Jose Antonio Rueda won the FIM Moto3 World Championship race Sunday at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Using his Pirelli-shod Red Bull KTM Ajo, the Spaniard won the 16-lap race by just 3.471 seconds.
Maximo Quiles was the runner-up on his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM.
David Muñoz, piloting his LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP KTM was third, 3.495 seconds behind Rueda.
Angel Piqueras crossed the finish line fourth on his FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI KTM.
Dennis Foggia took fifth on his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM.
Poleman and Muñoz’s teammate, Guido Pini finished the race 10th.
Jose Antonio Rueda leads the championship with 228 points, 85 ahead of Angel Piqueras who has 143 points. Alvaro Carpe is third with 133 points.
Rueda takes lights-to-flag Brno victory ahead of gloves-off P2 battle. Leading every lap and controlling the 16-lap encounter, Rueda sports a healthy lead into summer.
A record gap between P1 and P2 in the standings after 12 rounds is just what Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) ordered ahead summer break and it’s what he came away with from his first visit to Brno. Behind, a battle between Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) and teammate Dennis Foggia lit up the group battle, with Quiles ultimately securing second ahead of David Muñoz (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) who came from last on the grid to third for a third straight rostrum finish.
Storming into Turn 1 and grabbing the advantage, Championship leader Rueda edged out polesitter Guido Pini (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) and fellow front-row starter David Almansa (Leopard Racing). Quiles was soon up into P2 halfway through the first lap whilst further behind, Muñoz had made a lightning getaway from the back of the grid and was already into the points. By the start of Lap 3, the Aragon and German GP winner was already inside the top ten whilst 2020 Czech GP winner Dennis Foggia (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) had clambered his way into the top three.
At the halfway stage, Rueda had begun to get the hammer down whilst Quiles and Angel Piqueras (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) battled for podium honours. Foggia was up to second but the fight had left a second gap between the #99 out front and the chasing pack. By the end of Lap 9, Quiles was back into P2 but back-to-back fastest laps by Rueda meant the pressure was on for the #28.
The scrapping continued and with five to go and a two second gap to Rueda, it was very much a battle to decide the final two spots on the podium. Behind the duelling CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar machines came Piqueras, Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing), Muñoz and Almansa. Into the last lap and Quiles led the way with Piqueras, Muñoz and Foggia nipping at his heels. At Turn 6, the #64 muscled his way into P3 and then P2 by Turn 10. It was all coming down to Turn 13 but fantastic defensive work from Muñoz made it hard for Quiles. Rueda took a seventh win of the season, Quiles managed to slipstream his way into second whilst Muñoz’s last-to-third ride keeps up his run of top five finishes and makes it a fourth podium in five GPs. Piqueras’ wait for a rostrum return continues as he took P4, ahead of Foggia and Fernandez, the latter of which took his first points since Le Mans.
Almansa took more solid points in seventh and closes in on top Honda honours in the standings, whilst Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) fought his way into eighth. Ryusei Yamanaka (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) and polesitter Pini rounded out the top ten. Elsewhere, it was a notable ride for Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia), working his way up the order into P11 before a double Long Lap for causing a crash drops him out the points, meaning star debutant Marco Morelli (DENSSI Racing – BOE) moves up to 13th to impress first time out.
That’s it from Brno, join us for more Moto3 after the summer break as we touch down in Austria.
The 2025 Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, made its final trip to the west coast as the Pacific Northwest’s scenic Washougal MX Park was the site for the eighth race of the summer campaign and Round 25 of the SMX World Championship regular season. Clear skies and balmy temperatures set the stage for the Military Appreciation Race at the FLY Racing Washougal National Presented by Peterson CAT where the 450 Class dominance by Honda HRC Progressive’s Jett Lawrence came to an end at the hands of defending champion and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Chase Sexton, who impressed en route to his fourth win at the venue in five years. In the 250 Class, Honda HRC Progressive’s Jo Shimoda earned the edge over championship leader and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing rider Haiden Deegan via tiebreaker for the Japanese rider’s second win in three races.
