“He’s Got One More Chapter Left”: John Tomac Opens Up About Eli Tomac’s Shocking Yamaha Exit, a Possible Move to Ducati, and the Unfinished Business That Could Redefine His Legacy in 2026
In a fictional twist that would send shockwaves through the motocross world, John Tomac—the legendary mountain bike racer and father of Supercross icon Eli Tomac—has finally spoken out about his son’s stunning decision to part ways with Yamaha after a high-stakes run in the AMA Supercross and Motocross Championships. In an exclusive (fictional) sit-down interview, the elder Tomac pulled no punches as he revealed the emotional conversations behind closed doors, the personal battles Eli has fought off the track, and what may lie ahead—including a jaw-dropping rumor of a potential 2026 collaboration with Ducati.
“It wasn’t about money. It wasn’t about fame. It was about purpose,” John said, leaning forward. “Eli’s not done. He just wants to write the ending his way.”
A Departure No One Saw Coming
After a successful yet turbulent stint with Yamaha, including dramatic injury recoveries and jaw-dropping comeback wins, Eli Tomac’s choice to walk away shocked fans and sponsors alike. The announcement came without the fanfare typically surrounding such major moves. For many, it signaled retirement. But not for the Tomacs.
“Eli’s had offers from everyone—you name it. But he felt boxed in. He didn’t want to be just a name on a trailer. He wanted to build something new,” John explained. “And yes, Ducati was on that list.”
Ducati on Dirt?
The idea sounds wild: Ducati, the Italian powerhouse known for MotoGP dominance and exotic superbikes, dipping its tires into the world of American motocross—with Eli Tomac as its face. While Ducati hasn’t officially confirmed such intentions, John admitted that talks have happened.
“They approached us about a concept bike. It’s early, it’s raw, but it’s not a fantasy. Eli’s open to it. He’s curious. He wants to test limits—not just his, but the sport’s,” John said.
Sources close to the Tomac camp (again, fictionally) indicate that Ducati has already begun R&D on a limited-edition prototype dirt bike, built around performance analytics Eli himself helped define.
The Final Lap—Or a Whole New Race?
At 33, Eli Tomac is no stranger to retirement rumors. But John insists his son isn’t quite ready to hang up the boots—not without giving fans something truly different. “He told me, ‘Dad, I want to ride free. I want to go out on my own terms. Not because people expect it—but because I feel it,’” John recalled.
With 2025 being an “off year” for Eli, focused on recovery, mentoring young talent, and testing machinery, the motocross world could see a reinvented Tomac return to the gate in 2026. Whether that means launching an independent team, leading Ducati’s entrance, or starting a cross-discipline racing revolution remains to be seen.
“He’s Not Chasing Glory—He’s Building It”
John’s final words in the interview ring with pride, but also mystery.
“People think they’ve seen everything Eli can do. They haven’t. He’s not chasing glory—he’s building it. And when he shows up in 2026, they’ll understand why we never stopped believing.”
One thing is certain—if Eli Tomac returns with a Ducati badge on his chest and fire in his eyes, the sport of motocross may never be the same again.
