MotoGP FP1
© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
MotoGP: Quartararo Advises Dixon To “Be Calm”
“This is one of my favourite tracks on the MotoGP bike”: Riders ready to take on Silverstone
The pre-event Press Conference and a key Triumph announcement kick off the Monster Energy British Grand Prix
Thursday, 26 August 2021
Is everybody ready for the British GP? The MotoGP™ grid certainly is, with the pre-event Press Conference seeing Championship leader Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) joined by closest challengers Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), reigning World Champion Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar), Austrian GP winner Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and rookie superstar Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing), as well as home heroes Cal Crutchlow (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and MotoGP™ debutant Jake Dixon (Petronas Yamaha SRT) ahead of track action on Friday.
Here are some key quotes!
Fabio Quartararo: “I was super happy about the second race in Austria because the first one I finished quite far from Jorge, close to 10 seconds from victory, in the second one I improved my pace a lot and I think I had a chance to fight for victory. I think it was one of the most fun races from this year, I enjoyed it a lot and I was feeling great. We know Austria is the most tricky track for us and we were there fighting for victories and podiums. Of course it’s not the result we wanted but I was more happy with the second one than the first one.
“Two years ago was one corner on Sunday here, but this is one of my favourite tracks on the MotoGP bike, the Yamaha suits the track really well and it’s just a matter of going out tomorrow morning, enjoying it straight away, having a good time. I hope we get good weather and let’s see!”
Advice for Jake Dixon:
“To be calm. Because already when I started in Valencia, it’s a short track but the first day I was totally lost. It was a day of testing. I’ve already told him it’s totally different. He will already feel the power and the brakes, don’t look at the lap times so much and yeah, take it easy!”
Francesco Bagnaia: “For sure I’m happy. I recovered more points like this than in fully dry conditions because Fabio was in trouble with rain tyres. I was close to fighting for a win but in any case I am happy because I did my best race in MotoGP I think. I was setting my pace and feeling comfortable. It was better the second race, the first one we had a bit of bad luck with the restart but the second one we managed to be fast enough to stay in front.
“I’m really confident to ride this track, it’s one of my favourites. I really like the layout and our bike maybe suits good, maybe not like a Yamaha but we will try to be fast enough to stay with Fabio because we really need to recover more points. Still we’re at 47 and if Fabio wants to enjoy the Championship more maybe we can fight until the finish, it’s better!”
Joan Mir: “The last race was a little bit crazy. I would say that in Austria the feelings were nice at both weekends, the race in the second GP was unexpectedly difficult but finally we could be really close to the podium which was our goal. Now we come to this track which as you say Alex was strong here in 2019, he was able to win, Suzuki got two victories in the modern era and this is for a reason. The bike can fit well with this track, it will be important to be fighting with the top guys. I will give my best. It will be difficult because it’s the first time coming here after a long time, and it will be important to be strong straight away in FP1 and FP2, to get the correct feeling, the correct lines and I will give my best.
“I’m not nervous. I think that the important thing is once you get the feeling, is to put the feeling here. Not the track. I haven’t ridden a bike here since ’18 and for sure this will be a bit difficult in the first laps. But if you have a great feeling and you know, we did a lot of races this year and I think I’m in good form, but I think I will be able to adapt quickly on this track. The track is quite long, wide, difficult to find the line, but yeah. It’s important to find it as quickly as possible.”
Brad Binder: “Now I’ve had a bit of time to go back and watch it all over it again, I’m really glad there wasn’t one more lap. It was cool. It was a big risk to stay out, and yeah, the last lap was super sketchy. I’m glad I made it home safe but sometimes you have to take a chance and this time it worked so really happy about that, happy to come out of the two Austria races with two good results and hopefully looking at keeping that momentum going.
“I mean we’ve all been to Silverstone a few times. It’s always a bit of a challenge I find at a new track on the MotoGP bike, no matter how many times you look through the data, I always find it completely different to how I remember. The big goal for me is to be comfortable straight away and not start too far down the order like I have done many times when I come to a circuit for the first time on a GP bike. It’s a special track, last time I was here I really really enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to riding the big bike around here for sure.”
Jorge Martin: “I would be so confident if the race was in Austria again but we come to a new track and I need to be focused and start from zero. I don’t know how it will be, so just try to find a good feeling with the bike. I will give my 100% as always, it won’t be easy but I’ll try my best.
“From my side it will be the same as always, because I’ve come to the track with MotoGP so I’m not nervous, I’m ready and raring to go.”
Cal Crutchlow: “It’s great, it’s great to come to Silverstone. I never thought I’d be racing a Silverstone GP again after I retired so to come back, already we missed last year with was disappointing, but to come back this weekend with Monster Energy Yamaha is a privilege. It’s a privilege to ride Silverstone anyway, and then now with a full crowd it’s going to be entertaining for everybody. I’m looking forward to it. Riding in Austria was not easy after being so long off the bike, but to come this weekend here, maybe in a little bit better of a situation after the last two races, I look forward to seeing what we can do.
“I think Austria wasn’t too bad. On paper its always going to look bad, but we expected nothing, and we got nothing. We got information for Yamaha and I did my job, and I enjoyed it which was the main thing. After so long off the bike to ride again is always enjoyable. Speed wise we weren’t too bad, I qualified half a tenth slower than what I did last year on the Honda. After 5 months off it wasn’t too bad, I enjoyed it, I felt good and in the end hopefully I’ll feel a little bit more comfortable with not such a big a gap off. Silverstone is a good circuit for that, I know a few tricks of the trade around here and in Austria I really really don’t. So let’s see what we can do at the Monster Energy GP here.”
Jake Dixon: “It’s obviously fantastic and obviously thanks to Petronas for giving me the opportunity to ride the MotoGP bike. To do it at home is pretty special, if anyone could do their debut I think they would do it at home so yeah, I can’t wait. We’re going to have a full house in front of the full crowd, Silverstone seems to suit the Yamaha in the past. I can’t wait, it’s definitely going to be a massive learning curve, but I’m ready to take it on and see what we can do.
“I was just saying to Mir that I’ve had a few sleepless nights yeah. It’s definitely excitement, so much excitement but also nervous times. I’m not expecting anything from myself it’s just a massive learning curve. I can’t be expected to do anything, I’ve never ridden a MotoGP bike, everything is so different. I’ll just try to do the best job I can do at the weekend, take it on and see if I enjoy it!”
That’s a wrap on the Press Conference at Silverstone! Free Practice begins on Friday, before MotoGP™ heads out for another battle of Britain on Sunday at 13:00 (GMT +1).
