Last week, we asked our dear Patrons if they had any questions for us. And, well, you know the drill: lots of you responded, we picked our favourites and finally Mat and Peter do their best to answer them in an hour or so. Right?
I mean, how many questions in need of resolution could there possibly be?
Well, let’s just say that if you normally pour yourself a glass for these episodes, then this time you might want to bring the bottle. Or just bring the whole damn cask, because we’ll be here for awhile. If your question was: “What’s the longest episode you’ve ever done?”, then you’ve already found your answer here…
…Two hours, baby!
So come hang out with us as we answer all your questions, and I do mean all your questions. Oh, and we’ve got mail from Graham Norton and other celebs! Or someone with the same name – but that NEVER happens on the internet, right?
Cheers!
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club for writing our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
As the inaugural season of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup approaches its opening event in Austin, Texas, Harley-Davidson and MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group have announced a further update to the championship entry list. The addition of a new team and two riders continues to shape an increasingly international and competitive grid ahead of the series’ on-track debut, with the first official pre-season test scheduled for March 21–22 at Circuit of the Americas.
The latest entry in the list of participating teams is ParkinGO Team, one of Italy’s most established international racing organizations, which will compete with a one-bike entry. Founded by Giuliano Rovelli and managed by his son Edoardo, ParkinGO Team is a former FIM Supersport World Championship–winning team with extensive experience in Moto2, World Supersport, and international endurance racing. The team will field Filippo Rovelli (#27), marking a new chapter for the Rovelli family within the global Harley-Davidson racing project.
In addition, Saddlemen Racing has expanded its program to a three-bike effort, further strengthening the competitiveness and depth of the championship.
CURRENT 2026 TEAM ENTRY LIST:
• Joe Rascal Racing (Australia) – 3 bikes
• Niti Racing (Indonesia) – 2 bikes
• ParkinGO Team (Italy) – 1 bike
• Saddlemen Racing (USA) – 3 bikes
As preparations continue for the inaugural season, discussions remain ongoing with current and prospective teams regarding possible future developments. Cecchini Racing’s provisional entry is currently on standby after the team was unable to finalize the required guarantees for Round 1.
The current lineup highlights the truly international character of the championship, with riders and teams representing four different continents. This global diversity reflects the broad appeal of the series and reinforces the ambition of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup to establish a new competitive platform capable of uniting racing cultures and audiences from around the world.
2026 RIDER LINEUP:
#10 TRAVIS WYMAN (USA) – SADDLEMEN RACING
Travis Wyman has built a strong reputation in American V-twin road racing, known for his consistency, race-winning pace, and technical feedback. Competing at the highest level of heavyweight bagger competition in the United States, Wyman has secured multiple victories and podium finishes aboard Harley-Davidson machinery. His experience with large-displacement V-twin platforms makes him a valuable asset for Saddlemen Racing.
#13 CORY WEST (USA) – SADDLEMEN RACING
Cory West is a highly experienced American road racer with more than two decades of professional competition, including the MotoAmerica Super Hooligan championship title in 2024. Known for his versatility and technical insight, he has built a strong reputation racing large-displacement V-twin machinery at the highest level of American bagger competition. His race-winning experience and development feedback make him a key contributor to the Saddlemen Racing program.
#20 DIMAS EKKY PRATAMA (INA) – NITI RACING
Dimas Ekky Pratama is one of Indonesia’s most internationally experienced riders, having competed in Moto2 World Championship events and the FIM CEV Moto2 European Championship. A leading presence in Asia Road Racing, Pratama combines adaptability, resilience, and race intelligence, reflecting Indonesia’s growing presence in global circuit competition.
#27 FILIPPO ROVELLI (ITA) – PARKINGO TEAM
Filippo Rovelli enters the championship backed by the experienced ParkinGO Team structure. With European racing experience and a strong development focus, Rovelli represents the next generation of Italian talent within the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup.
#34 CODY WYMAN (USA) – JOE RASCAL RACING
Cody Wyman has established himself as a leading competitor in American racing, earning multiple victories and podium finishes in MotoAmerica Super Hooligan. His familiarity with Harley-Davidson race machinery and assertive riding style position him as a strong contender on the world stage.
#51 ERIC GRANADO (BRA) – JOE RASCAL RACING
Eric Granado is one of Brazil’s most accomplished international riders, with a distinguished record in MotoE World Cup competition and experience in Moto2 and World Superbike. Known for precision and adaptability, Granado brings world championship experience and technical depth to the Bagger World Cup.
#69 ARCHIE MCDONALD (AUS) – JOE RASCAL RACING
Archie McDonald represents Australia’s emerging generation of road racers. With experience in national superbike competition, he combines determination with disciplined race management and adds fresh energy to the Joe Rascal Racing lineup.
#85 JAKE LEWIS (USA) – SADDLEMEN RACING
Jake Lewis is a proven American road racer with extensive experience across multiple national racing categories. Known for his natural speed and disciplined riding style, Lewis has been a consistent contender in top-level V-twin bagger competition in the United States. In 2012, he won the AMA Pro SuperSport East Championship, earning Rookie of the Year honors. In 2021, he won the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 title. His aggressive approach and race craft add depth and competitiveness to the Saddlemen Racing lineup.
#99 OSCAR GUTIÉRREZ (ESP) – NITI RACING
Oscar Gutiérrez is a former World Supersport 300 Champion with experience across Supersport and Superbike categories. His balanced riding style and championship background bring maturity and consistency to Niti Racing.
The grid will be in action this weekend March 21 & 22 at COTA for the official pre-season test before racing gets underway alongside MotoGP at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the United States! Make sure to tune in.
Galfer USA, a benchmark in the U.S. high-performance braking market, and MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, announce a multi-year partnership aligned with the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship.
With over 70 years of experience, Galfer is globally recognized for its technological innovation, precision-engineered rotors, and racing brake pads used at the highest levels of motorcycle competition. With headquarters in Orlando, Florida, Galfer USA has been operating in the American market for over 30 years, providing high-performance braking solutions to professional teams, OEMs, dealers, and enthusiasts across the United States.
In recent years, Galfer has strengthened its presence in the most prestigious motorcycle racing competitions, bringing its technology to the highest levels of the MotoGP™ World Championship. In 2024, rider Ai Ogura of the MT Helmets – MSI team won the Moto2™ World Championship using Galfer.
Through this multi-year partnership, Galfer USA reinforces its commitment to motorsports and the U.S. market, bringing to America the same experience, innovation, and racing leadership that Galfer has established in Europe, while consolidating its presence in the MotoAmerica paddock and its connection to American road racing.
Saddlemen Race Development Harley-Davidson rider Jake Lewis brakes into Turn 1 at Daytona International Speedway. Galfer braking components helped Lewis secure podium finishes in both Mission Super Hooligan National Championship races over the weekend, including a victory in Race 2. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
“MotoAmerica represents the highest level of road racing in the U.S., and that’s exactly where Galfer belongs,” said Armando Riva, Country Manager of Galfer USA. “We’re excited to engage in a partnership that puts our products side-by-side with the best riders, showcasing how closely our brand is connected to elite-level performance.”
