Former professional motocross and supercross racer Martin Davalos is currently recovering from emergency brain surgery following a diagnosis of intracranial hypertension — a rare and dangerous condition that put intense pressure on his optic nerves and brain.
Davalos shared a candid update on social media over the weekend, detailing a traumatic few months that began with unexplained fatigue and blurred vision. Initially attributing the symptoms to overwork and travel, Davalos pushed through until a family trip to Ecuador prompted a critical decision to seek medical attention. That decision, he says, likely saved his vision — and potentially his life.
“The doctors there noticed something seriously off with my optic nerves — signs of swelling that pointed to high pressure inside my skull,” Davalos wrote. “After several tests and MRIs, I was diagnosed with intracranial hypertension, with symptoms similar to a pseudotumor.”
Following an urgent return to the United States, Davalos was hospitalized and underwent emergency surgery. Doctors placed a lumbar drain to reduce the pressure, followed by the surgical implantation of a VP (ventriculoperitoneal) shunt — a device that helps drain excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to prevent further complications.
“I’m dealing with pain, fatigue, and some brain fog,” he said. “But I’m staying focused on the road ahead… I’m grateful to still be here, still fighting, and still surrounded by so much love and support.
“I want to say how incredibly grateful I am to my wife, the doctors and the nurses who took such good care of me and quite literally saved my sight and sanity,” he continued. “I’m grateful to still be here, still fighting, and still surrounded by so much love and support.”
Davalos turned professional in 2006 and carved out one of the most enduring careers in the sport, competing for 15 seasons across both Monster Energy AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross. Davalos left his home country in Ecuador at just 15, and when he made his first main event in 2006, he became the first rider from the South American country to compete in AMA Supercross
During his career, he scored five 250SX main event wins and is remembered for his remarkable longevity in the sport — including holding the record for the most career 250SX starts. In 2020, he made the jump to the 450 class with Team Tedder KTM and was named AMA 450SX Rookie of the Year, finishing fifth in Atlanta for his best premier class result.
Davalos officially retired from racing in 2021 after a crash during media day in Salt Lake City left him with a concussion and a broken collarbone. While he had planned to finish the season, the injury prompted him to walk away sooner than expected.
“I was going to finish the season and retire, but after that crash and the risk it brought, I knew it was time,” he said at the time.
Since his retirement, Davalos has stayed within the sport, as he is currently the Team Principal of the Quad Lock Honda squad.
We will post more information as we know it.