MotoGP: Mooney VR46 Racing Team Introduced In Italy (With Video)

David Swarts

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February 24, 2022

MotoGP: Mooney VR46 Racing Team Introduced In Italy (With Video)

THE YELLOW ERA: THE MOONEY VR46 RACING TEAM UNVEILS THE NEW BIKES AT THE ROSSINI THEATER AT PESARO

Common goals and a new synergy between Mooney and VR46 to achieve ambitious results in 2022. Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi show the colors of the Ducati Desmosedici GP together with the Kalex of Celestino Vietti Ramus and Niccolò Antonelli

Pesaro (Italy), February 24th 2022 – The curtain rises at the historic Rossini Theatre at Pesaro for the presentation of the 2022 season of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, live this morning on all social media channels of the Tavullia team.

An almost oxymoronic conjunction, with a unique atmosphere and in a historical setting, the one staged at Rossini’s house of opera music: on the one hand the technology of the Ducati Desmosedici GP and the Kalex bikes, on the other the live performance of the G. Rossini Symphony Orchestra, who performed together with Dj Ralf for an unveiling full of emotions.

On the eve of the departure for Qatar for the real debut of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team (4/6 March), Pesaro, a city just a few kilometers from Tavullia, the beating heart of the new MotoGP and Moto2 project, becomes the capital of the two wheels for a day. A celebration of the Made in Italy racing passion, with Dj Albertino and Vic as presenters and in the presence of Valentino Rossi, Team Owner, who officially sealed the new partnership with Mooney together with Emilio Petrone (CEO of Mooney), Salvatore Borgese (General Manager – Commercial & Banking Services of Mooney), Alessio Salucci (Team Director) and Alberto Tebaldi (CFO).

Then space for the real stars of the racing season: the riders and motorbikes that will be on track with the new Mooney VR46 Racing Team design. After the more than positive balance in the first tests between Malaysia and Indonesia, and on stage together with the Team Manager Pablo Nieto, Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi can’t wait to get back at work on the yellow liveries of the Ducati Desmosedici GP, created by the VR46 graphics department. The fluorescent yellow and black of the VR46 mix with the ocher yellow and dark grey of Mooney for a game of contrasts that redesigns the graphics of the entire Team in a more aggressive and racing way. A theme that is also repeated on the Kalex of the Moto2 Team with Celestino Vietti Ramus and Niccolò Antonelli, together with the new Team Manager Luca Brivio, ready to be in the slipstream of the fastest guys.

Valentino Rossi, Team Owner Mooney VR46 Racing Team

“It has been a long way since Moto3, but now we are ready to make our debut in MotoGP with a VR46 team and four young riders who I know will give their 100%. It is the closing of a circle for me and also for all the people who have worked with so much passion on this project over the years. At the same time it is a great debut and the beginning of a new chapter of this beautiful story in MotoGP. We are here thanks to the support of all our partners and I am happy to welcome Mooney: we met this winter at the Ranch, there was an immediate feeling and now we find ourselves here on this stage with these beautiful bikes with our colors”.

Alessio Salucci, Team Director Mooney VR46 Racing Team

“I can only be satisfied to be part of this new project, which is not that new. A Team that has come a long way, thanks to the support of Sky Italia, a long apprenticeship between Moto2 and Moto3 and which step by step has reached MotoGP. A natural evolution to be able to follow the best talents of the VR46 Riders Academy even more closely. We saw Luca and Marco grow up. An important commitment in MotoGP, but which does not obscure Moto2 where we will continue to work because we believe it is preparatory for our riders. It was the right time to take up this challenge, a new chapter of this book always under the sign of the Italian spirit and the DNA of VR46 and Valentino who is 100% involved. He has always been innovative and here too there is his mark. Special thanks to all of our partners who continue to believe in this project and a welcome to Mooney, who joins our family as a title partner. Without their support it would not have been possible to arrive here, we hope to be able to really repay everyone for their trust in the best possible way”.

Emilio Petrone, CEO of Mooney

“What is presented today is much more than a motorcycling team, but a real manifesto made up of values such as excellence, Italian spirit, talent that two leaders in their respective sectors will bring with passion and determination to the tracks all over the world. As a great motor enthusiast, satisfaction and pride are worth double for me today and I am sure that Mooney and VR46 are only at the beginning of a journey that will lead both great satisfactions”.

Salvatore Borgese, General Manager – Commercial & Banking Services of Mooney

“The collaboration between Mooney and VR46 will give life to numerous initiatives dedicated to the consumer and business audience, with the aim of offering an increasingly broad clientele – in an omnichannel logic – advanced payments, banking and mobility services. The launch of the VR46 cobranded card, scheduled for 2022 summer, is only the beginning of a partnership dedicated to the excellence”.

Pablo Nieto, Team Manager MotoGP – Mooney VR46 Racing Team

“A beginning of an important season is so close to us, many expectations and a new Team that will make its debut in Qatar soon. Let’s start with the riders, each of them has to set a goal: on the one hand Luca, who already has a year of experience in MotoGP, on the other Marco, a Rookie. Luca will hit the track with the Ducati GP22 factory motorcycle, he can have fun this year. Marco, on the other hand, can fight to be Rookie of the Year, he has great potential, but it will be difficult because he will compete with very talented and very fast riders coming from the lower classes. By our side there will be Ducati with whom we have begun to build a wonderful relationship, they welcomed us into their family and we speak a very smiley language. The crew has the DNA of VR46: many of the technicians and mechanics of this Team come from Moto2 and have worked with us for many years. An opportunity for growth for many of our guys, a further source of pride for me”.

