MotoGP: Teams Are Ready For Phillip Island

Mathilde Gasnier

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October 22, 2026

MotoGP: Teams Are Ready For Phillip Island

MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3 teams are heading to Phillip Island, in Australia this weekend for Round 18 of the 2026 FIM MotoGP World Championship. From October 23-25, the paddock returns to the iconic 2.76-mile (4.45-kilometer) circuit as the overseas campaign continues. With the championship battles entering a crucial stage, every point becomes increasingly important. Below, find the latest team press releases ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.

More, from a press release issued by Aprilia Racing:

Aprilia Racing continues its flyaway tour in Australia.

MotoGP’s flyaway tour continues in Australia at the historic Phillip Island circuit for the season’s eighteenth round. Jorge Martín and Marco Bezzecchi are preparing to tackle one of the most iconic circuits on the calendar, which this year hosts the final MotoGP Grand Prix before the planned move to Adelaide next season.

Jorge Martín arrives at Phillip Island after a positive weekend in Indonesia, where he finished fourth in the sprint and third in the long race. That run of results has taken him back to the top of the championship on 355 points.

Marco Bezzecchi comes to the Australian GP after securing his fifth Grand Prix win of the season in Indonesia. Despite crashing in the sprint, the Italian rider ended the weekend with an important victory and now goes into the Australian round determined to repeat the feat.

The 4.45 km Phillip Island circuit is renowned for its spectacular setting. Running along the clifftops of the island, in the state of Victoria, and surrounded by unspoilt countryside, the track has five right-handers and seven left-handers.

apriliaracing indonesiangp17 2026 sunday 08 — Jorge Martin (89) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy Aprilia.

Jorge Martin: “After Indonesia, it’s clearer than ever that this championship will be fought out between the top three. We arrive in Australia with the gaps in the riders’ standings even tighter, so we have to keep working and keep faith in what everyone at Aprilia and the team is doing. It will be my first time on the RS-GP at a circuit as special as Phillip Island. I’m confident that my team and I will do an excellent job and give this circuit the send-off it deserves.”

apriliaracing indonesiangp17 2026 friday 03 — Marco Bezzecchi (72) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy Aprilia.

Marco Bezzecchi: “I’m really happy to be heading to Phillip Island. It’s a shame this will be our last time there, but I’m delighted to be back on the bike. I can’t wait, especially after the fantastic Sunday we had in Indonesia. As always, we’ll be working hard as a team to be competitive and have fun out there.”

More, from a press release issued by Ducati Lenovo:

Down Under for the grand classic: the Ducati Lenovo Team lands at Phillip Island.

It is time for farewells and great emotions for the MotoGP circus, flying to Australia for the eighteenth round of the 2026 season where, for the last time, racing will take place on the historic Phillip Island circuit. A unique place with a wild charm, where unspoiled nature, breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, and local wildlife serve as a backdrop to one of the most spectacular and fastest tracks in the world.

A fast-flowing layout to be tackled in one breath, where the Desmosedici GP boasts a great tradition of success: from recent victories with satellite teams by Marc Márquez in 2024 and Johann Zarco in 2023, up to the epic four-in-a-row signed by Casey Stoner, undisputed dominator from 2007 to 2010.

Marc Márquez, in second position in the general standings, just a breath away from the leader, is ready to make the most of a key weekend for the Championship on an adrenaline-pumping but physically very demanding track.

Leaving behind the race that ended prematurely in Indonesia, Pecco Bagnaia arrives at Phillip Island to turn the page. A track with a truly unique layout where he aims to find consistency and solid finishes again.

Francesco Bagnaia (on the left) and Marc Marquez (on the right). Photo courtesy Ducati.

Marc Márquez (#93, Ducati Lenovo Team): “Phillip Island is an extraordinary circuit, racing here for the last time will be emotional. It is a track with a unique, breathtaking layout. Here I won one of my first races with Ducati and we are motivated to do well, ready to fight right away for the positions that matter”.

Francesco Bagnaia (#63, Ducati Lenovo Team): “It will be the last time on this track, a circuit where I haven’t managed to win yet, but which holds an incredible charm, an extraordinary layout, and pure adrenaline. Let’s work hard from Friday and get the most out of our package”.

More, from a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Prepare for Final Phillip Island Showdown.

After a one-week break, Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins are all ready and fired up for the second part of the Asian-Oceanian flyaway rounds. This weekend the MotoGP paddock is touching down in Australia for a farewell visit to Phillip Island.

After a one-week break, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team have travelled to Phillip Island, Australia, for Round 18 on the 2026 MotoGP Calendar.

Fabio Quartararo commences the Australian GP holding joint-14th place in the standings. The Frenchman has ridden a MotoGP bike at the Phillip Island track five times before, in 2019, and from 2022-2025. El Diablo’s best score in a full-length race here was the ninth place he secured in 2024, having started from P19.

Álex Rins sits 20th in the overall rankings and aims to make the most of this final visit to Phillip Island. He loves the flowing track, ocean views and atmosphere, and has fond memories of the circuit, scoring three consecutive podiums: a Moto3 win in 2013, a third place in Moto3 in 2014, and a Moto2 win in 2015. He also won the MotoGP Race here in 2022.