“Galfer has built its reputation in the most competitive racing environments in the world, and that level of technical commitment aligns perfectly with what we expect in the MotoAmerica paddock,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “Having partners who understand performance at this level, while actively supporting racing development, strengthens our championship and the teams who compete in it.”
Despite encountering unseasonably cool ambient air temperaures, combined with strong breezes that produced wind chills in the 30s, a cadré of road racers from MotoAmerica’s Superbike, Supersport, Mission King Of The Baggers, Mission Super Hooligan National Championship, and Talent Cup classes participated in the first day of the two-day Dunlop Pre-Season Test at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas.
OrangeCat Racing BMW Superbike rider Sean Dylan Kelly emerged as the fastest overall rider on day one with a lap of 2:09.538. The Miami-based former Supersport Champion and former Moto2 World Championship rider seemed completely non-plussed by the weather as he and his crew worked diligently to hone the setup on his #40 BMW M 1000 RR Superbike.
“It was a really solid first day of testing,” commented Kelly. “I’m really happy to be back at COTA. Obviously, the one track that I have a Superbike win at, so it holds a special place in my heart. It’s more important than that. It’s just nice to come to a track that I have a direct comparison with the BMW of what I’ve done here. It makes the test look more efficient because we’ve been testing at other tracks that I haven’t ridden the BMW at ever, since 2024. It was a bit of a difficult day because of the weather, but it was still nice to be able to get through our whole testing plan today. Did a lot of laps. Really happy with how I grew throughout the day. Confidence got a lot better. Connection with the bike was improving lap by lap. We answered a lot of questions too, which I’m happy about. Lap times are off because of the conditions, but at least it put us still best for the day. Obviously suits well. Looking forward to more work tomorrow. We’re going to keep on working hard. I do want to take a second to say thank you to the whole OrangeCat Racing team. They’re doing an amazing job. I’m really proud of the crew and the team.”
SDK goes well at COTA, the track where he won his first MotoAmerica Superbike race in 2024, on a BMW. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
“The weather does look a little bit better for tomorrow, and we need it. Tomorrow will be our last day of testing before round one, so that means we still have some more questions to answer and get us as 100% ready as we can be for round one.”
Class leaders on day one were Supersport rider Xavi Forés, who is Strack Racing Yamaha rider Blake Davis’s crew chief. The former Supersport Champion and World Championship competitor threw his leg over Davis’s spare Yamaha YZF-R9 and notched a fastest lap of 2:14.621. Kyle Wyman was the fastest Mission King Of The Baggers rider with a lap of 2:14.070 aboard his #1 Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing Road Glide. Andrew Lee went quickest among the Superbike Cup riders with a lap of 2:12.725 on his Real Steel Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. Mission Super Hooligan National Championship competitor Corey Alexander led the high-handlebars class with a 2:18.320 fastest lap in the saddle of his ARCH Racing 2s-R. And former Mini Cup Champion Nathan Gouker was the fastest Talent Cup rider on day one with a lap of 2:28.897 on his Quarterley Racing Krämer APX-350 MA.
The Dunlop Pre-Season Test concludes on Tuesday at COTA, and the riders are expected to lower their lap times even more as a result of the improved weather conditions that are forecast, as well as insights gained from having a good amount of laps under their belts from day one.
Loudon, New Hampshire – The United States Classic Racing Association (USCRA), the oldest vintage motorcycle road racing organization in the U.S., is excited to announce pioneer female racer, American Motorcyclist Association Hall of Fame and Motorsports Hall of Fame nominee Gina Bovaird to serve as Grand Marshal at the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) North America Vintage Road Racing Championships, scheduled for June 12-14, 2026, at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, New Hampshire.
Fast Fearless Females Take Center Stage
The USCRA is once again honored to host the only FIM-sanctioned vintage road racing competition on the continent. This year’s event marks the 24th annual gathering, which will take place on the opening weekend of the 103rd annual Laconia Bike Week.
The theme of the 2026 FIM-sanctioned championships is Fast Fearless Females—honoring the women who pioneered motorcycle road racing and those who continue to make an impact today. Throughout the event, the skill, determination, and achievements of female racers— past and present—will be showcased in celebration of their lasting influence on the sport.
“For me, it was not about being a woman, I just loved the speed of the bikes and the competition. As Grand Marshal, I am honored to stand with all the gritty and determined women racing motorcycles, now and in the past.” – Grand Marshal, Gina Bovaird
Gina Bovaird. Photo by Jaqueline Bovaird / courtesy USCRA
Groundbreaking. Trailblazing. Revolutionary. Gina Bovaird isn’t just part of motorcycle racing history—she helped rewrite it. The Boston-born rider shattered barriers at the highest levels of international motorcycle competition, carving out a place in a sport long dominated by men.
Gina began racing a Yamaha 125 twin in AAMRR events and the Daytona amateur races. In 1973, she moved up to a Yamaha TZ250 and competed in WERA, earning early success. After the AMA began issuing licenses to women in 1974, she obtained her AMA Novice license. That same year at Mosport International Raceway in Canada, despite initial resistance, she was eventually allowed to compete—and promptly set a new lap record in the final practice session on her Honda 125.
In 1975, with sponsorship from Hawaiian Tropic, Gina raced the Daytona Novice 250cc event, recording the fastest trap speed at 144 mph. Later that season she scored WERA victories at Savannah and Nelson Ledges.
By 1980 she had earned her AMA Expert license and became the first woman to qualify for the Daytona 200 on a Yamaha TZ500, recording the fastest rookie trap speed at 184 mph. She returned in 1981 and finished the race, placing 25th.
Later that year, she made history again by becoming the first woman to qualify for and start in the 500cc class of the FIM Grand Prix World Motorcycle Championships at the French Grand Prix of Nogaro. Her trailblazing career has paved the way for generations of female racers who followed.
Gina and her husband Bill Beck currently reside on their horse farm in Ocala, Florida, where she enjoys riding her dressage horses just about every day.
The USCRA and New England Racing Museum will be hosting a reception for Gina at the museum on Saturday evening, June 13th at 7pm, after the conclusion of racing. For more information, visit www.nermuseum.com.
Special Events During the FIM Race Weekend
Along with celebrating female riders, the weekend will showcase thrilling competition featuring some of North America’s top vintage and modern motorcycle and sidecar racers.
On Friday, June 12, the club will host the second race of the new Trackmaster Triple Crown Endurance Series presented by Rick’s Motorsport Electrics. This three-hour contest will test both rider stamina and mechanical reliability, delivering hours of high-intensity racing and excitement. More information can be found at http://www.race-uscra.com.
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The 2026 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held Sept. 10 at the Event Center at Violet Woods in Pickerington, Ohio.