Luca Brivio – Team Manager Moto2 – Mooney VR46 Racing Team

“It will be an interesting season: Celestino is in his second year in Moto2 on Kalex, he closed in crescendo in 2021, he did well in the preseason and we hope he can be competitive right from the beginning. A category jump instead for Niccolò: he has a very solid and experienced crew behind him, he has a good potential and the primary objective is to have fun, not have too much pressure and grow step by step. So many reasons to give our best, also to reward Vale, Uccio, Pablo and the VR46 for this great opportunity: I joined this Team many years ago, in 2014, and now it is a great pride for me to be able to cover this new role of responsibility”.

Luca Marini #10

“It will be a very important season for me and the whole Mooney VR46 Racing Team: I have begun to become familiar with the new Ducati GP22 bike and to understand its potential in the last tests. The feelings are more than positive, the goal is to be able to consistently stay in the top group, fighting for the Top5 and always stay in the Top10. I would like to arrive on the podium then, I know it’s a very ambitious goal but I have faith in my crew. The atmosphere is great, we had fun and I had a good time. I also really like the colors of the bike, they have always been those of the VR46”.

Marco Bezzecchi #72

“Qatar is just a breath from now and I will have to learn to manage the positive pressure that will come. It has been a long wait and the adrenaline is a lot now. I’m happy with how the tests went, of course I still have a lot to do, we have only done one race simulation so far and the first GPs will be challenging. I like the Team, they are close-knit and the atmosphere is good. The title of Rookie of the year is a great goal, more than anything else, I’d like to fight for it until the end. It will be special get out on the track on this bike: it has the colors of Valentino and the VR46 family and the Italian spirit of Mooney and Ducati”.

Celetino Vietti #13

“It will be a season to be lived in one breath: a year of experience on my shoulders, a motivated work group, that of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, and some really positive feelings after the first tests. I can’t wait the Qatar GP, one of my favorite tracks to test myself. The pace is good, the goal is to be as constant and precise as possible, crucial characteristics for being competitive in Moto2”.

Niccolo Antonelli #28

“A new category, a new Team, the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, and new motivation and desire to do well. We worked hard in the testing to get as ready as possible for the first race in Qatar. The Team is helping me to measure up with the new category and to be comfortable in riding: there is a lot to do, but we are not in a hurry. We continue in this direction, gradually in order to be competitive as soon as possible”.

AMA Flat Track Grand Championship Returns July 7-13

David Swarts

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February 24, 2022

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AMA Flat Track Grand Championship Returns July 7-13

The AMA is set to promote and operate the event at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA Flat Track Grand Championship is already the most prestigious amateur flat track event in the country, but 2022 promises to be the best rendition of the event since its inception in the mid-1970s.

The American Motorcyclist Association returns to operate and promote the event, bringing modified class structures along with new race and entertainment schedules to improve the multi-day program for riders and fans alike. The 2022 AMA Flat Track Grand Championship will take place July 7-13 at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, Ill.

“This year’s AMA Flat Track Grand Championship will be bigger and better than ever,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant. “With four challenging racetracks, combined with the fastest amateur and youth flat track racers in the United States, it will be an epic week.”

The week-long event will host different age groups across multiple racing classes, all of which will compete in the four dirt-track disciplines — Short Track, TT, Mile and Half-Mile.

Multiple AMA National No. 1 plates will be awarded at the conclusion of the event. Along with the class championships, the Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award — given to the most promising amateur rider on the cusp of a professional career — will be one of the most coveted honors awarded at the event.

The Vet/Senior Racer of the Year and Youth Racer of the Year will also be determined at the event.

More information on the upcoming AMA Flat Track Grand Championship can be found at http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/flat-track-racing/.

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. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. 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.

MotoGP: Team Suzuki ECSTAR’s Video From The Mandalika Test

David Swarts

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February 24, 2022

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MotoGP: Team Suzuki ECSTAR’s Video From The Mandalika Test

The latest video of Team Suzuki Ecstar riders Joan Mir and Alex Rins testing the GSX-RR at Mandalika in Indonesia is now online.

Both riders spent three days at the circuit for this final test before the season begins at Losail International Circuit on March 6th.

American Flat Track: Fisher To Be Sponsored By BMC Racing

David Swarts

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February 24, 2022

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American Flat Track: Fisher To Be Sponsored By BMC Racing

BMC Racing Returns As Title Sponsor for Sixty-Seven Racing’s Davis Fisher for 2022 Progressive American Flat Track Season

BEAVERTON, Ore. – Coming off a spectacular 2021 Progressive American Flat Track season finale, in which Davis Fisher earned his maiden win in the premier Mission SuperTwins class, BMC/Sixty-Seven Racing is ready for the 2022 season.

Beaverton Motor Cycle Racing will once again be the title sponsor. With BMC Racing behind him in 2021, Fisher finished sixth in the Grand National Championship on the strength of four top fives, including the epic victory that saw him become the 163rd rider to ever win a premier-class race in the long history of America’s Original Extreme Sport.

