The motocross and supercross community was met with surprise on Monday afternoon as veteran rider Christian Craig took to social media to announce that he will be parting ways with Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing. The news comes just one year into what was originally a two-year deal with the powerhouse team, leaving many fans and industry insiders speculating about what’s next for the 33-year-old rider.
Craig, who returned to the Yamaha “blue brand” after spending two seasons with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing, had high hopes of cementing himself as a consistent front-runner in both the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and the Pro Motocross Championship. However, his 2025 campaign was derailed before it ever truly began, due to a devastating injury that kept him sidelined for months.
At the SuperMotocross World Championship finale in Las Vegas in September 2024, Craig tore his ACL, an injury that forced him to miss the opening half of the 2025 Supercross season. The setback was particularly crushing, as Craig had just settled into his role with Star Racing and was eager to build momentum heading into the season. By the time he returned to competition, the championship picture was already shaping up without him, and regaining rhythm proved a challenge.
In his heartfelt post, Craig expressed gratitude toward the team, sponsors, and fans who stood by him during a difficult stretch in his career. “I want to thank the entire Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing crew for the opportunity,” he wrote. “This past year didn’t go the way any of us had hoped, but I’m proud of the fight to get back on the bike after injury. At this stage, I’ve made the decision to move on and look toward the future.”
For Craig, the decision marks another twist in a career that has been defined by both resilience and adversity. Known for his smooth riding style and strong results when healthy, he has experienced more than his share of injuries, but has also proven his ability to come back stronger each time. His move back to Yamaha in 2024 was seen as a homecoming of sorts, since he had previously competed under the same banner earlier in his career. Unfortunately, the reunion never truly reached its potential due to the ACL setback.
Industry analysts have already begun speculating about Craig’s next steps. Some suggest a return to Husqvarna could be possible, given his familiarity with their program, while others believe he may explore opportunities with satellite or independent teams looking for veteran leadership. Another scenario being discussed is whether Craig might shift his focus more toward the SuperMotocross World Championship, which blends elements of both supercross and motocross and has opened new doors for riders in the latter stages of their careers.
Craig’s departure also leaves a question mark for Star Racing, a team that prides itself on fielding a deep roster of talent. With championship contenders like Eli Tomac, Justin Cooper, and others already within the Yamaha system, the team has no shortage of riders to carry the torch. Still, losing an experienced veteran like Craig means the squad will need to adjust its strategy moving forward.
Fans of Craig have responded with overwhelming support since the announcement, flooding his social media with messages of encouragement. Many have pointed out that Craig has already built a legacy that extends beyond race results, inspiring countless riders with his perseverance and love for the sport.
As the motocross world looks ahead to the remainder of the 2025 season, one thing is clear: Christian Craig’s journey is far from over. While his chapter with Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing has closed sooner than expected, his determination and experience ensure that he will remain a significant figure in the paddock. Whether he lines up with a new team next season, transitions into a mentoring role, or surprises everyone with a late-career resurgence, Craig’s story continues to resonate with fans who admire not just his talent, but his resilience.
For now, all eyes will be on where Craig lands next — and how he writes the next chapter of his storied career.