Chase Sexton Ends Jett Lawrence’s Dominance in Pro Motocross Championship with Fourth Washougal Win in Five Years
Moto 1
The first moto of the afternoon began with the Monster Energy Kawasaki of Jorge Prado edging out Jett Lawrence for the Pro Motocross Holeshot. As Prado pushed wide to close off Lawrence’s advance, it allowed Sexton, the defending class champion, to slip under both riders and grab the lead. As Sexton dropped the hammer and looked to pull away, Lawrence pressured Prado and was patient before he made the pass for second. Prado then lost his hold of third to Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac.
The lead trio settled into their respective spots through the opening 10 minutes of the moto, with Sexton managing a lead between one to two seconds. As they approached the halfway point of the moto Lawrence was able to pressure Sexton and got alongside the KTM rider, but Sexton fended off the challenge and reestablished his advantage. The pair moved out nearly 10 seconds ahead of Tomac in third.
As he made another run on Sexton, Lawrence lost traction and went down. As he remounted, Tomac rode past for second as Lawrence was forced to regroup in third. Without the pursuit from Lawrence, Sexton built a lead of nearly 10 seconds while Tomac looked to keep a resurgent Lawrence at bay. The Honda rider moved to within striking distance, but lapped riders allowed Tomac to inch away in the closing stages of the moto.
Sexton backed it down on the final lap and cruised to his first moto win of the season, 3.4 seconds ahead of Tomac, while Lawrence settled for third. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire finished fourth, with Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence in fifth.
Chase Sexton’s prowess at Washougal MX Park continued with his fourth win in five seasons, ending Jett Lawrence’s eight-race win streak. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Moto 2
The second and deciding moto started with Hunter Lawrence leading the field to the Pro Motocross Holeshot with his brother Jett in tow. Prado slotted into third initially, but Sexton made the move and gave chase to the Honda duo. Tomac started just outside the top five in seventh but made quick passes to move up into fourth and make it a four-rider lead group.
The intensity up front ramped up five minutes into the moto as Jett Lawrence had to fend off a pass attempt from Sexton, which then pushed the championship leader onto the rear fender of his older brother. Jett amped up the aggression to get alongside Hunter and took the lead. Not long after, Sexton made the pass for second, but Hunter Lawrence fought back to reclaim the position. Sexton then went on the attack again and moved back into second. Moments later, the red flag was waved for a downed rider, which brought a halt to the race with 21:22 left in the moto.
The first-ever staggered restart in Pro Motocross saw the race resume with the field launching out the starting gate individually, in sequential running order from the previously completed lap. Jett Lawrence started first, followed by Hunter Lawrence, Sexton, and Tomac. Sexton was able to make the pass on Hunter Lawrence for second and brought Tomac along into third to drop Lawrence outside the top three.
The lead trio settled in through the halfway point of the moto, with just three seconds between them. As the moto wore on, Jett Lawrence managed a lead of just over two seconds on Sexton, as Tomac slowly lost touch in third. Lawrence’s margin continued to grow and eventually surpassed five seconds as the Honda rider completed his 12th moto win of the season by 8.7 seconds over Sexton, with Tomac in third.
Jett Lawrence failed to win for just the second time in his career, finishing second. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Overall
In just his third race back after a crash took him out of action at the opening round, Sexton’s 1-2 finishes bettered Lawrence’s 3-1 effort to end an eight-race win streak for the Australian. It signified the 14th win of Sexton’s career and his fourth in five years at Washougal. He also remains the only rider to defeat Jett Lawrence in the Pro Motocross Championship, with two wins across the 24 races Lawrence has entered. The Honda rider’s second ever non-win still produced a runner-up effort, while Tomac finished overall podium (2-3) for the fifth time this season and the 77th time in his career.