This special event serves as the formal induction of the Class of 2026 into the hallowed halls of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and is a grand celebration of that esteemed group, as well as the Hall of Fame as an institution. Candidates and voting for this year’s class will be announced at a later date.
“Each year, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony gives us the opportunity to honor the remarkable individuals whose passion, innovation and achievements have advanced motorcycling in America,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “As we prepare to welcome a new class of inductees into this distinguished group of Hall of Famers, we look forward to bringing together the motorcycling community and industry in Pickerington to celebrate their lasting impact on our sport and lifestyle.”
Located just minutes away from the AMA Headquarters and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the Event Center at Violet Woods provides a theater-style venue excellent for hosting this prestigious event.
Immediately following the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, there will be a cocktail reception at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, during which Hall of Famers will be on hand to sign autographs and speak with fans.
Follow the Hall of Fame on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on the latest news regarding the 2026 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
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.
HOT HEADLINES: MotoGP back in business in Brazil. After a titanic opener in Thailand, we’re heading west for our much-awaited return to Brazil – with a first-time Championship leader.
Caught your breath yet? After a long winter of waiting, the season opener in Thailand certainly didn’t disappoint, with two stunning showdowns opening our account for 2026. Now we’re off to Brazil for the first time in more than two decades, racing in Goiânia for the first time in even longer, and with a first time Championship leader in Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). We have a home hero, a new pecking order (so far!) and so many unknowns up and down the grid that we don’t want to call it. But if Buriram was unpredictable enough, Brazil could prove even more so as the 22-rider field gear up to take on a venue that’s completely new to each and every one of them.
Pedro Acosta at Buriram. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM.
LEADING THE CHARGE: ACOSTA & KTM
Controversial? For some. But what a debut Tissot Sprint win that was for Acosta in Thailand. A no inches given, fairing-bashing head-to-head between the #37 and Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) was an unbelievable way to begin proceedings in 2026, and after Acosta backed his scintillating Saturday outing up with another gutsy effort to a podium on Sunday, he’s World Championship leader and spearheads the MotoGP field heading to Brazil. It wasn’t the Sunday victory Acosta craves, but it was a weekend which proved serious steps have been made compared to this time last season. Could that first 25-pointer arrive in Goiânia? That’s the question we’re all asking about the early title frontrunner.
On the other side of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing box, Brad Binder also enjoyed a positive stint in Thailand. Acosta took much of the KTM limelight, but the South African’s double top seven means he’s P6 in the championship going to Round 2. That will give Red Bull KTM Tech3’s Enea Bastianini and Maverick Viñales even more hunger for this weekend. The latter, who showed stand-out promise at the Sepang Test, suffered a real low-key weekend in Buriram, with Bastianini picking up a P12 to ensure some points were on offer for Guenther Steiner’s squad. With Acosta leading the championship and Binder finding some form, there’s clearly pace in the RC16 for the two Tech3 team’s MotoGP winners to extract.
Marco Bezzecchi won the MotoGP race at Buriram. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
ARISE, APRILIA
They’d threatened levelling up during pre-season, but delivering the goods in a Grand Prix setting is a different ball game – and come Sunday afternoon, Bezzecchi and Aprilia were unstoppable. Acosta may lead the championship, but leaving Thailand, there was a real sense that one factory have bridged the gap to Ducati. Maybe even more than just bridged it?
It’s early days to call it, but at a track where Marc Marquez and Ducati cleaned up one year prior, Bezzecchi was the outstanding rider. The #72 slipped up in the Sprint, but a lap record pole position and a Sunday cruise to P1, coupled with Raul Fernandez’s (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) double podium, Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) looking much more like his 2024 title-winning self, and Ai Ogura’s (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) Grand Prix top five, meant the Noale camp had a ball in Buriram. The quartet are P2, P3, P4, and P5 in the standings heading to Brazil. So now, it’s all about trying to back up Thailand’s success on unfamiliar territory – for all.
Franco Morbidelli (21) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) at Buriram. Photo courtesy VR46
DUCATI ON A BOUNCE BACK MISSION
Buriram is certainly not what the reigning champions had on the menu for Round 1 – nor was it what many expected to happen. But that’s so often MotoGP. And while they’re currently down after losing their ridiculously impressive consecutive podium streak of 88 in a row, Ducati are certainly far from out and bouncing back will be the mission in Brazil. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) lands in South America as the Ducati frontrunner in the championship and the Italian radiated positivity – while also lamenting bad luck – in Thailand, so maybe fortunes change in Goiânia?
That’s what reigning MotoGP king Marc Marquez will be hoping for. An unlucky, unusual rear tyre puncture cost the #93 a podium shot on Sunday in Thailand, so the seven-time World Champion kickstarts his Brazil visit 23 points adrift of his Buriram Sprint rival Acosta. No one is counting the World Champion out though (we’ve watched the sport before, don’t worry), especially on a level playing field this weekend. At new tracks too, Marc Marquez’s record is second to none. Although Bezzecchi at Buddh was quite something to watch…
On the other side of the red garage, lack of front-end feeling and differing conditions to the Test blighted what looked set to be a bright weekend for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) in Thailand. Both the Italian and last year’s runner-up, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP), had weekends to put behind them – especially the latter, who walked away from the Chang International Circuit with zero points compared to Pecco’s eight. Fermin Aldeguer, now confirmed to return, will hope to slot back in with their learnings already processed and find a few answers waiting for him as he gets back in the fold at BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP.
Behind Di Giannantonio and Marc Marquez in the championship, meanwhile, it’s Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), who has shown some solid flashes of speed in pre-season and Thailand. A special weekend arrives for the rider who has Brazilian roots, and the #21 will be craving a podium challenge to make it a weekend to remember.
Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pro Honda LCR.
MOREIRA ARRIVES TO HOME SHORES
Speaking of, a very warm welcome is promised to our home hero Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) this weekend, with the MotoGP rookie landing in Brazil as a points finisher in his first attempt. It was a weekend that quietly impressed. Now, with the home crowd on side and no one else having track knowledge on a MotoGP bike in Goiânia, more points are certainly on offer for Moreira as a special weekend awaits for Brazil’s #11.
Joan Mir (left) and Luca Marini (right) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
BUILDING UP
It was a case of more bad luck for Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) in Sunday’s Thai encounter after an issue stopped the 2020 World Champion from bagging a healthy points haul. Mir was HRC’s leading light during Round 1, but a top 10 for teammate Luca Marini, points for Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) AND the aforementioned Moreira meant it was a decent start for HRC – but not enough, based on their own adjusted aims for 2026. MotoGP’s most successful factory aren’t where they want to be just yet, but there continues to be significant progress. Mir’s Sunday performance demonstrated that, so maybe Brazil can offer more? Certainly, no one else on the grid arrives with any more knowledge of the track – which could prove helpful for those looking to develop.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu talking with Alex Rins (left) on the MotoGP Sprint race grid. Photo courtesy Pramac Yamaha.