30th AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days Happening July 22-24, 2022
Dates announced for 30th AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: July 22-24, 2022
World’s best vintage motorcycling bash returns to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association has announced that the 30th installment of its annual celebration of vintage motorcycles will be July 22-24, 2022, at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
“AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is getting better every year, and this past summer’s event was no exception,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “We expect the 2022 event to keep the momentum going with even more riding, racing and fun at our three-day festival of all things vintage motorcycling.”
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course will host the 30th AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, which began in 1992 and moved to the facility in 1995. The sprawling venue accommodates motocross, hare scrambles, trials, road racing, North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet and numerous recreational riding activities.
“This is a terrific collaboration with the AMA, and we are proud to host one of the world’s largest gatherings of motorcycle enthusiasts each year,” said Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course President Craig Rust. “July is the perfect time to hold this event. We had a great event this past year, so we’re looking forward to again hosting AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days in 2022.”
Tickets to 2022 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days will be available soon. AMA members will be able to purchase tickets through the association at a discount. To join the AMA to take advantage of this discount, among many others, visit https://americanmotorcyclist.com/join/ or call (800) 262-5646.
AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is organized and promoted by the American Motorcyclist Association to raise funds for the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps fund the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame’s mission to promote the heritage of motorcycling in America.
To receive updates about AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, sign up for the AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days e-newsletter at https://americanmotorcyclist.com/ama-vintage-motorcycle-days-e-news-sign-up-2/, follow the official event Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AMAVintageMotorcycleDays and keep an eye on www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.
Moto2: Dorna And Triumph Extend Partnership Through 2024
Triumph to power Moto2™ for another three years
Triumph Motorcycles will continue to provide their record-breaking 765cc triple powerplants as Exclusive Engine Supplier to the FIM Moto2™ World Championship for another three seasons, from 2022-2024.
Since the start of the 2019 season, Triumph Motorcycles has provided all of the teams with race-tuned 765cc triples, each of which is based on the class-leading Street Triple RS engine. With developments that allow it to breathe more freely, rev harder and deliver a peak power output of more than 138HP (an increase of over 17% on the production engine).
This 765cc triple brought to the category a much-welcomed boost in power, transforming the performance and level of competition.
Following Dorna’s intent to bring the Moto2™ series closer to MotoGP™, the increase in power and torque, combined with a more advanced electronics package, has provided a more relevant training and development ground, while enhancing the overall racing in its own right.
In the last two years, Moto2™ graduates have gone on to take podiums and victories in their first seasons in the premier MotoGP class including 2019 Moto2™ World Champion Alex Marquez who took a pair of second places in 2020, and title rival Brad Binder with a victory in 2020 and more recently in Austria 2021. Additionally, Jorge Martin took his first Moto2™ victory in 2020, followed a year later with his maiden MotoGP™ win and a further two podiums in 2021. These incredible results go to prove how Moto2™ has become the natural springboard for MotoGP™ that Dorna envisaged.
Redefining the category, records have been set across the board. With 14 different race winners since 2019 there have been lap records set at 34 events, including records which have been broken and re-broken year-over-year, and the first ever 180+ mph top speed for a Moto2™ machine. The record stands at 187 mph at Phillip Island, Australia.
Reflecting these great successes, the wonderful feedback and partnerships we have had with the riders and their teams, and the incredible response from Triumph fans across the world, Triumph has decided, in partnership with Dorna, along with the continuing support of Externpro, to extend the relationship and sign a new contract for another three years of racing.
Steve Sargent, Triumph Motorcycles Chief Product Officer
”Moto2 has been the perfect environment to showcase, and prove the reliability and performance advantages of, our triple engines, where we have seen the top 20 qualifying times consistently come within a second of each other. Not only has it raised our profile and credibility on the world stage, for me the success of Moto2 has also been an incredible catalyst, reigniting the passion for racing within Triumph motorcycles. I am delighted to have played a part in this landmark activity for Triumph and excited to see the extension to another 3 seasons. We are committed to delivering further improvements to the performance of the engines, which we are sure will be appreciated by both the riders and the teams.
Carlos Ezpeleta, Dorna Sports Managing Director
“Our first years together have been a wonderful success and I’d like to thank Triumph for their help and hard work over these first three years – especially during the pandemic. The FIM, IRTA and Dorna are happy with the results this project has shown and it’s validated the consistency of the steps between Moto3™, Moto2™ and MotoGP™. Overall we are pleased with the partnership and we look forward to three more exciting years together.”
AMA Land Speed Grand Championships Happening Next Week In Utah
2021 AMA Land Speed Grand Championship at The Bonneville Salt Flats Takes Place Aug. 29-Sept. 2
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Motorcycle racers from around the globe will soon descend on the Bonneville Salt Flats, vying to set national and world records in hopes to be crowned the world’s fastest racer at the AMA Land Speed Grand Championship in Wendover, Utah, Aug. 29-Sept. 2.
“After missing last year’s event due to COVID-19, the AMA is excited to be back on the salt and looks forward to an awesome week and hopefully some new land speed records,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant.
The AMA Land Speed Grand Championship, also known as the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials (BMST), is the premier motorcycle land-speed racing event in the world with competitors pushing the limits on a mile-long course over perfectly level terrain at Bonneville Salt Flats.
This AMA-sanctioned event, which also includes Fédération Internationale de Motocylisme recognition, offers competitors the opportunity to clinch AMA national and FIM world records aboard machines from 50cc mini-bikes to 3,000cc streamliners.
“I’m very excited to be welcoming our racers back to the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials for 2021,” said BMST promoter Delvene Reber of Deliciate Promotions LLC. “The conditions are looking good to watch records being broken, and we hope to encourage a new fleet of rookie riders as they experience the exhilaration of setting their first AMA Land Speed Grand Championship record!”
“Our experienced riders are once again tuning their machines to reach and sustain their top speed over the timed mile as they continue to make history going faster than those before them,” she added.
Competition classes for the event are determined by engine displacement, modification levels and various degrees of streamlining, and encompass everything from small-displacement racers to high-powered, custom-built motorcycles made for the sole purpose of topping 400 mph.
Some classes are more serious than others, with participants ranging from weekend enthusiasts chasing double-digit mph speed records on small-bore motorcycles to professional race teams fielding million-dollar engineering masterworks.
For more information about the event, visit the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials’ website at www.bonnevillespeedtrials.com. For more information about land speed racing and rules, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Racing/Land-Speed.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.
