Imagine this: You’re a top-tier Supercross racer, the gate drops at Anaheim 1, and BAM! A brutal crash leaves you with a dislocated shoulder. Most riders would be sidelined for weeks, maybe even months. But what if you gritted it out and lined up for the very next race? That's exactly the story unfolding with Malcolm Stewart.
Racer X has exclusively learned that Malcolm Stewart, the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna rider, is set to defy expectations and compete in this weekend's San Diego Supercross, just days after a nasty incident at the Anaheim 1 opener. This news comes after a chaotic start to the 450SX Main Event at A1, where Stewart was caught up in a significant crash with Justin Barcia.
The crash resulted in a dislocated shoulder for Stewart. Further examinations revealed fractures in the scapular area of his shoulder blade. But here's where it gets controversial... despite these injuries, Stewart has received medical clearance to race. While a dislocated shoulder is incredibly painful and a fractured scapula is nothing to scoff at, doctors have determined that surgery isn't necessary.
Meanwhile, Justin Barcia, involved in the same crash, thankfully avoided major injuries. Barcia confirmed via Instagram that he was able to walk out of the hospital. However, he's experiencing significant soreness and will be out of action for the foreseeable future. This highlights the unpredictable nature of Supercross – sometimes you walk away relatively unscathed, and other times, even 'minor' injuries can keep you off the track.
Stewart himself confirmed his participation, stating, "I got the green light to go racing in San Diego. Unfortunately due to what happened at A1, I got my results back and there are some fractures that are in the scapular area of my shoulder blade. My dislocated shoulder went back in well though, so no surgery is needed, and everything from here on out is going to be pain-related. I'm a little sore, but at the end of the day, I feel good enough to go out there and give it a shot for San Diego and go race."
He returned to riding with his team later in the week and ultimately made the decision to compete aboard his Husqvarna FC 450 Factory Edition at Snapdragon Stadium.
And this is the part most people miss: Stewart's decision isn't just about toughness; it's a calculated risk. Every point counts in the championship chase, and even a painful finish is better than a zero. But is pushing through this injury the right call? It could jeopardize his long-term health and championship hopes.
Stewart's participation in San Diego raises questions about the balance between a rider's determination, the pressure to perform, and the potential consequences of racing injured. It also brings up the topic of what constitutes being "cleared" to race.
What do you think? Is Stewart making the right decision to race in San Diego while injured? Is it admirable toughness or reckless disregard for his own well-being? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
