In a shocking and emotional development that has sent ripples through the motorsports world, the American Motocross Association (AMA) held an emergency press conference today to deliver a heartbreaking announcement about one of the sport’s most iconic figures.
Chase Donovan, the 27-year-old motocross superstar and reigning AMA Supercross Champion, has been forced to withdraw from all future competitions indefinitely following a devastating diagnosis that could mark the end of his professional racing career.
AMA President James Whitmore addressed a packed room of stunned reporters, confirming that Donovan has been diagnosed with a progressive neurological condition known as *cervical myelopathy*—a disorder affecting the spinal cord, which can cause severe weakness, numbness, and impaired motor function.
“Today is one of the most difficult days in the history of American motocross,” Whitmore began. “Chase Donovan is not only a champion, he is a symbol of courage, talent, and inspiration for millions of fans around the world. This news is devastating for everyone in the motocross community.”
Donovan, who rose to prominence with his aggressive riding style, fearless attitude, and unmatched consistency, has been a dominant figure in the sport since his breakout season in 2019. He recently captured his fourth national title and was widely expected to compete for a fifth this summer before medical complications began to affect his physical condition during training earlier this spring.
According to Donovan’s team, the symptoms began with numbness in his fingers and occasional muscle spasms—initially dismissed as routine strain. However, after undergoing detailed scans and neurological evaluations, doctors confirmed the presence of significant spinal cord compression at the cervical level.
In a prepared statement read by his manager, Donovan said:
> “This is not the road I imagined for myself. I’ve always lived for the race, the roar of the crowd, the thrill of the finish line. But right now, my focus has to be on my health, my recovery, and my future beyond racing. I want to thank everyone—my family, my team, my fans—for standing with me through this. I’m not done fighting.”
The announcement was met with an outpouring of emotion and support across social media. Fellow motocross riders, past legends, and international athletes across disciplines expressed their solidarity. Longtime rival Eli Tomac posted:
> “Heartbroken for Chase. We’ve battled hard, but I’ve always respected the hell out of him. Wishing him strength, healing, and peace.”
Donovan’s career has been marked not only by championship success, but by his resilience. He famously returned from a brutal collarbone break in 2022 to win the final three races of the season, clinching the title in dramatic fashion. Known for his humility and fan-first approach, Donovan is widely loved by audiences both young and old.
The AMA confirmed that Donovan’s racing number, #22, will be temporarily retired out of respect, and that an honorary event is being planned in his name at the next championship round in Salt Lake City. Additionally, Donovan’s team, RedLine Motorsports, announced plans to launch the *Chase Strong Foundation*, aimed at supporting athletes diagnosed with spinal and neurological conditions.
“This isn’t the end of Chase’s journey with motocross,” said RedLine CEO Dana Wilkins. “It’s the beginning of a new chapter. He’s a fighter. And we know he’ll inspire millions in whatever he chooses to do next.”
For now, one of the brightest stars in motocross faces the biggest challenge of his life—not a finish line, but a future defined by uncertainty, strength, and hope. And while Chase Donovan may no longer be riding toward titles, his legacy is already written—in grit, greatness, and the hearts of fans around the world.