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MotoAmerica: Superbike Heading To The Ridge

High-Octane Battle Brewing: MotoAmerica Injects A Double Shot Of Adrenaline Into Seattle’s Backyard. Championship Grid Grinds For Margins At Technical Washington Circuit. 

IRVINE, CA – A state famous for craft coffee roasters, grunge music, and volcanoes is about to experience a different kind of energy and seismic rumble. The Quad Lock Superbike Championship makes its highly anticipated annual stop at Ridge Motorsports Park on June 26-28, bringing 200-plus horsepower machines to the dense coniferous forests of Shelton, Washington.

The 2.47-mile counter-clockwise layout delivers a relentless, technical workout, packing 16 turns and 300 feet of elevation change into each lap. The circuit demands ultimate precision, highlighted by a blistering half-mile-long front straight, heavy braking zones, a sweeping edge-grip-challenging carousel, and rapid transitions with elevation change.

 

  • Quad Lock Superbike & Superbike Cup

Success at the Washington circuit demands an impeccable chassis setup. Unlike the wide-open nature of the previous round, this is a track that throws a massive challenge directly at the top speed merchants, shifting the advantage to those who can carry immense rolling momentum through the corners.

The unique layout alters the dynamic for current championship points leader, Sean Dylan Kelly. While the Floridian and his OrangeCat Racing BMW M 1000 RR have optimized their high-speed stability to muscle ahead in the standings, they must now adapt to a tighter, faster-steering environment. To defend his narrow advantage, Kelly will need to lean on a smooth, calculated approach to perfectly spot hidden apexes and manage the Beemer’s brute force out of the technical exits.

 

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Sean Dylan Kelly entered Road America’s victory lane to an ecstatic OrangeCat Racing welcoming committee. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

 

Hot on his heels in the standings is South African standout Mathew Scholtz, sitting in a prime striking position in second place, just a single point back. Competing for Strack Racing aboard the Yamaha YZF-R1, the multi-time Superbike race winner feels right at home on layouts that favor nimble handling over outright horsepower. Scholtz’s fierce corner-entry style and extensive history with the R1 platform make him a devastating threat on a circuit that heavily rewards side-grip and momentum.

 

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Mathew Scholtz struggled slightly at the previous round and aims to reclaim the points lead at Ridge Motorsports Park. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

 

Much like Scholtz, the powerhouse teammates of Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing will be looking to capitalize on the handling prowess of the Yamaha YZF-R1 in the technical sectors. Currently third in points, Bobby Fong brings an explosive, aggressive riding style that could yield high rewards over the track’s dramatic crests. Right behind him in fourth is JD Beach, whose dirt-track heritage gives him a masterful ability to back his Yamaha YZF-R1 into tight corners and slide through rapid transitions.

 

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Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing stablemates Bobby Fong and JD Beach have been inseparable all year, consistently battling each other, as well as the leaders, at each round. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

 

Sitting fifth in the championship hunt is Cameron Petersen, who looks to assert himself at the sharp end of the field aboard the Wrench Motorcycles Ducati Panigale V4 R. Coming off a race one win at Road America, the South African is the only active rider in the class with a Ridge win to his name, and he has podiumed a total of five times in his career at the circuit.

The deep grid features plenty of spoiler talent capable of turning the weekend upside down. The hungry pack includes M4 ECSTAR Suzuki teammates Richie Escalante and Brandon Paasch, both pushing their Suzuki GSX-R1000R Superbikes to find maximum consistency. 

One of the big stories heading into round four is that Warhorse HSBK Ducati Flo4Law rider Cameron Beaubier, who underwent shoulder surgery after his Road America race one crash, will be out for an indefinite amount of time. Already at a 59-point deficit, it likely spells the end of his championship defense in 2026, even if he does return to racing later this season. The team has enlisted the services of their former Superbike rider Loris Baz, beginning with the upcoming round in the Evergreen State.

Rahal Ducati Moto with XPEL rider PJ Jacobsen is another rider who has had a challenging start to his season. The 32-year-old New Yorker reversed his fortunes at the previous round by capturing his first podium of the season. The breakthrough performance signals a dramatic turnaround in luck and velocity. Expect Jacobsen to maintain this upward trajectory at Ridge Motorsports Park, acting as a prime championship disruptor as he fights for wins.

Showing upward momentum, the red wing of the Real Steel Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP ridden by Hayden Gillim is beginning to take flight. Watch for the Kentuckian to continue his rise towards a podium finish as he has continuously improved the package and is knocking on the door of the top five. 

Meanwhile, Superbike Cup leader Andrew Lee will try to continue his success and keep his Real Steel Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP at the top of the Superbike Cup standings.

 

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Superbike Cup points leader Andrew Lee (#14) has four first-place finishes in a row and looks poised to leave Washington with six. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

 

 

  • Chandler Named Grand Marshal

As the season-long celebration of “50 Years Of Superbike Racing” continues, MotoAmerica is honoring three-time AMA Superbike Champion Doug Chandler as the Grand Marshal for the race weekend at Ridge. An absolute legend of American motorcycle racing, “DC-10” is one of only four riders in history to achieve the prestigious AMA Grand Slam—capturing national victories across a mile, half-mile, short track, TT, and a road race. Best known for his clinical execution aboard his iconic, green #10 Muzzy Kawasaki ZX-7RR, Chandler claimed his titles in 1990, 1996, and 1997 before representing the United States at the absolute pinnacle of the sport in the 500cc Grand Prix World Championship. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductee is a perfect selection to usher in the Superbike podium celebrations over the weekend, cementing his legacy not just as a champion, but as one of the most versatile and respected icons the sport has ever known.

 

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Doug Chandler in 1997 aboard his Muzzy Kawasaki ZX-7RR. Photo by Larry Lawrence.

 

  • For the full 2026 MotoAmerica schedule, and to purchase tickets for MotoAmerica events, CLICK HERE
  • For information on how to watch the MotoAmerica series, CLICK HERE
  • For photos and entry list, CLICK HERE

 

 

About MotoAmerica:
 
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Twins Cup, Talent Cup, Super Hooligan National Championship, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit
www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on demand service, MotoAmerica Live+

MotoGP: Ogura Cracks Lap Record At Brno

Ai Ogura led MotoGP World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26 on spec Michelin tires, Ogura turned a lap time of 1:51.735. Not only was that good enough to lead the 22-rider field, it was also good enough to eclipse Francesco Bagnaia’s 2025 All-Time Lap Record of 1:52.303. 

Marco Bezzecchi was the best of the rest with a 1:51.826 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.

Fabio Di Giannantonio was third at 1:51.942 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Franesco Bagnaia finished the session fourth with a 1:51.983 on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26 and his teammate Marc Marquez was fifth with a lap time of 1:51.988. 

 

Classification motogp practice

 

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Ogura magnificent to top Friday at Brno. The Japanese star has had a podium in MotoGP but chases a first victory: he’s started his quest off perfectly this weekend. 

Seven riders under the previous outright lap record and less than a second covering 19 riders, MotoGP is fiercely tight in the Czech Republic but they all chase one rider. Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) set a 1’51.735 to top Friday running at Brno ahead of Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team).

 

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Marc Marquez (93) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

 

FIRST HALF: Aprilia charge forward, Marc Marquez crashes

A second crash of the day was not how Marc Marquez envisaged his afternoon getting underway but early in Practice, the #93 tucked the front at Turn 11. Thankfully, he was all OK but it cost him track time. At the top of the standings, Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) was going well ahead of Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) before Ogura went top, making it a Trackhouse 1-2 approaching the halfway point. Bezzecchi soon changed all that as he took over in P1 with a new lap record too boot – 1’52.275 the benchmark time.