Royal Enfield 650 Twins Get New Colors For 2022
2022 ROYAL ENFIELD 650 TWIN MOTORCYCLES GET NEW COLORS & UPDATES
Five new eye-catching colors for INT 650 and Continental GT 650
Milwaukee, WI (Thursday, August 26, 2021) – It Royal Enfield North America today announced the launch of new color ways for its 2022 650 Twin motorcycles—the INT 650 twin and the Continental GT 650 Twin. Both models also received a host of aesthetic upgrades, including blacked-out rims and fenders, and black fork gaiters, adding a stylish flare to Royal Enfield’s modern classics.
The 2022 Royal Enfield INT 650 Twin is now available in two new Standard (single-tone) colors—Canyon Red and Ventura Blue—and two new Custom (dual-tone) colors—Downtown Drag, Sunset Strip—along with a new updated version of the chrome variant, the Mark 2. The Mark 2 Chrome INT 650 is an ode to the original Interceptor 750, a throwback to the golden age of 1960’s California motorcycle culture. The INT 650 Twin retains the single-tone Orange Crush color and the timeless Baker Express dual-tone option that has been extremely popular.
The 2022 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 café racer has also been introduced in five new colors. Taking inspiration from the Continental GT of the 1960’s and calls from die-hard fans of this beloved model, Royal Enfield has reintroduced the Continental GT 650 Twin in its most celebrated Rocker Red Standard (single-tone) and has also introduced the motorcycle in the British Racing Green Standard color. The 2022 Continental GT 650 is also available in two new Custom (dual-tone) color ways—Dux Deluxe and Ventura Storm—and has an updated version of the chrome variant in Mister Clean.
With seven color options on the 2022 INT 650 Twin, and five new colors on the 2022 Continental GT 650 Twin, both motorcycles will get a range of aesthetic updates as well to compliment the new color ways. Royal Enfield is proud to reveal blacked-out rims and fenders on additional color variants of the INT 650 Twin, adding to its classic appeal. This update was introduced following the overwhelmingly positive response on the blacked-out rims that were previously only available on the dual-tone models. In addition to the rims and fenders, both model lines will come equipped with black fork gaiters.
Royal Enfield continues its focus on growing the middleweight segment with affordable, approachable and accessible products ideal for motorcyclists from beginner-level to seasoned riders. The 2022 models in INT 650 in Standard color ways will be available at $5,999. Custom color ways for $6,199 and the chrome variant Mark 2 models are available at $6,699. The Continental GT 650 in Standard color ways will be available at $6,199, Custom color ways are available for $6,499 and the chrome variant Mister Clean is available for $6,999.
2022 Royal Enfield North America Pricing
INT 650 Standard: $5,999.00
INT 650 Custom: $6,199.00
INT 650 Special (chrome): $6,699.00
Continental GT 650 Standard: $6,199.00
Continental GT 650 Custom: $6,499.00
Continental GT 650 Special (chrome): $6,999.00
The 2022 Royal Enfield INT 650 Twin and 2022 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin motorcycles will begin arriving at North American dealerships mid-September.
About Royal Enfield
The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the midsize motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.
Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 125 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.
For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en/, www.Instagram.com/RoyalEnfield_NA, www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.
Australian Superbike: Round Five At Wakefield Park Cancelled
ASBK Announces Cancellation of Round 5 at Wakefield Park Raceway
In response to the continuing lockdowns and border restrictions across Australia, the ASBK Management Team has made the difficult but necessary decision to cancel Round 5 of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul, which was to be held at Wakefield Park Raceway, NSW on October 15-17.
The ASBK Management Team has maintained its commitment to creating the very best championship for its riders, teams, volunteers, fans and partners during the difficult time. A decision like this today is a tough blow to the championship which has produced edge of your seat racing in the early parts of 2021.
The ASBK Management Team take this opportunity to thank Wakefield Park Raceway management who have been a dedicated partner over many years.
Wakefield Park Raceway Manager Dean Chapman commented, “It’s a disappointment that Wakefield Park won’t be able to host ASBK again in October. After a great event in April earlier this year, which hosted thousands of spectators, the opportunity to do it again was something Wakefield Park wanted to be a part of.
”The decision taken by ASBK Management is one we support. The competitors and the spectators deserve a clear direction and I believe that this announcement achieves that,” continued Chapman.
‘’We are looking forward to the next time we host an ASBK round at Wakefield Park in 2022, it’s going to be a bigger and better event. Wakefield Park is a circuit that gets you up and close to the track and provides access to the paddock and the riders. It is something special that you don’t get everywhere else in motorsport in Australia.’’
The attention of the ASBK paddock now turns to the remaining rounds of ASBK in 2021.
The next round of the 2021 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul is scheduled for October 22-24 for the Alpinestars Superbike class, joining the Repco Supercars at the Bass Coast Festival of Speed at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
Keep up to date with the latest news on the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul via www.asbk.com.au and following ASBK on Facebook and Instagram. You can also join our ASBK mailing list at www.asbk.com.au
ASBK CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR
Round 6 – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC (SBK Only 2+4 with Supercars) October 22 – 24
Round 7 & 8 – The Bend Motorsport Park, SA November 11 – 14* (Double Header Round) *Except SBK who will have a single round x3 races = 1x Race Saturday and 2x Sunday)
Round 9 – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC December 3 – 5
MotoGP: Vinales Will Test Aprilia At Misano
MAVERICK VINALES WILL MAKE HIS DEBUT ON THE APRILIA RS-GP AT MISANO
TWO-DAY TEST FOR THE SPANISH RIDER ON 31 AUGUST – 1 SEPTEMBER
Maverick Vinales’ debut on the Aprilia RS-GP will take place on the Italian track at Misano Adriatico. The first contact between the Spanish rider and the Italian team is scheduled for two days of testing on 31 August – 1 September.
This marks the start of Maverick’s integration into the new structure that will accompany him throughout the 2022 season, a gradual approach to the improved harmony that is essential in such an extraordinary championship as modern MotoGP.
ROMANO ALBESIANO – APRILIA RACING TECHNICAL MANAGER
“From a technical point of view, it is always fascinating to listen to the impressions of a rider who is testing your bike for the first time. Especially with a champion like Maverick, who we are pleased to welcome into the Aprilia Racing family. After the great work carried out on the track by the racing department over the last two years, we are adding yet another piece to the path of growth that we are undertaking with encouraging results. Clearly the first approach involves a very practical adaptation phase, in terms of ergonomics and setup, which we know vary for each rider. But I’m sure that Maverick’s talent and speed will come to the fore right away and I can’t wait to start working together”.
