Slaw Dog
Over the weekend, SwapMotoLive confirmed with AMA director of racing, Mike Pelletier, that the U.S. will be sending a team to the 2021 Motocross of Nations set to take place on September 25-26 in Mantova, Italy. The 2020 Motocross of Nations was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. You can read the full report and watch a video interview with Mike here.
With the news out there now, who should we send? Let’s take a look at some of the options.
450
Aaron Plessinger
AP is having a breakout campaign this year and currently sits third in 450 points—the highest ranked American as of right now. Plessinger is American as Slaw and Apple Pie, and you know he’d love to go represent the U.S., which to me is half the battle—getting riders that are generally interested in going. If he continues his current form, I think he’s a lock.
Chase Sexton
Sexton has been quietly impressive in his second year in the 450 Class and is currently fourth in points, just nine back of AP. Sexton has never raced for Team USA, so you know he’d like to go. Like AP, if he stays healthy and on current form, I think his selection makes sense.
Eli Tomac
Tomac is starting to regain his past form, winning motos at High Point and RedBud. But, he’s bowed out before and I honestly don’t think he’ll want to go. Maybe I’m wrong, but I don’t see Tomac being on the team.
Justin Barcia
BamBam has struggled a bit as of late, but he’s always down to go represent the U S of A. He could be a solid selection if something happens with AP or Sexton.
Adam Cianciarulo
AC has been super fast all year, but has had a few costly mistakes that has seen him slip to seventh in points. His speed is never in question, so I think he’d be a great pick.
250
Justin Cooper
I think Cooper’s spot on the team as the 250 rider is virtual lock if a) he wants to go and b) if he stays healthy.
RJ Hampshire
RJ has been riding amazing and if something happens with Cooper, is a great second choice.
Jeremy Martin
If he was healthy, Martin and Cooper would be battling for the right to represent the U.S. in the 250 division. But, he’s not. He has like 1000 things he’s dealing with. I just can’t see how he’ll be 100 percent by the time we pick our team.
If we are picking a team today, Slaw is sending AP, Sexton and Cooper. Of course, this could all change in the next few weeks. Who is your team? Let us know in the comments.
Main image: Yamaha
