Two-time AMA Supercross Lites class champion Ivan Tedesco will race the inaugural Monster Energy Cup at Las Vegas’ Sam Boyd Stadium on 15 October.
Following two major surgeries to repair injuries sustained earlier this year, Tedesco, who rides for Dodge/Hart & Huntington/Kawasaki, will make his return to racing at the Monster Energy Cup.
“Right before the end of the supercross season I had hip surgery and two weeks after that I had reconstructive knee surgery to repair my ACL,” said Tedesco.
“I am working my butt off in therapy, and will make my return to racing at the Monster Energy Cup.”
A proven fast starter, Tedesco, who earned three holeshots this year, says that with a 10-lap, three-main event format there will be several riders that can ride at the front of the pack.
“I consider myself a good starter and this is the type of race where a good start is crucial,” said Tedesco. “The shorter motos will bring out the speed in everyone; there are a lot guys that can go fast for 10 laps.”
The hybrid supercross/motocross track that Jeremy McGrath and Ricky Carmichael are designing will level the playing field for riders that specialize in the technical aspect of supercross and the high-speed aspect of motocross.
“This is the type of race that will show everyone’s raw speed,” said Tedesco. “We’ve never had a race like this before, and we are going to see who the best all around racer is.”
The unique hybrid track will consist of supercross/motocross terrain and will have a tremendous motocross-style influence, making it unlike any other stadium race in the world.
The Monster Energy Cup posts a $250,000 purse with the winner walking away with a $100,000 check, and $1-million will be paid to a rider that wins all three main events.