Phillip Island hosted its first motorcycle race in 1931. In 1956, a permanently constructed circuit started hosting motorcycle events until it fell into disrepair during the late 70s and early 80s. The circuit made a comeback and hosted its first MotoGP events in 1989 and 1990 after extensive renovation and became a regular fixture from 1997 onwards. Thanks to its terrific coastal location and its flowing 4.45 km layout, featuring seven left and five right corners and a 900m longest straight, the Phillip Island track is loved by fans and MotoGP riders alike. However, 2026 will mark the circuit’s final appearance on the MotoGP calendar.

Alex Rins (42) and Fabio Quartararo (20). Photo courtesy Yamaha.

Fabio Quartararo: “I enjoyed the week off and used the time to recharge before these final races of the season. Phillip Island is a very unique circuit compared to most tracks we visit. It’s also the last time we’ll race here, so it will be special to experience the atmosphere one more time. For sure, I will give it my 100% as always.”

Alex Rins: “I’m really happy to be back at Phillip Island. It’s a track that I’ve always enjoyed, and I have many good memories here from different stages of my career. The layout is fantastic. Riding here this weekend, knowing that this is our final MotoGP weekend at Phillip Island, makes this round even more significant, so I want to enjoy every lap while also focusing on doing a good job for the team. We’ve had time to prepare during the break, and now I’m looking forward to getting started.”

Massimo Meregalli – Team Director: “After a one-week break, we arrive at Phillip Island refreshed and ready for the second leg of the Asian-Oceanian flyaways. This circuit is one of the most iconic venues on the calendar and is loved by riders, teams, and fans alike because of its unique layout and spectacular setting. It’s always a special place to race. At the same time, it’s a demanding track where changing weather and wind conditions can play a significant role throughout the weekend. We come here motivated after some positive signs in the previous rounds, and our goal is to continue building on that progress. As always, a strong start on Friday will be important to put ourselves in the best position for the rest of the weekend. It’s our last time enjoying this special track, so we want to give the fans the best show possible.”

More, from a press release issued by Prima Pramac Yamaha:

Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP heads to Phillip Island for a special Australian Grand Prix, with Toprak Razgatlıoğlu ruled out and Augusto Fernandez stepping in.

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu will miss the Australian Grand Prix following the injury sustained at Mandalika, with Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernandez set to replace him at Phillip Island. Meanwhile, Jack Miller prepares for his final home Grand Prix in MotoGP at a circuit hosting its last race on the championship calendar.

Two weeks after the difficult Indonesian Grand Prix, Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP returns to action at Phillip Island for a particularly significant weekend. Unfortunately, Toprak Razgatlıoğlu will be unable to take part following further medical examinations in Milan, which confirmed that the injury sustained in his highside crash at Mandalika requires surgery. The procedure is scheduled for Monday, October 26, after which the Turkish rider will focus on his recovery. Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernandez is planned to step in for him at the Australian Grand Prix.

Despite Toprak‘s absence, the weekend remains a special occasion for the team, and especially for Jack Miller. The 2026 Australian Grand Prix will mark his final home race in MotoGP after a career in the World Championship that began in 2011. The Australian will return to Phillip Island next year in the Superbike World Championship, but this weekend will be his last opportunity to race in front of his home fans in the premier class. The significance of the occasion is reflected in Turn 4, officially named Miller Corner in his honour in 2022.

Phillip Island has also been the setting for some memorable moments in Miller‘s career. In 2014, he delighted his home fans by winning the Moto3 race in a thrilling finish, before returning to the podium in the premier class in 2019 with a third-place finish. These results have helped strengthen his special connection with the circuit, making this final MotoGP home Grand Prix an even more meaningful occasion.

Set against the spectacular scenery of the Bass Strait, Phillip Island is renowned for its fast, flowing layout and the exciting racing it produces. The 4.45-kilometre circuit first hosted a Motorcycle World Championship Grand Prix in 1989 and has been a regular fixture since 1997, becoming a favourite among riders and fans alike. Its combination of long corners, rapid changes of direction and unpredictable conditions makes it a unique challenge. The 2026 event will provide a final opportunity for the MotoGP paddock to enjoy this legendary venue before the championship moves to Adelaide in 2027.

For Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP, the focus will be on making the most of this important weekend, supporting Fernandez as he steps in for Razgatlıoğlu and giving Miller the best possible opportunity to deliver a strong performance in front of his home fans. After a difficult run of races, the team will aim to continue working towards improved competitiveness while marking a memorable occasion in the history of MotoGP at Phillip Island.

Jack Miller (left) and Augusto Fernandez (right). Photo courtesy Pramac Yamaha.

Jack Miller: “I‘m really looking forward to my home Grand Prix. It‘s going to be a special weekend for both myself and the team, as it will be my last home race in MotoGP before moving to Superbikes, and also the last time MotoGP races at Phillip Island. This place has given me some great memories, so it‘s going to be an emotional one. We‘ve got something special planned for the fans, and I‘m looking forward to sharing it with everyone and making the most of this weekend. It‘s a shame Toprak won‘t be able to join us this weekend. I know he was looking forward to riding here, so I wish him all the best with the surgery and recovery. Hopefully, he‘ll be back feeling strong soon.”

Augusto Fernandez: “First of all, I want to send my best wishes to Toprak for his recovery. I hope everything goes well with the surgery and that he can get back on the bike as soon as possible. For me, it‘s really exciting to be back racing, especially with a great team like Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP. I‘m looking forward to getting on the bike, starting to work with the team and doing my best over the next few races.”

