Construction feat performed by engineering squad

In a thrilling display of skill and precision, Freestyle Motocross (FMX) athlete Luc Ackermann successfully executed the Tsunami Backflip, a never-before-attempted stunt that pushed the boundaries of the sport.

The moment of takeoff was described by Ackermann as a result of 100% trust in the setup, the team, and the calculations. With a launch angle of exactly 41 degrees, Ackermann left the saddle, stretching horizontally away from the bike while rotating backwards, a unique manoeuvre that characterises the Tsunami Backflip.

The stunt involved a moving takeoff and target, making it a novelty in the FMX world. The combined speed of the truck and bike during the jump was around 74 kilometers per hour, while the clearance for the flight path was a tight one and a half meters. Ackermann covered around 40 meters during the airborne part of the stunt, highlighting the precision of the jump's preparation.

Deviations of just 30 centimeters would have made the jump impossible, underscoring the meticulous planning that went into the stunt. Digital 3D models, motion simulations, and virtual reality tests were used to analyse the jump in detail beforehand, ensuring every aspect was calculated to perfection.

The Tsunami Backflip had to pass exactly over a 9.2-meter high height control, a challenge that was expertly navigated by Ackerman. The stunt was calculated by a team led by sports scientist Thomas Stöggl, who also created and analysed the digital 3D model and motion simulations of the Tsunami Backflip.

The two trucks involved in the stunt could not change their position, adding an extra layer of complexity to the already daunting task. Ackermann had only a few centimeters of leeway on landing, further emphasising the precision of the jump's preparation.

The Tsunami Backflip is one of the most complex tricks in Freestyle Motocross, and Ackermann's successful execution has set a new standard in the sport. The physics of the stunt were the real hero, not risk, as no one has ever performed a backwards somersault of this kind from a moving truck to another - let alone over such a high obstacle.

The Tsunami Backflip is more than just a stunt; it's a testament to the power of teamwork, technical understanding, and mastery of spatial forces. As Ackermann soared through the air, he embodied the spirit of innovation and determination that drives the world of Freestyle Motocross forward.