Tampa Supercross 2025: An Unforgettable Night of Racing
The 2025 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship made a thrilling return to Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, delivering one of the most exciting rounds of the season. Tampa has long been a favorite stop in the Supercross calendar, with its rich history of high-speed battles, technical track layouts, and unpredictable outcomes. The 2025 edition did not disappoint, as it showcased incredible performances, including Malcolm Stewart’s historic first 450SX victory and Max Anstie’s dominance in the 250SX East division.
450SX Class: Malcolm Stewart’s Breakthrough Victory
The 450SX main event in Tampa was nothing short of spectacular, marking a historic moment for Malcolm Stewart, who secured his maiden Supercross premier-class win. At 32 years old, Stewart finally achieved a victory that had eluded him for years. His performance was a testament to his perseverance, skill, and determination.
How It Unfolded
Stewart had been steadily improving throughout the season, but many still viewed him as an underdog compared to the dominant forces like Chase Sexton, Ken Roczen, and Eli Tomac. However, from the moment the gate dropped, Stewart looked like a rider on a mission. He executed a near-perfect start, quickly positioning himself among the front-runners.
His ability to maintain his composure under pressure was remarkable. Despite stiff competition, Stewart took control of the race in the early laps, fending off multiple challenges and keeping a smooth, controlled riding style. As the race progressed, he built a comfortable lead, demonstrating both speed and endurance. By the time he crossed the checkered flag, he had firmly stamped his authority on the race, finishing with a time of 21 minutes and 22.497 seconds.
The Significance of Stewart’s Win
This victory was not just another race win; it was a monumental achievement for Malcolm Stewart. He has been part of the Supercross scene for over a decade, consistently improving but never quite reaching the top step of the podium in the 450SX class. The Tampa round changed that narrative and proved he has what it takes to compete with the best.
From a championship standpoint, this win shakes things up significantly. With Chase Sexton leading the points standings before Tampa, Stewart’s victory throws another contender into the mix. While one race does not determine the title, this breakthrough could ignite a new level of confidence in Stewart, making him a serious threat for the remainder of the season.
250SX East Class: Max Anstie’s Commanding Performance
The 250SX East division kicked off in Tampa, and all eyes were on the fresh lineup of talented riders battling for early-season supremacy. British rider Max Anstie delivered a dominant performance, securing victory with a time of 25 minutes and 13.772 seconds.
Anstie’s Road to Victory
Max Anstie is no stranger to international motocross success, having competed in both MXGP and AMA Supercross. Entering the 2025 season, many saw him as a strong contender, but his Tampa performance exceeded expectations.
Right from the start, Anstie looked comfortable on the technical Tampa track, navigating through rhythm sections and deep ruts with precision. His aggressive yet calculated approach allowed him to take control early in the race. Unlike some riders who faded toward the end, Anstie maintained a steady pace, ensuring he never came under serious threat. His victory sends a strong message to his competitors that he is the man to beat in the 250SX East Championship.
Impact on the 250SX East Championship
With this win, Anstie takes the early points lead, giving him an advantage as the series progresses. However, the 250SX East class is notoriously competitive, with several hungry young riders eager to prove themselves. Anstie will have to remain consistent if he hopes to capture the championship crown at the end of the season.
Key Highlights and Notable Performances
Beyond the winners, Tampa Supercross 2025 featured several thrilling moments and standout performances:
- Chase Sexton’s Resilience – Sexton entered the Tampa round as the series leader, having already secured multiple podium finishes this season. While he couldn’t take the top spot this time, his consistency remains impressive. He still holds a strong position in the title race, proving he is one of the most reliable riders on the grid.
- Ken Roczen’s Podium Charge – Roczen, a fan favorite and one of the most consistent riders of the modern era, continued his streak of podium finishes. Although he narrowly missed out on the win, his ability to remain near the front keeps him in serious contention for the championship.
- Eli Tomac’s Struggles – As a two-time Supercross champion, Tomac had high hopes for the 2025 season, especially considering this is expected to be his final full-time campaign. While he showed flashes of brilliance, Tampa was not his strongest race. A difficult start left him playing catch-up, and though he managed a respectable finish, he will need to regain momentum in the upcoming rounds to stay in the title fight.
How Predictable Were These Results?
Looking at the winners, Malcolm Stewart’s victory was not heavily predicted, though it was not entirely shocking. He had shown glimpses of speed earlier in the season but had yet to put everything together. Most pre-race discussions centered around Sexton, Roczen, and Tomac as the primary contenders. Stewart’s performance was a reminder that Supercross is unpredictable, and on any given night, a breakthrough can happen.
On the 250SX East side, Max Anstie’s win was more expected. His background in international motocross and his recent strong performances made him one of the favorites coming into Tampa. However, winning the opening round so convincingly sets a precedent that he will be a dominant force throughout the season.
What’s Next?
With Tampa behind us, attention now shifts to the next round in Detroit, Michigan. The championship battle is intensifying, and every race will be crucial. Key storylines to watch include:
- Can Malcolm Stewart build on this momentum and win more races?
- Will Chase Sexton reclaim his dominant form?
- How will Eli Tomac respond to his struggles?
- Can Max Anstie remain unbeaten in the 250SX East class?
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Tampa Supercross delivered high drama, historic achievements, and major championship implications. Malcolm Stewart’s long-awaited first 450SX win was the headline moment, proving that perseverance pays off. Meanwhile, Max Anstie’s dominant 250SX East performance solidified him as a top contender in his class. With the championship battle heating up, fans can expect more intense racing, unexpected results, and unforgettable moments in the coming weeks.
As the season progresses, the excitement continues to build. Who will emerge as the ultimate champion? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—2025 is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling Supercross seasons in recent memory.