Gino Borsoi – Team Director: “The Australian Grand Prix will be an important weekend for the whole team, and especially for Jack, as it will be his final home race in MotoGP. Naturally, we want to give him the opportunity to achieve a strong result in front of his home fans. Unfortunately, Toprak will not be able to race following his injury, and we are sorry to see him miss such an important event. Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernandez will step in for him this weekend, and we will do our best to support him as he joins the team.
We wish Toprak all the best with his surgery and recovery, and hope to see him back on the bike as soon as possible. We are coming off a difficult period, and I believe the team deserves better results after all the hard work everyone has put in. At the same time, we know we need to do a better job ourselves and find ways to make the bike more competitive. I hope Phillip Island can be a turning point for the final part of the season, and we will work hard throughout the weekend to make another step forward.”

More, from a press release issued by Honda HRC:

Luca Marini heads for final Phillip Island weekend.

Honda HRC Castrol will contest the Australian GP with Luca Marini as their lone representative, Joan Mir continuing his recovery while Aleix Espargaro heads for surgery.

The 2026 Australian Grand Prix will be the last race held at Phillip Island before the race heads to Adelaide from 2027. A circuit beloved by fans and riders alike, this weekend’s edition looks set to be an extra special one as everyone goes out for a final moment of glory. From taking the first win around the 4.45-kilometre circuit in 1989 with Wayne Gardner to collecting a total of 15 premier class wins, Phillip Island will always hold fond memories for Honda.

After a more complicated than expected weekend in Indonesia, Luca Marini is aiming to return to form and bring the fight to the top riders once again. 2025 saw the Italian score a pair of top ten finishes at the always unpredictable Phillip Island circuit – equalling his best premier class finish in Australia. 12th in the World Championship standings and only 17 points shy of the top ten, the weekend presents a good opportunity to close the gap to Aldeguer and Bastianini.

Joan Mir and his medical team are hard at work to return the #36 to the circuit but have deemed the Australian GP in Phillip Island too early and will continue to assess his condition.

After voluntarily withdrawing from the Indonesian Grand Prix, Aleix Espargaro will not travel to Australia after experiencing Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome during a private test at the Sepang International Circuit. The Honda HRC Development Rider will head for surgery in Barcelona in the coming days. He will not be replaced.

Luca Marini (10). Photo courtesy Honda HRC.

Luca Marini: “Back to work after a short break as we get ready for three races in a row. Phillip Island is a circuit that every rider loves, coming down the straight with just the sea in front of you is something very unique and of course the layout is like nothing else on the calendar. The objective is to enjoy this weekend and capture as many points as possible, I know the team have been working even during this week between races to try and improve our performance. Five races left, five chances to show all that we have achieved together these past years.”

More, from a press release issued by Pertamina Enduro VR46:

Everything is ready for the last dance of Phillip Island. Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli will go on track this weekend in Phillip Island, which will host the Australian GP for the last time in MotoGP.

MotoGP is back in action this weekend for the Australian GP, which kicks off the second part of the Overseas. Phillip Island will host for the last time the Down Under round, so the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team is ready to end this chapter on one of the most iconic tracks of the calendar.

Di Giannantonio arrives to Australia in sixth place in the World Standing with 245 points, aiming to build on the positives from Indonesia. Phillip Island is one of Fabio’s favourite circuits, where he secured a second-place finish in Moto3 in 2018 and claimed his first MotoGP podium with a third place in 2023. The rider from Rome stood on the podium last year too, finishing the Sunday’s race in second place, his best results in the premier class at the Australian GP.

Following a weekend in Indonesia that confirmed the progress he has been making, Morbidelli arrives in Australia aiming to continue working and improving. At Phillip Island, Franco secured a second-place finish in 2017 and a third-place finish in 2017 (both in Moto2), while his best MotoGP result at the circuit is a fifth place, achieved in 2024. Last year, the Italian-Brazilian rider made some impressive comebacks, and he is now ready to hit the track at Phillip Island for the final time in the premier class. He currently sits sixteenth in the World Standing with 59 points.

The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team will hit the track on Friday for free practice, while qualifying will take place on Saturday at ore 10:50 (local time, +11 UTC). The Sprint will get underway at 3:00 pm (local time, +11 UTC) on Saturday, while the Australian GP will conclude on Sunday with the main race, starting at 2:00 pm (local time, +11 UTC).

Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy VR46 Team.

Fabio Di Giannantonio: “I have a special connection with the Phillip Island circuit. Overall, it’s a unique weekend on the calendar because the atmosphere is different from that of other races, and it brings the team closer together away from the track. The circuit itself is incredible and gives me a real boost. I am sorry because I’ve created some great moments and memories here. For this final race, we’ll carry over the strong pace and all the positives from last weekend. I feel confident, and we won’t give up!”

Franco Morbidella (21) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy VR46 Team.

Franco Morbidelli: “Phillip Island is a beautiful circuit, and hopefully the weather will be good because, when conditions are favourable, the track is even more spectacular! I’ve always enjoyed racing here. In the past, I’ve fought for top positions, and we’ve had some positive weekends. We’re coming into the Australian GP feeling very motivated because we showed further progress in Indonesia, and our goal is to build on that here in Australia. The aim will be to put together a clean weekend, continuing to improve session after session.”

Introducing: MotoGP™ Academy

Mathilde Gasnier

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October 22, 2026

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A new program launches on the Road to MotoGP, promoting the sport around the world and further increasing accessibility to motorcycle racing.

