Germany to Honour Motocross Legend Ken Roczen with Statue at National Sports Centre
Mattstedt, Thuringia – June 8, 2025 — Germany is set to pay tribute to one of its most iconic sports figures, Ken Roczen, with a commemorative statue to be unveiled at the National Sports Centre in Mattstedt, Thuringia. This lasting monument aims to celebrate Roczen’s extraordinary achievements in the world of motocross and his enduring impact on the sport, both nationally and internationally.
The unveiling ceremony, scheduled for later this summer, will mark a significant moment in German sports history. Roczen, who hails from Mattstedt, is widely regarded as one of the greatest motocross riders of his generation. With an illustrious career that spans over a decade, he has become a symbol of perseverance, talent, and national pride.
A Local Hero Turned Global Icon
Born in 1994 in Mattstedt, Ken Roczen began riding motorcycles at the tender age of three. By the time he was a teenager, he had already made a name for himself on the European motocross circuit. He quickly rose through the ranks, capturing the attention of global audiences with his fearless riding style, technical precision, and sheer determination.
Roczen’s major breakthrough came in 2011 when he won the MX2 World Championship at just 17 years old, becoming the youngest ever to do so. His success catapulted him into the American motocross and supercross scene, where he continued to dominate and inspire. Among his many accolades are multiple AMA Motocross and Supercross victories, solidifying his status as a global motocross legend.
Despite facing several career-threatening injuries, including a near-amputation of his arm in 2017, Roczen made a remarkable comeback. His resilience not only earned him the admiration of fans around the world but also redefined what it means to be an elite athlete.
A Statue to Inspire Generations
The statue, designed by renowned sculptor Johannes Eberhardt, will depict Roczen in full racing gear mid-action, capturing the dynamic energy and passion that have defined his career. Set to be installed at the entrance of the National Sports Centre in Mattstedt, the sculpture is intended to inspire aspiring athletes and honour Roczen’s contributions to German sport.
Speaking about the honour, Roczen expressed his gratitude: “I am incredibly humbled. To be recognised in my hometown like this is beyond anything I could have imagined. Motocross has given me so much, and it’s a privilege to represent Germany on the world stage.”
Local officials and national sports authorities have praised the decision. Klaus Weigert, head of the German Motor Sport Federation (DMSB), stated, “Ken Roczen is more than just a champion; he is a role model. His achievements, both on and off the track, embody the spirit of German sport.”
Community Celebration and Legacy
The unveiling ceremony will be part of a larger celebration in Mattstedt, with motocross demonstrations, youth workshops, and a meet-and-greet session with Roczen himself. Organisers hope the event will attract fans from across Europe and ignite a new wave of interest in motocross among younger generations.
Mayor Elke Ritter of Mattstedt shared her enthusiasm: “Ken has put our town on the map. This statue is not just about honouring a champion, but also about celebrating the values he represents—dedication, resilience, and community.”
The National Sports Centre, already a hub for athletic training and development, plans to expand its motocross facilities in conjunction with the tribute. Officials aim to establish a Ken Roczen Youth Training Program, which will provide young riders with access to coaching, equipment, and support.
A Lasting Impact
Ken Roczen’s journey from a small town in Thuringia to international motocross stardom is a testament to what passion and perseverance can achieve. The statue in his honour is not only a nod to his personal accomplishments but also a beacon for future generations of German athletes.
As Germany prepares to celebrate one of its finest sportsmen, the statue stands as a powerful reminder: greatness often begins in the most humble of places—and with enough determination, can echo around the world
