Ten-time Pro Motocross champion Ricky Carmichael has voiced his support for a potential leap by runaway 250 Class leader Haiden Deegan into the 450MX division at the final round of the 2025 season—*if* the young phenom wraps up the 250 title early. For Carmichael, widely regarded as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) of the sport, the move is about more than headlines: it’s about giving Deegan a unique, no-pressure chance to gather experience before a likely full-time premier class debut in 2026.
Deegan’s meteoric rise this season has stunned even seasoned observers. With a string of moto wins, consistent podium finishes, and aggressive yet calculated riding, he’s built a commanding points lead in the 250MX championship. If he clinches the title before the finale, speculation has grown that Star Racing Yamaha could unleash Deegan on the 450 at the last round—testing the waters against the sport’s biggest names.
Speaking in a recent interview, Carmichael made it clear that he likes the idea:
> *“If he locks up the title early, why not? It’s a perfect time to get your feet wet without the weight of expectations. You can go out there, race the bike, see what it feels like against the fastest guys in the world, and just learn. You only get so many chances like that in your career.”*
**A Proven Path for Young Stars**
The notion isn’t unprecedented. Over the years, several 250 champions—including Carmichael himself—have tried a 450 late-season race as a test run. It gives teams and riders insight into bike setup, fitness demands, and mental adjustments needed to handle the raw power and deeper talent field in the premier class.
For Deegan, the benefits could be enormous. At just 19, he’s shown impressive composure and racecraft, but stepping up to the 450 is a different world: longer motos, heavier bikes, and veterans who know every inch of the track. A single round, free of points pressure, could reveal strengths and highlight areas to focus on during the off-season.
**Team Strategy and Fan Excitement**
From a team perspective, there’s also buzz. Deegan’s popularity brings massive fan interest, and a 450 debut—even a brief one—would draw major attention to the series finale. But Star Racing Yamaha has been careful not to overhype their young star, focusing first on securing the 250 championship before making any announcements.
Sources inside the paddock suggest discussions are ongoing, with decisions hinging largely on when (or if) Deegan seals the title. If he clinches it with a round to spare, the door to the 450 could swing open.
**Carmichael’s Cautionary Note**
While Carmichael is in favor, he also offered a note of caution:
> *“It has to make sense. The kid has a great thing going, and you don’t want to disrupt his rhythm or pile on pressure. But if he’s mentally ready, and the team thinks it’s right, I say go for it.”*
Carmichael emphasized the importance of approach: treating the race purely as a learning experience rather than an expectation-laden debut. The difference, he says, is critical for long-term confidence.
**Looking Toward 2026**
Whether or not the move happens this year, all signs point to Deegan stepping up full-time to the 450MX class in 2026. His rapid adaptation to pro racing, brand power, and competitive edge make him a natural fit for the sport’s premier division.
**For now, though, all eyes remain on the 2025 250MX championship battle.** If Deegan clinches the title early, as many predict, fans might get a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come—a fearless young racer taking on the 450 elite, backed by the blessing of one of motocross’s greatest legends.
Until then, the speculation—and the excitement—will only keep building.