The Road to MotoGP is expanding with the launch of an all-new concept: MotoGP Academy. The seal of MotoGP Academy will be granted to racing schools and institutions around the world that ensure the highest standards on and off track, creating a global network of elite racing schools to develop the sport, particularly in regions that are underserved today.

MotoGP Academies will give young riders around the world a valuable new opportunity to grow and learn in environments designed to deliver the best possible experience, all guaranteed by the MotoGP Academy seal. In addition to developing young talent through the highest standards of excellence, each Academy will promote and serve as ambassadors for two-wheel racing, becoming local hubs for MotoGP and bringing the championship closer to fans.

To earn a place in this elite network and become a MotoGP Academy, partners must meet rigorous requirements across infrastructure, training methodology, technical execution, and brand visibility. MotoGP then invest directly in every branch’s success — providing tailored toolkits, activation support and branding, alongside exclusive discounts on MotoGP products.

Once granted their place on the Road to MotoGP, each MotoGP Academy will bear the name of their nation, region or continent, following the highly successful example of the FIM MotoMini World Series. Larger nations and markets can have multiple MotoGP Academies, where others will have a national Academy that serves as the hub within that country. Key markets for the sport and those with even greater scope for growth will be a point of focus for the new MotoGP Academy program.

Once granted their seal, each Academy will serve as an ambassador for the sport itself, bringing MotoGP closer to fans and driving talents of the future towards sustained success. With a network across the world promoting the sport and ensuring the highest accessibility for fans and prospective riders alike, MotoGP Academy will beckon the next stage of success for the Road to MotoGP.

To find out more and start the journey to becoming an official MotoGP Academy, email [email protected]!

CRA: Women And MotoAmerica Champion Kornbau Star At Finale

John Ulrich

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October 21, 2026

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CRA: Women And MotoAmerica Champion Kornbau Star At Finale

Women Take Center Stage at CRA’s 2026 Season Finale as MotoAmerica Hooligan Champion Bryce Kornbau Sets New Lap Record

BUTTONWILLOW, CA — The California Roadrace Association (CRA) wrapped up its 2026 season with an unforgettable, action-packed Round 4 finale at Buttonwillow Raceway Park that celebrated women in motorsport, strengthening the racing community, and delivering record-breaking performances on the track.

The weekend kicked off Friday with a Compact Octane track day welcoming 45 women to the circuit, made possible through an initiative led by supermodel Jordan Rand alongside Women of Go, Compact Octane Track Days, Let’s Ride Track Days, and CRA. Demonstrating CRA’s commitment to growing the sport, 21 women earned their race licenses through the New Racer Orientation. By Saturday, an empowering lineup of 33 women gridded up for the Ladies of CRA races; a testament to what happens when the racing community rallies together.

1126 Ladies of CRA Group Photo — A large group of women (45 strong!) showed up for a Compact Octane track day on Friday, and 21 of them earned a CRA license and raced on the weekend. The newly licensed racers joined already licensed women in Ladies of CRA races, with a total of 33 women gridding up on the weekend. Photo by Monki Media.

Ladies of CRA Race Results

• Ladies of CRA: Stephanie Krahnke (2025 Yamaha MT-09) secured P1 after a season-long battle, followed by Demi Manchester (2023 Yamaha R6) in P2 and Lauren McLean (2008 Yamaha R6) in P3.

• Ladies of CRA Ultra Lightweight: Returning with fierce determination after missing Round 3, Jaden Sarros (2022 Kawasaki Ninja 400) fought her way to P1. Paddock favorite Kathy “The Zhaoanator” Zhao (2019 Kawasaki Ninja 400) took P2, and Rachel Kelley (2025 Aprilia RS 457) completed the podium in P3.

1126 Ladies of CRA Track Group Photo — Enthusiastic women riders pose for an on-track photo during the CRA weekend at Buttonwillow. Photo by Monki Media.

The CRA racing community celebrated Saturday evening with podium honors and a Saturday Night Social hosted by Coyote Bar & Grill | Carlsbad, featuring live vocal performances by Amber Guzman.

Buttonwillow Raceway Park | The Circuit Lap Record BROKEN! Sunday brought national talent to the grid, including MotoAmerica Super Hooligans Champion Bryce Kornbau and runner-up Andy DiBrino. In the Oculus Financial Heavyweight GP race, Kornbau overcame an early lead by Eugene McMahel, steering his Dunlop-shod Yamaha R1M to victory and setting an all-time CRA track lap record of 1:40.702, slashing nearly a full second off last year’s record held by young talent Alexander Enriquez.

• Oculus Financial Heavyweight GP Podium: P1: Bryce Kornbau (2025 Yamaha R1M), P2: Eugene McMahel (2025 Ducati V4 S), P3: Andy DiBrino (2024 Yamaha R1)

• Oculus Financial Ultra Lightweight GP Podium: After race leader Tyler Bachman (2020 Kawasaki Ninja 400) lost the front end on Turn 10, Hung Lo (2020 Kawasaki Ninja 400) capitalized to take a dominant P1 win. Anthony Estrada (2025 Kawasaki EX500) claimed P2, and Mario Estrada (2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500) locked down P3.

The Power of Community. The weekend was about more than trophies and lap times. It was about creating opportunities, making new memories, helping new racers find their place in the sport, and celebrating the people who make motorcycle racing possible – THE RACERS.

