Runaway 450MX championship leader Dylan Ferrandis has admitted that edging Eli Tomac to the second moto victory at Washougal was a proud moment as he took another step closer to the 2021 crown.

Potentially set to be teammates from next season at Monster Energy Star Racing Yamaha, Ferrandis held a fast-finishing Tomac at bay in a final lap showdown.

It was a pivotal moment for Ferrandis in his quest to capture the premier class title in Lucas Oil Pro Motocross as a rookie, going 5-1 for third overall despite struggling with bike settings in the first encounter.

“It was a tough day at Washougal,” the Frenchman reflected. “We struggled with the bike set-up in moto one, but bounced back with a win in moto two. I tried to manage the gap and manage my energy the whole moto to give everything I had at the end to secure the first place.

“It was really hard, I had to push really hard and dig deep. I’m really proud to have won this battle with Eli as he’s such a role model for me in the sport. I’m looking forward to getting some rest now before going back to work to be ready for the last five rounds.”

Ferrandis now has a 47-point advantage in the Pro Motocross standings following seven of 12 rounds, extending over title rival Ken Roczen (Team Honda HRC), who was ninth overall on the weekend after battling with sickness.