Lawrence’s lead in the championship standings increased to 61 points over Hunter Lawrence, who finished fourth (3-5), with Tomac third, 94 points out of the lead.
Eli Tomac made his return to the podium for the 77th time in his career. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
1st Place: Chase Sexton, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing (1-2)
“It feels good [to get the win]. I was pretty far off last weekend and went to work this week to be better. I knew I was really good at this track and had the ability to win here. I got great starts, rode well, and made it happen. We’ll regroup over the next two off weeks and will come out swinging for the final three races.”
“Washougal ain’t my track. Chase is really good here. In that first moto I just asked way too much of the motorcycle [and went down]. I really had to work hard in the second moto and the restart made it even more difficult to have to stop and get going again. But hey, it was still a good day, so we’ll take it.”
3rd Place: Eli Tomac, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing (2-3)
“Huge gains today compared to last week. We were within the same zip code [of the leaders]. I wish we could have won, but I’m happy with what we’ve got to work with. I love it here at this track, so I’m just really pleased with how the day went.”
Podium picture with, from left to right, Jett Lawrence, Chase Sexton and Eli Tomac. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Shimoda Edges Deegan via Tiebreaker for Second 250 Class Win in Three Races.
Moto 1
The opening moto got underway with the Triumph Factory Racing machine of Jalek Swoll leading the way to the Pro Motocross Holeshot, followed by Rockstar Energy GASGAS Factory Racing’s Ryder DiFranceso and Deegan, the defending class champion. Swoll then crashed out of the lead, which moved DiFrancesco into the lead Deegan into second, as Shimoda moved into third.
Deegan started to apply pressure on the lead and got alongside DiFrancesco, who nearly jumped into the Yamaha rider. The two made slight contact in the air, with DiFranseco going to the ground and Deegan able to keep it on two wheels to take over the lead. Shimoda moved into second followed by Toyota Redlands BarX Yamaha’s Dilan Schwartz.
As the moto surpassed its halfway point, Shimoda had closed the deficit to about a second on Deegan and started to apply pressure on the lead. Deegan responded and picked up his pace significantly to push the lead to more than three seconds after logging his fastest laps of the moto. The lead then stabilized at around four seconds. Behind them, the battle for third intensified between Schwartz and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Garrett Marchbanks. The veteran Kawasaki rider went on the attack and successfully moved into the top three.
Deegan maintained his lead through to the finish and secured his 10th moto win of the season, six seconds ahead of Shimoda, with Marchbanks in a distant third. Schwartz earned a career-best moto result in fourth, with Triumph Factory Racing’s Austin Forkner in fifth.
A pair of strong starts helped Jo Shimoda earn his second win in the past three races. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Moto 2
The final moto of the afternoon kicked off with the Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki of Seth Hammaker out front of Shimoda and Triumph Factory Racing’s Mikkel Haarup. Deegan started deep inside the top 10 in eighth. Back up front, Shimoda went on the attack and made the pass on Hammaker to begin the second lap.
As Shimoda quickly distanced himself from the field Deegan methodically worked his way forward and broke into the top five 10 minutes into the moto. Meanwhile, Hammaker asserted his hold of second while a multi-rider battle for third took shape between Haarup, DiFrancesco, and Deegan, with Marchbanks closing in from sixth. Both Deegan and Marchbanks made their way around DiFrancesco to move into fourth and fifth, respectively, and gave chase to Haarup.
With Deegan closing in, Haarup tucked the front end and went down, which allowed Deegan and Marchbanks to get by as the Danish rider lost multiple positions. The focus then shifted on the battle for third between Deegan and Marchbanks, who were separated by just a couple seconds in the closest battle up front. With their higher pace, both riders closed in on Hammaker in the closing stages of the moto. With less than two minutes remaining, Deegan quickly caught and passed Hammaker for second and then faced a deficit of 20 seconds to Shimoda.
