Round 8 Preview: High-Caliber Absentees Shake Up Washougal
The AMA Pro Motocross Championship returns to Washougal, Washington, on Saturday, July 19, 2025, for Round 8 of the series. But this year’s showdown is missing several high-profile riders—most notably Aaron Plessinger, Joey Savatgy, Tom Vialle, and others—due to injuries and health setbacks .
Aaron Plessinger (450 Class)
Red Bull KTM’s “Cowboy” has been sidelined since RedBud, and his condition worsened at Spring Creek, where he pulled out mid‑race again . His team confirmed he’ll sit out at Washougal to prioritize his health . Ian Harrison emphasized the need for medical attention and recovery, hoping Plessinger re‑enters in full form during the summer stretch .
Joey Savatgy (450 Class)
Savatgy suffered a leg injury at RedBud and missed Spring Creek. Though specifics were sparse, his absence at Washougal is confirmed . Vurbmoto also confirms his continued sidelining this weekend .
Tom Vialle (250 Class)
KTM’s French superstar crashed in the opening lap at Spring Creek, sustaining knee and shoulder soreness. His team—Red Bull KTM—confirmed he would skip Washougal, utilizing the two-week break ahead of Ironman on August 9 to recover .
450-Class Injury Scoop
Beyond Plessinger and Savatgy, the 450 field is significantly weakened:
Dylan Ferrandis remains out with a leg stress fracture, unlikely to return until season’s end .
Grant Harlan broke his leg at RedBud and is sidelined .
Derek Kelley is severely injured—broken fibula—ending his season .
Cooper Webb had minor knee surgery after a twist at RedBud and will miss the remainder of the season .
Also in the mix: Jason Anderson (health concerns, unconfirmed), Freddie Noren (banged up but racing), each with uncertain statuses .
250-Class Attrition
The 250cc roster is stripped even further:
Max Anstie suffered a broken leg in Birmingham, ruling him out .
Julien Beaumer continues to recover from a wrist injury and will skip this round too .
Daxton Bennick remains on the sidelines with lingering concussion/back issues .
Pierce Brown (T5 vertebra fracture), Casey Cochran (shoulder surgery), Trevor Colip (femur and stroke complications), Cole Davies (arm/nose fracture), Evan Ferry (Achilles rupture), Chance Hymas (ACL tear), Cameron McAdoo (ACL tear), Kayden Minear (thumb UCL surgery), Carson Mumford (ankle injury), Jett Reynolds (leg fracture), Stilez Robertson (wrist), Nick Romano (shoulder), and Gavin Towers (ACL/meniscus) are all listed as out .
Only Jalek Swoll remains active despite competing with a torn thumb UCL .
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Championship Implications
Opportunity for New Faces
The absence of these elite athletes—many capable of podium contention—levels the field considerably. Riders like Chase Sexton, Eli Tomac, Jett/Hunter Lawrence in 450, and Haiden Deegan, Jeremy Martin in 250 face fewer roadblocks. Expect aggressive gate strategy and bold moto execution across both classes.
Team Strategies
Teams have two weekends off post-Washougal before Round 9 at Ironman Raceway on August 9. This provides a recovery window for injured riders and an opportunity to recalibrate team strategies and resources .
Red Bull KTM Hit Hard
Red Bull KTM, fielding riders across both classes, suffers multiple absences: Plessinger, Vialle, Beaumer, and others. This disrupts their momentum and hands advantage to rivals.
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Washougal Track Preview
Known for its rough terrain and punishing technical demands, Washougal tests rider stamina and concentration. Expect early selection of a cautious yet competitive mindset. With a depleted roster, strategic pace control could pay off.
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Final Thoughts
The 2025 Washougal National is reshaping the championship narrative. With marquee names out of contention—from illness to injury—this weekend opens the door for rising talent to stake early claims:
Sexton, Tomac, Lawrence brothers in the 450s have a clearer path.
In the 250s, Deegan, Martin, Swoll, and others can consolidate their footing among title contenders.
All eyes shift to Ironman Raceway (Aug 9), where the recovering stars aim to return, fully healthy and ready for the championship stretch. Until then, Washougal will serve as the battleground for opportunists ready to seize a moment in the spotlight.
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🏁 Rider Status at a Glance: Who’s Out?
Class Rider Reason
450 Aaron Plessinger Illness (since RedBud)
450 Joey Savatgy Leg injury (RedBud)
450 Dylan Ferrandis Leg stress fracture
450 Grant Harlan Broken leg (RedBud)
450 Derek Kelley Broken fibula (season end)
450 Cooper Webb Knee surgery (season end)
250 Max Anstie Broken leg (Birmingham)
250 Julien Beaumer Wrist injury (High Point)
250 Tom Vialle Knee & shoulder soreness
250 + Numerous others Various (see above)
With star power thinning out, Washougal could be a career‑defining moment for the bold. Expect intense, unpredictable motos from riders hungry for success. Let the summer shake‑up begin.
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