In a recent conversation, Adam Cianciarulo and Justin Brayton offered an inside look at the complex team decisions shaping up for 2026—particularly surrounding Yamaha’s star-studded 450 lineup. The main question: How could Yamaha let Eli Tomac walk away?
Brayton broke down the financial challenge Yamaha faces. With Cooper Webb’s 2024 Supercross title, his salary likely saw a significant increase, along with race bonuses in the six-figure range. Add Justin Cooper, a rising talent delivering consistent podiums at a fraction of Tomac’s cost, and Haiden Deegan, the 19-year-old social media sensation and future face of the sport, and the equation becomes difficult.
“You can’t keep four guys making millions,” Brayton said. “It’s a business decision. You either keep Deegan for the next decade or keep Tomac for maybe two more years.”
Cianciarulo echoed the sentiment, noting Tomac’s deep connection with the Yamaha bike—especially the cable clutch and KYB suspension—but admitted Yamaha likely had no choice but to prioritize youth and longevity. “If I’m Yamaha, I sign Deegan. He could give you a decade. Tomac maybe two, three years.”
Brayton added to the speculation, revealing he’s heard Tomac may have already signed with KTM. While a switch to Ducati or Triumph was rumored, both riders agreed those bikes come with uncertainty. “Tomac’s coming back to win, not to develop a bike,” Brayton said. “KTM is a proven platform.”
Still, they acknowledged the emotional impact of seeing Tomac leave Yamaha. “It’s just a shame,” Cianciarulo said. “It’s not fair to the fans or Eli.”
Both riders agreed that while Yamaha’s decision makes sense strategically and financially, it marks the end of an era—and the beginning of a new one led by Deegan.