MotoGP: PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team Shutting Down
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team to conclude
PSRT to bid adieu at the end of 2021; a new beginning in store for 2022
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team will cease to be at the end of the 2021 MotoGP World Championship season.
The team, which is represented in Moto3 and Moto2 by PETRONAS Sprinta Racing and in MotoGP by PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team can confirm it will conclude all activities both racing and non-racing at the end of the 2021 World Championship season.
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team Principal Razlan Razali and Team Director Johan Stigefelt will continue in the MotoGP category from 2022 onwards with a new entity. This new entity and title partner will be announced at the Gran Premio Octo di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini in Misano on September 16.
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team in its current format was formed in 2018 to race in all categories of the MotoGP World Championship, from the 2019 season onwards. The team was supported in this by title sponsor across all three categories, PETRONAS, and the team’s owner, Sepang International Circuit.
In only its fourth race, the MotoGP squad was on the front row of the grid. Its first podium came after seven races. In 2020, the team took the first win for a satellite Yamaha MotoGP team in over 20 years and finished second in the overall Team Standings with rider Franco Morbidelli finishing second in the overall rider rankings and as Top Independent Rider. For 2021, the team was joined by the Greatest Of All Time rider, Valentino Rossi. Over the three years of its existence, PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team has achieved poles and podiums in all three MotoGP categories and wins in both Moto3 and MotoGP.
The team’s origin dates back to 2015 with M7 DRIVE SIC Racing Team in Moto3, which secured two podiums in its first season. Title partners PETRONAS came aboard in 2017, birthing the new PETRONAS Sprinta Racing banner with the squad growing to encompass Moto2 in 2018.
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team would like to thank all its fans, crew, partners and riders for being part of the incredible journey. The team is dedicated to finishing the 2021 season in the best way possible.
Razlan Razali
We have experienced a remarkable voyage over the past years. From a small start in 2015 there was a great step for us in 2018 when we secured an entry to the premier class of MotoGP and built a MotoGP squad from scratch. In 2019 we were on the grid and just four races into our rookie season we were on the front row. By the seventh race we were on the podium. In 2020 we secured the first race win for a satellite Yamaha MotoGP team in over 20 years and finished second in the overall team and rider championships. In 2021 we raced with the Greatest Of All Time rider, Valentino Rossi. This is an incredible story.
The team will race its final race in Valencia and we thank all our crew, riders, fans and partners for their support. In particular, we thank PETRONAS, with whom none of this would have been possible. Together we pushed the PETRONAS brand and Malaysian expertise to the forefront of the grid and captured unprecedented brand exposure and coverage, exponentially surpassing all expectations.
We also thank Sepang International Circuit for their vision and support of upcoming Malaysian talent over a long period. Our collective dream was to have a Malaysian rider competing for podiums in the MotoGP World Championship. Sadly, we were not able to achieve this in the short life of our squad, but we can reflect upon tremendous success by every other measure.
Our final season has not reached its conclusion yet and we continue to strive for the very best results possible across all three classes. Thank you all.
Johan Stigefelt
Thank you to PETRONAS for the opportunity given over the past three years and everything we have achieved together. I am sad we were not able to continue this project as we established a great team across all three categories of MotoGP in such a short time and our vision was for this to be a long term project. We have worked with incredible personnel, fantastic riders and enjoyed the support of great partners and wonderful fans and we offer our heartfelt gratitude to them all.
Thank you also to Sepang International Circuit with whom the relationship goes back to 2015. Together we grew from a small two-rider Moto3 squad to one of the biggest teams to have ever existed in the MotoGP paddock. I am proud to have been part of this journey together and without Sepang International Circuit this would not have been possible.
As a squad, we achieved our first win, in Moto3, at Le Mans with John McPhee in 2019 and we had already taken our first pole position in MotoGP at the Spanish GP with Fabio Quartararo in Jerez that same year. We enjoyed six MotoGP race wins between Fabio and Franco Morbidelli in 2020. We have fabulous memories of the last three years, but now we look to the rest of this season to end the year in the best way possible.
In particular, I really want to thank everyone in the Moto2 and Moto3 squads who are not only colleagues but have become true friends over the past years. It is very hard for me to say goodbye to all these people especially as they have all been crucial contributors to our success and the structure we’ve built together over these years. I want to thank them all in particular.
For the future we have a new and exciting project. We remain in the paddock in MotoGP with new shirts to wear. But more of that later; for now we have the remaining races of the 2021 season to race as hard as possible. Thank you all.
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team Stats *up to British GP 2021
MOTOGP category
12 poles
16 podiums
6 wins
Moto2
1 pole position
1 podium
Moto3
6 poles
12 podiums
2 wins
Sepang Racing Team Highlights
Sepang Racing Team is a unique entity in motorsport, encompassing MotoGP with PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team and both Moto2 and Moto3 with PETRONAS Sprinta Racing. The team’s beginnings in the World Championship go back to its first Moto3 entry in 2015, with expansion to Moto2 in 2017, and finally a MotoGP entry in 2019.
The teams are part of the operation of the world-renowned Sepang International Circuit, home to 19 Formula 1 Grands Prix and host of the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix since 1999.
2019 was a remarkable debut MotoGP season for PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team with a tally of seven podium finishes plus six pole positions that secured the Independent Teams’ Championship title with riders Franco Morbidelli and Fabio Quartararo. Fabio proved to be the sensation of the year, earning the Rookie of the Year and Top Independent Rider titles.
In 2020, PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team successfully defended its Top Independent Team title by leading the overall team and rider standings for much of the year. Both Fabio and Franco took three wins over the course of the year, with Franco and the team taking the vice title by finishing second in the rider and team championships. The team’s first MotoGP win was the first for a satellite Yamaha MotoGP squad in over 20 years.
For 2021, Greatest Of All Time rider Valentino Rossi joined the squad alongside Franco.
In Moto3 with PETRONAS Sprinta Racing, John McPhee took Sepang Racing Team’s first World Championship Grand Prix victory after leading from pole in the French Grand Prix in 2019 and proved to be a championship contender in 2020. For 2021, John was joined by fellow Moto3 race winner, Darryn Binder.
For 2020, PETRONAS Sprinta Racing in Moto2 expanded to a two-bike line-up with Xavi Vierge and Jake Dixon both showing race-leading pace over the course of the year. Both riders remained in 2021.
Sepang Racing Team is infused with Malaysian talent to showcase this on a world stage, supported in this objective by title partner, PETRONAS, who bring their expertise, passion and prowess to the track.
