The Future of Motocross in Europe: A Champion's Bold Warning
In a candid interview, three-time MXGP vice world champion Jeremy Seewer pulls no punches about the challenges he’s faced and the direction he believes the sport is heading in Europe. After a grueling first season with Ducati, Jeremy opens up about his struggles with consistency, the growing reliance on machinery, and his determination to reclaim his place at the top. But here’s where it gets controversial: Jeremy argues that the sport’s evolution in Europe is on the wrong track. Is he right? Let’s dive in.
A Season of Ups and Downs
Jeremy’s first year with Ducati was anything but smooth. Despite proving the bike’s potential for top-five finishes and even podiums, he admits, “Consistency just wasn’t there at all.” Finishing 10th in the championship was a far cry from his previous performances, leaving him frustrated yet determined. “It’s still motocross,” he reminds us, “where the rider can make a difference on certain tracks.” But with Ducati’s unique bike and the immense experience of rival manufacturers, the road to victory is steep. “There’s a huge amount of work to do,” he confesses, just weeks before the new season begins.
The Rider vs. The Machine: A Shifting Balance
And this is the part most people miss: Jeremy highlights a seismic shift in the sport. “Five or six years ago, the rider could still make a big difference on the track,” he explains. Today, with a tightly packed field of elite riders, “the bike has become even more important.” Is motocross becoming more about machinery than rider skill? Jeremy’s perspective is both eye-opening and polarizing. He argues that while riders are sharper and more dedicated than ever, “you can’t make the difference on your own anymore.” This raises a critical question: Are we losing the essence of motocross in the pursuit of technological advancement?
Winter Woes and a Mental Reset
Jeremy’s winter preparation has been far from ideal. “I’m very late,” he admits, though he’s in the best physical shape of his life. The delay has forced him to skip early races, a decision he made to avoid showing up unprepared. “I’d like to be in a better position,” he says, “but I’m simply doing the best I can.” His honesty about his mental struggles is equally striking. After losing confidence midway through last season, he’s had to “change my mindset” and adopt a new approach. “It’s very hard,” he admits, “to take a step back and focus on regaining that confidence.” But is this humility a strength or a weakness in a sport that demands relentless aggression?
The Ducati Evolution and Team Dynamics
Returning to the Vosters structure has been a positive move for Jeremy. With more experience and resources, the team is better equipped to support his goals. “Everything happened very naturally,” he says, though he’s still searching for “the missing piece of the puzzle” to rebuild his confidence. The Ducati bike has evolved, with more parts available for customization, but Jeremy prefers to keep changes minimal. “When I find something I like, I want to stick with it,” he explains. Yet, the constant testing and searching for the right setup have taken a toll, leaving him exhausted and mentally drained. Is this the price of competing at the highest level?
The Future of Swiss Motocross
Jeremy’s passion for the sport shines when discussing the Swiss GP. While he applauds the organizers’ efforts, he’s critical of the Frauenfeld track, calling it “too small for a world championship event.” His enthusiasm for Payerne’s potential return to the calendar is palpable. “It would be insane,” he says, envisioning a “real motocross circuit in a magnificent setting.” But will his dream become a reality, or is it just wishful thinking?
A Bold Warning for the Sport
Perhaps the most provocative part of the interview is Jeremy’s take on the future of motocross in Europe. “The direction this sport is taking in Europe isn’t the right one,” he declares. While he avoids placing blame, his concern is clear. He points to Glenn Coldenhoff’s situation as a cautionary tale, though he remains unfazed by his own future. “At some point, you need to know when to stop,” he reflects. But his ultimate goal is unmistakable: “I don’t want to end my career fighting for 10th place.” Will he succeed in reclaiming his place at the top, or is the sport leaving him behind?
Final Thoughts and Your Turn
Jeremy Seewer’s interview is a raw, unfiltered look at the challenges of elite motocross. His warnings about the sport’s direction and the shifting balance between rider and machine are sure to spark debate. Do you agree with his assessment? Is motocross losing its soul to technology? Or is this evolution necessary for the sport’s growth? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!
