Denver Supercross: Key Highlights and Post-Race Insights
Denver, CO – In a thrilling display of talent during Round 16 of the 450 Supercross series, Justin Cooper (Monster Energy Yamaha) showcased impressive riding but faced scrutiny over team strategy, particularly regarding his battle with teammate Cooper Webb.
After the race, Webb playfully interjected when asked if Cooper would have been more aggressive had the win been on the line. “I hope so!” Webb quipped, setting the stage for Cooper’s analysis. Ultimately finishing in third, Cooper noted the challenges he faced: “Once I got to third, it was the white flag. I had to be defensive with the lappers… I knew [Malcolm Stewart] was going to try and make something happen for the podium in those last couple turns. It was a tough last lap.”
While Cooper’s pace surged in the latter half of the race—often gaining over a second per lap on the leaders—he attributes his success to finding better lines mid-race. “I got into a better flow around halfway when I kind of got some clear track… I was rolling my turns really and keeping my pace consistent,” he explained.
This performance proved crucial in both riders’ championship standings. With this finish, Cooper sits ten points behind Ken Roczen for third in the overall championship and maintains a six-point margin over Stewart. The pass on Stewart not only demonstrates Cooper’s competitiveness but represents a four-point swing in championship standings—critical as he heads into the season finale in Salt Lake City.
If Cooper maintains his current form, he stands poised to secure third place overall, culminating an impressive season for the #32.
