Devin Simonson: From underdog to podium – Cleveland awaits

There are those drivers that hardly anyone talks about for a long time – until they suddenly appear at the forefront. Devin Simonson is currently just such a case. Not a hyped-up prodigy, not a name associated with factory racing since his youth. Instead, a driver who has worked his way through the field over the years – and experienced his greatest moment yet last weekend in Nashville.

Simonson's third-place finish marked his first-ever 250SX podium. And the exciting part: it doesn't seem like a one-off fluke.

Not an easy road to the top

The 24-year-old from North Carolina has been racing professionally since 2021. His career so far has been characterized more by hard work than glamour. He's ridden for smaller teams, achieved some strong results, and faced many uncertainties. He's one of those riders known to insiders, but largely ignored by the general public.

In US Supercross, this is a dangerous area. Anyone who isn't consistently at the front quickly falls out of favor. Every year, new talents push their way into the spotlight.

Simonson persisted nonetheless.

ClubMX recognized the potential

The turning point came with ClubMX Yamaha. There, Simonson got the opportunity to prove himself in a professional environment. While other teams might have only focused on results, ClubMX apparently saw more: speed, work ethic, and development potential.

A guest appearance in Pro Motocross in 2024 on the 450cc bike, where he finished 15th at the Ironman National, was apparently enough internally to initiate the next step. The Supercross contract followed.

The breakthrough will come in 2026.

After a difficult, injury-plagued 2025, Simonson has improved significantly this season. He's no longer just chasing top-10 finishes, but regularly within striking distance of the lead. Sixth in Indianapolis, strong at the showdown in St. Louis – and now a podium finish in Nashville.

What's particularly striking is the way he's driving: Simonson seems fitter, more stable, and significantly more confident. He used to drive well. Now he drives as if he expects to be in contention for the lead.

That is often the biggest step of all.

Cleveland is coming at just the right time

And now the next opportunity follows immediately. The race in is already tomorrow. Cleveland The next round is about to begin – and Simonson arrives with the momentum of his first podium finish. It's precisely these kinds of moments that decide careers. Can a rider confirm his breakthrough? Or will he fall back after the emotional high point?

There are currently several indications that Simonson's performance in Nashville was no fluke. If he gets off to a good start and positions himself early in the leading group, another podium finish is absolutely realistic.

From passenger to the name one mentions

Just a few months ago, Simonson was one of those drivers who were only mentioned in passing in previews. Now he's suddenly one of those you have to watch. And perhaps that's the best part: no quick start, no hype, no shortcuts – just honest development.

Cleveland will show whether Nashville's surprise performer will become a permanent podium contender.