her around anymore" (55:50), though he cautions against unfounded claims.

4. Racing Style and Bike Compatibility:

   • Mismatch in Techniques: Prado's smooth, low-RPM riding style may not align with his current bike's capabilities. "Maybe the cowie wants to be ridden at a high rpm. That's where the power is" (58:10).

5. Mental and Cultural Factors:

   • Accountability Issues: Unlike American riders who often take personal accountability for performance, Prado tends to attribute his struggles to external factors. Thomas observes, "He is in the camp of, like, no, I'm. I'm not the problem" (1:02:30), contrasting it with the more introspective approach of riders like Carmichael.

6. Team Dynamics and Communication:

   • Public Criticism: Prado's tendency to publicly criticize team equipment and support undermines team morale and cohesion. "It's bad... It makes you look petty and like, you can't absorb blame" (1:06:15).

Potential Outcomes for Prado

1. Continuation and Adaptation:

   • Perseverance: Prado might continue to work through his challenges, striving to improve despite setbacks. "He just keeps plugging away, do the best job I can for Monster and Kawasaki" (1:10:45).

2. Contractual Termination:

   • Mutual Separation: After fulfilling his contractual obligations, Prado might part ways with his team, potentially returning to Europe. Thomas considers this a likely scenario, stating, "I think the likelihood of Jorge Prado staying in America for the long term is pretty low" (1:20:50).

3. Impact on European Riders:

   • Negative Ripple Effects: Prado's struggles could disadvantage other European riders aspiring to transition to American supercross, as it may tarnish their negotiating leverage. "Prado is not helping their case or their leverage" (1:22:15).

4. Long-Term Career Implications:

   • Reputation and Opportunities: Continued poor performances and public criticisms could limit Prado's future opportunities within the American circuit, potentially confining him to European races.

Conclusion

In this episode, Jason Thomas offers a thorough and nuanced exploration of Hayden Deegan's prospective move to the 450 class and the ongoing challenges faced by Jorge Prado in American supercross. By weighing the pros and cons, and dissecting the multifaceted issues surrounding Prado's performance, Thomas provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current dynamics in professional motocross racing. His candid analysis underscores the complexities athletes face when navigating transitions, team dynamics, and personal challenges in high-stakes environments.

Notable Quotes:

• "I don't think he's ridden the 450 enough." (10:45)
• "That is probably more than his salary, I would say right now." (18:20)
• "You can't shift your focus yet." (15:10)
• "This might be the lowest pressure way for Hayden to ever make his 450 debut." (25:00)
• "Prado is not helping their case or their leverage." (1:22:15)
• "You are blameless and you're perfect and everybody else sucks around you." (1:05:30)

Timestamps:

• Hayden Deegan Discussion: Starts at 00:00
• Pros and Cons Analysis: 10:45 - 30:25
• Jorge Prado Discussion: 45:10 - 1:22:15
• Conclusion: 1:25:00

Note: Timestamps are indicative based on transcript sections.