Shimoda was in a class of his own out front and easily captured his third moto win of the season by 18.2 seconds over Deegan. Hammaker kept his teammate Marchbanks at bay for third.
Despite missing out on a third straight Washougal victory Haiden Deegan didn’t lose a single point in the championship battle. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Overall
Another pair of strong starts allowed Shimoda to capture his second win in three races (2-1) via a second-moto tiebreaker over Deegan. It signified the fifth victory of the Japanese racer’s career. Deegan’s trademark resiliency resulted in a runner-up effort (1-2) for his seventh podium in nine races, while Marchbanks broke through for his first ever Pro Motocross podium in third (3-4).
Deegan’s lead in the championship standings remains at 45 points over Shimoda, while Marchbanks has taken sole control of third, 116 points out of the lead.
After knocking on the door all summer long Garrett Marchbanks finally broke through for his maided podium result in Pro Motocross. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
1st Place: Jo Shimoda, Honda HRC Progressive (2-1)
“It was a good day. This one means a lot to me. As a team, we worked really hard for this. I know we’re far out of the championship, but this is awesome, and I hope we can keep doing it.”
2nd Place: Haiden Deegan, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing (1-2)
“I felt like I was riding a bull out there, it was wild. We finished second and didn’t lose any points, so in the big picture it was a good day.”
3rd Place: Garret Marchbanks, Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki (3-4)
“Every time I got close to Haiden I couldn’t finish it, so it was tough on the track today. I made some mistakes and lost some energy late, but it was a good day. I’m really excited to get my first podium outdoors.”
Podium picture with, from left to right, Hayden Deegan, Jo Shimoda and Garret Marchbanks. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
250 Class Overall Results (Moto Finishes // Points)
Julien Beaumer, Lake Havasu City, Ariz., KTM – 295
Maximus Vohland, Sacramento, Calif., Yamaha – 288
Jordon Smith, Belmont, N.C., Triumph – 278
Levi Kitchen, Washougal, Wash., Kawasaki – 278
The 2025 Pro Motocross Championship will take an extended break in action before its three-race stretch run to crown champions, with two off weekends through the end of July and beginning of August. The series will make its anticipated return on Saturday, August 9, from Indiana’s Ironman Raceway for the Tucker Freight Lines Ironman National. Exclusive and comprehensive live broadcast coverage of the ninth race of the season can be seen on Peacock, beginning with Race Day Live at 7 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. ET, followed by uninterrupted coverage of the motos at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET.
With four wins in the Suzuka 8 Hours to his name, World Superbike star Michael van der Mark has joined BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team to go for a fifth victory when the legendary EWC event takes place from 1-3 August.
The 32-year-old Dutchman took time out from his preparations for round three of the 2025 FIM Endurance World Championship season to answer five key questions.
What is it about the Suzuka 8 Hours that brings the best out in you?
“Consistency and focus, the stints are long, they’re like over an hour. You have to be consistent. You have to push but you cannot be as fast as you want for the full hour. Then you have to focus because you have to pass a lot of people. To do the focus and the consistency together is quite difficult but it’s the only way during these stints.”
Van der Mark was part of the winning Yamaha Factory Racing Team at Suzuka in 2018. Photo courtesy EWC.
You join a BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team fighting for the 2025 EWC title. What element of pressure does that bring?
“Our main goal is to make history and that’s to be the first European brand to be on the Suzuka podium. It will be even better to win the race and that’s for sure the goal.”
With Sylvain Guintoli not racing at Suzuka this year you join forces with Steven Odendaal and Markus Reiterberger. What are they like as guys and team-mates?
“They’re really nice, we did a test a couple of weeks ago and there was a good atmosphere. For me it was like, ‘I’m like new in the team’, so I just came there to ride the bike, I didn’t want to be the new guy, I did my thing, listened to them and we had a good time. From the first moment we were on same level and the same way we want to work.”
Suzuka testing in June was a reminder of the high temperatures in store for Japan’s EWC round. Photo courtesy EWC.