 

 

 

IMPROVEMENTS AND PROBLEMS: a new lap record, Acosta with tech issues

Moving into the top ten, Maverick Viñales (Red Bull KTM Tech3) was flying and so was Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) in P5, whilst teammate Luca Marini had also moved up into eighth. Elsewhere, Acosta put himself back in P1 before technical problems saw him return to the paddock. Smoke visible, his session was now paused. Having been briefly out of the top ten, Ducati Lenovo Team pairing Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez were straight back in the provisional top ten with the reigning World Champion setting the first-ever 1’51 of Brno.

 

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Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

 

FINAL FIVE MINUTES: push comes to shove in Czechia

Need to move himself into absolute safety, Di Giannantonio climbed to P1 with four minutes left on the clock whilst 2024 World Champion Jorge Martin was 12th with less than three minutes to go. He was hustling his RS-GP around Brno and elevated himself to P8 whilst teammate Bezzecchi had snatched P1. That didn’t last long though as a mighty lap from Ogura had meant that the #79 was now leading the way. All of the changing had now left ‘Martinator’ in P10 and he was about to be shoved out of Q2 as Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) improved late on to go eighth.

 

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Marco Bezzecchi (72) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

 

AT THE FLAG: Friday’s top ten

Ogura got the job done and his new lap record gave him a 0.091s advantage of Championship leader Bezzecchi and Catalan GP winner Di Giannantonio. Diggia was ahead of Pecco whilst Marc Marquez rounded out the top five. Acosta was sixth whilst Mir took P7 despite a late crash at Turn 7. Moreira made it two Hondas in the top ten whilst Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and Fernandez are the last of the automatic Q2 qualifiers.

 

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Fabio Quartararo (20) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

 

Q1 ON SATURDAY: big names headline

Martin in 11th is not what he ordered whilst Viñales came close but not close enough. 2021 World Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was second in the morning but 14th in the afternoon and just 0.798s behind Ogura whilst Alex Marquez’s (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) return saw him finish in 15th.

MotoGP Practice results from Brno!

Moto2: Alonso Quickest Friday Afternoon At Brno

David Alonso led Moto2 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Colombian rider lapped the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) road course in 1:58.511 topping the field of 28 riders.

Filip Salac was second-best with a time of 1:58.529 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

Manuel Gonzalez did a third-fastest 1:58.619 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex.

Alonso teammate’s, Daniel holgado got fourth with a lap time of 1:58.648 and Gonzalez’s teammate, Senna Agius was fifth with a time of 1:58.656.

American Joe Roberts finished Friday afternoon’s practice session 13th with a best time of 1:59.015 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

Classification moto2 practice

 

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Alonso fastest from home hero Salač on Friday. The Colombian leads the Czech rider in Brno as less than two tenths split the top six. 

David Alonso’s (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) early 1:58.511 ensured he finished Friday top of the Moto2 pile, but only just. 0.018s adrift in P2 sits home hero Filip Salač (OnlyFans American Racing Team), the Czech star getting his weekend up and running in superb fashion, while it’s World Championship leader Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) who completes a top three covered by 0.108s heading into the weekend.

In a session that was briefly red-flagged following a Turn 13 crash for Barry Baltus (REDS Fantic Racing) – the Belgian was taken to hospital for further checks – Alonso’s time on his third lap ended up being the fastest of the lot in the scorching Brno temperatures. His teammate Daniel Holgado ended Friday in P4, with Hungarian GP podium finisher Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) a constant threat up the sharp end of the standings – the Australian was P5.

Izan Guevara (BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2) was seventh, one place behind Alex Escrig (KLINT Racing Team), while third in the championship, Celestino Vietti (HDR SpeedRS Team), squeezed into Q2 in P14 after the Italian suffered a technical issue in FP1.

And a shout-out to 11th place Taiyo Furusato (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) after the Japanese rider bagged his first automatic Q2 result of the season. The Japanese rider finished Practice one place behind fellow rookie Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo).

Moto2 Practice results!

Moto3: Danish Sets New Lap Record At Brno

Hakim Danish led Moto3 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Danish used his Pirelli-shod AEON Credit – MT Helmets MSI KTM  to lap the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) track in 2:04.754, which led the field of 26 riders and broke Guido Pini’s All-Time Lap Record of 2:05.019 from 2025.

David Almansa was second-best with a time of 2:04.944 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM.

Maximo Quiles, piloting his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 2:05.013.

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe got fourth with a lap time of 2:05.041 and Joel Esteban was fifth on his Level Up MTA KTM with a time of 2:05.129.

 

Classification moto3 practice

 

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Danish unbeatable on Friday at Brno. The Malaysian rookie was rapid out the crate on the first day of track action. 

A perfect Friday to start the weekend, Hakim Danish (AEON Credit – MT Helmets – MSI) was in great form to top the first day in Brno action in Moto3. The Malaysian set a new lap record in the morning before bettering it in the afternoon as he goes in search of a first pole position on Saturday.

Unstoppable on Friday, Danish was lighting up the timing screens across both FP1 and Practice, in the end topping the opening day of Moto3 action. He was able to get ahead of David Almansa (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) in both sessions with the two riders the only ones able to get into the 2’04s on Friday. Third at the end of play was Championship leader Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), just a quarter of a second behind the Malaysian in P1.

Second in the title race and just one place behind Quiles, Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was fourth and ahead of Joel Esteban (LEVELUP-MTA) who rounded out the top five. Scott Ogden (CIP GreenPower) was just 0.020 behind the Spaniard in sixth place, ahead of Italian GP winner Brian Uriarte. Top Honda honours went to Jesus Rios (Rivacold Snipers Team) whilst Red Bull KTM Tech3 duo Rico Salmela and Valentin Perrone complete the top ten.

A late lap from Guido Pini (Leopard Racing) saw him scrape through with P14 whilst Veda Pratama (Honda Team Asia), Ryusei Yamanaka (AEON Credit – MT Helmets – MSI), Adrian Cruces (CIP GreenPower), Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing), Marco Morelli (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) and Casey O’Gorman (SIC58 Squadra Corse) find themselves in Q1. The latter two suffered big highsides at Turn 6 in separate incidents but aim to make amends on Saturday.

Moto3 Practice results from Brno!

MotoGP and Manufacturers Sign 2027–2031 Agreement

Brno hosts an exciting announcement for the future of MotoGP. 

MotoGP Group and the five Manufacturers – Aprilia, Ducati, Honda, KTM and Yamaha – have confirmed today that the agreement defining the sport’s framework from 2027 to 2031 has been signed.

It marks a historic milestone for MotoGP and the Manufacturers within the MSMA, as for the first time in the sport’s history they have all signed a single agreement covering the next five years of racing. This demonstrates a shared commitment to shaping an exciting future for the championship and underlines a unified vision for its next phase, confirming the long-term presence of all current Manufacturers on the grid.

The agreement is built on strong alignment between MotoGP and the Manufacturers across the key pillars of the sport. It results from a collective negotiation process focused on the best interests across sporting, technical and commercial dimensions, establishing a framework that ensures competitiveness, technological relevance and the continued global appeal of the championship, underpinned by a clear long-term vision.

In parallel, MotoGP and the 11 Teams have agreed the principal terms for the 2027–2031 period, with the announcement being made in due course. This sport-wide framework will define the regulatory, sporting and commercial foundations for the next phase of MotoGP’s evolution, marking an important milestone and further strengthening the championship.

As part of this process, MotoGP, the Manufacturers, the Teams and the FIM are working collectively to identify opportunities to enhance both technical and sporting aspects of the championship, ensuring a continued focus on safety as well as delivering an even stronger product for fans. This shared approach will guide MotoGP’s continued progression while preserving the DNA that defines it as the pinnacle of motorcycle racing.

MotoGP will continue to invest in its global platform – including promotion, fan engagement and commercial development – as part of a shared ambition and commitment from the Manufacturers to drive long-term growth and further enhance the value of the championship for fans, partners and stakeholders worldwide.