MotoGP: Marc Marquez Tops FP1 At Silverstone
Moto3: Fenati Fastest In FP1 At Silverstone
MotoGP: Quartararo Advises Dixon To “Be Calm”
“This is one of my favourite tracks on the MotoGP bike”: Riders ready to take on Silverstone
The pre-event Press Conference and a key Triumph announcement kick off the Monster Energy British Grand Prix
Thursday, 26 August 2021
Is everybody ready for the British GP? The MotoGP™ grid certainly is, with the pre-event Press Conference seeing Championship leader Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) joined by closest challengers Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), reigning World Champion Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar), Austrian GP winner Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and rookie superstar Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing), as well as home heroes Cal Crutchlow (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and MotoGP™ debutant Jake Dixon (Petronas Yamaha SRT) ahead of track action on Friday.
Here are some key quotes!
Fabio Quartararo: “I was super happy about the second race in Austria because the first one I finished quite far from Jorge, close to 10 seconds from victory, in the second one I improved my pace a lot and I think I had a chance to fight for victory. I think it was one of the most fun races from this year, I enjoyed it a lot and I was feeling great. We know Austria is the most tricky track for us and we were there fighting for victories and podiums. Of course it’s not the result we wanted but I was more happy with the second one than the first one.
“Two years ago was one corner on Sunday here, but this is one of my favourite tracks on the MotoGP bike, the Yamaha suits the track really well and it’s just a matter of going out tomorrow morning, enjoying it straight away, having a good time. I hope we get good weather and let’s see!”
Advice for Jake Dixon:
“To be calm. Because already when I started in Valencia, it’s a short track but the first day I was totally lost. It was a day of testing. I’ve already told him it’s totally different. He will already feel the power and the brakes, don’t look at the lap times so much and yeah, take it easy!”
Francesco Bagnaia: “For sure I’m happy. I recovered more points like this than in fully dry conditions because Fabio was in trouble with rain tyres. I was close to fighting for a win but in any case I am happy because I did my best race in MotoGP I think. I was setting my pace and feeling comfortable. It was better the second race, the first one we had a bit of bad luck with the restart but the second one we managed to be fast enough to stay in front.
“I’m really confident to ride this track, it’s one of my favourites. I really like the layout and our bike maybe suits good, maybe not like a Yamaha but we will try to be fast enough to stay with Fabio because we really need to recover more points. Still we’re at 47 and if Fabio wants to enjoy the Championship more maybe we can fight until the finish, it’s better!”
Joan Mir: “The last race was a little bit crazy. I would say that in Austria the feelings were nice at both weekends, the race in the second GP was unexpectedly difficult but finally we could be really close to the podium which was our goal. Now we come to this track which as you say Alex was strong here in 2019, he was able to win, Suzuki got two victories in the modern era and this is for a reason. The bike can fit well with this track, it will be important to be fighting with the top guys. I will give my best. It will be difficult because it’s the first time coming here after a long time, and it will be important to be strong straight away in FP1 and FP2, to get the correct feeling, the correct lines and I will give my best.
“I’m not nervous. I think that the important thing is once you get the feeling, is to put the feeling here. Not the track. I haven’t ridden a bike here since ’18 and for sure this will be a bit difficult in the first laps. But if you have a great feeling and you know, we did a lot of races this year and I think I’m in good form, but I think I will be able to adapt quickly on this track. The track is quite long, wide, difficult to find the line, but yeah. It’s important to find it as quickly as possible.”
Brad Binder: “Now I’ve had a bit of time to go back and watch it all over it again, I’m really glad there wasn’t one more lap. It was cool. It was a big risk to stay out, and yeah, the last lap was super sketchy. I’m glad I made it home safe but sometimes you have to take a chance and this time it worked so really happy about that, happy to come out of the two Austria races with two good results and hopefully looking at keeping that momentum going.
“I mean we’ve all been to Silverstone a few times. It’s always a bit of a challenge I find at a new track on the MotoGP bike, no matter how many times you look through the data, I always find it completely different to how I remember. The big goal for me is to be comfortable straight away and not start too far down the order like I have done many times when I come to a circuit for the first time on a GP bike. It’s a special track, last time I was here I really really enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to riding the big bike around here for sure.”
Jorge Martin: “I would be so confident if the race was in Austria again but we come to a new track and I need to be focused and start from zero. I don’t know how it will be, so just try to find a good feeling with the bike. I will give my 100% as always, it won’t be easy but I’ll try my best.
“From my side it will be the same as always, because I’ve come to the track with MotoGP so I’m not nervous, I’m ready and raring to go.”
Cal Crutchlow: “It’s great, it’s great to come to Silverstone. I never thought I’d be racing a Silverstone GP again after I retired so to come back, already we missed last year with was disappointing, but to come back this weekend with Monster Energy Yamaha is a privilege. It’s a privilege to ride Silverstone anyway, and then now with a full crowd it’s going to be entertaining for everybody. I’m looking forward to it. Riding in Austria was not easy after being so long off the bike, but to come this weekend here, maybe in a little bit better of a situation after the last two races, I look forward to seeing what we can do.
“I think Austria wasn’t too bad. On paper its always going to look bad, but we expected nothing, and we got nothing. We got information for Yamaha and I did my job, and I enjoyed it which was the main thing. After so long off the bike to ride again is always enjoyable. Speed wise we weren’t too bad, I qualified half a tenth slower than what I did last year on the Honda. After 5 months off it wasn’t too bad, I enjoyed it, I felt good and in the end hopefully I’ll feel a little bit more comfortable with not such a big a gap off. Silverstone is a good circuit for that, I know a few tricks of the trade around here and in Austria I really really don’t. So let’s see what we can do at the Monster Energy GP here.”
Jake Dixon: “It’s obviously fantastic and obviously thanks to Petronas for giving me the opportunity to ride the MotoGP bike. To do it at home is pretty special, if anyone could do their debut I think they would do it at home so yeah, I can’t wait. We’re going to have a full house in front of the full crowd, Silverstone seems to suit the Yamaha in the past. I can’t wait, it’s definitely going to be a massive learning curve, but I’m ready to take it on and see what we can do.
“I was just saying to Mir that I’ve had a few sleepless nights yeah. It’s definitely excitement, so much excitement but also nervous times. I’m not expecting anything from myself it’s just a massive learning curve. I can’t be expected to do anything, I’ve never ridden a MotoGP bike, everything is so different. I’ll just try to do the best job I can do at the weekend, take it on and see if I enjoy it!”
That’s a wrap on the Press Conference at Silverstone! Free Practice begins on Friday, before MotoGP™ heads out for another battle of Britain on Sunday at 13:00 (GMT +1).
