AURORA, Ill. (June 13, 2002) - AMA Supercross, second in motor sports popularity only to NASCAR, enjoyed another banner season of television coverage in 2002, announcing a record for most television viewers in a
single season with some fifteen million fans tuning into the weekly broadcast on ESPN2 and the four ABC Sports shows.
"With nearly fifteen million fans watching AMA Supercross from their homes on both cable and network television, we are assured that the future of AMA Supercross is brighter than ever," said Mike Weber, executive vice president, Clear Channel Entertainment - Motor Sports. "All fans, riders, and sponsors can be comforted by knowing the future of AMA Supercross not only lies in the spectacular live events, but also in the ever-growing television package."
The unprecedented field of racers competing for the coveted 250cc title and the emergence of 125cc rookie James Stewart, the first African-American to win a 125cc Regional victory, has attracted a record fans base. Moreover, seven-time supercross champion Jeremy McGrath has evolved into a household name and has been instrumental in branding supercross to mainstream America.
Leading the 16-round tour's televised broadcast was the San Diego round, held at Qualcomm Stadium, where 438,618 fans tuned in to see Stewart win his
first 125cc Western Regional championship. The victory for Stewart was dedicated to his friend and former racer Tony Haines. Stewart currently runs #259 on his number plate to commemorate his fellow competitor Haines.