 

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP Group: “Today marks a defining moment for MotoGP. The commitment of all five manufacturers not only reinforces the strength of the championship today but underlines the shared ambition driving its future. Together with our longstanding partnership with the FIM through to 2060, this agreement gives us a powerful platform to continue growing – building on decades of progress while accelerating into a new phase for the sport. I would like to thank our manufacturers for their collaboration, alignment and long-term commitment throughout this process. While we are proud of the growth MotoGP has achieved over the past decades, our focus is firmly on what comes next: expanding our global reach, evolving the sport, and connecting with new audiences around the world.”

 

Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Racing CEO: “As chairman of the MSMA, I am delighted and proud of the agreement between our association and the MotoGP SEG. This is the first time in the sport’s history that all manufacturers have all reached a unanimous position on an agreement with MotoGP. This means that we all share the same vision for the future of the sport. The MotoGP brand has huge potential, and only by working together can we exploit all the opportunities offered by the global market and grow together in the sports and entertainment business.”

 

Luigi Dall’Igna, Ducati Corse General Manager: “This collective agreement between MotoGP and all the manufacturers represents a significant milestone for our sport. The shared commitment of everyone in the paddock proves that while we fight fiercely on the track, we are fully aligned on securing a bright and prosperous future for MotoGP. This agreement provides stability and a clear direction for the years ahead, creating the right environment for manufacturers to continue investing in technology, performance and talent. We are proud to be part of this shared vision and fully committed to contributing to the continued growth of the championship, delivering outstanding racing for fans around the world and helping MotoGP reach new levels of success in the years ahead.”

 

Koji Watanabe, HRC President: “As Honda HRC, we are pleased to have reached an agreement as part of the MSMA with MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group regarding the next five years of the MotoGP World Championship. The agreement lays the foundations for the future of the MotoGP World Championship with a clear and unified vision and objective to continue to grow and improve this sport as unanimously agreed and supported by all of the stakeholders involved. With this agreement Honda confirms our commitment to Grand Prix racing remains unchanged and we look forward to challenging for many more years.”

 

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director: “This is a big and meaningful moment for MotoGP and for everyone at KTM. What stands out is the strong alignment between everyone involved and the shared ambition to keep pushing the sport forward. We’ve invested heart, passion and hard work into our MotoGP project, and it’s been inspiring to see the championship evolve into such a competitive and global platform. MotoGP represents the very best of our sport – performance, innovation and pure racing – connecting with fans around the world. This new agreement gives us a solid foundation to keep improving, challenging ourselves, and fighting at the front against the best in the world. We’re proud to be part of this journey and excited for what lies ahead.”

 

Paolo Pavesio, Managing Director, Yamaha Motor Racing: “This agreement marks the successful conclusion of a long and sometimes complex negotiation, ultimately delivering strong value for all parties. It has provided an important opportunity to align on a shared vision and establish a common framework to support MotoGP’s long-term growth, something we are proud to contribute to. As MotoGP enters this new phase, we see a clear opportunity to further elevate the championship by balancing innovation, sporting excellence, and fan engagement. By continuing to invest both on and off the track, we are confident that MotoGP its position as the pinnacle of motorcycle racing while increasing its global appeal. Yamaha remains fully committed to MotoGP for the next five years and beyond, supporting our teams, riders, and fans with the passion and dedication that define our heritage.”

MotoGP: M.Marquez Heads FP1 In Czech Republic

Marc Marquez topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his Michelin-shod Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26, the Spaniard turned a lap of 1:53.303 around the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) track and led the 22-rider field.

Fabio Quartararo was second-best with a 1:53.503 on his Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1 V4.

Raul Fernandez was third with a lap of 1:53.513 on his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.

 

Classification fp1 motogp

 

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Marc Marquez blasts to P1 in FP1 with Bezzecchi 16th. The reigning World Champion was under the race lap record on Friday morning whilst the 2026 Championship leader couldn’t get in his groove. 

MotoGP FP1 is in the bag at Brno and after his double in Hungary, P1 was once again in the hands of Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team). It wasn’t without drama though as the reigning World Champion fell late on in the session but was all OK. For Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing), a far from ideal start to action as he was just 16th.

It was a dramatic start to action in Brno with crashes straight away. The first was at Turn 9 for Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), tucking the front just four minutes into the session. The next was at Turn 8 for Maverick Viñales (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) whilst a couple of minutes later, the marshals were busy again when Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) fell there too. All riders were up on their feet and OK whilst amidst the drama, Bezzecchi also had an off-track excursion at Turn 13 but kept it upright. Elsewhere, Marc Marquez was on lap record pace with a 1’53.599 after just 10 minutes of action seeing him lay down an early benchmark.

A 1’53.303 was the order of the day at the end of FP1 play but the #93 did suffer a late fall, tucking the front at Turn 7 and ending his session early. It was a fine late lap from Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) which put the 2021 World Champion in second place overall, two tenths off Marc Marquez at the front. Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) and Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) made it four manufacturers in the top four, with Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) a strong fifth.

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was a solid sixth to start his Czech GP weekend, ahead of Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team). Acosta finished as top KTM in P9 whilst Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) rounded out the top ten. Fresh off the back of his result last time out,

Toprak Razgatlioglu (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) was 11th. Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) was 14th and suffered a technical problem whilst practicing his Long Lap Penalty whereas teammate Bezzecchi had a slow start, rooted to 16th. Returning from injury, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) was 18th and just 1.2s off his brother in P1.

MotoGP FP1 results from Brno!

Moto2: Gonzalez Tops Opening Practice At Brno

Manuel Gonzalez was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex on the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) track, the Spaniard recorded a 1:58.585 to lead the field of 28 riders.

Filip Salac was the best of the rest with a 1:58.721 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

Daniel Holgado was third-fastest with a 1:58.823 on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.

American Joe Roberts finished the opening session in 6th with a 1:59.187 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

Classification moto2 FP1

Moto3: Danish Quickest In Opening Practice In Czech Republic

Hakim Danish was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his AEON Credit – MT Helmets – MSI KTM on Pirelli control tires, the Malaysian rider covered the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) road course in 2:04.938, topping the field of 26 riders.

David Almansa was the best of the rest with a 2:05.246 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM.

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe was third with a lap time of 2:05.459.

 

Classification moto3 fp1

AFM: Round 3 Results From Thunderhill Raceway Park

The American Federation of Motorcyclists (AFM) wrapped up Round 3 of its 2026 Championship Series June 13-14 at Thunderhill Raceway Park in Willows, California, with one of the hottest race weekends of the season. Trackside temperatures climbed to an estimated 105-107 degrees, creating concerns of an area power-blackout due to local fire risks, but racers and fans turned out in force for the final event before the club’s summer break.

The weekend’s featured event was the Super Hooligan exhibition race, showcasing a diverse mix of motorcycles with upright ergonomics and spirited bar-to-bar racing. Novice rider Evan Edge impressed by taking the overall victory against a mixed field of novice and expert competitors, followed by Jeremy Taubman, while Carbon Merrill claimed the final podium position after a race-long battle.

Across the championship classes, Jason Nelson continued his dominant form on the big bikes, sweeping Formula Pacific, Formula One, and Open Superbike while extending his Formula Pacific points lead. Alex Ricci highlighted the middleweight action with multiple victories and an exciting second-place finish in Saturday’s Formula Pacific sprint after a spectacular pass entering Turn 9. In the lightweight classes, the ongoing rivalry between Dave Moss and Luke Hiestermann continued to entertain spectators, while novice Jaden Damato once again demonstrated exceptional pace by earning overall victories in several races ahead of experienced competitors.

The American Twins classes delivered close racing throughout the weekend, with Nolan Leupp capitalizing on an early incident to take the American Twins Unlimited victory, while Marc Lo, Izaiah Thigpen, Pao Vang, Nicholas Renoni, and others traded positions repeatedly in the tightly contested 350 classes.

AFM now heads into its summer break before returning August 29-30 at Buttonwillow Raceway’s newest configuration, The Circuit, where competitors will also take part in the popular, annual Track-Day Provider Endurance Relay. The unique event brings together riders, instructors, and customers from California’s track-day organizations to compete in a relay-style endurance race that has become one of the club’s signature exhibition races.

