Joey Savatgy's Impressive Start: Fifth at Daytona Supercross, But Aiming Higher
Joey Savatgy is on a mission to prove himself in the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship. The racer has consistently shown his prowess, finishing in the top ten in six out of eight races, including a solid fifth-place at the iconic Daytona track. But here's the catch: while the top four riders have created a significant gap, Joey is determined to break into that elite group.
In a post-race interview with Steve Matthes, Savatgy expressed his disappointment at not starting further ahead, which would have allowed him to truly test his mettle against the leaders. Despite this, he acknowledged the challenge of catching up to the factory riders, who are miles ahead in terms of resources and experience. But Joey isn't one to back down, stating that he wishes he had the chance to keep up with them and see how he would fare.
And this is where it gets tactical. Savatgy believes his strategy for the upcoming races will be crucial. He noticed that fellow rider Malcolm might be nursing an injury, as his body language suggested fatigue. This observation highlights the mental aspect of the sport, where riders must constantly assess and adapt to their competitors' strengths and weaknesses.
The Daytona track itself was a topic of discussion, with Savatgy praising the designers for creating a safer and more raceable layout compared to previous years. He noted that the lighting could be improved, especially on the far side, as it made some sections more challenging than necessary. But overall, he appreciated the direction of making the track a bit tamer, allowing for more strategic racing.
Controversy alert: tire choices! Savatgy was surprised by Kenny's decision to not use a paddle tire, especially given the traction demands of the track. This sparked a discussion on tire strategies, with Savatgy mentioning that several riders had quickly abandoned paddle tires this season. Was this a wise choice? Only time will tell.
As Savatgy continues his journey, one thing is clear: he's not just aiming for top-ten finishes; he's gunning for the top spots. Will he break into the elite group? The racing world is eager to find out.