SEARCHING FOR MORE
That’s definitely true of Yamaha. The new V4-powered YZR-M1 era hasn’t begun as smoothly as they would have liked, but there were positives – and now it’s a venue no one else has dialled in. The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP duo of Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins got points on the board in Thailand, and Toprak Razgatlioglu put together about as quality a weekend as he and Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP could have asked for. The rookie was right in the mix with the experienced runners, despite absolutely everything being new to him. His teammate Jack Miller pushed on and then dropped back but put more miles on the clock as they look to learn and improve. Results will likely not be the focus for the Brazilian GP – but maybe a new circuit can bring the Yamahas closer to the frontrunners.
From Thailand’s terrific opener, we’re landing back in brilliant Brazil for Round 2. As we look ahead to the three days on track, we really couldn’t tell you how the script will play out – just the way we like it. Brazil, are you ready?
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – AMA Pro Racing is pleased to announce that Progressive Insurance will continue to serve as the title sponsor of American Flat Track in a new multi-year agreement, extending a relationship that has helped drive the series’ growth and national reach.
Progressive was first named Title Sponsor and Official Insurance of American Flat Track in 2020 and has expanded its support of the sport over the years through digital initiatives. Through the renewal, Progressive will continue as the official title sponsor across series branding, broadcast and streaming coverage, live event presentation, and official digital platforms.
“Progressive has been an outstanding sponsor for American Flat Track, and we’re proud to continue building on a relationship that has helped elevate the series in meaningful ways,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “From event presentation and broadcast visibility to our digital platforms and fan engagement efforts, Progressive’s support has played an important role in our growth. Progressive brings an authentic connection to the AFT community, and we’re excited to continue working together to strengthen the sport and deliver even more for our fans, riders and stakeholders in the years ahead.”
Progressive, the country’s No. 1 motorcycle insurer, has been a trusted name for riders, with one in three motorcyclists choosing Progressive for their insurance needs. Founded in 1937, the company has grown into the second largest personal auto insurer in the United States while maintaining a long-standing connection to the riding community through specialized motorcycle coverage and support for motorsports. Progressive’s continued involvement reflects its understanding of the passion and commitment shared by riders and race fans, and its focus on helping motorcyclists protect what matters.
“At Progressive, we’ve seen first-hand the enthusiasm and dedication of the riders and racing community,” said Eric Doubler, Progressive Recreational Lines Business Leader. “As the country’s leading motorcycle insurer, we share that passion and are thrilled to deepen our relationship with American Flat Track. This sponsorship reflects our commitment to the sport and the broader motorcycle community.”
The announcement follows the 2026 season opening doubleheader at DAYTONA Flat Track. The season continues next week with the Yamaha Atlanta Short Track, the third round of the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season.
Progressive American Flat Track is televised on FOX Sports and streams live on FloRacing. Visit, flosports.link/AFT2026 to watch every lap live.
For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, including the 2026 schedule, tickets and streaming options, visit AmericanFlatTrack.com.
Due to the ongoing war in the Middle East the Qatar MotoGP round has been rescheduled from April 10-12 to November 6-8, following events at Phillip Island, Australian and Sepang, Malaysia. To accommodate the change, events in Portimao, Portugal & in Valencia, Spain have each been moved back a week to November 20-22 and November 27-29, respectively. The schedule changes assume that the fighting will be over by then and that the track and related infrastructure (hotels, airport, etc.) are still standing and operating…
(Above) The revised 2026 MotoGP schedule.(Above) The Lusail International Circuit in Qatar seen at night. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
More, from a press release issued by MotoGP:
MotoGP confirms new date for the Qatar Grand Prix
MotoGP confirms that the Qatar Grand Prix, originally scheduled for April, has been postponed to 8 November due to the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
This decision has been taken in close coordination with the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the Promoter and the local authorities in Qatar, with the primary objective of ensuring the safety, well-being, and highest‑quality delivery of the event for all participants and attendees.
Following extensive scenario planning and calendar analysis, the revised date has been chosen to ensure minimal disruption to the wider MotoGP schedule. As a result, the Portuguese GP in Portimão will now take place on 22 November, and the season finale in Valencia will move to 29 November, while all other rounds of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship remain unaffected.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP, said: “This decision was taken with great care and in full coordination with our partners in Qatar and across the paddock. Our priority is always the safety and well-being of everyone involved in MotoGP, as well as ensuring that every Grand Prix is delivered to the highest possible standard. We also recognize the importance of providing clarity for our fans as early as possible and ticket holders will be given the opportunity to rollover their tickets to the next event.
“I would also like to thank our partners in Portimão and Valencia for their collaboration and flexibility in helping us deliver a smooth transition to the revised calendar. We are confident that the updated schedule will allow us to preserve the quality of the championship while offering fans an exceptional season of racing.”
Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit (LIC), said: “The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit (LIC) respect and support the decision of the MotoGP Sport and Entertainment Group to postpone the MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar to November 6–8, 2026. We sincerely thank our fans, teams and partners for their understanding and ongoing support, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to Lusail International Circuit.”
Jorge Viegas, President of the FIM, added: “The FIM fully supports the decision to reschedule the Qatar Grand Prix. Considering the current geopolitical situation, safeguarding our riders, teams, officials, and fans must always come first. We are confident that the updated calendar ensures that the event in Qatar can be delivered in the safest and most professional conditions.”
At what is arguably the best annual motorcycle awards banquet in the United States, the Trailblazers Motorcycle Club honored eight industry luminaries Saturday, March 14th at the Carson Center in Carson, California. The 2026 event sold out with 750 tickets purchased.
The 2026 inductees included Dave Arnold, Brad Baker, Kel Carruthers, Randy Hall, Jim Holley, Ronnie Jones, Mitch Payton, and Jeff Ward.
The 2026 Trailblazers honorees, from left, Brad Baker, Ronnie Jones, Jim Holley, Dave Arnold, Kel Carruthers, Mitch Payton, Jeff Ward, and Randy Hall. Photo by Larry Lawrence/Rider Files.Official Trailblazers banquet artwork, courtesy Trailblazers Motorcycle Club.
David Aldana with Aki Goto and Ron Turner. Photo courtesy David Aldana.Ron Pierce and David Aldana at the 2026 Trailblazers banquet. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
David Aldana with 1969 250cc World Champion Kel Carruthers. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
MotoGP race start at Buriram. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
Last week, we asked our dear Patrons if they had any questions for us. And, well, you know the drill: lots of you responded, we picked our favourites and finally Mat and Peter do their best to answer them in an hour or so. Right?
I mean, how many questions in need of resolution could there possibly be?
Well, let’s just say that if you normally pour yourself a glass for these episodes, then this time you might want to bring the bottle. Or just bring the whole damn cask, because we’ll be here for awhile. If your question was: “What’s the longest episode you’ve ever done?”, then you’ve already found your answer here…
…Two hours, baby!
So come hang out with us as we answer all your questions, and I do mean all your questions. Oh, and we’ve got mail from Graham Norton and other celebs! Or someone with the same name – but that NEVER happens on the internet, right?