 

Thunderhill Race Results (1)

UtahSBK: Norton Wins Round 2 On UMC Perimeter

Round 2 of the UtahSBK “Masters of the Mountain” series presented by Utah Motorcycle Law took place June 13th and 14th on the rider favorite perimeter course at Utah Motorsports Campus. This second round of the five round series seen huge grids and intense racing action across all classes.

 

In regards to the race weekend, UtahSBK president Brian Childree had this to say: “Round 2 showcased the growing reach of Utah Superbike, with more than 40% of our racers traveling from outside Utah to compete. We welcomed riders from neighboring states including Idaho, Nevada, Colorado, Arizona, and Montana, as well as competitors from California, Texas, Canada, and as far away as New Jersey. That level of participation speaks to the strength of our racing community and the reputation Utah has built as a motorcycle racing destination. The Perimeter configuration at Utah Motorsports Campus is a major draw for racers throughout the western United States and beyond. It’s a fast, technical, world-class circuit that competitors actively seek out, and we’re fortunate to have access to such an outstanding facility. Our partnership with Utah Motorsports Campus allows us to showcase one of North America’s premier motorsports venues while bringing racers from across the continent to compete here in Utah.”

 

As Childree said, Racers flocked to Grantsville, UT from all around filling in the paddock and adding to the excitement of the weekend. Friday’s track day and practice hosted by APEXtrackdays was a perfect start to the weekend seeing racers get dialed in for what would be a very fast, fun, and competitive round 2 for UtahSBK.

 

Saturday morning started out with qualifying sessions for all classes including Sunday’s Premier “King of the Mountain” race. Top honors in qualifying for KOM this round would go to 3 time #1 plate holder Anthony Norton with a lap of 1:54.5, followed by Colorado’s Matt Cunha laying down a 1:55.9, and Justin Delong from Canada would round out the front row with a 1:57.2 lap around the 3 mile circuit. Once the grids were set and our national anthem sang, the weekend of racing began.

 

To kick things off, UtahSBK has a very special class known as “StreetGP” sponsored by Young Powersports, where the organization welcomes riders to get a taste of what road-racing is all about. The class offers multiple classroom instructional sessions, on track practices, and then a mock race where street riders and track day enthusiasts get their first taste of a lights out grid start and 5 lap race with AZ Riding Academy coaches joining them on track. Every round, the club sees riders turn into racers, converting their street bikes into race bikes and getting their race licenses to come back and grid up for real. This round, UtahSBK had a record 36 StreetGP participants. The club is proud to offer this unique opportunity with easy access into the racing world contributing to the future of our sport.

 

Capture d’écran 2026 06 18 à 21.11.53
36 riders lining up for their first taste of a race start during UtahSBK “StreetGP”. Photo by Dilley Media

 

Saturday Morning’s Races set the tone for the weekend, and this round would be no exception starting with an epic battle in the Ryder Gear Moto 2 expert race. Parker Mayer got out to an early lead, a position he held the entire race, but just behind him two of our out of state racers would wage war for the second position. Lee McNutt of Nevada and Nicolai Greco from New Jersey locked horns for the final 3 laps of this race with McNutt defending the 2nd position. On the final lap, Greco would secure the pass but the two would drag race to the checkered flag where Greco secured 2nd over McNutt in 3rd by just .2 of a second.

 

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Parkey Mayer(775) leading the Moto2 Expert race. Photo By Martina Velcheva

 

The Racers Edge Dunlop Moto1 race featuring the Open class bikes and the two fastest qualifiers on the weekend, Anthony Norton and Matt Cunha, proved to be a prequel to the KOM race held on Sunday. The two racers lapped at record pace while swapping the lead multiple times in the first few laps before Norton solidified his position at the front and took the win with Cunha closely in tow. This close battle raised eyebrows as all those in attendance knew that the intensity would only rise when these racers and the chasing pack lined up to battle for top honors and top dollars in the Same Day Heating and Air King of the Mountain Race. To no surprise, the KOM race did not disappoint…

 

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Anthony Norton(1) Leading Matt Cunha(12) in the King of the Mountain Race. Photo by Richard Jellerson

 

When the lights went out for the weekends premier race, King of the Mountain, a full grid of 24 racers roared down the infinitely long front straight lead by Matt Cunha into turn 1 aboard his lightning fast BMW M1000RR. Anthony Norton and his ZX10r followed closely behind with Justin Delong, Chris Mousley, and Ryan Richardson rounding out the top 5. Cunha would lead the first lap uncontested but Norton would challenge for the lead on lap 2 making a pass attempt in turn 5 and holding the lead for a brief moment before Cunha returned fire and retook the lead completing the second lap out front. The two were stretching their lead away from Justin Delong in a lonely 3rd place and the battle for the remaining top 5 positions heated up. Ryan Richardson, round 1 KOM podium finisher, slotted into 4th place passing Chris Mousley who was now in an intense battle for 5th with the leading Middleweight bike piloted by Parker Mayer, a battle that would last the entirety of the race. Back out front, Norton made another attempt at taking the lead . keeping heavy pressure on the leader Matt Cunha during lap 3 but Cunha fought right back. In a series of aggressive exchanges between the two riders through 4 consecutive corners, Norton found his way to the front leading the way to conclude lap 3 . Cunha tried overtaking the new leader in various places over the next couple laps, but Nortons pace and race craft would keep him out front where he would inch away incrementally until the penultimate lap where Norton would run one of his fastest laps of the race, issuing the final blow in this fight for the top spot. Norton secured the win over Cunha in 2nd and Delong in 3rd. To round out the top 5, Richardson would safely cross the line in 4th while Mousley and Mayer fought the entire race until the last lap where Mayer secured the 5th position.

 

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Same Day Heating and Air KOM Podium (left to right) Justin Delong 3rd, Anthony Norton 1st, Matt Cunha 2nd. Photo by Richard Jellerson.

 

About his race, Norton had this to say: “What a Race! Matt and that BMW were really fast, but I knew I had the pace to get the job done. I love a good fight and my hats off to him (Matt Cunha) for a hard-fought clean battle. We put on a show and everyone watching I’m sure enjoyed it as much as I did. Huge thanks to Racers Edge for the Dunlop tires that clearly gave me the edge today for the win. Also a huge thanks to Precision Fab Machinery and Legal Ride NV as well as everyone in my corner that continues to support me in every way.”

 

Endurance Racing has really taken off at UtahSBK seeing more action every round. The fastest growing class in Utah is the IV Haven sponsored Ironman Endurance class. One rider, One Bike, 90 minutes, where anything can happen. 8 brave souls accepted the ironman challenge for round 2 on the demanding perimeter course, and after the dust settled and all the strategies played out we had a new winner for the class with Belisario Arango taking the top spot on the podium completing 42 laps. Round 1 ironman winner Eliu Heredia finished 2nd in class with Trever Nosack rounding out the podium in 3rd. The overall winners of round 2 endurance were Ryan Richardson and Anthony Norton in the True Endurance Category aboard their Precision Fab Machinery Zx10 entry.

 

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IV Haven Ironman Endurance Podium (left to right) Trever Nosack 3rd, Belisario Arango and family 1st, Eliu Heredia 2nd. Photo by Richard Jellerson

 

UtahSBK now enters their summer break, set to resume superbike racing action for round 3 August 8th and 9th at Utah Motorsports Campus on the West track. In the meantime, their Supermoto series will host its 2nd and 3rd rounds in June and July. For more information on upcoming events visit UtahSBK.com

 

MotoAmerica: Superbike Heading To The Ridge

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Superbike Race 2 at Road America. Photo by Brian J Nelson.

High-Octane Battle Brewing: MotoAmerica Injects A Double Shot Of Adrenaline Into Seattle’s Backyard. Championship Grid Grinds For Margins At Technical Washington Circuit. 