Before the ‘21 season was even complete, Bob Lanphere Jr., owner of Beaverton Motorcycles and Oregon’s Best Wine, was already planning improvements for the team ahead for the 2022 season, both underlining his passion for the sport and his deep belief in the extremely talented and dedicated Fisher.

Lanphere said, “Working with Davis and the entire Fisher family has been a sponsor’s dream over the years. The ups and downs of racing isn’t always easy, but watching Davis and his family live the journey has been remarkable.

“I’ve been delighted to sponsor Davis and watch the growth he has made over the years, especially the 2021 racing season with the Grand National win. I’m excited to see the success that 2022 racing brings to Davis, and I’m looking forward to working with Davis and the Fisher family in order to achieve his dream.”

Along with BMC Racing, a number of additional sponsors have signed on to play a critical role in supporting Fisher’s 2022 efforts.

Dan Wall of Wall 60 has been a long-time major supporter of Fisher’s career, just as he was of his father’s (Rex Fisher) racing career. New to the team his year is support from Mission Foods and Elkhart Indian Motorcycle. Both had previously established significant presences in the Progressive AFT paddock, which put them in a position to observe Fisher’s work ethic and determination and want to get involved with his program for ‘22.

Davis will again be traveling the country in his GMC Savana Van with his trailer in tow. He’ll maintain his Indian FTR750s between the races, while his dad, Rex, will fly in on the weekends to spin the wrenches.

Fisher said, “I am really looking forward to getting the 2022 season started with more support backing me this upcoming season. It is a lot of work between driving, racing, training, and doing all the bike work. However, I feel being involved in every aspect has made me stronger as a racer. And I believe we moved in the right direction towards the end of the season and will carry that momentum into the new season.”

Progressive AFT will kick off the 2022 season with the Mission Volusia Half-Mile I & II doubleheader during Daytona Bike Week on Thursday, March 10 and Friday, March 11 at Volusia Speedway Park. Be sure to look for the #67 on track and cheer Davis on.

Special thanks to BMC Racing, Oregon’s Best Wine, Mission Foods, Elkhart Indian Motorcycle, Wall 60, Celorie Bros. Trucking, Allied Motors, and Arai Helmets.

AOD’s N2/WERA Endurance Adventures, In The February Issue

Trudy Ulrich

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February 23, 2022

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AOD’s N2/WERA Endurance Adventures, In The February Issue

Featured In the February 2022 issue of Roadracing World:

Excerpt:

“With Dunlop taking over as the sponsor for the series, and for N2 Track Days, and for the Yamaha Champions Riding School (where AOD riders Chris Peris and Ben Walters instruct), and equipping our two biggest competitors, it only made sense for us to switch tires as well…to Pirelli!

“Once we nailed down our switch from French/Spanish rubber to Sino/Italian, we had to turn our focus to the new realities of racing in the time of Euro5…”

—Army Of Darkness, N2/WERA Endurance, Part 1, by Sam Q. Fleming

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the February 2022 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Read the February 2022 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

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Moto2: American Racing Team Finishes Pre-Season Work In Portugal

David Swarts

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February 23, 2022

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Moto2: American Racing Team Finishes Pre-Season Work In Portugal

Cleared for take-off: American Racing’s 2022 season takes flight in Portugal.

Los Angeles, CA (Feb 23, 2022) — After two days of private testing under the Andalusian sun in Jerez, the all-American Racing Team took to the track at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, for the first and only official test of the 2022 season.

With both riders getting their first taste of the latest chassis updates from Kalex & new rubber from Dunlop to get to grips with, the work was non-stop over the last week for everyone in American Racing.

Despite substantial winds on day one, Cam was able to slot himself into the top five as he refamiliarized himself with his bike and the Portuguese circuit. The 28-year-old continued to put in the work over the remainder of the week, setting his fastest lap of 1:42.801 on the second day, which comfortably placed him among the front runners. A head cold impacted his final day of running but the work overall sets the five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion up nicely for his second Moto2 season.

Rookie Sean relished the challenge of a brand-new circuit aboard a 2022 Moto2 machine as he began to find his feet in the class as a full-time competitor. Sean demonstrated great progress on the ever physically demanding rollercoaster-like track throughout the three days, improving by 1.3 seconds from the first to final day.

Cameron Beaubier #6 –

“It was a long week of good weather and valuable track time on the new bike. A couple days to get settled at the private test in Jerez was useful. The track has always been tough on me, but I was happy with how I was riding on the first day until I had a stupid crash at the end of the day. The team were looking out for me, and we thought it was best to sit out day two and prepare for the official test in Portugal.

The three days in Portimao were also positive I’d say. I felt good on the first two days but then, on the third day, we tried some new things which didn’t quite work… but that’s testing for you! We can still take plenty of positives away with us. It’s good to be back with everyone at the American Racing Team and now I’m excited and ready to go racing again!”

Sean Dylan Kelly #4 –

“To begin with, it was important for me this week to really take in that the dream has officially started. Being on track with the whole 2022 field was a huge contrast to my 2019 wildcard, I just felt like this is my spot now, I’m where I have to be.

It was definitely an action packed week with a whole lot of laps, where the objective was to just learn. It’s called ‘testing’ for a reason! The Moto2 bike is so different from what I’ve been racing for three years and because of how these Grand Prix chassis are, this stage was about riding the motorcycle differently and completely changing what I’ve been doing for those last three years.