Cheers!
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club for writing our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
Cory West (13) and Jake Lewis (85) will race in the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup series in conjunction with selected MotoGP events. Photo courtesy Saddlemen Race Development.
As the inaugural season of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup approaches its opening event in Austin, Texas, Harley-Davidson and MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group have announced a further update to the championship entry list. The addition of a new team and two riders continues to shape an increasingly international and competitive grid ahead of the series’ on-track debut, with the first official pre-season test scheduled for March 21–22 at Circuit of the Americas.
The latest entry in the list of participating teams is ParkinGO Team, one of Italy’s most established international racing organizations, which will compete with a one-bike entry. Founded by Giuliano Rovelli and managed by his son Edoardo, ParkinGO Team is a former FIM Supersport World Championship–winning team with extensive experience in Moto2, World Supersport, and international endurance racing. The team will field Filippo Rovelli (#27), marking a new chapter for the Rovelli family within the global Harley-Davidson racing project.
In addition, Saddlemen Racing has expanded its program to a three-bike effort, further strengthening the competitiveness and depth of the championship.
CURRENT 2026 TEAM ENTRY LIST:
• Joe Rascal Racing (Australia) – 3 bikes
• Niti Racing (Indonesia) – 2 bikes
• ParkinGO Team (Italy) – 1 bike
• Saddlemen Racing (USA) – 3 bikes
As preparations continue for the inaugural season, discussions remain ongoing with current and prospective teams regarding possible future developments. Cecchini Racing’s provisional entry is currently on standby after the team was unable to finalize the required guarantees for Round 1.
The current lineup highlights the truly international character of the championship, with riders and teams representing four different continents. This global diversity reflects the broad appeal of the series and reinforces the ambition of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup to establish a new competitive platform capable of uniting racing cultures and audiences from around the world.
2026 RIDER LINEUP:
#10 TRAVIS WYMAN (USA) – SADDLEMEN RACING
Travis Wyman has built a strong reputation in American V-twin road racing, known for his consistency, race-winning pace, and technical feedback. Competing at the highest level of heavyweight bagger competition in the United States, Wyman has secured multiple victories and podium finishes aboard Harley-Davidson machinery. His experience with large-displacement V-twin platforms makes him a valuable asset for Saddlemen Racing.
#13 CORY WEST (USA) – SADDLEMEN RACING
Cory West is a highly experienced American road racer with more than two decades of professional competition, including the MotoAmerica Super Hooligan championship title in 2024. Known for his versatility and technical insight, he has built a strong reputation racing large-displacement V-twin machinery at the highest level of American bagger competition. His race-winning experience and development feedback make him a key contributor to the Saddlemen Racing program.
#20 DIMAS EKKY PRATAMA (INA) – NITI RACING
Dimas Ekky Pratama is one of Indonesia’s most internationally experienced riders, having competed in Moto2 World Championship events and the FIM CEV Moto2 European Championship. A leading presence in Asia Road Racing, Pratama combines adaptability, resilience, and race intelligence, reflecting Indonesia’s growing presence in global circuit competition.
#27 FILIPPO ROVELLI (ITA) – PARKINGO TEAM
Filippo Rovelli enters the championship backed by the experienced ParkinGO Team structure. With European racing experience and a strong development focus, Rovelli represents the next generation of Italian talent within the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup.
#34 CODY WYMAN (USA) – JOE RASCAL RACING
Cody Wyman has established himself as a leading competitor in American racing, earning multiple victories and podium finishes in MotoAmerica Super Hooligan. His familiarity with Harley-Davidson race machinery and assertive riding style position him as a strong contender on the world stage.
#51 ERIC GRANADO (BRA) – JOE RASCAL RACING
Eric Granado is one of Brazil’s most accomplished international riders, with a distinguished record in MotoE World Cup competition and experience in Moto2 and World Superbike. Known for precision and adaptability, Granado brings world championship experience and technical depth to the Bagger World Cup.
#69 ARCHIE MCDONALD (AUS) – JOE RASCAL RACING
Archie McDonald represents Australia’s emerging generation of road racers. With experience in national superbike competition, he combines determination with disciplined race management and adds fresh energy to the Joe Rascal Racing lineup.
#85 JAKE LEWIS (USA) – SADDLEMEN RACING
Jake Lewis is a proven American road racer with extensive experience across multiple national racing categories. Known for his natural speed and disciplined riding style, Lewis has been a consistent contender in top-level V-twin bagger competition in the United States. In 2012, he won the AMA Pro SuperSport East Championship, earning Rookie of the Year honors. In 2021, he won the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 title. His aggressive approach and race craft add depth and competitiveness to the Saddlemen Racing lineup.
#99 OSCAR GUTIÉRREZ (ESP) – NITI RACING
Oscar Gutiérrez is a former World Supersport 300 Champion with experience across Supersport and Superbike categories. His balanced riding style and championship background bring maturity and consistency to Niti Racing.
The grid will be in action this weekend March 21 & 22 at COTA for the official pre-season test before racing gets underway alongside MotoGP at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the United States! Make sure to tune in.
Saddlemen Race Development riders Cory West (#13), Jake Lewis (#85), and James Rispoli (#1) swept the podium in both Mission Super Hooligan National Championship races at Daytona aboard their Galfer USA-equipped Harley-Davidson Pan Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Galfer USA, a benchmark in the U.S. high-performance braking market, and MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, announce a multi-year partnership aligned with the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship.
With over 70 years of experience, Galfer is globally recognized for its technological innovation, precision-engineered rotors, and racing brake pads used at the highest levels of motorcycle competition. With headquarters in Orlando, Florida, Galfer USA has been operating in the American market for over 30 years, providing high-performance braking solutions to professional teams, OEMs, dealers, and enthusiasts across the United States.
In recent years, Galfer has strengthened its presence in the most prestigious motorcycle racing competitions, bringing its technology to the highest levels of the MotoGP™ World Championship. In 2024, rider Ai Ogura of the MT Helmets – MSI team won the Moto2™ World Championship using Galfer.
Through this multi-year partnership, Galfer USA reinforces its commitment to motorsports and the U.S. market, bringing to America the same experience, innovation, and racing leadership that Galfer has established in Europe, while consolidating its presence in the MotoAmerica paddock and its connection to American road racing.
Saddlemen Race Development Harley-Davidson rider Jake Lewis brakes into Turn 1 at Daytona International Speedway. Galfer braking components helped Lewis secure podium finishes in both Mission Super Hooligan National Championship races over the weekend, including a victory in Race 2. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
“MotoAmerica represents the highest level of road racing in the U.S., and that’s exactly where Galfer belongs,” said Armando Riva, Country Manager of Galfer USA. “We’re excited to engage in a partnership that puts our products side-by-side with the best riders, showcasing how closely our brand is connected to elite-level performance.”