IRVINE, CA – A state famous for craft coffee roasters, grunge music, and volcanoes is about to experience a different kind of energy and seismic rumble. The Quad Lock Superbike Championship makes its highly anticipated annual stop at Ridge Motorsports Park on June 26-28, bringing 200-plus horsepower machines to the dense coniferous forests of Shelton, Washington.

The 2.47-mile counter-clockwise layout delivers a relentless, technical workout, packing 16 turns and 300 feet of elevation change into each lap. The circuit demands ultimate precision, highlighted by a blistering half-mile-long front straight, heavy braking zones, a sweeping edge-grip-challenging carousel, and rapid transitions with elevation change.

 

  • Quad Lock Superbike & Superbike Cup

Success at the Washington circuit demands an impeccable chassis setup. Unlike the wide-open nature of the previous round, this is a track that throws a massive challenge directly at the top speed merchants, shifting the advantage to those who can carry immense rolling momentum through the corners.

The unique layout alters the dynamic for current championship points leader, Sean Dylan Kelly. While the Floridian and his OrangeCat Racing BMW M 1000 RR have optimized their high-speed stability to muscle ahead in the standings, they must now adapt to a tighter, faster-steering environment. To defend his narrow advantage, Kelly will need to lean on a smooth, calculated approach to perfectly spot hidden apexes and manage the Beemer’s brute force out of the technical exits.

 

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Sean Dylan Kelly entered Road America’s victory lane to an ecstatic OrangeCat Racing welcoming committee. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

 

Hot on his heels in the standings is South African standout Mathew Scholtz, sitting in a prime striking position in second place, just a single point back. Competing for Strack Racing aboard the Yamaha YZF-R1, the multi-time Superbike race winner feels right at home on layouts that favor nimble handling over outright horsepower. Scholtz’s fierce corner-entry style and extensive history with the R1 platform make him a devastating threat on a circuit that heavily rewards side-grip and momentum.

 

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Mathew Scholtz struggled slightly at the previous round and aims to reclaim the points lead at Ridge Motorsports Park. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

 

Much like Scholtz, the powerhouse teammates of Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing will be looking to capitalize on the handling prowess of the Yamaha YZF-R1 in the technical sectors. Currently third in points, Bobby Fong brings an explosive, aggressive riding style that could yield high rewards over the track’s dramatic crests. Right behind him in fourth is JD Beach, whose dirt-track heritage gives him a masterful ability to back his Yamaha YZF-R1 into tight corners and slide through rapid transitions.

 

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Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing stablemates Bobby Fong and JD Beach have been inseparable all year, consistently battling each other, as well as the leaders, at each round. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

 

Sitting fifth in the championship hunt is Cameron Petersen, who looks to assert himself at the sharp end of the field aboard the Wrench Motorcycles Ducati Panigale V4 R. Coming off a race one win at Road America, the South African is the only active rider in the class with a Ridge win to his name, and he has podiumed a total of five times in his career at the circuit.

The deep grid features plenty of spoiler talent capable of turning the weekend upside down. The hungry pack includes M4 ECSTAR Suzuki teammates Richie Escalante and Brandon Paasch, both pushing their Suzuki GSX-R1000R Superbikes to find maximum consistency. 

One of the big stories heading into round four is that Warhorse HSBK Ducati Flo4Law rider Cameron Beaubier, who underwent shoulder surgery after his Road America race one crash, will be out for an indefinite amount of time. Already at a 59-point deficit, it likely spells the end of his championship defense in 2026, even if he does return to racing later this season. The team has enlisted the services of their former Superbike rider Loris Baz, beginning with the upcoming round in the Evergreen State.

Rahal Ducati Moto with XPEL rider PJ Jacobsen is another rider who has had a challenging start to his season. The 32-year-old New Yorker reversed his fortunes at the previous round by capturing his first podium of the season. The breakthrough performance signals a dramatic turnaround in luck and velocity. Expect Jacobsen to maintain this upward trajectory at Ridge Motorsports Park, acting as a prime championship disruptor as he fights for wins.

Showing upward momentum, the red wing of the Real Steel Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP ridden by Hayden Gillim is beginning to take flight. Watch for the Kentuckian to continue his rise towards a podium finish as he has continuously improved the package and is knocking on the door of the top five. 

Meanwhile, Superbike Cup leader Andrew Lee will try to continue his success and keep his Real Steel Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP at the top of the Superbike Cup standings.

 

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Superbike Cup points leader Andrew Lee (#14) has four first-place finishes in a row and looks poised to leave Washington with six. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

 

 

  • Chandler Named Grand Marshal

As the season-long celebration of “50 Years Of Superbike Racing” continues, MotoAmerica is honoring three-time AMA Superbike Champion Doug Chandler as the Grand Marshal for the race weekend at Ridge. An absolute legend of American motorcycle racing, “DC-10” is one of only four riders in history to achieve the prestigious AMA Grand Slam—capturing national victories across a mile, half-mile, short track, TT, and a road race. Best known for his clinical execution aboard his iconic, green #10 Muzzy Kawasaki ZX-7RR, Chandler claimed his titles in 1990, 1996, and 1997 before representing the United States at the absolute pinnacle of the sport in the 500cc Grand Prix World Championship. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductee is a perfect selection to usher in the Superbike podium celebrations over the weekend, cementing his legacy not just as a champion, but as one of the most versatile and respected icons the sport has ever known.

 

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Doug Chandler in 1997 aboard his Muzzy Kawasaki ZX-7RR. Photo by Larry Lawrence.

 

  • For the full 2026 MotoAmerica schedule, and to purchase tickets for MotoAmerica events, CLICK HERE
  • For information on how to watch the MotoAmerica series, CLICK HERE
  • For photos and entry list, CLICK HERE

 

 

About MotoAmerica:
 
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Twins Cup, Talent Cup, Super Hooligan National Championship, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit
www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on demand service, MotoAmerica Live+

MotoGP: Ogura Cracks Lap Record At Brno

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Ai Ogura (79) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

Ai Ogura led MotoGP World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26 on spec Michelin tires, Ogura turned a lap time of 1:51.735. Not only was that good enough to lead the 22-rider field, it was also good enough to eclipse Francesco Bagnaia’s 2025 All-Time Lap Record of 1:52.303. 

Marco Bezzecchi was the best of the rest with a 1:51.826 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.

Fabio Di Giannantonio was third at 1:51.942 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Franesco Bagnaia finished the session fourth with a 1:51.983 on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26 and his teammate Marc Marquez was fifth with a lap time of 1:51.988. 

 

Classification motogp practice

 

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Ogura magnificent to top Friday at Brno. The Japanese star has had a podium in MotoGP but chases a first victory: he’s started his quest off perfectly this weekend. 

Seven riders under the previous outright lap record and less than a second covering 19 riders, MotoGP is fiercely tight in the Czech Republic but they all chase one rider. Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) set a 1’51.735 to top Friday running at Brno ahead of Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team).

 

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Marc Marquez (93) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

 

FIRST HALF: Aprilia charge forward, Marc Marquez crashes

A second crash of the day was not how Marc Marquez envisaged his afternoon getting underway but early in Practice, the #93 tucked the front at Turn 11. Thankfully, he was all OK but it cost him track time. At the top of the standings, Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) was going well ahead of Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) before Ogura went top, making it a Trackhouse 1-2 approaching the halfway point. Bezzecchi soon changed all that as he took over in P1 with a new lap record too boot – 1’52.275 the benchmark time.

 

 

 

IMPROVEMENTS AND PROBLEMS: a new lap record, Acosta with tech issues

Moving into the top ten, Maverick Viñales (Red Bull KTM Tech3) was flying and so was Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) in P5, whilst teammate Luca Marini had also moved up into eighth. Elsewhere, Acosta put himself back in P1 before technical problems saw him return to the paddock. Smoke visible, his session was now paused. Having been briefly out of the top ten, Ducati Lenovo Team pairing Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez were straight back in the provisional top ten with the reigning World Champion setting the first-ever 1’51 of Brno.