The Suzuka 8 Hours often means very difficult conditions, crazy humidity and temperatures. Where does the key lie at least for a podium for BMW?
“The main thing is consistency, we know we have a good speed, a good pace but it’s eight hours and so many things can happen. Everyone knows their pace, we know what we can do, we’re all ready to do our stints but no one knows what’s going to happen. This is the nice thing about endurance, it’s eight hours, it’s eight long hours but we have to push for eight hours, we have to be smart, ride on our toes to do everything as perfectly as we can.”
Dutchman van der Mark in recent World Superbike action at Donington Park. Photo courtesy EWC.
Your father Henk van der Mark won the 24 Heures Motos in 1984. Can we expect to see you doing a 24-hour race in the future?
“At the moment eight hours is long enough for me so not yet, but I will never say never. I would like to experience [a 24 hour race] but not now.”
The 46th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race takes place from 1-3 August. Click HERE for more information.
Van der Mark is a four-time winner of the Suzuka 8 Hours. Photo courtesy EWC.
MICHAEL VAN DER MARK’S SUZUKA WINS REVISITED
2013: With Leon Haslam and Takumi Takahashi (Honda)
2014: With Leon Haslam and Takumi Takahashi (Honda)
2017: With Alex Lowes and Katsuyuki Nakasuga (Yamaha)
2018: With Alex Lowes and Katsuyuki Nakasuga (Yamaha)
Despite a challenging qualifying session marred by heavy traffic, Julian Correa of Pons Motorsport Italika Racing showcased exceptional race craft at today’s Race 1, climbing from a P12 starting position to secure a commendable P7 finish.
The qualifying session proved to be a frustrating affair as he struggled to find clear track amidst a congested field. “It was tough out there in qualifying,” Julian commented. “Every time I tried to put in a quick lap, I ran into traffic. It definitely didn’t reflect our true pace.”
However, the race was a different story. Starting from the fourth row, he demonstrated remarkable determination and strategic prowess. Consistently making clean overtakes and maintaining strong race pace, he steadily worked his way through the pack.
“I knew we had a good race setup, and I was determined to make up for qualifying,” he explained. “The bike felt strong, and I focused on hitting my marks and being smart with my moves. To finish P7 after starting P12, especially against such a strong field, feels like a real victory.”
The P7 result is a testament to Julian’s skill and resilience, proving their ability to perform under pressure and overcome adversity. The team now looks ahead to Julian with renewed confidence.
The world’s elite motorcycle dirt trackers put on quite the show in the inaugural Short Track at Lucas Oil Speedway in Wheatland, Missouri, to open the second half of an intense 2025 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.
The “Diamond of Dirt Tracks” was properly introduced to two-wheeled action on the night, playing witness to the two best riders in the world performing at the top of their games. In the end, Briar Bauman (No. 3 RWR/Parts Plus/Latus Motors Harley-Davidson XG750R) overcame the valiant effort of a relentless Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) to score his fifth victory of the season and break their points tie atop of the Mission AFT SuperTwins standings.
Prior to the race, Bauman’s victory felt nearly preordained considering both his form on the season and throughout the day. That seemed especially true once he got the holeshot and Daniels languished down near tenth after struggling uncharacteristically and qualifying on the third row.
However, Daniels locked onto an extreme low line and made it work, leaping up to fifth in short order and then sitting on the back of a fight for third waged by Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing KTM 790 Duke) and Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Progressive Insurance Honda Transalp).
That became a four-rider dispute for second once Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) dropped his pursuit of Bauman and fell into the clutches of Fisher, Lowe, and Daniels as the contest approached half-distance.
A minute later, Daniels used that ultra-low route to dive past all three and jump up from fifth to second in one extended swoop. By that point, however, Bauman held an advantage of 1.354 seconds and seemed safe on his way to victory.
Daniels made it less and less safe, however, ultimately closing to within 0.329 seconds by the time they arrived at the checkered flag.