1126 Ladies of CRA racer Jordan Rand #23 — Jordan Rand on track at Buttonwillow. Photo by Monki Media.

CRA extends its deepest gratitude to every racer, friend or family member, and sponsor who made this season amazing. Special thanks to: Oculus Financial Group, Racers Edge Performance, Dunlop Motorcycle Tires, Pacific Utility Installation, Lieto Factory, VnM Sport, Calsun Electric & Solar Systems, Law Tigers, Quantum ePay, Eyes Up Motorsports, RS Speedshop, Kern County Powersports, Adrian Law Firm, Let’s Ride Track Days, Coastal Construction & Engineering, Racer411, Compact Octane, Fun Track Dayz, FP1 Laptimes, TrackXperience, Speed Wobble, Pro J’s Cycles, Bridgestone, GB Brakes, Group 22, Motorcycle Upholstery, New Century Motorcycles, Coyote Bar & Grill, The Heights Restaurant & Bar, 5 Gloves, Motorrad House, Go Moto Racing, Tip in Racing, Media Moments, and Cali Photography.

MotoAmerica: Changes Coming For Title-Winning Attack Squad

Michael Gougis

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October 21, 2026

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MotoAmerica: Changes Coming For Title-Winning Attack Squad

Losing MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Bobby Fong to OrangeCat Racing for the 2027 MotoAmerica Superbike season may be only part of a massive shakeup at the Championship-winning Attack Performance Progressive squad. It is entirely possible that three of the top four in the 2026 Superbike Championship standings – the top Yamaha riders in the series – will be riding for new teams next year, or may find themselves entirely out of a ride.

Just days ago, Fong announced that he would ride a BMW M 1000 RR for the OrangeCat team, which came up just short of winning the Superbike title in its first attempt. The team ran an M 1000 RR for Sean Dylan Kelly, who took three wins and was in contention for the Championship until the final race. Kelly is slated to race alongside Fong out of the OrangeCat stable in 2027.

Since then, Mathew Scholtz, the 2025 Supersport Champion who raced a Yamaha YZF-R1 in Superbike for Strack Racing in 2026, winning five races en route to third in the Championship, has announced that he is leaving the Strack team. There is no official comment as to where he is going, but reports from the paddock indicate that Scholtz is headed for Attack, where he will find the YZF-R1 he is familiar with.

Scholtz BJNA4340 P — Mathew Scholtz in pit lane at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

“Mathew has been an important part of our team and has helped us achieve significant milestones on and off the track. We are grateful for the effort, determination, and passion he brought to Strack Racing throughout our time together,” the team posted on social media.

In addition, multiple racing websites based out of Europe are reporting that MotoGP and World Superbike race winner Danilo Petrucci has agreed to terms with Attack to race another YZF-R1 in MotoAmerica. Petrucci raced for Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati New York in MotoAmerica Superbike in 2022, winning the first three races and two more throughout the season. Despite adding 11 more podiums, Petrucci finished second in the Championship to Jake Gagne on – an Attack Performance YZF-R1. Petrucci rode the factory BMW in the Superbike World Championship in 2026, but underperformed badly and was sidelined for several races with injuries.

When asked if he would accept an offer from Attack to race MotoAmerica Superbike in 2027, Petrucci told the GPOne over the weekend: “I think so, because it is the same thing that happened here last year with BMW: they were the ones who came looking for me and wanted me, so I think it’s right to follow the motto: ‘Those who love me, follow me’, rather than trying to force things, because they don’t work out well that way,” he said.

Petrucci P90661450 highRes 16th 18st october 20 — Danilo Petrucci. Photo courtesy BMW.

“As for America, they (Attack) approached me and it’s something I like. Also because it’s the team that won this year and the one I battled with in 2022, the year I raced there. They are certainly very well prepared and, as I said, I still want to race and I would like to find something I enjoy and that motivates me. They are good options, but I still don’t have a clear picture … there are still things they need to tell me.”

Also unclear is the status of JD Beach, who rode for Attack in 2026 and finished fourth in the Championship with three wins.

Beach Mid Ohio BJNB0835 P — JD Beach (95) at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

The changes at OrangeCat and Attack are in addition to the addition of 2026 Supersport Champion Darryn Binder to the Warhorse HSBK Ducati Superbike team, riding alongside 2025 Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier.

Bagger Racing League Champions Crowned In Las Vegas

John Ulrich

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October 21, 2026

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Bagger Racing League Champions Crowned In Las Vegas

BRL Las Vegas Finale: 2026 Bagger Racing League Champions Crowned at Rounds 6 & 7

The 2026 AMA Bagger Championship came to a close this past weekend at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, with Rounds 6 and 7 deciding the final class championships of the season. Two full days of racing under the desert sun delivered drama, sweep performances, and career-defining moments across all ten classes.

Bagger GP – Dahmer Closes It Out

Seth Dahmer (Tucker Speed) wrapped up the premier class title in style, taking the Round 7 win ahead of Cody Gilmore (Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson / All Balls) and Drew Jankord (Alloy Art). Dahmer finished the season with 147 points, with Jankord (102) and Gilmore (85) rounding out the top three in the final Bagger GP standings.