 

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Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

 

FINAL FIVE MINUTES: push comes to shove in Czechia

Need to move himself into absolute safety, Di Giannantonio climbed to P1 with four minutes left on the clock whilst 2024 World Champion Jorge Martin was 12th with less than three minutes to go. He was hustling his RS-GP around Brno and elevated himself to P8 whilst teammate Bezzecchi had snatched P1. That didn’t last long though as a mighty lap from Ogura had meant that the #79 was now leading the way. All of the changing had now left ‘Martinator’ in P10 and he was about to be shoved out of Q2 as Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) improved late on to go eighth.

 

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Marco Bezzecchi (72) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

 

AT THE FLAG: Friday’s top ten

Ogura got the job done and his new lap record gave him a 0.091s advantage of Championship leader Bezzecchi and Catalan GP winner Di Giannantonio. Diggia was ahead of Pecco whilst Marc Marquez rounded out the top five. Acosta was sixth whilst Mir took P7 despite a late crash at Turn 7. Moreira made it two Hondas in the top ten whilst Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and Fernandez are the last of the automatic Q2 qualifiers.

 

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Fabio Quartararo (20) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

 

Q1 ON SATURDAY: big names headline

Martin in 11th is not what he ordered whilst Viñales came close but not close enough. 2021 World Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was second in the morning but 14th in the afternoon and just 0.798s behind Ogura whilst Alex Marquez’s (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) return saw him finish in 15th.

MotoGP Practice results from Brno!

Moto2: Alonso Quickest Friday Afternoon At Brno

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David Alonso (80) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

David Alonso led Moto2 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Colombian rider lapped the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) road course in 1:58.511 topping the field of 28 riders.

Filip Salac was second-best with a time of 1:58.529 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

Manuel Gonzalez did a third-fastest 1:58.619 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex.

Alonso teammate’s, Daniel holgado got fourth with a lap time of 1:58.648 and Gonzalez’s teammate, Senna Agius was fifth with a time of 1:58.656.

American Joe Roberts finished Friday afternoon’s practice session 13th with a best time of 1:59.015 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

Classification moto2 practice

 

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Alonso fastest from home hero Salač on Friday. The Colombian leads the Czech rider in Brno as less than two tenths split the top six. 

David Alonso’s (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) early 1:58.511 ensured he finished Friday top of the Moto2 pile, but only just. 0.018s adrift in P2 sits home hero Filip Salač (OnlyFans American Racing Team), the Czech star getting his weekend up and running in superb fashion, while it’s World Championship leader Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) who completes a top three covered by 0.108s heading into the weekend.

In a session that was briefly red-flagged following a Turn 13 crash for Barry Baltus (REDS Fantic Racing) – the Belgian was taken to hospital for further checks – Alonso’s time on his third lap ended up being the fastest of the lot in the scorching Brno temperatures. His teammate Daniel Holgado ended Friday in P4, with Hungarian GP podium finisher Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) a constant threat up the sharp end of the standings – the Australian was P5.

Izan Guevara (BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2) was seventh, one place behind Alex Escrig (KLINT Racing Team), while third in the championship, Celestino Vietti (HDR SpeedRS Team), squeezed into Q2 in P14 after the Italian suffered a technical issue in FP1.

And a shout-out to 11th place Taiyo Furusato (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) after the Japanese rider bagged his first automatic Q2 result of the season. The Japanese rider finished Practice one place behind fellow rookie Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo).

Moto2 Practice results!

Moto3: Danish Sets New Lap Record At Brno

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Hakim Danish (13) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

Hakim Danish led Moto3 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Danish used his Pirelli-shod AEON Credit – MT Helmets MSI KTM  to lap the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) track in 2:04.754, which led the field of 26 riders and broke Guido Pini’s All-Time Lap Record of 2:05.019 from 2025.

David Almansa was second-best with a time of 2:04.944 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM.

Maximo Quiles, piloting his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 2:05.013.

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe got fourth with a lap time of 2:05.041 and Joel Esteban was fifth on his Level Up MTA KTM with a time of 2:05.129.

 

Classification moto3 practice

 

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Danish unbeatable on Friday at Brno. The Malaysian rookie was rapid out the crate on the first day of track action. 

A perfect Friday to start the weekend, Hakim Danish (AEON Credit – MT Helmets – MSI) was in great form to top the first day in Brno action in Moto3. The Malaysian set a new lap record in the morning before bettering it in the afternoon as he goes in search of a first pole position on Saturday.

Unstoppable on Friday, Danish was lighting up the timing screens across both FP1 and Practice, in the end topping the opening day of Moto3 action. He was able to get ahead of David Almansa (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) in both sessions with the two riders the only ones able to get into the 2’04s on Friday. Third at the end of play was Championship leader Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), just a quarter of a second behind the Malaysian in P1.

Second in the title race and just one place behind Quiles, Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was fourth and ahead of Joel Esteban (LEVELUP-MTA) who rounded out the top five. Scott Ogden (CIP GreenPower) was just 0.020 behind the Spaniard in sixth place, ahead of Italian GP winner Brian Uriarte. Top Honda honours went to Jesus Rios (Rivacold Snipers Team) whilst Red Bull KTM Tech3 duo Rico Salmela and Valentin Perrone complete the top ten.

A late lap from Guido Pini (Leopard Racing) saw him scrape through with P14 whilst Veda Pratama (Honda Team Asia), Ryusei Yamanaka (AEON Credit – MT Helmets – MSI), Adrian Cruces (CIP GreenPower), Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing), Marco Morelli (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) and Casey O’Gorman (SIC58 Squadra Corse) find themselves in Q1. The latter two suffered big highsides at Turn 6 in separate incidents but aim to make amends on Saturday.

Moto3 Practice results from Brno!

MotoGP and Manufacturers Sign 2027–2031 Agreement

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From left to right: Paolo Pavesio (Managing Director, Yamaha Motor Racing), Pit Beirer (KTM Motorsports Director), Massimo Rivola (Aprilia Racing CEO), Carlos Ezpeleta (MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer), Luigi Dall’Igna (Ducati Corse General Manager) and Koji Watanabe (HRC President). Photo courtesy MotoGP.

Brno hosts an exciting announcement for the future of MotoGP. 

MotoGP Group and the five Manufacturers – Aprilia, Ducati, Honda, KTM and Yamaha – have confirmed today that the agreement defining the sport’s framework from 2027 to 2031 has been signed.

It marks a historic milestone for MotoGP and the Manufacturers within the MSMA, as for the first time in the sport’s history they have all signed a single agreement covering the next five years of racing. This demonstrates a shared commitment to shaping an exciting future for the championship and underlines a unified vision for its next phase, confirming the long-term presence of all current Manufacturers on the grid.

The agreement is built on strong alignment between MotoGP and the Manufacturers across the key pillars of the sport. It results from a collective negotiation process focused on the best interests across sporting, technical and commercial dimensions, establishing a framework that ensures competitiveness, technological relevance and the continued global appeal of the championship, underpinned by a clear long-term vision.

In parallel, MotoGP and the 11 Teams have agreed the principal terms for the 2027–2031 period, with the announcement being made in due course. This sport-wide framework will define the regulatory, sporting and commercial foundations for the next phase of MotoGP’s evolution, marking an important milestone and further strengthening the championship.

As part of this process, MotoGP, the Manufacturers, the Teams and the FIM are working collectively to identify opportunities to enhance both technical and sporting aspects of the championship, ensuring a continued focus on safety as well as delivering an even stronger product for fans. This shared approach will guide MotoGP’s continued progression while preserving the DNA that defines it as the pinnacle of motorcycle racing.

MotoGP will continue to invest in its global platform – including promotion, fan engagement and commercial development – as part of a shared ambition and commitment from the Manufacturers to drive long-term growth and further enhance the value of the championship for fans, partners and stakeholders worldwide.