The private test in Jerez was really helpful for me because it was a track that we already did some laps at in November and a track that I raced at in Rookies Cup. Come the end of that test we were able to focus a little more on the lap time where everything really connected well, so that was positive for me.

Truthfully, Portimao was a little bit of a different story. I have to take into account here that this is a track I have very little experience at with no information to have a reference with in Moto2 either. So the whole three days there was a big learning curve with a lot of information to process. I can’t say the lap time shows the potential whatsoever, as it was about what I learned and will be able to take into Qatar next week, which is what I am focusing on and leaving Europe positive heading into the racing season. I know that I’m here to learn, here to adapt, and absorb as much as I can until I get to where I know I can be!”

John Hopkins, Sporting Director –

“It ended up being a bitter-but definitely more-sweet pre-season test for us. We had a couple of mishaps, but I think so did a lot of people out there.

Cam was on the pace and showed his potential. Unfortunately he had a crash in Jerez, and he sat out of day two which is a bummer but prior to that, he was really strong at a track he struggled at last year. In Portimao, he developed a head cold which set him back a bit but otherwise it was very positive for him. Last year, he got more competitive towards the end of the year, so I think he’ll be up there with top five potential this year.

With Sean, Portugal ended up being more realistic in terms of expectations for us. He had two crashes where he lost the front end but it’s what I would expect him to do when he’s learning a new bike and going up against some of the best riders in the world. He’s got to know where the limits are and push them. Unfortunately for any rider, two back-to-back crashes dents your confidence a bit, but it was still a positive test as he was really closing the gap on the third day from where he started.

I’m looking forward to the season and I think Sean will be a very strong rookie and Cam has every opportunity to be a championship contender so I’m really looking forward to Qatar.”
About the American Racing Team

The American Racing Team is owned by Avner Kass and Eitan Butbul and competes in the FIM MotoGP World Championship. Based in California, the team fields two American riders in the Moto2 class: Cameron Beaubier (No. 6) and Spaniard Sean Dylan Kelly (No. 4). American Racing has grown under Butbul’s guidance and is a respected member of the MotoGP paddock.

AHRMA: Bridgestone Named Title Sponsor Through 2024

David Swarts

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February 23, 2022

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AHRMA: Bridgestone Named Title Sponsor Through 2024

Bridgestone Motorcycle Tires named the National Title Series Sponsor of the AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series and AHRMA National Off-road Motocross and Cross-Country Series

Bridgestone and the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association extend partnership for the 2022-2024 seasons of the Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series.

This extended partnership includes sponsorship of the Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Off-road Motocross and Cross-Country Series.

Bridgestone is a proud partner with AHRMA to promote vintage, post vintage, next gen, and modern racing in multiple disciplines.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (February 23, 2022) – Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (Bridgestone) is partnering with the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) as the title sponsor of the Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series and Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Off-road Motocross and Cross-Country Series for the 2022-2024 seasons.

The Bridgestone Tires AHRMA Historic Cup Roadracing Series will take place at some of the finest and most historic venues in the United States: Daytona International Speedway, Heartland Motorsports Park, New Jersey Motorsports Park, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and Barber Motorsports Park, to name a few. It will give racers from across the country a chance to exhibit their skills and compete against each other in a broad range of classes and disciplines. A contingency award program will be offered to AHRMA competitors across a wide range of tires and classes. The awards will be substantial and consistent, offering real incentive to the racers and reinforcing the commitment of Bridgestone to this series.

The Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Motocross and Cross-Country Series occurs across nine regions nationwide in three different classes (Vintage Motocross, Post Vintage Motocross, and Next Gen Motocross). The total number of races far surpasses 100.

“As a committed supporter of motorcycle racing, Bridgestone is excited to partner with AHRMA to grow the sport and showcase our company’s technical expertise,” said Jared Williams, General Manager, Bridgestone Motorcycle Tire Business in the United States and Canada. “Partnering with AHRMA is an opportunity to highlight leading race tires like the Battlax Classic Racing CR11 tire and the flagship Racing Battlax V02 slick tire in both the historic and modern race classes. For Motocross and Cross-Country racers, Bridgestone is excited to introduce the new Battlecross X31 tire that recently launched in January 2022. We’re happy to continue partnering with AHRMA to support their legacy in historic motorcycle racing and their full range of classes and disciplines.”

“We are proud to have Bridgestone as our Title Sponsor for our National Historic Cup Roadracing Series and National Off-road Motocross and Cross-Country Series. The commitment to technology, quality, consistency, and service are notable, and the ability of one brand to support so many race disciplines and classes is remarkable,” said Craig Grantham, Executive Director of AHRMA. “The generous contingency program makes these quality tires even more beneficial for our members, and we are grateful for this support. Our racers have had much success on Bridgestone tires since we began our partnership, and we are all excited for what the future holds.”

The 2022 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series will increase to 13 races this season, which started with a very successful and well attended event at Daytona International Speedway in January. The road racing season will conclude at Barber Motorsports Park on October 6-9, 2022. Bridgestone road race tires will be available for purchase onsite at every round. For Bridgestone road race contingency information, please see your AHRMA Tech Official at the track.

The Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Motocross and Cross-Country Series will begin with numerous races in March at tracks across the country. Visit www.ahrma.org for more details.

About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:

Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Bridgestone Americas employs more than 50,000 people across its worldwide operations. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tires and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play.

About The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association Ltd.:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association Ltd. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring and competing on historic motorcycles. With over 3000 members, AHRMA is the leading vintage racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.

MotoAmerica: Anthony’s Leatherworks Renews Sponsorship

David Swarts

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February 23, 2022

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MotoAmerica: Anthony’s Leatherworks Renews Sponsorship

Anthony’s Leatherworks Set To Sponsor MotoAmerica Series Again In 2022

Leather Repair, Alteration And Restoration Service Returns As An Official Partner

IRVINE, CA (February 23, 2022) – MotoAmerica, the premier motorcycle road racing series in North America, is pleased to announce that Anthony’s Leatherworks will again be an official partner of the series for the 2022 Auto Parts 4 Less MotoAmerica Championship.

Based in Corona del Mar, California, Anthony’s Leatherworks has been in the business of leather repair, alterations and restoration service for over 25 years and is the preferred leather repair center for Dainese, Alpinestars, REV’IT!, Spidi, AGV Sport and Mithos. Anthony’s Leatherworks is also a business member of the AMA and prides itself on giving customers a superior service of leather repair that is required and demanded in the industry.

Anthony’s Leatherworks specializes in motorcycle racing leathers and its services include full reconditioning, dyeing, minor and major repair jobs, accessory replacement, alterations, section replacement, crash-damage repair and custom laser leather engraving and cutting. Anthony’s can also add all the required MotoAmerica patches on suits – either standard patches or those made of leather.

As part of Anthony Leatherworks’ sponsorship agreement, they will be providing a drop-off option for customers at each of the 10 MotoAmerica rounds in 2022. Customers looking to get their garments repaired can drop off the leathers at a pre-determined spot, and they will be shipped back to California on the Monday after the races for repair. Upon completion of the repair, the leathers will then be shipped back to the customer.

“Anthony’s Leatherworks has been a great partner for MotoAmerica as they provide a service for both our racers and our motorcycle-riding fans,” said Lance Bryson, MotoAmerica’s Director of Sponsorship. “The drop-off option has proven to be popular with our riders and fans as it’s a great way for people to get repairs done to their leathers when going to Anthony’s shop in California isn’t an option.”

“We’re excited to be a sponsorship partner of MotoAmerica for a third straight season,” said Anthony’s Leatherworks owner Greg Sermabeikian. “The partnership has been great for both parties. Our customer base has grown through the relationship, and we are looking forward to another great season of racing and interacting with our customers and MotoAmerica fans.”

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes 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 on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Daytona 200: More About The Event, Including Two-Up Superbike Rides

David Swarts

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February 23, 2022

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Daytona 200: More About The Event, Including Two-Up Superbike Rides

Monster Energy to Sponsor 81st Annual Bike Week at DAYTONA!

Tickets Start at $45 for 52nd Running of DAYTONA Supercross and $35 for DAYTONA 200

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Feb. 23, 2022) – When thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts visit Daytona Beach for Bike Week in March, they will experience some added excitement and action as Monster Energy will be a major part of a host of the events that will make up the 81st Annual Bike Week At DAYTONA Presented By Monster Energy, March 4-12.

“Monster Energy is very excited to be part of this year’s Bike Week with Daytona International Speedway,” said Dave Gowland, VP – Motorsports for Monster Energy. “Two major components to Monster Energy are racing and lifestyle, which is a part of the DNA of Monster. It is only fitting for Monster to spend and invest in, if not the largest, the Best Bike week this country has to offer. We’re ready for Bike Week At DAYTONA Presented By Monster Energy.”

Monster is bringing the action with a week full of excitement. Plans are to have a host of Monster Athletes on hand and host autograph sessions, including Off-Road and Dakar Champion Casey Currie with his Drift Jeep and Keith Sayers (FMX) as well as the Harley Unknown Industries stunt riders. Also, scheduled to be on hand will be FMX stars’ Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg, Axell Hodges, Blake “Bilko” Williams, Taka Higashino and Vicki Golden. Timing for these sessions are TBD.

In addition, there will be numerous Monster entertainment demonstrations, one that will feature daily QuarterPipe High Air demos featuring the biggest names of the X Games, along with two FREE concerts – Face To Face on Wednesday (March 9) and Steel Panther on Friday (March 11). Both concerts, which will be held in Lot 4 outside the Turn 4 tunnel entrance, are brought to you by Monster Energy. Please note: Event and appearance schedule subject to change.

The tradition-rich 81st Annual Bike Week At DAYTONA Presented By Monster Energy will feature DAYTONA Supercross and the DAYTONA 200. Tickets are on sale now for both anticipated events.

DAYTONA Supercross

The 52nd running of DAYTONA Supercross, the most demanding course of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship season – and the only AMA Supercross event in the state of Florida in 2022, is set for Saturday, March 5. The 80th running of the DAYTONA 200, hosted by MotoAmerica, home of AMA Superbike and North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, will take place a week later on Saturday, March 12 at the World Center of Racing.