“Galfer has built its reputation in the most competitive racing environments in the world, and that level of technical commitment aligns perfectly with what we expect in the MotoAmerica paddock,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “Having partners who understand performance at this level, while actively supporting racing development, strengthens our championship and the teams who compete in it.”
OrangeCat Racing’s Sean Dylan Kelly led the pack with the fastest overall lap on day one of the Dunlop Pre-Season Test at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Despite encountering unseasonably cool ambient air temperaures, combined with strong breezes that produced wind chills in the 30s, a cadré of road racers from MotoAmerica’s Superbike, Supersport, Mission King Of The Baggers, Mission Super Hooligan National Championship, and Talent Cup classes participated in the first day of the two-day Dunlop Pre-Season Test at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas.
OrangeCat Racing BMW Superbike rider Sean Dylan Kelly emerged as the fastest overall rider on day one with a lap of 2:09.538. The Miami-based former Supersport Champion and former Moto2 World Championship rider seemed completely non-plussed by the weather as he and his crew worked diligently to hone the setup on his #40 BMW M 1000 RR Superbike.
“It was a really solid first day of testing,” commented Kelly. “I’m really happy to be back at COTA. Obviously, the one track that I have a Superbike win at, so it holds a special place in my heart. It’s more important than that. It’s just nice to come to a track that I have a direct comparison with the BMW of what I’ve done here. It makes the test look more efficient because we’ve been testing at other tracks that I haven’t ridden the BMW at ever, since 2024. It was a bit of a difficult day because of the weather, but it was still nice to be able to get through our whole testing plan today. Did a lot of laps. Really happy with how I grew throughout the day. Confidence got a lot better. Connection with the bike was improving lap by lap. We answered a lot of questions too, which I’m happy about. Lap times are off because of the conditions, but at least it put us still best for the day. Obviously suits well. Looking forward to more work tomorrow. We’re going to keep on working hard. I do want to take a second to say thank you to the whole OrangeCat Racing team. They’re doing an amazing job. I’m really proud of the crew and the team.”
SDK goes well at COTA, the track where he won his first MotoAmerica Superbike race in 2024, on a BMW. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
“The weather does look a little bit better for tomorrow, and we need it. Tomorrow will be our last day of testing before round one, so that means we still have some more questions to answer and get us as 100% ready as we can be for round one.”
Class leaders on day one were Supersport rider Xavi Forés, who is Strack Racing Yamaha rider Blake Davis’s crew chief. The former Supersport Champion and World Championship competitor threw his leg over Davis’s spare Yamaha YZF-R9 and notched a fastest lap of 2:14.621. Kyle Wyman was the fastest Mission King Of The Baggers rider with a lap of 2:14.070 aboard his #1 Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing Road Glide. Andrew Lee went quickest among the Superbike Cup riders with a lap of 2:12.725 on his Real Steel Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. Mission Super Hooligan National Championship competitor Corey Alexander led the high-handlebars class with a 2:18.320 fastest lap in the saddle of his ARCH Racing 2s-R. And former Mini Cup Champion Nathan Gouker was the fastest Talent Cup rider on day one with a lap of 2:28.897 on his Quarterley Racing Krämer APX-350 MA.
The Dunlop Pre-Season Test concludes on Tuesday at COTA, and the riders are expected to lower their lap times even more as a result of the improved weather conditions that are forecast, as well as insights gained from having a good amount of laps under their belts from day one.
Loudon, New Hampshire – The United States Classic Racing Association (USCRA), the oldest vintage motorcycle road racing organization in the U.S., is excited to announce pioneer female racer, American Motorcyclist Association Hall of Fame and Motorsports Hall of Fame nominee Gina Bovaird to serve as Grand Marshal at the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) North America Vintage Road Racing Championships, scheduled for June 12-14, 2026, at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, New Hampshire.
Fast Fearless Females Take Center Stage
The USCRA is once again honored to host the only FIM-sanctioned vintage road racing competition on the continent. This year’s event marks the 24th annual gathering, which will take place on the opening weekend of the 103rd annual Laconia Bike Week.
The theme of the 2026 FIM-sanctioned championships is Fast Fearless Females—honoring the women who pioneered motorcycle road racing and those who continue to make an impact today. Throughout the event, the skill, determination, and achievements of female racers— past and present—will be showcased in celebration of their lasting influence on the sport.
“For me, it was not about being a woman, I just loved the speed of the bikes and the competition. As Grand Marshal, I am honored to stand with all the gritty and determined women racing motorcycles, now and in the past.” – Grand Marshal, Gina Bovaird
Gina Bovaird. Photo by Jaqueline Bovaird / courtesy USCRA
Groundbreaking. Trailblazing. Revolutionary. Gina Bovaird isn’t just part of motorcycle racing history—she helped rewrite it. The Boston-born rider shattered barriers at the highest levels of international motorcycle competition, carving out a place in a sport long dominated by men.
Gina began racing a Yamaha 125 twin in AAMRR events and the Daytona amateur races. In 1973, she moved up to a Yamaha TZ250 and competed in WERA, earning early success. After the AMA began issuing licenses to women in 1974, she obtained her AMA Novice license. That same year at Mosport International Raceway in Canada, despite initial resistance, she was eventually allowed to compete—and promptly set a new lap record in the final practice session on her Honda 125.
In 1975, with sponsorship from Hawaiian Tropic, Gina raced the Daytona Novice 250cc event, recording the fastest trap speed at 144 mph. Later that season she scored WERA victories at Savannah and Nelson Ledges.
By 1980 she had earned her AMA Expert license and became the first woman to qualify for the Daytona 200 on a Yamaha TZ500, recording the fastest rookie trap speed at 184 mph. She returned in 1981 and finished the race, placing 25th.
Later that year, she made history again by becoming the first woman to qualify for and start in the 500cc class of the FIM Grand Prix World Motorcycle Championships at the French Grand Prix of Nogaro. Her trailblazing career has paved the way for generations of female racers who followed.
Gina and her husband Bill Beck currently reside on their horse farm in Ocala, Florida, where she enjoys riding her dressage horses just about every day.
The USCRA and New England Racing Museum will be hosting a reception for Gina at the museum on Saturday evening, June 13th at 7pm, after the conclusion of racing. For more information, visit www.nermuseum.com.
Special Events During the FIM Race Weekend
Along with celebrating female riders, the weekend will showcase thrilling competition featuring some of North America’s top vintage and modern motorcycle and sidecar racers.
On Friday, June 12, the club will host the second race of the new Trackmaster Triple Crown Endurance Series presented by Rick’s Motorsport Electrics. This three-hour contest will test both rider stamina and mechanical reliability, delivering hours of high-intensity racing and excitement. More information can be found at http://www.race-uscra.com.
Photo from the 2025 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Photo courtesy AMA.
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The 2026 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held Sept. 10 at the Event Center at Violet Woods in Pickerington, Ohio.
