Freestyle motocross has always thrived on adrenaline, rebellion, and a refusal to follow the rules. Riders launching 40 feet into the air, flipping and twisting over dirt ramps, have long represented the extreme edge of motorsports. But now, a growing number of freestyle MX riders are making their voices heard off the bike—this time in support of cannabis. Their advocacy blends personal experience, health recovery, and lifestyle authenticity, pushing the sport into a new era.
The Reality of Life on the Bike
For professional FMX riders, injuries aren’t a possibility—they’re an inevitability. Crashes come with the territory, and with them come broken bones, muscle tears, and long recovery periods. In the past, many riders were handed prescriptions for opioids or heavy-duty painkillers that came with serious risks. Cannabis has stepped in as a safer, more sustainable option. From CBD balms rubbed onto sore shoulders to THC edibles that promote sleep, riders are finding natural relief without the fog of pharmaceuticals.
Beyond Stigma
Cannabis still carries stigma in many sports, but action sports have historically been the ones to challenge cultural norms first. Just as skateboarding and surfing normalized cannabis decades ago, freestyle motocross is now stepping into that space. Riders are reframing the conversation—showing cannabis not as a drug that dulls performance but as a wellness tool that helps them ride longer, heal faster, and stay creative. Their openness is changing fan perceptions, especially among younger audiences who already view cannabis in a more positive light.
Voices Leading the Way
Several freestyle riders have begun openly sharing how cannabis fits into their routines. While the motocross mainstream remains cautious due to governing body rules, independent and freestyle-focused athletes have more freedom to speak their truth. Riders often highlight cannabis not just for its physical benefits but also for its mental ones—helping manage stress, focus before a show, and even find a sense of flow in training sessions. Their stories mirror what athletes in skateboarding, snowboarding, and BMX have already proven: cannabis has a place in high-performance lifestyles.
Partnerships and New Sponsorship Paths
As the cannabis industry grows, so does its interest in aligning with extreme athletes. Freestyle motocross events, which already celebrate individuality and culture, provide a natural stage for cannabis and CBD brands. Some riders have collaborated with wellness companies to create signature product lines or appear in brand campaigns. This partnership trend mirrors the early days when energy drink companies like Monster and Red Bull entered the scene. Cannabis sponsorships may become the next big wave, reshaping how riders fund their careers.
Breaking Old Norms
Perhaps the most powerful element of this movement is its role in breaking down outdated stereotypes. By standing on podiums, performing in front of thousands, and openly embracing cannabis, freestyle MX riders are proving that athletes can excel while being advocates. They’re redefining what it means to be tough—not by masking pain with pills, but by choosing natural recovery methods and speaking openly about their choices. This honesty resonates with fans who see their favorite riders not just as daredevils, but as relatable human beings making healthier decisions.
Pushing Boundaries
Cannabis is still not universally accepted in professional motorsports, but momentum is clearly shifting. With legalization expanding and public support stronger than ever, it’s likely only a matter of time before governing bodies adjust their policies. Until then, freestyle MX riders remain on the frontlines of cultural change, pushing limits both on and off the track.