Pro-Stock Bagger – Foley Sweeps the Finale

Brendan Foley (Suburban Motors HD) was untouchable in Las Vegas, winning both Round 6 and Round 7 to lock up the championship with 150 points. Tony Tucker (Tucker Speed, 143 points) and Matthew Maldonado (Jaybirds Custom Cycle, 125 points) completed the podium. Chase French pushed Foley in Round 7, finishing third.

Super-Street Bagger – Hoffman Takes the Crown

Shawn Hoffman (Suburban Motors HD) claimed the Round 7 victory and the class championship with 163 total points, edging teammate Joey Robinson (157 points), who had won Round 6. Jake McGuire (Advanblack/Tucker Speed, 142 points) finished third in the final standings.

Air-Cooled Twins – Wilhelm Wins the War

Chase French (French Racing) swept both Las Vegas rounds, but it was Carl Wilhelm (Reckless Racing) who secured the season championship with 125 points. French finished just 5 points back at 120, with Bill Kane (50 points) in third. Joe Gayle and Lenny Howard (Quaid Racing) were consistent podium threats all weekend.

Liquid Cooled Twins – Jankord Dominates

Drew Jankord (Alloy Art) capped a dominant season with a Round 7 win over teammate Teddy Honan, Charles Condit (One Lap Racing), Chris Keyes (Geezer Engineering), and David Lancaster (Heathen Nation). Jankord finished the year with 150 points, with Lancaster (125) and Vincent Wilson (80) completing the top three.

Final 2026 Champions

Bagger GP: Seth Dahmer (Tucker Speed)

Pro-Stock Bagger: Brendan Foley (Suburban Motors HD)

Super-Street Bagger: Shawn Hoffman (Suburban Motors HD)

American Twins Unlimited: Levi Badie (Speed Farm)

Unlimited SBK: Drew Jankord

Liquid Cooled Twins: Drew Jankord (Alloy Art)

Air-Cooled Twins: Carl Wilhelm (Reckless Racing)

Middleweight SBK: Seth Dahmer

Next Gen SBK: Jim Milroy Jr.

Lightweight SBK: Bryan Shields

The Bagger Racing League now turns its attention to the 2027 season, which opens at NCM Motorsports Park in Kentucky. Full results and standings for every class are available on the Results page.

BRL-2026-Season-Standings (1)

ASBK: Phillip Island Heralds The Start of New Shannons ASBK Era

Mathilde Gasnier

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October 21, 2026

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ASBK: Phillip Island Heralds The Start of New Shannons ASBK Era

The 2027 Shannons Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli (ASBK) will officially commence alongside the 2026 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island from October 23-25, with a huge field of 31 riders to contest the season opener in front of tens of thousands of spectators.

Phillip Island will also be the dawn of a new ASBK era as it makes a groundbreaking switch to a summer-based calendar for the first time since the championship’s inception in 1989, with rounds at The Bend (November 13-15, 2026), One Raceway (December 4-6, 2026), Queensland Raceway (January 15-17, 2027) and Phillip Island (February 19-21, 2027) to follow before the grand finale at Sydney Motorsport Park (March 19-20, 2027).

Voight celebrates his first ASBK Superbike title at Queensland Raceway. Photo by RbMotoLens

The entry list for the season opener runs deep, featuring a tasty intersection of seasoned stars, rookies, emerging talent and internationals as ASBK competes for official points at the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix for only the second time in its 39-year history.

Spectators attending the grand prix will have multiple opportunities to meet the ASBK stars at autograph sessions over the three days, including a special one at the Shannons SuperRig from 2:30-3:00pm on Saturday featuring defending ASBK champion Harrison Voight, Jonathan Nahlous, Jacob Roulstone and Josh Waters.

Practice and qualifying for ASBK round one will be held on Friday, followed by two races on Saturday (12:10pm and 4:10pm) and one on Sunday (9am) – all 11-lappers.

There will be live and exclusive coverage of all three ASBK races on Fox Sports and Kayo, followed by a follow-up highlights show on SBS Sport on Sunday, November 8 with additional interviews and behind-the-scenes features.

Who can put the heat on Voight at Phillip Island?

There are candidates galore lining up to put the squeeze on Voight, who will continue at McMartin Racing Ducati in 2027 as he begins his quest to become the seventh rider to win consecutive ASBK titles.

Voight – the second youngest ASBK champion in history – always seems to find an extra step at the 4.448km grand prix circuit, which the lap record holder showed in February at the 2026 ASBK opener with two wins out of three races.

Roulstone (Honda) was the other winner in February as he made a stunning ASBK debut, while Cameron Dunker (Blue Marlin Pools East Racing Yamaha) – currently blazing a trail in the 2026 Aussie Flat Track Nationals – and Nahlous (Yamaha Racing Team) were the other podium finishers.

The trio is again expected to keep Voight on his toes alongside riders such as Josh Waters (DesmoSport Ducati), reigning No. 3 Cru Halliday (Stop and Seal Ducati), Glenn Allerton (Superbike Advocates Ducati) and Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team).

Josh Waters during pre-season testing at Phillip Island. Image by Russell Colvin.

Change of scenery for Waters and Co

There’s intrigue aplenty ahead of Phillip Island, dominated by the crafty Waters. The 39-year-old, who has been a mainstay of the ASBK paddock for three decades, has made a shock switch to DesmoSport Ducati after five seasons with McMartin Racing where he will attempt to win a sixth Superbike title aboard the latest evolution of the Panigale V4 R.

