Ken Roczen Reflects on His 2022 Suzuki Deal and Reveals Why He Chose to Leave the Team After Just Two Years in an Exclusive Interview
In an exclusive and candid interview, professional motocross star Ken Roczen opened up about the reasoning behind his decision to sign a deal with Suzuki in 2022, the factors that led him to commit to the Japanese manufacturer, and his surprising decision to leave the team after just two years. This interview has shed light on his motivations, the challenges he faced, and the future of his career as he looks ahead to new opportunities in the world of motocross.
Ken Roczen, who is widely regarded as one of the most talented and successful riders in the sport, made a significant move when he decided to leave his long-time relationship with Honda and switch to Suzuki in 2022. His decision to sign with the Japanese brand was met with a mixture of excitement and curiosity, as fans and experts wondered how the shift would impact his performance on the track.
In the interview, Roczen explained that his decision to sign with Suzuki was driven by a combination of factors, including a strong desire for change and the opportunity to work with a new team. He admitted that after spending several years with Honda, he was looking for a fresh challenge and a chance to build something new. “I’ve been with Honda for such a long time, and after achieving a lot of success there, I felt like it was time to try something different,” Roczen shared. “Suzuki came with an offer that felt right for me, both personally and professionally. The team’s vision aligned with my own goals, and I saw it as an opportunity to help rebuild the brand’s presence in the motocross world.”
Roczen also acknowledged that he had a close relationship with Suzuki’s management and felt that they truly believed in his abilities and potential. “There was a genuine trust and mutual respect from the beginning, and I felt like I could contribute to Suzuki’s development in a way that would benefit both me and the team. The potential for growth was something I really valued,” he added.
However, despite the initial excitement and optimism surrounding his deal with Suzuki, Roczen’s tenure with the team was not without its challenges. After two seasons with Suzuki, the 2024 season saw Roczen make the surprising decision to part ways with the team. In the interview, he explained that the decision to leave was not made lightly and involved a combination of personal and professional factors.
“I don’t want to make it sound like I had a bad experience with Suzuki, but the reality is that there were things that just weren’t aligning as I had hoped,” Roczen said. “It wasn’t just about the bike or the team. It was about everything – my mindset, my motivation, and where I saw myself in the future. Sometimes, things just don’t click the way you expect, and it’s important to recognize when it’s time to move on.”
Roczen also mentioned the pressure and demands of being in the spotlight as a top-tier athlete, which played a role in his decision. “Being at the top of the sport, especially with the expectations that come with it, can be overwhelming at times. It’s important to be in a situation where you feel motivated and inspired to continue pushing yourself. When that motivation starts to fade, it’s a sign that something needs to change.”
Looking ahead, Roczen remains optimistic about the future of his career and is open to exploring new opportunities. He hinted that he is in talks with several other teams and brands and is focused on finding the right fit for the next phase of his journey. “I’m not giving up on racing anytime soon. I have a lot left to prove and a lot of passion for the sport. I’m excited to see what’s next and to continue working hard to be the best I can be,” he concluded.
Roczen’s departure from Suzuki marks the end of an era, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter in his illustrious career. Fans will be eagerly awaiting his next move as the motocross world watches closely for his next big decision.
