“Vintage” Dudes Take the Top Steps at 2026 Anaheim 1 SMX ft. Tomac & Roczen + Prado & Deegan

by Vurbwes Chilidog January 13, 2026, 3:11 pm

The kickoff of Monster Energy Supecross (and SMX World Championship) at Anaheim 1 didn’t disappoint. Eli Tomac kicked off the 2026 Supercross season with a statement win at A1, but Ken Roczen made sure it was anything but easy. The two veterans went head-to-head for the full 20 minutes, trading tenths, managing pressure, and showing exactly why they’re still at the front of the 450 class in 2026.

Here are a few post-race quotes from Eli Tomac and Ken Roczen, diving into mindset, race strategy, and where the race was really decided. We also hear from Jorge Prado, talking about his excitement of his podium finish, and Haiden Deegan who started the year off with a fourth.

Written by Vurbwes Chilidog

Been 'round these parts making dirtbike movies since '02; a weathered veteran with moto and camera related back issues, the hearing equivalent to my great-great grandfather's, and a dirt tan that will literally never come off. But I'm still in way better shape than every other dog in this joint, but that's because I use Chili and no slaw.