2022 Pala Motocross Media Day Photos
Cycle News Staff | May 24, 2022
The Pala Motocross National will kick off the 2022 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship at Fox Raceway this Saturday, May 28, but the racers already got a taste of the track. Today, the media was invited to watch many of the top riders in both the 250cc and 450cc classes take to the track for some valuable pre-race practice time. Most of the stars participated in today’s free practice day, including defending champs Dylan Ferrandis (450MX) and Jett Lawrence (250MX).
Several riders that we haven’t seen in a while were back at it, such as Aaron Plessinger, Ken Roczen, Joey Savatgy, and Justin Cooper who were all returning after having been sidelined recently from injuries or health issues. Also returning to the track were two riders coming out of retirement—former MX and Supercross Champion Ryan Dungey and former multi-time MX World Champion Tony Cairoli. Dungey’s original plan was to compete in just the first few rounds but don’t be surprised if he’s around all summer. Cairoli, however, is expected to race just the first few rounds. Both are competing for their last team, Red Bull KTM.
Noticeably absent today was new Supercross Champion Eli Tomac who is still at home in Colorado resting his knee, but the Monster Energy Yamaha rider is expected to be on the start line come Saturday. Tomac says the knee is doing well and doesn’t bother him while he’s riding the bike, but twisting it in a rut or turn is another story.
Red Bull KTM’s Cooper Webb is absent, as well. He already announced that he’s taking the summer off to rest up. He plans to be back for Supercross next year.
Below are some photos from today’s media day, which we hope will help you get in the mood for the upcoming Nationals, as if you really need any help.