30th AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days Happening July 22-24, 2022
Dates announced for 30th AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: July 22-24, 2022
World’s best vintage motorcycling bash returns to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association has announced that the 30th installment of its annual celebration of vintage motorcycles will be July 22-24, 2022, at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
“AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is getting better every year, and this past summer’s event was no exception,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “We expect the 2022 event to keep the momentum going with even more riding, racing and fun at our three-day festival of all things vintage motorcycling.”
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course will host the 30th AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, which began in 1992 and moved to the facility in 1995. The sprawling venue accommodates motocross, hare scrambles, trials, road racing, North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet and numerous recreational riding activities.
“This is a terrific collaboration with the AMA, and we are proud to host one of the world’s largest gatherings of motorcycle enthusiasts each year,” said Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course President Craig Rust. “July is the perfect time to hold this event. We had a great event this past year, so we’re looking forward to again hosting AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days in 2022.”
Tickets to 2022 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days will be available soon. AMA members will be able to purchase tickets through the association at a discount. To join the AMA to take advantage of this discount, among many others, visit https://americanmotorcyclist.com/join/ or call (800) 262-5646.
AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is organized and promoted by the American Motorcyclist Association to raise funds for the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps fund the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame’s mission to promote the heritage of motorcycling in America.
To receive updates about AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, sign up for the AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days e-newsletter at https://americanmotorcyclist.com/ama-vintage-motorcycle-days-e-news-sign-up-2/, follow the official event Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AMAVintageMotorcycleDays and keep an eye on www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.
Moto2: Dorna And Triumph Extend Partnership Through 2024
Triumph to power Moto2™ for another three years
Triumph Motorcycles will continue to provide their record-breaking 765cc triple powerplants as Exclusive Engine Supplier to the FIM Moto2™ World Championship for another three seasons, from 2022-2024.
Since the start of the 2019 season, Triumph Motorcycles has provided all of the teams with race-tuned 765cc triples, each of which is based on the class-leading Street Triple RS engine. With developments that allow it to breathe more freely, rev harder and deliver a peak power output of more than 138HP (an increase of over 17% on the production engine).
This 765cc triple brought to the category a much-welcomed boost in power, transforming the performance and level of competition.
Following Dorna’s intent to bring the Moto2™ series closer to MotoGP™, the increase in power and torque, combined with a more advanced electronics package, has provided a more relevant training and development ground, while enhancing the overall racing in its own right.
In the last two years, Moto2™ graduates have gone on to take podiums and victories in their first seasons in the premier MotoGP class including 2019 Moto2™ World Champion Alex Marquez who took a pair of second places in 2020, and title rival Brad Binder with a victory in 2020 and more recently in Austria 2021. Additionally, Jorge Martin took his first Moto2™ victory in 2020, followed a year later with his maiden MotoGP™ win and a further two podiums in 2021. These incredible results go to prove how Moto2™ has become the natural springboard for MotoGP™ that Dorna envisaged.
Redefining the category, records have been set across the board. With 14 different race winners since 2019 there have been lap records set at 34 events, including records which have been broken and re-broken year-over-year, and the first ever 180+ mph top speed for a Moto2™ machine. The record stands at 187 mph at Phillip Island, Australia.
Reflecting these great successes, the wonderful feedback and partnerships we have had with the riders and their teams, and the incredible response from Triumph fans across the world, Triumph has decided, in partnership with Dorna, along with the continuing support of Externpro, to extend the relationship and sign a new contract for another three years of racing.
Steve Sargent, Triumph Motorcycles Chief Product Officer
”Moto2 has been the perfect environment to showcase, and prove the reliability and performance advantages of, our triple engines, where we have seen the top 20 qualifying times consistently come within a second of each other. Not only has it raised our profile and credibility on the world stage, for me the success of Moto2 has also been an incredible catalyst, reigniting the passion for racing within Triumph motorcycles. I am delighted to have played a part in this landmark activity for Triumph and excited to see the extension to another 3 seasons. We are committed to delivering further improvements to the performance of the engines, which we are sure will be appreciated by both the riders and the teams.
Carlos Ezpeleta, Dorna Sports Managing Director
“Our first years together have been a wonderful success and I’d like to thank Triumph for their help and hard work over these first three years – especially during the pandemic. The FIM, IRTA and Dorna are happy with the results this project has shown and it’s validated the consistency of the steps between Moto3™, Moto2™ and MotoGP™. Overall we are pleased with the partnership and we look forward to three more exciting years together.”
AMA Land Speed Grand Championships Happening Next Week In Utah
2021 AMA Land Speed Grand Championship at The Bonneville Salt Flats Takes Place Aug. 29-Sept. 2
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Motorcycle racers from around the globe will soon descend on the Bonneville Salt Flats, vying to set national and world records in hopes to be crowned the world’s fastest racer at the AMA Land Speed Grand Championship in Wendover, Utah, Aug. 29-Sept. 2.
“After missing last year’s event due to COVID-19, the AMA is excited to be back on the salt and looks forward to an awesome week and hopefully some new land speed records,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant.
The AMA Land Speed Grand Championship, also known as the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials (BMST), is the premier motorcycle land-speed racing event in the world with competitors pushing the limits on a mile-long course over perfectly level terrain at Bonneville Salt Flats.
This AMA-sanctioned event, which also includes Fédération Internationale de Motocylisme recognition, offers competitors the opportunity to clinch AMA national and FIM world records aboard machines from 50cc mini-bikes to 3,000cc streamliners.
“I’m very excited to be welcoming our racers back to the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials for 2021,” said BMST promoter Delvene Reber of Deliciate Promotions LLC. “The conditions are looking good to watch records being broken, and we hope to encourage a new fleet of rookie riders as they experience the exhilaration of setting their first AMA Land Speed Grand Championship record!”
“Our experienced riders are once again tuning their machines to reach and sustain their top speed over the timed mile as they continue to make history going faster than those before them,” she added.
Competition classes for the event are determined by engine displacement, modification levels and various degrees of streamlining, and encompass everything from small-displacement racers to high-powered, custom-built motorcycles made for the sole purpose of topping 400 mph.
Some classes are more serious than others, with participants ranging from weekend enthusiasts chasing double-digit mph speed records on small-bore motorcycles to professional race teams fielding million-dollar engineering masterworks.
For more information about the event, visit the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials’ website at www.bonnevillespeedtrials.com. For more information about land speed racing and rules, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Racing/Land-Speed.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.