Bauman’s triumph was his ninth-ever Short Track win, elevating him into a four-way tie with Chris Carr, Henry Wiles, and Jared Mees for the career lead in the discipline. It was also his 31st overall premier-class win, moving him into the all-time top ten in terms of career victories.
Bauman said, “(Daniels) just figured it out halfway through the Main Event and was clicking laps. I thought I was hitting my marks, but he’s so good and this is so tight, that I’m just numb to it at this point…
“I’m fired up. When Jared Mees stepped away, I said I need to be the guy to fill his shoes. I know there are a lot of people who want to see us succeed, and I can feel that. That gets me fired up. Once again, Rick Ware Racing, Parts Plus, Latus Motors… Rick (Ware) and George (Latus) came together to put this thing together. I never thought I’d have five wins. This Harley-Davidson XG750R is working really good.”
Meanwhile, Fisher held off the impressive Lowe to get his season back on track with a third podium result of ‘25.
Unfortunately for Robinson, he was a non-finisher; he pulled off with a mechanical issue just as Lowe overtook him for fourth with under a minute-and-a-half remaining on the clock.
Jarod VanDerKooi (No. 20 Fastrack Racing/Wally Brown Racing KTM 790 Duke) won out in a scrap for sixth with James Ott (No. 19 G&G Racing Yamaha MT-07) and Declan Bender (No. 70 Memphis Shades/Luczak Racing Yamaha MT-07).
Max Whale (No. 18 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Mission Foods/Roof Systems Yamaha MT-07), and Billy Ross (No. 29 Racing Unlimited/Bel Ray Kawasaki Ninja 650) rounded out the top ten.
Bauman now leads Daniels 185-181 in what’s truly taken shape as a two-rider battle for the Grand National Championship. Despite his misfortune on the evening, Robinson remains ranked third, albeit 66 points back of the lead at 119.
AFT Singles presented by KICKER
Trevor Brunner (No. 21 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) pulled off an epic final-lap, final-corner pass on AFT Singles presented by KICKER title leader Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) to claim his first victory of the season.
After Drane made quick work of the fast-starting Bradon Pfanders (No. 83 Hannum’s HD/Pfanders Racing KTM 450 SX-F), it looked as if the Australian might simply march off to his fourth consecutive victory.
And Drane did in fact open up a second-plus advantage before championship rival Chase Saathoff (No. 88 RWR/Parts Plus Honda CRF450R) and Brunner finally made their way into second and third with right around three minutes remaining on the clock.
From that point forward, Saathoff and Brunner couldn’t decide who should lead the charge in their joint attempt to track down Drane. Instead, they battled it out all non-stop but somehow continued to reel in the Estenson Racing ace all the while.
The two finally moved to within striking distance as the clocks hit zero; Brunner and Saathoff flanked Drane from close behind with the Turner Honda pilot perched on his right shoulder and the RWR rider there on his left.
Just when it looked like it was all too little, too late, Brunner threw in a last-gasp Hail Mary maneuver and was rewarded for his audaciousness, stealing the checkered flag from Drane by a scant 0.069 seconds.
“It feels amazing,” Brunner said. “I feel like I’ve got like 300 pounds lifted off my chest. I knew I could get it done, but we were just missing the little things, and I think it’s a lot mentally from myself. But, man, this facility is awesome, the fans are awesome, the whole experience here at Lucas Oil Speedway has been awesome.”
Three seconds behind Brunner, Drane, and Saathoff, Jared Lowe (No. 63 Big R/Little Debbie Racing Honda CRF450R) completed a charge of his own to fight his way into fourth.
Early leader Pfanders equaled his career-best finish of fifth, while car track expert Aidan RoosEvans (No. 26 FRA Trust/ATV’s and More Yamaha YZ450F) came home sixth.
Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450), Tarren Santero (No. 75 Mission Roof Systems Honda CRF450R), Walker Porter (No. 100 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Evan Kelleher (No. 31 Schaeffer’s Motorsports KTM 450 SX-F) finished seventh through tenth, respectively.