DAYTONA Supercross is the longest continuous Supercross race in America dating back to 1971 and features the best riders in the world. It could also be one of epic, historic proportions. Eli Tomac will go for a record sixth victory that would take him out of a tie with the Greatest of All Time, Ricky Carmichael, with five DAYTONA Supercross titles. Tomac has won the last three (2019, ‘20, ‘21) and five out of the last six (2016, ‘17). For the 15th straight year, Carmichael will lend his signature design to the most grueling Supercross course on the circuit.

Advanced general admission frontstretch seating for DAYTONA Supercross is just $45.00. Kids 6-12 are $15 and ages 5 and under are free in general admission areas. Trackside Access, which allows fans to view the race while standing on the frontstretch of the 2.5-mile tri-oval, is available for an additional $20 and gets fans closer to the action that anywhere else on the Supercross circuit; kids 5 and under are free. Access to the Monster Energy AMA Supercross pits is free during the day for all ticket holders.

Hospitality packages, including the Rolex 24 Lounge ($265.00), President’s Row and Loge Boxes are on sale. Infield car parking is available in advance for $10. Two “Track Walks” will take place on Saturday from 3-3:10 p.m. and 5:15-5:25 pm., and can be purchased for just $75.00 (must be accompanied by a race ticket).

DAYTONA 200

The DAYTONA 200, which features the incredible machines on both the high banks of Daytona International Speedway as well as the infield road course, has tickets starting at $35 for frontstretch seating only and $45 for frontstretch seating coupled with infield access, which includes garages and UNOH Fanzone. Parking is also available for $20 in advance.

The DAYTONA 200 will feature new rules based off the proposed 2022 World Supersport Technical rules, which take into consideration several performance related items that establish benchmarks for balancing a wide variety of middleweight performance machines. The DAYTONA 200 will not be included as part of the MotoAmerica Supersport Championship, leaving the opportunity open for the best riders from around the world to compete for the minimum $175,000 in purse and contingency that will be offered.

In addition to the DAYTONA 200, the MotoAmerica weekend at Daytona International Speedway will be the opening round of the 2022 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Championship, marking the first time Baggers will race on the high banks of a Superspeedway with speeds expected to exceed 160 mph, and also the first round of the Twins Cup Championship.

Also a part of the excitement of DAYTONA 200 weekend is the Dunlop ECSTAR Suzuki Two-Seat Superbike program where fans can take a ride around Daytona International Speedway with a professional superbike racer at speeds up to 150 mph! All proceeds from the Dunlop ECSTAR Suzuki Two-Seat Superbike program are donated to the Roadracing World Action Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit focused on improving racetrack safety through the deployment of soft barriers. Fans must be 18 years old to ride. Price is $500 per person and includes weekend general admission and a weekend parking pass.

A host of Bike Week At DAYTONA Presented By Monster Energy camping packages to take in both event weekends are also available where families can make Daytona their home for a week. All ticket and parking options can be found at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP. In addition, fans and visitors can enjoy the Bike Week Motorcycle Marketplace at Daytona International Speedway available. The area’s largest motorcycle marketplace will feature the nation’s top motorcycle parts, apparel vendors and much more.

Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for the latest speedway news. For information on all events, visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.

About Monster Energy

Based in Corona, California, Monster Energy is the leading marketer of energy drinks and alternative beverages. Refusing to acknowledge the traditional, Monster Energy supports the scene and sport. Whether motocross, off-road, NASCAR, MMA, BMX, surf, snowboard, ski, skateboard, or the rock and roll lifestyle, Monster Energy is a brand that believes in authenticity and the core of what its sports, athletes and musicians represent. More than a drink, it’s the way of life lived by athletes, sports, bands, believers, and fans. See more about Monster Energy including all of its drinks at www.monsterenergy.com.

About Daytona International Speedway

Daytona International Speedway is a state-of-the-art motorsports facility and was awarded the SportsBusiness Journal’s prestigious Sports Business Award for Sports Facility of the Year in 2016. Daytona International Speedway is the home of The Great American Race – the DAYTONA 500. Though the season-opening NASCAR Cup Series event garners most of the attention – as well as the largest audience in motorsports – the approximately 500-acre motorsports complex, also known as The World Center of Racing, boasts the most diverse schedule of racing on the globe. In addition to at least nine major event weekends, the Speedway grounds are also used extensively for events that include concerts, civic and social gatherings, car shows, photo shoots, production vehicle testing and police motorcycle training.

2022 North America Talent Cup Schedule Released

David Swarts

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February 23, 2022

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2022 North America Talent Cup Schedule:

4/8-10 Circuit of The Americas, Austin, TX (MotoGP/MotoAmerica)

5/7-8 High Plains Raceway, Deer Trail, CO (MRA)

6/24-26 Ridge Motorsports Park, Shelton, WA (MotoAmerica)

7/15-17 Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA (WERA)

8/12-14 Pittsburgh International Race Complex, Wampum, PA (WERA)

9/2-4 Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Braselton, GA (WERA)

9/23-25 Barber Motorsports Park, Birmingham, AL (MotoAmerica)

More, from a press release issued by MRA:

