Image: Octopi Media.

Defending champion Eli Tomac will race-on with Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing through the 2023 Pro Motocross Championship season, in addition to the inaugural SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) events in the post-season.

The 30-year-old initially signed a Monster Energy Supercross-only deal for this season, but has now committed beyond that in a contract extension to complete the entire 31-race SMX campaign.

“At the beginning of the season, I truly thought this was going to be a farewell tour, but I’ve been having too much fun racing my motorcycle,” Tomac explained. “I have been enjoying every minute along the way with the team, so I’m excited to announce that I will be racing the entire SMX series.”

Yamaha Racing department manager, Jim Roach added: “We’re excited to have Eli with us for the rest of this inaugural SMX World Championship. The racing has been better than ever, so it’s not only great for Yamaha and the team to have Eli continue racing but also for the sport.

“2022 was an incredible year, and it’s been great to see that momentum continue to grow this season with the all-new YZ450F. We look forward to seeing the #1 plates in both championships and to continue paving the way for success.”

After a phenomenal debut season with the team in 2022 with two titles and a Motocross of Nations victory, Tomac maintains the red plate in 450SX this season, scoring four victories in six rounds to hold a seven-point lead in the standings. He tied Ricky Carmichael last weekend with third on the all-time win list with 48 premier class victories.

It was anticipated that Supercross would spell the end of Tomac’s illustrious career, however, this latest decision – combined with his current form on the new generation YZ450F – raises the question on whether he will in fact continue through 2024.