The final showdown of the 2024 SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) took place at The Strip in Las Vegas Motor Speedway, offering fans an unforgettable night of high-octane racing. This year’s championship ended in an intense battle between brothers Jett and Hunter Lawrence, who were both gunning for the premier title and its one million dollar prize. Team Honda HRC Progressive’s Jett Lawrence took home the championship crown for the second consecutive year, building on his victory in last year’s inaugural SMX season.
A Night of High-Stakes Racing in Las Vegas
The 2024 SMX season combined the 17-round Monster Energy AMA Supercross series, the 11-round AMA Pro Motocross season, and two postseason playoffs. With points escalating toward the finale, the stage was set for an exciting final race in Las Vegas, culminating in a thrilling contest under the lights.
Jett Lawrence, who missed much of the AMA Pro Motocross season due to injury, returned in spectacular form, securing the 450SMX championship with a flawless (1-1) finish. His brother, Hunter Lawrence, put up a fierce fight but settled for second place in both the race and the championship, earning a substantial $500,000 prize. Eli Tomac of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing rounded out the podium with a (2-3) finish, claiming third place in the championship and a $250,000 payout.
Chase Sexton, a title contender for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, saw his chances slip away after an early collision in the first moto forced him to retire, ending his championship hopes.
250SMX Class: Pierce Brown’s Breakthrough Win, Deegan’s Championship Glory
In the 250SMX class, Troy Lee Designs Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Pierce Brown scored his first career win with impressive (2-1) moto finishes. However, the overall championship belonged to Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan, who repeated as SMX champion with his (1-2) performance, securing the $500,000 prize. Deegan’s consistency throughout the season paid off, earning him his second consecutive SMX crown.
Despite Deegan’s dominance, the night belonged to Brown, whose victory propelled him to third place in the overall championship standings. Deegan’s teammate Jordon Smith completed the podium with (5-3) finishes, while Red Bull KTM’s Tom Vialle, who entered the race in second place in points, saw his title hopes dashed after a difficult night.
Quotes from the Racers
Jett Lawrence, 450SMX Champion
“I’m super pumped to win, but I wish Chase was out there battling with us. It’s been an incredible season, and to come back from injury and win feels amazing. Racing against my brother made this even more special, though it’s tough when it’s family. Thanks to my team and everyone who supported us.”
Hunter Lawrence, 450SMX Runner-up
“It was a great race, and I hope the fans enjoyed the show. I’m proud of how far we’ve come, and I’m grateful to my team for all their hard work this season.”
Haiden Deegan, 250SMX Champion
“It feels awesome to win back-to-back titles. I’ve been working my whole life for moments like this. A big thanks to my family and team for helping me achieve this dream.”
This thrilling finale brought an end to an action-packed SMX season, with all eyes now turning to what 2025 will bring for the world’s premier off-road motorcycle series.