MRA to host Round Two of North America Talent Cup

The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) is excited to announce it will be hosting the North America Talent Cup (NATC) at High Plains Raceway as part of the MRA’s opening round activities on the 7th and 8th of May. The NATC is new for 2022 and is an exciting development for motorcycle road racing in North America as it gives talented and aspiring young racers an official path on the Road to MotoGP™. It is the MRA’s privilege to host the young and upcoming riders of the NATC and the club will be integrating the NATC sessions into its regular weekend race program. The MRA is especially proud to see Jayden Fernandez, who won the 2021 MRA Supertwins GTU Championship, on the 2022 NATC roster. The MRA Board of Directors recently announced it is waiving spectator fees for 2022 in hopes this will increase spectator attendance at this and all 2022 MRA events. The MRA strives to help promote a safe and competitive track experience within the motorcycling community. For more information, please go to www.mra-racing.org

MotoGP: Mooney VR46 Racing Team Introduced In Italy (With Video)

February 24, 2022

Mooney VR46 Racing Team riders (from left) Niccolo Antonelli, Celestino Vietti, Luca Marini, and Marco Bezzecchi. Photo courtesy Mooney VR46 Racing Team.

THE YELLOW ERA: THE MOONEY VR46 RACING TEAM UNVEILS THE NEW BIKES AT THE ROSSINI THEATER AT PESARO

Common goals and a new synergy between Mooney and VR46 to achieve ambitious results in 2022. Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi show the colors of the Ducati Desmosedici GP together with the Kalex of Celestino Vietti Ramus and Niccolò Antonelli

Pesaro (Italy), February 24th 2022 – The curtain rises at the historic Rossini Theatre at Pesaro for the presentation of the 2022 season of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, live this morning on all social media channels of the Tavullia team.

An almost oxymoronic conjunction, with a unique atmosphere and in a historical setting, the one staged at Rossini’s house of opera music: on the one hand the technology of the Ducati Desmosedici GP and the Kalex bikes, on the other the live performance of the G. Rossini Symphony Orchestra, who performed together with Dj Ralf for an unveiling full of emotions.

On the eve of the departure for Qatar for the real debut of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team (4/6 March), Pesaro, a city just a few kilometers from Tavullia, the beating heart of the new MotoGP and Moto2 project, becomes the capital of the two wheels for a day. A celebration of the Made in Italy racing passion, with Dj Albertino and Vic as presenters and in the presence of Valentino Rossi, Team Owner, who officially sealed the new partnership with Mooney together with Emilio Petrone (CEO of Mooney), Salvatore Borgese (General Manager – Commercial & Banking Services of Mooney), Alessio Salucci (Team Director) and Alberto Tebaldi (CFO).

Then space for the real stars of the racing season: the riders and motorbikes that will be on track with the new Mooney VR46 Racing Team design. After the more than positive balance in the first tests between Malaysia and Indonesia, and on stage together with the Team Manager Pablo Nieto, Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi can’t wait to get back at work on the yellow liveries of the Ducati Desmosedici GP, created by the VR46 graphics department. The fluorescent yellow and black of the VR46 mix with the ocher yellow and dark grey of Mooney for a game of contrasts that redesigns the graphics of the entire Team in a more aggressive and racing way. A theme that is also repeated on the Kalex of the Moto2 Team with Celestino Vietti Ramus and Niccolò Antonelli, together with the new Team Manager Luca Brivio, ready to be in the slipstream of the fastest guys.

Valentino Rossi, Team Owner Mooney VR46 Racing Team

“It has been a long way since Moto3, but now we are ready to make our debut in MotoGP with a VR46 team and four young riders who I know will give their 100%. It is the closing of a circle for me and also for all the people who have worked with so much passion on this project over the years. At the same time it is a great debut and the beginning of a new chapter of this beautiful story in MotoGP. We are here thanks to the support of all our partners and I am happy to welcome Mooney: we met this winter at the Ranch, there was an immediate feeling and now we find ourselves here on this stage with these beautiful bikes with our colors”.

Alessio Salucci, Team Director Mooney VR46 Racing Team

“I can only be satisfied to be part of this new project, which is not that new. A Team that has come a long way, thanks to the support of Sky Italia, a long apprenticeship between Moto2 and Moto3 and which step by step has reached MotoGP. A natural evolution to be able to follow the best talents of the VR46 Riders Academy even more closely. We saw Luca and Marco grow up. An important commitment in MotoGP, but which does not obscure Moto2 where we will continue to work because we believe it is preparatory for our riders. It was the right time to take up this challenge, a new chapter of this book always under the sign of the Italian spirit and the DNA of VR46 and Valentino who is 100% involved. He has always been innovative and here too there is his mark. Special thanks to all of our partners who continue to believe in this project and a welcome to Mooney, who joins our family as a title partner. Without their support it would not have been possible to arrive here, we hope to be able to really repay everyone for their trust in the best possible way”.

Emilio Petrone, CEO of Mooney

“What is presented today is much more than a motorcycling team, but a real manifesto made up of values such as excellence, Italian spirit, talent that two leaders in their respective sectors will bring with passion and determination to the tracks all over the world. As a great motor enthusiast, satisfaction and pride are worth double for me today and I am sure that Mooney and VR46 are only at the beginning of a journey that will lead both great satisfactions”.

Salvatore Borgese, General Manager – Commercial & Banking Services of Mooney

“The collaboration between Mooney and VR46 will give life to numerous initiatives dedicated to the consumer and business audience, with the aim of offering an increasingly broad clientele – in an omnichannel logic – advanced payments, banking and mobility services. The launch of the VR46 cobranded card, scheduled for 2022 summer, is only the beginning of a partnership dedicated to the excellence”.