John Lytras (Addicted to Track Yamaha), Jack Favelle (Apex Racing Team Honda) and Marcus Hamod (Unitek Racing Yamaha) will also be out to land some early blows in their new pastures, while Queenslander Broc Pearson makes a popular return to the ASBK paddock on a TeamBWR Honda after missing the 2026 season.

Elsewhere, 18-year-old Jayden Martin (Yamaha) represents a new breed of ASBK aspirants as he brings his dominant West Aussie form onto the national arena – although he did recently win multiple titles at the 2026 Australian Historic Championship in his home state – while the international flavour will be courtesy of New Zealanders Luca Durning (Alex Racing Team BMW), Richard Markham-Barrett (Addicted to Track BMW) and Morgan McLaren-Wood (Blue Marlin Pools East Yamaha) and Japan’s Kota Higuchi (Suzuki).

Who’s going to come out on top in the high-stakes opener?

To purchase tickets for round one of the 2027 Shannons Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli, click here.

MotoGP: Razgatlioglu Ruled Out for Remainder of 2026 Season

Mathilde Gasnier

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October 21, 2026

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MotoGP: Razgatlioglu Ruled Out for Remainder of 2026 Season

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu to miss Phillip Island and remainder of the 2026 season.

Following further medical examinations in Milan, Toprak Razgatlıoğlu will undergo surgery on Monday, October 26, to address the injury sustained in his crash at Mandalika. The Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP rider will therefore miss the remainder of the season, with Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernandez planned to replace him for the upcoming races.

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu travelled to Milan on Monday Oct. 21st for further medical examinations following the shoulder injury he sustained in a highside crash during the Indonesian Grand Prix at Mandalika. Unfortunately, the latest assessments confirmed that the damage requires surgical treatment to ensure the best possible recovery.

In agreement with Toprak, surgery has been scheduled for Monday, October 26, in Milan. Following the procedure, the Turkish rider will focus on his rehabilitation, ruling him out of the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island and the remaining rounds of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship.

Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernandez is planned to step in for Razgatlıoğlu for the upcoming races. Yamaha and Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP wish Toprak a successful operation and a smooth recovery, and will support him throughout the rehabilitation process and thank Augusto Fernandez for stepping in to help.

Gino Borsoi: “We are very sorry for Toprak, as we know how much he wanted to race at Phillip Island and continue his journey with the YZR-M1. He has been working hard to adapt to MotoGP, and it is disappointing that this injury will prevent him from continuing that process over the coming races. However, his health must come first, and we will support him throughout his recovery and look forward to seeing him back on the bike when he is ready. At the same time, we welcome Augusto Fernandez, who will step in for Toprak at Phillip Island and until Toprak isn’t ready to come back. As Yamaha‘s test rider, he knows the bike well, and we are pleased to have him joining the team for these events. We will work together to make the most of this opportunity while wishing Toprak a successful operation and a smooth recovery.”

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: “I‘m extremely disappointed to miss the Australian Grand Prix. Phillip Island is one of my favourite circuits and a place where I‘ve enjoyed some very special moments during my Superbike career. I was excited about the opportunity to race here on the MotoGP bike, which makes this situation even harder to accept. After further medical assessments following the crash in Mandalika, it became clear that my shoulder injury is worse than we first believed. As a result, I will undergo surgery in the coming days to give myself the best chance of making a full recovery and returning at 100%. This wasn‘t an easy decision, but after consulting with the doctors and the people closest to me, we are convinced it is the right step for my future. I would also like to wish Jack all the best for his home Grand Prix. Racing in front of your home crowd is always special, and with this being the final MotoGP event at Phillip Island, I hope he can enjoy a fantastic weekend and achieve a great result. I‘ll be cheering for him and the entire team from afar.”

2027 Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days Set for July 23-25

Mathilde Gasnier

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October 21, 2026

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2027 Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days Set for July 23-25

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days will return to the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, July 23-25, 2027, and promises a packed weekend of motorcycling fun for all ages.

There is something for riders of all backgrounds at Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, including both off- and on-road racing opportunities, North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet, demo rides from some of the most noteworthy brands in motorcycling, seminars, bike show, stunt shows and more.

“Every year, we aim to provide our AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days attendees with an extraordinary time, filled with ample opportunity to enjoy all of the freedoms that two wheels have to offer,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said. “AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is the product of a yearlong effort from our staff and the team at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, and we look forward to getting back to the track next July.”

Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course provides an excellent venue for Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, with its 2.4-mile, 15-turn road-racing track and plenty of space to camp and ride.

“When VMD weekend arrives, it consumes the whole property, from the paddock to the campgrounds to the swap meet,” said Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course President Craig Rust. “We’ve worked hard with the AMA over the years to make this one of the largest vintage motorcycle events in the country.”

Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days serves as the primary fundraiser for the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps fund the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame’s mission to promote and preserve the history of motorcycling in America.

Tickets to 2027 Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days will go on sale for AMA members in January 2027 at a discounted rate. Join the AMA and receive this discount, among many other benefits, by visiting AmericanMotorcyclist.com/members-community/members/join-the-ama/ or by calling (800) 262-5646.

Stay up to date on all things Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days by subscribing to the AMA VMD Newsletter, following the event’s social media channels on Facebook andInstagram or visiting VintageMotorcycleDays.com .

MotoGP: Lecuona Steps In For Aldeguer in Australia

Mathilde Gasnier

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October 21, 2026

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MotoGP: Lecuona Steps In For Aldeguer in Australia

The #54 will be sidelined to recover, with the WorldSBK race winner stepping in at Gresini once again.