Royal Enfield 650 Twins Get New Colors For 2022
2022 ROYAL ENFIELD 650 TWIN MOTORCYCLES GET NEW COLORS & UPDATES
Five new eye-catching colors for INT 650 and Continental GT 650
Milwaukee, WI (Thursday, August 26, 2021) – It Royal Enfield North America today announced the launch of new color ways for its 2022 650 Twin motorcycles—the INT 650 twin and the Continental GT 650 Twin. Both models also received a host of aesthetic upgrades, including blacked-out rims and fenders, and black fork gaiters, adding a stylish flare to Royal Enfield’s modern classics.
The 2022 Royal Enfield INT 650 Twin is now available in two new Standard (single-tone) colors—Canyon Red and Ventura Blue—and two new Custom (dual-tone) colors—Downtown Drag, Sunset Strip—along with a new updated version of the chrome variant, the Mark 2. The Mark 2 Chrome INT 650 is an ode to the original Interceptor 750, a throwback to the golden age of 1960’s California motorcycle culture. The INT 650 Twin retains the single-tone Orange Crush color and the timeless Baker Express dual-tone option that has been extremely popular.
The 2022 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 café racer has also been introduced in five new colors. Taking inspiration from the Continental GT of the 1960’s and calls from die-hard fans of this beloved model, Royal Enfield has reintroduced the Continental GT 650 Twin in its most celebrated Rocker Red Standard (single-tone) and has also introduced the motorcycle in the British Racing Green Standard color. The 2022 Continental GT 650 is also available in two new Custom (dual-tone) color ways—Dux Deluxe and Ventura Storm—and has an updated version of the chrome variant in Mister Clean.
With seven color options on the 2022 INT 650 Twin, and five new colors on the 2022 Continental GT 650 Twin, both motorcycles will get a range of aesthetic updates as well to compliment the new color ways. Royal Enfield is proud to reveal blacked-out rims and fenders on additional color variants of the INT 650 Twin, adding to its classic appeal. This update was introduced following the overwhelmingly positive response on the blacked-out rims that were previously only available on the dual-tone models. In addition to the rims and fenders, both model lines will come equipped with black fork gaiters.
Royal Enfield continues its focus on growing the middleweight segment with affordable, approachable and accessible products ideal for motorcyclists from beginner-level to seasoned riders. The 2022 models in INT 650 in Standard color ways will be available at $5,999. Custom color ways for $6,199 and the chrome variant Mark 2 models are available at $6,699. The Continental GT 650 in Standard color ways will be available at $6,199, Custom color ways are available for $6,499 and the chrome variant Mister Clean is available for $6,999.
2022 Royal Enfield North America Pricing
INT 650 Standard: $5,999.00
INT 650 Custom: $6,199.00
INT 650 Special (chrome): $6,699.00
Continental GT 650 Standard: $6,199.00
Continental GT 650 Custom: $6,499.00
Continental GT 650 Special (chrome): $6,999.00
The 2022 Royal Enfield INT 650 Twin and 2022 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin motorcycles will begin arriving at North American dealerships mid-September.
About Royal Enfield
The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the midsize motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.
Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 125 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.
For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en/, www.Instagram.com/RoyalEnfield_NA, www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.
Australian Superbike: Round Five At Wakefield Park Cancelled
ASBK Announces Cancellation of Round 5 at Wakefield Park Raceway
In response to the continuing lockdowns and border restrictions across Australia, the ASBK Management Team has made the difficult but necessary decision to cancel Round 5 of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul, which was to be held at Wakefield Park Raceway, NSW on October 15-17.
The ASBK Management Team has maintained its commitment to creating the very best championship for its riders, teams, volunteers, fans and partners during the difficult time. A decision like this today is a tough blow to the championship which has produced edge of your seat racing in the early parts of 2021.
The ASBK Management Team take this opportunity to thank Wakefield Park Raceway management who have been a dedicated partner over many years.
Wakefield Park Raceway Manager Dean Chapman commented, “It’s a disappointment that Wakefield Park won’t be able to host ASBK again in October. After a great event in April earlier this year, which hosted thousands of spectators, the opportunity to do it again was something Wakefield Park wanted to be a part of.
”The decision taken by ASBK Management is one we support. The competitors and the spectators deserve a clear direction and I believe that this announcement achieves that,” continued Chapman.
‘’We are looking forward to the next time we host an ASBK round at Wakefield Park in 2022, it’s going to be a bigger and better event. Wakefield Park is a circuit that gets you up and close to the track and provides access to the paddock and the riders. It is something special that you don’t get everywhere else in motorsport in Australia.’’
The attention of the ASBK paddock now turns to the remaining rounds of ASBK in 2021.
The next round of the 2021 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul is scheduled for October 22-24 for the Alpinestars Superbike class, joining the Repco Supercars at the Bass Coast Festival of Speed at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
Keep up to date with the latest news on the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul via www.asbk.com.au and following ASBK on Facebook and Instagram. You can also join our ASBK mailing list at www.asbk.com.au
ASBK CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR
Round 6 – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC (SBK Only 2+4 with Supercars) October 22 – 24
Round 7 & 8 – The Bend Motorsport Park, SA November 11 – 14* (Double Header Round) *Except SBK who will have a single round x3 races = 1x Race Saturday and 2x Sunday)
Round 9 – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC December 3 – 5
MotoGP: Vinales Will Test Aprilia At Misano
MAVERICK VINALES WILL MAKE HIS DEBUT ON THE APRILIA RS-GP AT MISANO
TWO-DAY TEST FOR THE SPANISH RIDER ON 31 AUGUST – 1 SEPTEMBER
Maverick Vinales’ debut on the Aprilia RS-GP will take place on the Italian track at Misano Adriatico. The first contact between the Spanish rider and the Italian team is scheduled for two days of testing on 31 August – 1 September.
This marks the start of Maverick’s integration into the new structure that will accompany him throughout the 2022 season, a gradual approach to the improved harmony that is essential in such an extraordinary championship as modern MotoGP.
ROMANO ALBESIANO – APRILIA RACING TECHNICAL MANAGER
“From a technical point of view, it is always fascinating to listen to the impressions of a rider who is testing your bike for the first time. Especially with a champion like Maverick, who we are pleased to welcome into the Aprilia Racing family. After the great work carried out on the track by the racing department over the last two years, we are adding yet another piece to the path of growth that we are undertaking with encouraging results. Clearly the first approach involves a very practical adaptation phase, in terms of ergonomics and setup, which we know vary for each rider. But I’m sure that Maverick’s talent and speed will come to the fore right away and I can’t wait to start working together”.