This special event serves as the formal induction of the Class of 2026 into the hallowed halls of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and is a grand celebration of that esteemed group, as well as the Hall of Fame as an institution. Candidates and voting for this year’s class will be announced at a later date.
“Each year, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony gives us the opportunity to honor the remarkable individuals whose passion, innovation and achievements have advanced motorcycling in America,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “As we prepare to welcome a new class of inductees into this distinguished group of Hall of Famers, we look forward to bringing together the motorcycling community and industry in Pickerington to celebrate their lasting impact on our sport and lifestyle.”
Located just minutes away from the AMA Headquarters and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the Event Center at Violet Woods provides a theater-style venue excellent for hosting this prestigious event.
Immediately following the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, there will be a cocktail reception at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, during which Hall of Famers will be on hand to sign autographs and speak with fans.
Follow the Hall of Fame on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on the latest news regarding the 2026 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
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.
Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pro Honda LCR.
HOT HEADLINES: MotoGP back in business in Brazil. After a titanic opener in Thailand, we’re heading west for our much-awaited return to Brazil – with a first-time Championship leader.
Caught your breath yet? After a long winter of waiting, the season opener in Thailand certainly didn’t disappoint, with two stunning showdowns opening our account for 2026. Now we’re off to Brazil for the first time in more than two decades, racing in Goiânia for the first time in even longer, and with a first time Championship leader in Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). We have a home hero, a new pecking order (so far!) and so many unknowns up and down the grid that we don’t want to call it. But if Buriram was unpredictable enough, Brazil could prove even more so as the 22-rider field gear up to take on a venue that’s completely new to each and every one of them.
Pedro Acosta at Buriram. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM.
LEADING THE CHARGE: ACOSTA & KTM
Controversial? For some. But what a debut Tissot Sprint win that was for Acosta in Thailand. A no inches given, fairing-bashing head-to-head between the #37 and Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) was an unbelievable way to begin proceedings in 2026, and after Acosta backed his scintillating Saturday outing up with another gutsy effort to a podium on Sunday, he’s World Championship leader and spearheads the MotoGP field heading to Brazil. It wasn’t the Sunday victory Acosta craves, but it was a weekend which proved serious steps have been made compared to this time last season. Could that first 25-pointer arrive in Goiânia? That’s the question we’re all asking about the early title frontrunner.
On the other side of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing box, Brad Binder also enjoyed a positive stint in Thailand. Acosta took much of the KTM limelight, but the South African’s double top seven means he’s P6 in the championship going to Round 2. That will give Red Bull KTM Tech3’s Enea Bastianini and Maverick Viñales even more hunger for this weekend. The latter, who showed stand-out promise at the Sepang Test, suffered a real low-key weekend in Buriram, with Bastianini picking up a P12 to ensure some points were on offer for Guenther Steiner’s squad. With Acosta leading the championship and Binder finding some form, there’s clearly pace in the RC16 for the two Tech3 team’s MotoGP winners to extract.
Marco Bezzecchi won the MotoGP race at Buriram. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
ARISE, APRILIA
They’d threatened levelling up during pre-season, but delivering the goods in a Grand Prix setting is a different ball game – and come Sunday afternoon, Bezzecchi and Aprilia were unstoppable. Acosta may lead the championship, but leaving Thailand, there was a real sense that one factory have bridged the gap to Ducati. Maybe even more than just bridged it?
It’s early days to call it, but at a track where Marc Marquez and Ducati cleaned up one year prior, Bezzecchi was the outstanding rider. The #72 slipped up in the Sprint, but a lap record pole position and a Sunday cruise to P1, coupled with Raul Fernandez’s (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) double podium, Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) looking much more like his 2024 title-winning self, and Ai Ogura’s (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) Grand Prix top five, meant the Noale camp had a ball in Buriram. The quartet are P2, P3, P4, and P5 in the standings heading to Brazil. So now, it’s all about trying to back up Thailand’s success on unfamiliar territory – for all.
Franco Morbidelli (21) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) at Buriram. Photo courtesy VR46
DUCATI ON A BOUNCE BACK MISSION
Buriram is certainly not what the reigning champions had on the menu for Round 1 – nor was it what many expected to happen. But that’s so often MotoGP. And while they’re currently down after losing their ridiculously impressive consecutive podium streak of 88 in a row, Ducati are certainly far from out and bouncing back will be the mission in Brazil. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) lands in South America as the Ducati frontrunner in the championship and the Italian radiated positivity – while also lamenting bad luck – in Thailand, so maybe fortunes change in Goiânia?
That’s what reigning MotoGP king Marc Marquez will be hoping for. An unlucky, unusual rear tyre puncture cost the #93 a podium shot on Sunday in Thailand, so the seven-time World Champion kickstarts his Brazil visit 23 points adrift of his Buriram Sprint rival Acosta. No one is counting the World Champion out though (we’ve watched the sport before, don’t worry), especially on a level playing field this weekend. At new tracks too, Marc Marquez’s record is second to none. Although Bezzecchi at Buddh was quite something to watch…
On the other side of the red garage, lack of front-end feeling and differing conditions to the Test blighted what looked set to be a bright weekend for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) in Thailand. Both the Italian and last year’s runner-up, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP), had weekends to put behind them – especially the latter, who walked away from the Chang International Circuit with zero points compared to Pecco’s eight. Fermin Aldeguer, now confirmed to return, will hope to slot back in with their learnings already processed and find a few answers waiting for him as he gets back in the fold at BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP.
Behind Di Giannantonio and Marc Marquez in the championship, meanwhile, it’s Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), who has shown some solid flashes of speed in pre-season and Thailand. A special weekend arrives for the rider who has Brazilian roots, and the #21 will be craving a podium challenge to make it a weekend to remember.
Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pro Honda LCR.
MOREIRA ARRIVES TO HOME SHORES
Speaking of, a very warm welcome is promised to our home hero Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) this weekend, with the MotoGP rookie landing in Brazil as a points finisher in his first attempt. It was a weekend that quietly impressed. Now, with the home crowd on side and no one else having track knowledge on a MotoGP bike in Goiânia, more points are certainly on offer for Moreira as a special weekend awaits for Brazil’s #11.
Joan Mir (left) and Luca Marini (right) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
BUILDING UP
It was a case of more bad luck for Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) in Sunday’s Thai encounter after an issue stopped the 2020 World Champion from bagging a healthy points haul. Mir was HRC’s leading light during Round 1, but a top 10 for teammate Luca Marini, points for Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) AND the aforementioned Moreira meant it was a decent start for HRC – but not enough, based on their own adjusted aims for 2026. MotoGP’s most successful factory aren’t where they want to be just yet, but there continues to be significant progress. Mir’s Sunday performance demonstrated that, so maybe Brazil can offer more? Certainly, no one else on the grid arrives with any more knowledge of the track – which could prove helpful for those looking to develop.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu talking with Alex Rins (left) on the MotoGP Sprint race grid. Photo courtesy Pramac Yamaha.