Pablo Nieto, Team Manager MotoGP – Mooney VR46 Racing Team

“A beginning of an important season is so close to us, many expectations and a new Team that will make its debut in Qatar soon. Let’s start with the riders, each of them has to set a goal: on the one hand Luca, who already has a year of experience in MotoGP, on the other Marco, a Rookie. Luca will hit the track with the Ducati GP22 factory motorcycle, he can have fun this year. Marco, on the other hand, can fight to be Rookie of the Year, he has great potential, but it will be difficult because he will compete with very talented and very fast riders coming from the lower classes. By our side there will be Ducati with whom we have begun to build a wonderful relationship, they welcomed us into their family and we speak a very smiley language. The crew has the DNA of VR46: many of the technicians and mechanics of this Team come from Moto2 and have worked with us for many years. An opportunity for growth for many of our guys, a further source of pride for me”.

Luca Brivio – Team Manager Moto2 – Mooney VR46 Racing Team

“It will be an interesting season: Celestino is in his second year in Moto2 on Kalex, he closed in crescendo in 2021, he did well in the preseason and we hope he can be competitive right from the beginning. A category jump instead for Niccolò: he has a very solid and experienced crew behind him, he has a good potential and the primary objective is to have fun, not have too much pressure and grow step by step. So many reasons to give our best, also to reward Vale, Uccio, Pablo and the VR46 for this great opportunity: I joined this Team many years ago, in 2014, and now it is a great pride for me to be able to cover this new role of responsibility”.

Luca Marini #10

“It will be a very important season for me and the whole Mooney VR46 Racing Team: I have begun to become familiar with the new Ducati GP22 bike and to understand its potential in the last tests. The feelings are more than positive, the goal is to be able to consistently stay in the top group, fighting for the Top5 and always stay in the Top10. I would like to arrive on the podium then, I know it’s a very ambitious goal but I have faith in my crew. The atmosphere is great, we had fun and I had a good time. I also really like the colors of the bike, they have always been those of the VR46”.

Marco Bezzecchi #72

“Qatar is just a breath from now and I will have to learn to manage the positive pressure that will come. It has been a long wait and the adrenaline is a lot now. I’m happy with how the tests went, of course I still have a lot to do, we have only done one race simulation so far and the first GPs will be challenging. I like the Team, they are close-knit and the atmosphere is good. The title of Rookie of the year is a great goal, more than anything else, I’d like to fight for it until the end. It will be special get out on the track on this bike: it has the colors of Valentino and the VR46 family and the Italian spirit of Mooney and Ducati”.

Celetino Vietti #13

“It will be a season to be lived in one breath: a year of experience on my shoulders, a motivated work group, that of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, and some really positive feelings after the first tests. I can’t wait the Qatar GP, one of my favorite tracks to test myself. The pace is good, the goal is to be as constant and precise as possible, crucial characteristics for being competitive in Moto2”.

Niccolo Antonelli #28

“A new category, a new Team, the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, and new motivation and desire to do well. We worked hard in the testing to get as ready as possible for the first race in Qatar. The Team is helping me to measure up with the new category and to be comfortable in riding: there is a lot to do, but we are not in a hurry. We continue in this direction, gradually in order to be competitive as soon as possible”.

AMA Flat Track Grand Championship Returns July 7-13

February 24, 2022

Action from the AMA Flat Track Grand Championship in 2020. Photo courtesy AMA.

The AMA is set to promote and operate the event at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA Flat Track Grand Championship is already the most prestigious amateur flat track event in the country, but 2022 promises to be the best rendition of the event since its inception in the mid-1970s.

The American Motorcyclist Association returns to operate and promote the event, bringing modified class structures along with new race and entertainment schedules to improve the multi-day program for riders and fans alike. The 2022 AMA Flat Track Grand Championship will take place July 7-13 at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, Ill.

“This year’s AMA Flat Track Grand Championship will be bigger and better than ever,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant. “With four challenging racetracks, combined with the fastest amateur and youth flat track racers in the United States, it will be an epic week.”

The week-long event will host different age groups across multiple racing classes, all of which will compete in the four dirt-track disciplines — Short Track, TT, Mile and Half-Mile.

Multiple AMA National No. 1 plates will be awarded at the conclusion of the event. Along with the class championships, the Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award — given to the most promising amateur rider on the cusp of a professional career — will be one of the most coveted honors awarded at the event.

The Vet/Senior Racer of the Year and Youth Racer of the Year will also be determined at the event.

More information on the upcoming AMA Flat Track Grand Championship can be found at http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/flat-track-racing/.

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. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. 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.

MotoGP: Team Suzuki ECSTAR’s Video From The Mandalika Test

February 24, 2022

Alex Rins. Photo courtesy Dorna. — Alex Rins, as seen during pre-season testing at Mandalika International Street Circuit. Photo courtesy Dorna.

The latest video of Team Suzuki Ecstar riders Joan Mir and Alex Rins testing the GSX-RR at Mandalika in Indonesia is now online.

Both riders spent three days at the circuit for this final test before the season begins at Losail International Circuit on March 6th.

American Flat Track: Fisher To Be Sponsored By BMC Racing

February 24, 2022

Davis Fisher (67), as seen in 2020. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy AFT.