MotoGP: PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team Shutting Down
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team to conclude
PSRT to bid adieu at the end of 2021; a new beginning in store for 2022
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team will cease to be at the end of the 2021 MotoGP World Championship season.
The team, which is represented in Moto3 and Moto2 by PETRONAS Sprinta Racing and in MotoGP by PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team can confirm it will conclude all activities both racing and non-racing at the end of the 2021 World Championship season.
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team Principal Razlan Razali and Team Director Johan Stigefelt will continue in the MotoGP category from 2022 onwards with a new entity. This new entity and title partner will be announced at the Gran Premio Octo di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini in Misano on September 16.
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team in its current format was formed in 2018 to race in all categories of the MotoGP World Championship, from the 2019 season onwards. The team was supported in this by title sponsor across all three categories, PETRONAS, and the team’s owner, Sepang International Circuit.
In only its fourth race, the MotoGP squad was on the front row of the grid. Its first podium came after seven races. In 2020, the team took the first win for a satellite Yamaha MotoGP team in over 20 years and finished second in the overall Team Standings with rider Franco Morbidelli finishing second in the overall rider rankings and as Top Independent Rider. For 2021, the team was joined by the Greatest Of All Time rider, Valentino Rossi. Over the three years of its existence, PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team has achieved poles and podiums in all three MotoGP categories and wins in both Moto3 and MotoGP.
The team’s origin dates back to 2015 with M7 DRIVE SIC Racing Team in Moto3, which secured two podiums in its first season. Title partners PETRONAS came aboard in 2017, birthing the new PETRONAS Sprinta Racing banner with the squad growing to encompass Moto2 in 2018.
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team would like to thank all its fans, crew, partners and riders for being part of the incredible journey. The team is dedicated to finishing the 2021 season in the best way possible.
Razlan Razali
We have experienced a remarkable voyage over the past years. From a small start in 2015 there was a great step for us in 2018 when we secured an entry to the premier class of MotoGP and built a MotoGP squad from scratch. In 2019 we were on the grid and just four races into our rookie season we were on the front row. By the seventh race we were on the podium. In 2020 we secured the first race win for a satellite Yamaha MotoGP team in over 20 years and finished second in the overall team and rider championships. In 2021 we raced with the Greatest Of All Time rider, Valentino Rossi. This is an incredible story.
The team will race its final race in Valencia and we thank all our crew, riders, fans and partners for their support. In particular, we thank PETRONAS, with whom none of this would have been possible. Together we pushed the PETRONAS brand and Malaysian expertise to the forefront of the grid and captured unprecedented brand exposure and coverage, exponentially surpassing all expectations.
We also thank Sepang International Circuit for their vision and support of upcoming Malaysian talent over a long period. Our collective dream was to have a Malaysian rider competing for podiums in the MotoGP World Championship. Sadly, we were not able to achieve this in the short life of our squad, but we can reflect upon tremendous success by every other measure.
Our final season has not reached its conclusion yet and we continue to strive for the very best results possible across all three classes. Thank you all.
Johan Stigefelt
Thank you to PETRONAS for the opportunity given over the past three years and everything we have achieved together. I am sad we were not able to continue this project as we established a great team across all three categories of MotoGP in such a short time and our vision was for this to be a long term project. We have worked with incredible personnel, fantastic riders and enjoyed the support of great partners and wonderful fans and we offer our heartfelt gratitude to them all.
Thank you also to Sepang International Circuit with whom the relationship goes back to 2015. Together we grew from a small two-rider Moto3 squad to one of the biggest teams to have ever existed in the MotoGP paddock. I am proud to have been part of this journey together and without Sepang International Circuit this would not have been possible.
As a squad, we achieved our first win, in Moto3, at Le Mans with John McPhee in 2019 and we had already taken our first pole position in MotoGP at the Spanish GP with Fabio Quartararo in Jerez that same year. We enjoyed six MotoGP race wins between Fabio and Franco Morbidelli in 2020. We have fabulous memories of the last three years, but now we look to the rest of this season to end the year in the best way possible.
In particular, I really want to thank everyone in the Moto2 and Moto3 squads who are not only colleagues but have become true friends over the past years. It is very hard for me to say goodbye to all these people especially as they have all been crucial contributors to our success and the structure we’ve built together over these years. I want to thank them all in particular.
For the future we have a new and exciting project. We remain in the paddock in MotoGP with new shirts to wear. But more of that later; for now we have the remaining races of the 2021 season to race as hard as possible. Thank you all.
PETRONAS Sepang Racing Team Stats *up to British GP 2021
MOTOGP category
12 poles
16 podiums
6 wins
Moto2
1 pole position
1 podium
Moto3
6 poles
12 podiums
2 wins
Sepang Racing Team Highlights
Sepang Racing Team is a unique entity in motorsport, encompassing MotoGP with PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team and both Moto2 and Moto3 with PETRONAS Sprinta Racing. The team’s beginnings in the World Championship go back to its first Moto3 entry in 2015, with expansion to Moto2 in 2017, and finally a MotoGP entry in 2019.
The teams are part of the operation of the world-renowned Sepang International Circuit, home to 19 Formula 1 Grands Prix and host of the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix since 1999.
2019 was a remarkable debut MotoGP season for PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team with a tally of seven podium finishes plus six pole positions that secured the Independent Teams’ Championship title with riders Franco Morbidelli and Fabio Quartararo. Fabio proved to be the sensation of the year, earning the Rookie of the Year and Top Independent Rider titles.
In 2020, PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team successfully defended its Top Independent Team title by leading the overall team and rider standings for much of the year. Both Fabio and Franco took three wins over the course of the year, with Franco and the team taking the vice title by finishing second in the rider and team championships. The team’s first MotoGP win was the first for a satellite Yamaha MotoGP squad in over 20 years.
For 2021, Greatest Of All Time rider Valentino Rossi joined the squad alongside Franco.
In Moto3 with PETRONAS Sprinta Racing, John McPhee took Sepang Racing Team’s first World Championship Grand Prix victory after leading from pole in the French Grand Prix in 2019 and proved to be a championship contender in 2020. For 2021, John was joined by fellow Moto3 race winner, Darryn Binder.
For 2020, PETRONAS Sprinta Racing in Moto2 expanded to a two-bike line-up with Xavi Vierge and Jake Dixon both showing race-leading pace over the course of the year. Both riders remained in 2021.
Sepang Racing Team is infused with Malaysian talent to showcase this on a world stage, supported in this objective by title partner, PETRONAS, who bring their expertise, passion and prowess to the track.