Image: Octopi Media.

A breakout 450MX podium at Fox Raceway’s Lucas Oil Pro Motocross opener gives Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Christian Craig a strong platform of momentum and confidence in his step to the premier class.

Craig entered the 2022 outdoors season off the back of claiming a maiden 250SX West title in this year’s Monster Energy Supercross, determined to make an impact on the 450.

The number 28 recovered from a fall in moto one on lap five and charged back to finish third – his first 450MX podium – before advancing the P3 at the halfway point of moto two where he would ultimately finish the race and land third overall courtesy of 3-3 results.

“I’m pumped, my first 450 podium and to do it at my home track, hometown… I’ve gotten so close so many times but especially coming off the supercross championship it’s all about just keeping the momentum and the confidence I have,” stated Craig. “I’m comfortable with the bike, just happy with the whole setup. It’s something I’ve worked for my whole life. I checked that one off the list.”

While Craig has raced 450s previously, he achieved another milestone in his career this year by confirming a full-time ride in the premier class from 2023, all indications suggesting with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna.

He is joined by 450SX champion Eli Tomac – who was fourth at Pala – and recovering 450MX champion Dylan Ferrandis in Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s 450 lineup for Pro Motocross in 2022.