Despite the narrow defeat on the night, Drane actually extended his points lead. He now leads Saathoff by 23 points (172-149), while Brunner closed in just a bit, upping his tally to 137.
Next Up:
Progressive American Flat Track will make its way to the 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for the Jackpine Gypsies Short Track I & II on Monday, August 4 and Tuesday, August 5.
For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at https://flosports.link/aft.
FOX Sports coverage of the Short Track at Lucas Oil Speedway, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, August 10, at 11:00 a.m. ET (8:00 a.m. PT).
Carter Machinery Teams Up with Warhorse Racing for MotoAmerica Superbikes at VIRginia International Raceway
Unique livery, fan poll, and special event to celebrate the collaboration.
MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Josh Herrin has been on a winning streak. Photo by Brian J. Nelson/HSBK.
Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati is proud to announce a new partnership with Carter Machinery, the official Caterpillar® dealer for Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and Washington, D.C., for the upcoming MotoAmerica round at Virginia International Raceway (August 1–3). Carter Machinery will serve as the team title sponsor for the weekend, marking a new alliance between the motorsports and heavy equipment industries.
This collaboration will come to life with Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati debuting a Caterpillar-inspired livery for the race weekend. In the spirit of fan engagement, the team is giving its followers the chance to vote between two custom bike designs. The winning livery will be unveiled just ahead of the race.
Warhorse Ducati Graphics Version 1.Warhorse Ducati Graphics Version 2.
“As a team always looking to push boundaries, we’re thrilled to welcome Carter Machinery as a partner for the Virginia Round,” said Bobby Shekarabi, Team Principal of Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati. “It’s exciting to collaborate with a respected brand outside of the motorsports world and explore innovative ways to connect with fans. This partnership represents exactly the kind of energy and forward thinking we strive for in racing.”
The weekend festivities will kick off with a special bike unveiling and rider meet-and-greet at Carter Machinery’s Lynchburg location on Thursday, July 31, from 12–2 pm. Fans will have the chance to meet Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati and MotoAmerica Superbike Champion, Josh Herrin, see the winning livery up close, and get autographs.
The location is Carter Machinery–Lynchburg, 45 Industrial Circle, Lynchburg, VA 24501
In addition to the on-track excitement, Carter Machinery will host an activation within the team’s hospitality space, featuring a CAT® machine simulator that invites fans to experience the precision and skill required to operate heavy equipment.
MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Josh Herrin usually runs this red graphics package. At VIR his bike will be black and yellow, in CAT colors. Photo by Brian J. Nelson/HSBK.
“With our roots in southwestern Virginia, MotoAmerica’s return to VIR is the perfect chance for Carter Machinery to join the excitement,” said Craig Kahoun, Executive Vice President of Carter Machinery. “Our team brings the same passion and drive to work that Warhorse Racing brings to the track, and we’re excited to give our followers a chance to be part of the ride.”
About Carter Machinery
Carter Machinery is the authorized Cat® dealer for Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and Washington, D.C., offering a full range of equipment, rental and power solutions. With over 30 locations and a 97-year track record of success, Carter Machinery empowers industries to build, connect and power communities through smart, durable equipment and service excellence. Learn more about Carter Machinery by visiting their website.
The MotoAmerica Mini Cup Qualifier run by MotoAmerica racers Tyler O’Hara and Hawk Mazzotta (originally scheduled for March but rescheduled due to torrential rains) in conjunction with Sierra Nevada Mini Moto is happening now on the kart track at Sonoma Raceway Karting Center, 29355 Arnold Dr., Sonoma, CA 95476.
Practice with the Hawk Mazzotta New Racer School runs today from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with free camping tonight. Races run by Sierra Nevada Mini Moto are on Sunday, with gates opening at 6:00 a.m.
