Monster Energy Star Racing Yamaha Justin Cooper was penalized and docked five championship points at fifth round in RedBud on Saturday for jumping on a red cross flag.
During the TV broadcast, there was footage of Cooper inadvertently jumping on the flag. After the first moto concluded, race officials examined the footage and confirmed that Cooper had violated Section 2.10, Item b.iii., 9.c. of the AMA Pro Racing Pro Motocross Rulebook, which pertains to the proper observance of signal flags. Consequently, Cooper received a penalty of five championship points. However, this penalty did not affect the overall results of the event, and Cooper maintained his position on the podium.
After sitting out the High Point race due to a frightening crash during qualifying that resulted in a chest/neck injury, Cooper returned to compete. In his comeback, he achieved fourth place in both motos, securing a third-place finish overall.