SEARCHING FOR MORE
That’s definitely true of Yamaha. The new V4-powered YZR-M1 era hasn’t begun as smoothly as they would have liked, but there were positives – and now it’s a venue no one else has dialled in. The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP duo of Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins got points on the board in Thailand, and Toprak Razgatlioglu put together about as quality a weekend as he and Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP could have asked for. The rookie was right in the mix with the experienced runners, despite absolutely everything being new to him. His teammate Jack Miller pushed on and then dropped back but put more miles on the clock as they look to learn and improve. Results will likely not be the focus for the Brazilian GP – but maybe a new circuit can bring the Yamahas closer to the frontrunners.
From Thailand’s terrific opener, we’re landing back in brilliant Brazil for Round 2. As we look ahead to the three days on track, we really couldn’t tell you how the script will play out – just the way we like it. Brazil, are you ready?
Tom Drane (No. 1) victory lap after winning the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA I. Photo by Kristen Lassen / courtesy AMA Pro Racing.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – AMA Pro Racing is pleased to announce that Progressive Insurance will continue to serve as the title sponsor of American Flat Track in a new multi-year agreement, extending a relationship that has helped drive the series’ growth and national reach.
Progressive was first named Title Sponsor and Official Insurance of American Flat Track in 2020 and has expanded its support of the sport over the years through digital initiatives. Through the renewal, Progressive will continue as the official title sponsor across series branding, broadcast and streaming coverage, live event presentation, and official digital platforms.
“Progressive has been an outstanding sponsor for American Flat Track, and we’re proud to continue building on a relationship that has helped elevate the series in meaningful ways,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “From event presentation and broadcast visibility to our digital platforms and fan engagement efforts, Progressive’s support has played an important role in our growth. Progressive brings an authentic connection to the AFT community, and we’re excited to continue working together to strengthen the sport and deliver even more for our fans, riders and stakeholders in the years ahead.”
Progressive, the country’s No. 1 motorcycle insurer, has been a trusted name for riders, with one in three motorcyclists choosing Progressive for their insurance needs. Founded in 1937, the company has grown into the second largest personal auto insurer in the United States while maintaining a long-standing connection to the riding community through specialized motorcycle coverage and support for motorsports. Progressive’s continued involvement reflects its understanding of the passion and commitment shared by riders and race fans, and its focus on helping motorcyclists protect what matters.
“At Progressive, we’ve seen first-hand the enthusiasm and dedication of the riders and racing community,” said Eric Doubler, Progressive Recreational Lines Business Leader. “As the country’s leading motorcycle insurer, we share that passion and are thrilled to deepen our relationship with American Flat Track. This sponsorship reflects our commitment to the sport and the broader motorcycle community.”
The announcement follows the 2026 season opening doubleheader at DAYTONA Flat Track. The season continues next week with the Yamaha Atlanta Short Track, the third round of the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season.
Progressive American Flat Track is televised on FOX Sports and streams live on FloRacing. Visit, flosports.link/AFT2026 to watch every lap live.
For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, including the 2026 schedule, tickets and streaming options, visit AmericanFlatTrack.com.
Lusail International Circuit, in Qatar. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Due to the ongoing war in the Middle East the Qatar MotoGP round has been rescheduled from April 10-12 to November 6-8, following events at Phillip Island, Australian and Sepang, Malaysia. To accommodate the change, events in Portimao, Portugal & in Valencia, Spain have each been moved back a week to November 20-22 and November 27-29, respectively. The schedule changes assume that the fighting will be over by then and that the track and related infrastructure (hotels, airport, etc.) are still standing and operating…
(Above) The revised 2026 MotoGP schedule.(Above) The Lusail International Circuit in Qatar seen at night. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
More, from a press release issued by MotoGP:
MotoGP confirms new date for the Qatar Grand Prix
MotoGP confirms that the Qatar Grand Prix, originally scheduled for April, has been postponed to 8 November due to the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
This decision has been taken in close coordination with the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the Promoter and the local authorities in Qatar, with the primary objective of ensuring the safety, well-being, and highest‑quality delivery of the event for all participants and attendees.
Following extensive scenario planning and calendar analysis, the revised date has been chosen to ensure minimal disruption to the wider MotoGP schedule. As a result, the Portuguese GP in Portimão will now take place on 22 November, and the season finale in Valencia will move to 29 November, while all other rounds of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship remain unaffected.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP, said: “This decision was taken with great care and in full coordination with our partners in Qatar and across the paddock. Our priority is always the safety and well-being of everyone involved in MotoGP, as well as ensuring that every Grand Prix is delivered to the highest possible standard. We also recognize the importance of providing clarity for our fans as early as possible and ticket holders will be given the opportunity to rollover their tickets to the next event.
“I would also like to thank our partners in Portimão and Valencia for their collaboration and flexibility in helping us deliver a smooth transition to the revised calendar. We are confident that the updated schedule will allow us to preserve the quality of the championship while offering fans an exceptional season of racing.”
Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit (LIC), said: “The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit (LIC) respect and support the decision of the MotoGP Sport and Entertainment Group to postpone the MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar to November 6–8, 2026. We sincerely thank our fans, teams and partners for their understanding and ongoing support, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to Lusail International Circuit.”
Jorge Viegas, President of the FIM, added: “The FIM fully supports the decision to reschedule the Qatar Grand Prix. Considering the current geopolitical situation, safeguarding our riders, teams, officials, and fans must always come first. We are confident that the updated calendar ensures that the event in Qatar can be delivered in the safest and most professional conditions.”
An overview of the 2026 trailblazers awards banquet, which sold out at 750 tickets purchased. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
At what is arguably the best annual motorcycle awards banquet in the United States, the Trailblazers Motorcycle Club honored eight industry luminaries Saturday, March 14th at the Carson Center in Carson, California. The 2026 event sold out with 750 tickets purchased.
The 2026 inductees included Dave Arnold, Brad Baker, Kel Carruthers, Randy Hall, Jim Holley, Ronnie Jones, Mitch Payton, and Jeff Ward.
The 2026 Trailblazers honorees, from left, Brad Baker, Ronnie Jones, Jim Holley, Dave Arnold, Kel Carruthers, Mitch Payton, Jeff Ward, and Randy Hall. Photo by Larry Lawrence/Rider Files.Official Trailblazers banquet artwork, courtesy Trailblazers Motorcycle Club.
David Aldana with Aki Goto and Ron Turner. Photo courtesy David Aldana.Ron Pierce and David Aldana at the 2026 Trailblazers banquet. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
David Aldana with 1969 250cc World Champion Kel Carruthers. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
A “press release” is promotional text issued by a rider, team, company or organization to inform
the public about an event, product, or service from the issuer’s own point of view, and if deemed
to have news value, may be placed on roadracingworld.com as a service to our readers.
A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. When a post is labeled with the words “press release”, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors.
Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode
Improves website's visuals
This mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode
Helps to focus on specific content
This mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode
Reduces distractions and improve focus
This mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
This mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
April 2, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