 

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP Group: “Today marks a defining moment for MotoGP. The commitment of all five manufacturers not only reinforces the strength of the championship today but underlines the shared ambition driving its future. Together with our longstanding partnership with the FIM through to 2060, this agreement gives us a powerful platform to continue growing – building on decades of progress while accelerating into a new phase for the sport. I would like to thank our manufacturers for their collaboration, alignment and long-term commitment throughout this process. While we are proud of the growth MotoGP has achieved over the past decades, our focus is firmly on what comes next: expanding our global reach, evolving the sport, and connecting with new audiences around the world.”

 

Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Racing CEO: “As chairman of the MSMA, I am delighted and proud of the agreement between our association and the MotoGP SEG. This is the first time in the sport’s history that all manufacturers have all reached a unanimous position on an agreement with MotoGP. This means that we all share the same vision for the future of the sport. The MotoGP brand has huge potential, and only by working together can we exploit all the opportunities offered by the global market and grow together in the sports and entertainment business.”

 

Luigi Dall’Igna, Ducati Corse General Manager: “This collective agreement between MotoGP and all the manufacturers represents a significant milestone for our sport. The shared commitment of everyone in the paddock proves that while we fight fiercely on the track, we are fully aligned on securing a bright and prosperous future for MotoGP. This agreement provides stability and a clear direction for the years ahead, creating the right environment for manufacturers to continue investing in technology, performance and talent. We are proud to be part of this shared vision and fully committed to contributing to the continued growth of the championship, delivering outstanding racing for fans around the world and helping MotoGP reach new levels of success in the years ahead.”

 

Koji Watanabe, HRC President: “As Honda HRC, we are pleased to have reached an agreement as part of the MSMA with MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group regarding the next five years of the MotoGP World Championship. The agreement lays the foundations for the future of the MotoGP World Championship with a clear and unified vision and objective to continue to grow and improve this sport as unanimously agreed and supported by all of the stakeholders involved. With this agreement Honda confirms our commitment to Grand Prix racing remains unchanged and we look forward to challenging for many more years.”

 

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director: “This is a big and meaningful moment for MotoGP and for everyone at KTM. What stands out is the strong alignment between everyone involved and the shared ambition to keep pushing the sport forward. We’ve invested heart, passion and hard work into our MotoGP project, and it’s been inspiring to see the championship evolve into such a competitive and global platform. MotoGP represents the very best of our sport – performance, innovation and pure racing – connecting with fans around the world. This new agreement gives us a solid foundation to keep improving, challenging ourselves, and fighting at the front against the best in the world. We’re proud to be part of this journey and excited for what lies ahead.”

 

Paolo Pavesio, Managing Director, Yamaha Motor Racing: “This agreement marks the successful conclusion of a long and sometimes complex negotiation, ultimately delivering strong value for all parties. It has provided an important opportunity to align on a shared vision and establish a common framework to support MotoGP’s long-term growth, something we are proud to contribute to. As MotoGP enters this new phase, we see a clear opportunity to further elevate the championship by balancing innovation, sporting excellence, and fan engagement. By continuing to invest both on and off the track, we are confident that MotoGP its position as the pinnacle of motorcycle racing while increasing its global appeal. Yamaha remains fully committed to MotoGP for the next five years and beyond, supporting our teams, riders, and fans with the passion and dedication that define our heritage.”

MotoGP: M.Marquez Heads FP1 In Czech Republic

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Marc Marquez (93) at Balaton Park. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

Marc Marquez topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his Michelin-shod Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26, the Spaniard turned a lap of 1:53.303 around the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) track and led the 22-rider field.

Fabio Quartararo was second-best with a 1:53.503 on his Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1 V4.

Raul Fernandez was third with a lap of 1:53.513 on his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.

 

Classification fp1 motogp

 

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Marc Marquez blasts to P1 in FP1 with Bezzecchi 16th. The reigning World Champion was under the race lap record on Friday morning whilst the 2026 Championship leader couldn’t get in his groove. 

MotoGP FP1 is in the bag at Brno and after his double in Hungary, P1 was once again in the hands of Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team). It wasn’t without drama though as the reigning World Champion fell late on in the session but was all OK. For Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing), a far from ideal start to action as he was just 16th.

It was a dramatic start to action in Brno with crashes straight away. The first was at Turn 9 for Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), tucking the front just four minutes into the session. The next was at Turn 8 for Maverick Viñales (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) whilst a couple of minutes later, the marshals were busy again when Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) fell there too. All riders were up on their feet and OK whilst amidst the drama, Bezzecchi also had an off-track excursion at Turn 13 but kept it upright. Elsewhere, Marc Marquez was on lap record pace with a 1’53.599 after just 10 minutes of action seeing him lay down an early benchmark.

A 1’53.303 was the order of the day at the end of FP1 play but the #93 did suffer a late fall, tucking the front at Turn 7 and ending his session early. It was a fine late lap from Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) which put the 2021 World Champion in second place overall, two tenths off Marc Marquez at the front. Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) and Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) made it four manufacturers in the top four, with Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) a strong fifth.

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was a solid sixth to start his Czech GP weekend, ahead of Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team). Acosta finished as top KTM in P9 whilst Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) rounded out the top ten. Fresh off the back of his result last time out,

Toprak Razgatlioglu (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) was 11th. Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) was 14th and suffered a technical problem whilst practicing his Long Lap Penalty whereas teammate Bezzecchi had a slow start, rooted to 16th. Returning from injury, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) was 18th and just 1.2s off his brother in P1.

MotoGP FP1 results from Brno!

Moto2: Gonzalez Tops Opening Practice At Brno

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Manuel Gonzalez (18) at Balaton Park. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

Manuel Gonzalez was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex on the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) track, the Spaniard recorded a 1:58.585 to lead the field of 28 riders.

Filip Salac was the best of the rest with a 1:58.721 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

Daniel Holgado was third-fastest with a 1:58.823 on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.

American Joe Roberts finished the opening session in 6th with a 1:59.187 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

Classification moto2 FP1

Moto3: Danish Quickest In Opening Practice In Czech Republic

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Hakim Danish (13) at Balaton Park. Photo courtesy MSI Racing Team.

Hakim Danish was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his AEON Credit – MT Helmets – MSI KTM on Pirelli control tires, the Malaysian rider covered the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) road course in 2:04.938, topping the field of 26 riders.

David Almansa was the best of the rest with a 2:05.246 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM.

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe was third with a lap time of 2:05.459.

 

Classification moto3 fp1

AFM: Round 3 Results From Thunderhill Raceway Park

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The Formula Pacific Podium, from left to right: Ryan Shu, Jason Nelson, and Stephen Rue. Photo by Daniela Fredrick.

The American Federation of Motorcyclists (AFM) wrapped up Round 3 of its 2026 Championship Series June 13-14 at Thunderhill Raceway Park in Willows, California, with one of the hottest race weekends of the season. Trackside temperatures climbed to an estimated 105-107 degrees, creating concerns of an area power-blackout due to local fire risks, but racers and fans turned out in force for the final event before the club’s summer break.

The weekend’s featured event was the Super Hooligan exhibition race, showcasing a diverse mix of motorcycles with upright ergonomics and spirited bar-to-bar racing. Novice rider Evan Edge impressed by taking the overall victory against a mixed field of novice and expert competitors, followed by Jeremy Taubman, while Carbon Merrill claimed the final podium position after a race-long battle.

Across the championship classes, Jason Nelson continued his dominant form on the big bikes, sweeping Formula Pacific, Formula One, and Open Superbike while extending his Formula Pacific points lead. Alex Ricci highlighted the middleweight action with multiple victories and an exciting second-place finish in Saturday’s Formula Pacific sprint after a spectacular pass entering Turn 9. In the lightweight classes, the ongoing rivalry between Dave Moss and Luke Hiestermann continued to entertain spectators, while novice Jaden Damato once again demonstrated exceptional pace by earning overall victories in several races ahead of experienced competitors.

The American Twins classes delivered close racing throughout the weekend, with Nolan Leupp capitalizing on an early incident to take the American Twins Unlimited victory, while Marc Lo, Izaiah Thigpen, Pao Vang, Nicholas Renoni, and others traded positions repeatedly in the tightly contested 350 classes.