Fermin Aldeguer will be sidelined from the Australian GP following his recent hand injury. The #54 returned to Spain after his crash on Sunday in Indonesia and underwent surgery, and he’s now full steam ahead on recovery in time for the Malaysian GP at Sepang.

“I had bad luck this year, now with my hand,” Aldeguer recently told the WorldSBK team at Jerez, underlining his first target back. “It’s less than one week after the injury so we have to stay calm and see if I can be back in Malaysia. It’s our first goal. We will see.”

In the meantime, Iker Lecuona will step in for Aldeguer this weekend for the Red Bull Australian GP. It’s the third time the SBK Ducati rider returns to the BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP team this season, after subbing for Alex Marquez at Balaton and Aldeguer at Silverstone.

MotoGP: Preview of The Red Bull Grand Prix of Australia

Mathilde Gasnier

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October 21, 2026

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MotoGP: Preview of The Red Bull Grand Prix of Australia

HOT HEADLINES: the final Phillip Island battle beckons for tight 2026 title fight.

A last chapter of history will be written as Phillip Island brings the end of the title showdown ever closer.

Phillip Island first showed us what it was all about in 1989 and has been the host of the Australian GP since 1997. Countless memories, showdowns and runs to the line have been witnessed in that time. Before we bid farewell to ‘The Island’ and write a new chapter in Adelaide from 2027, we could well be in for one of the most important Grands Prix of the season so far. Two points is the difference between two rivals who battled hard here two years ago, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as the title race gets set for five GPs in six weeks where by the end of it all, one champion will be crowned.

MARTIN VS MARQUEZ: the title run-in intensifies

You’d have been a brave pundit to predict that Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) would leave Mandalika with the exact same two-point deficit as when he entered but that’s what the reigning Champion did. An Aprilia 1-2-3-4 on Sunday, with Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) in third kept the Martinator ahead and whilst Aprilia were strong in Australia last year, it’ll be new territory on the RS-GP for the #89. What we can hope for is a repeat of their epic, Grand Prix-of-the-season battle from 2024, that time going the way of the #93. As for 2026, Martin remains with just one victory but has been on the Grand Prix podium in the last three whilst Marquez only has six Sunday podiums – all of them victories.

BEZZECCHI RESILIENT: has he saved his Bezt until last?

It wasn’t long ago that Bezzecchi’s title hopes seemed to be fading but he, like Martin, has been on the podium in the last three GPs and finally got back to Grand Prix winning ways at Mandalika. Five of the last six GPs on the rostrums and Phillip Island’s Sprint winner from 2025, the #72 is 46 points back from Martin but still very much determined in his bid for the title. He’s 50 clear of Ai Ogura (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team), making it a realistic three-horse title fight with five rounds remaining. This was the part of the season last year where Bezzecchi seemed to have an extra gear and hit the form he carried into the early part of 2026 – can he do it again one year on?

Marco Bezzecchi (72), Ai Ogura (79) and Diogo Moreira (11) at Motegi. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

CHASING PACK: 2026 Grand Prix winners and 2025 Phillip Island stunners

Ogura is fourth by a single point over Austrian GP winner Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), with the Spaniard not having the happiest of times in Japan or Indonesia. The battle for fourth is a four-way fight with Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) in hot pursuit whilst Raul Fernandez’s (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) P2 at Mandalika reignites his charge. The #25 won in MotoGP for the first time at Phillip Island last year and it was Diggia who clinched P2 just behind, so 2026 could be interesting. Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini MotoGP Team), teammate Fermin Aldeguer and double World Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) complete the top ten in the standings, but Aldeguer is once again on the sidelines after his hand injury picked up in Lombok, replaced by Iker Lecuona as he was earlier in the year.

Jack Miller (43) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy Pramac.

FURTHER BACK: the tight battle just off the top ten, Miller readies for final home GP

Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) is just two points behind Aldeguer in the top ten battle overall and fellow countryman Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) is just a further 14 behind, hoping he can keep his streak of points in every GP in 2026 going Down Under. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) is just four points off Marini too, and has been a top eight finisher in the last three Australian Grands Prix, whilst top Yamaha Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) has enjoyed points in the last two Grands Prix and Sprints.
Top rookie in 2026 Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) is tied on points with Quartararo and just 15 ahead of Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), who in-turn is just eight ahead of 2023 Australian GP winner Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR). All home eyes will be on Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP), however. He’ll aim to bow out of MotoGP with one final strong showing at his home Grand Prix where he was mighty close to the Sprint podium in 2025. Teammate Toprak Razgatlioglu returns to a circuit he knows from WorldSBK, with his first points since Misano the target and Alex Rins (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) is one of five Australian GP winners lining up on the grid, the other being Maverick Viñales (Red Bull KTM Tech3) who is also looking for more as he rebuilds from a long layoff. Joan Mir’s (Honda HRC Castrol) attendance remains to be confirmed by Honda as he struggles with illness, so stay tuned for an update there.

Two points at the top, another key contender with an impressive form book and five GPs in six weeks await. There’s plenty more to come in 2026 so get ready for another awesome, and final, show from the Island.

MotoGP: Teams Are Ready For Phillip Island

October 22, 2026

Capture d’écran 2026 10 12 à 11.36.21 — Pedro Acosta (37) and Marc Marquez (93) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy MotoGP.