AFM now heads into its summer break before returning August 29-30 at Buttonwillow Raceway’s newest configuration, The Circuit, where competitors will also take part in the popular, annual Track-Day Provider Endurance Relay. The unique event brings together riders, instructors, and customers from California’s track-day organizations to compete in a relay-style endurance race that has become one of the club’s signature exhibition races.

 

Thunderhill Race Results (1)

UtahSBK: Norton Wins Round 2 On UMC Perimeter

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Anthony Norton (1) setting Fastest time in King of the Mountain Qualifying: Photo By Oxymoron Photography

Round 2 of the UtahSBK “Masters of the Mountain” series presented by Utah Motorcycle Law took place June 13th and 14th on the rider favorite perimeter course at Utah Motorsports Campus. This second round of the five round series seen huge grids and intense racing action across all classes.

 

In regards to the race weekend, UtahSBK president Brian Childree had this to say: “Round 2 showcased the growing reach of Utah Superbike, with more than 40% of our racers traveling from outside Utah to compete. We welcomed riders from neighboring states including Idaho, Nevada, Colorado, Arizona, and Montana, as well as competitors from California, Texas, Canada, and as far away as New Jersey. That level of participation speaks to the strength of our racing community and the reputation Utah has built as a motorcycle racing destination. The Perimeter configuration at Utah Motorsports Campus is a major draw for racers throughout the western United States and beyond. It’s a fast, technical, world-class circuit that competitors actively seek out, and we’re fortunate to have access to such an outstanding facility. Our partnership with Utah Motorsports Campus allows us to showcase one of North America’s premier motorsports venues while bringing racers from across the continent to compete here in Utah.”

 

As Childree said, Racers flocked to Grantsville, UT from all around filling in the paddock and adding to the excitement of the weekend. Friday’s track day and practice hosted by APEXtrackdays was a perfect start to the weekend seeing racers get dialed in for what would be a very fast, fun, and competitive round 2 for UtahSBK.

 

Saturday morning started out with qualifying sessions for all classes including Sunday’s Premier “King of the Mountain” race. Top honors in qualifying for KOM this round would go to 3 time #1 plate holder Anthony Norton with a lap of 1:54.5, followed by Colorado’s Matt Cunha laying down a 1:55.9, and Justin Delong from Canada would round out the front row with a 1:57.2 lap around the 3 mile circuit. Once the grids were set and our national anthem sang, the weekend of racing began.

 

To kick things off, UtahSBK has a very special class known as “StreetGP” sponsored by Young Powersports, where the organization welcomes riders to get a taste of what road-racing is all about. The class offers multiple classroom instructional sessions, on track practices, and then a mock race where street riders and track day enthusiasts get their first taste of a lights out grid start and 5 lap race with AZ Riding Academy coaches joining them on track. Every round, the club sees riders turn into racers, converting their street bikes into race bikes and getting their race licenses to come back and grid up for real. This round, UtahSBK had a record 36 StreetGP participants. The club is proud to offer this unique opportunity with easy access into the racing world contributing to the future of our sport.

 

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36 riders lining up for their first taste of a race start during UtahSBK “StreetGP”. Photo by Dilley Media

 

Saturday Morning’s Races set the tone for the weekend, and this round would be no exception starting with an epic battle in the Ryder Gear Moto 2 expert race. Parker Mayer got out to an early lead, a position he held the entire race, but just behind him two of our out of state racers would wage war for the second position. Lee McNutt of Nevada and Nicolai Greco from New Jersey locked horns for the final 3 laps of this race with McNutt defending the 2nd position. On the final lap, Greco would secure the pass but the two would drag race to the checkered flag where Greco secured 2nd over McNutt in 3rd by just .2 of a second.

 

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Parkey Mayer(775) leading the Moto2 Expert race. Photo By Martina Velcheva

 

The Racers Edge Dunlop Moto1 race featuring the Open class bikes and the two fastest qualifiers on the weekend, Anthony Norton and Matt Cunha, proved to be a prequel to the KOM race held on Sunday. The two racers lapped at record pace while swapping the lead multiple times in the first few laps before Norton solidified his position at the front and took the win with Cunha closely in tow. This close battle raised eyebrows as all those in attendance knew that the intensity would only rise when these racers and the chasing pack lined up to battle for top honors and top dollars in the Same Day Heating and Air King of the Mountain Race. To no surprise, the KOM race did not disappoint…

 

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Anthony Norton(1) Leading Matt Cunha(12) in the King of the Mountain Race. Photo by Richard Jellerson

 

When the lights went out for the weekends premier race, King of the Mountain, a full grid of 24 racers roared down the infinitely long front straight lead by Matt Cunha into turn 1 aboard his lightning fast BMW M1000RR. Anthony Norton and his ZX10r followed closely behind with Justin Delong, Chris Mousley, and Ryan Richardson rounding out the top 5. Cunha would lead the first lap uncontested but Norton would challenge for the lead on lap 2 making a pass attempt in turn 5 and holding the lead for a brief moment before Cunha returned fire and retook the lead completing the second lap out front. The two were stretching their lead away from Justin Delong in a lonely 3rd place and the battle for the remaining top 5 positions heated up. Ryan Richardson, round 1 KOM podium finisher, slotted into 4th place passing Chris Mousley who was now in an intense battle for 5th with the leading Middleweight bike piloted by Parker Mayer, a battle that would last the entirety of the race. Back out front, Norton made another attempt at taking the lead . keeping heavy pressure on the leader Matt Cunha during lap 3 but Cunha fought right back. In a series of aggressive exchanges between the two riders through 4 consecutive corners, Norton found his way to the front leading the way to conclude lap 3 . Cunha tried overtaking the new leader in various places over the next couple laps, but Nortons pace and race craft would keep him out front where he would inch away incrementally until the penultimate lap where Norton would run one of his fastest laps of the race, issuing the final blow in this fight for the top spot. Norton secured the win over Cunha in 2nd and Delong in 3rd. To round out the top 5, Richardson would safely cross the line in 4th while Mousley and Mayer fought the entire race until the last lap where Mayer secured the 5th position.

 

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Same Day Heating and Air KOM Podium (left to right) Justin Delong 3rd, Anthony Norton 1st, Matt Cunha 2nd. Photo by Richard Jellerson.

 

About his race, Norton had this to say: “What a Race! Matt and that BMW were really fast, but I knew I had the pace to get the job done. I love a good fight and my hats off to him (Matt Cunha) for a hard-fought clean battle. We put on a show and everyone watching I’m sure enjoyed it as much as I did. Huge thanks to Racers Edge for the Dunlop tires that clearly gave me the edge today for the win. Also a huge thanks to Precision Fab Machinery and Legal Ride NV as well as everyone in my corner that continues to support me in every way.”

 

Endurance Racing has really taken off at UtahSBK seeing more action every round. The fastest growing class in Utah is the IV Haven sponsored Ironman Endurance class. One rider, One Bike, 90 minutes, where anything can happen. 8 brave souls accepted the ironman challenge for round 2 on the demanding perimeter course, and after the dust settled and all the strategies played out we had a new winner for the class with Belisario Arango taking the top spot on the podium completing 42 laps. Round 1 ironman winner Eliu Heredia finished 2nd in class with Trever Nosack rounding out the podium in 3rd. The overall winners of round 2 endurance were Ryan Richardson and Anthony Norton in the True Endurance Category aboard their Precision Fab Machinery Zx10 entry.

 

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IV Haven Ironman Endurance Podium (left to right) Trever Nosack 3rd, Belisario Arango and family 1st, Eliu Heredia 2nd. Photo by Richard Jellerson

 

UtahSBK now enters their summer break, set to resume superbike racing action for round 3 August 8th and 9th at Utah Motorsports Campus on the West track. In the meantime, their Supermoto series will host its 2nd and 3rd rounds in June and July. For more information on upcoming events visit UtahSBK.com