Classes include:
Mission Mini Cup
Exhibition
GP World Cup
Amateur/Pro SuperMoto (asphalt only)
DTX (asphalt only)
Adult Mini GP
John Hopkins and Ohvale USA are on site with a limited supply of rental bikes.
Ohvale Mini Cup bikes seen at the track. Photo courtesy Tyler O’Hara.
Marc Marquez won the MotoGP Tissot Sprint race Saturday afternoon at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25 on Michelin control tires, the six-time World Champion won the 10-lap race by 0.798 second.
Pedro Acosta was the runner-up on his Red Bull KTM Factory Racing RC16.
Enea Bastianini finished third on his Red Bull KTM Tech3 RC16.
Marco Bezzecchi got fourth on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP25.
Fabio Quartararo took fifth on his Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1.
Poleman, Francesco Bagnaia crossed the finish line 7th on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25.
For his comeback, Jorge Martin got 11th on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP25.
Marc Marquez leads the championship with 356 points, 95 ahead of Alex Marquez who has 261 points. Bagnaia is third with 200 points.
Marc Marquez beats Acosta despite strategy intrigue in Brno Sprint. Another strategic master stroke for the #93 whilst two KTMs are behind as Acosta and Bastianini shine on Saturday.
It was the first ever Tissot Sprint at Brno and a first pole start of 2025 for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) so right from lights out, there was lots on the line. After what seemed like a tyre pressure battle led to both Pecco and teammate Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) slowing up, the #93 soon pushed his way to the front to make it another Sprint success. He took gold ahead of Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3), making it two KTMs on a podium for the first time this season.
FIRST STAGES: battles all the way through the pack
Snatching the holeshot, Pecco lead the way until Turn 3 when teammate Marc attacked and took over at the front. Elsewhere, a poor start from Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) left him down in 19th on Lap 1 whilst at Turn 3 on Lap 2, Augusto Fernandez (Yamaha Factory Racing Team) slid off and collected Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR), ending both their Sprints. Into P3 on the second lap, Acosta got himself ahead of Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) whilst the Frenchman was rubbing fairings with Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) at Turn 10. Meanwhile, Bez’s returning teammate, World Champion Jorge Martin, was up into P7 in the early stages.
TYRE PRESSURE CONCERNS: Pecco and Marc slow from leading positions
At the end of Lap 4, Bastianini was capitalising on his strong weekend so far and into fourth and ahead of Quartararo, but the drama was further up the road. On the exit of Turn 4, Bagnaia slowed down and was passed by Acosta, Bastianini and Quartararo. A lap later and it could have been a replay – this time for Marc Marquez; the #93 likewise slowing down and letting Acosta through to let the #37 lead in his first outing at Brno.
Both the Ducatis slowing down but getting straight back into the pace suggested that tyre pressures needed controlling but whatever it was, the last three laps had Acosta, Marc Marquez, Bastianini and Quartararo all in victory contention. Behind, Bezzecchi clambered ahead of Pecco at Turn 11, now into the top five, with Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) next up.
LATE CHARGES: Bezzecchi and Fernandez move up, Marc retakes P1
On the penultimate lap, Bezzecchi worked his way into fourth ahead of Quartararo as his trademark late pace came to the fore. Up at the front and on the direction change from Turn 8 into Turn 9, Marc Marquez pounced in what would prove to be a Sprint-winning pass on ‘El Tiburon’. Another success in the Sprint for the Championship leader who extended his Championship advantage, with a first Sprint podium for Acosta since Aragon 2024. Two KTMs on a Sprint podium underline their previous happy memories at Brno and it’s a first rostrum of the year for Bastianini. There was a small caveat on top of the podium with Marquez’s tyre pressure under investigation but that was soon over, the win standing for Marc.
ROUNDING OUT THE ORDER: Bezzecchi just off the podium, Martin 11th
Bezzecchi claimed P4 with Quartararo behind him. On the final lap, Fernandez pushed his way into sixth place ahead of polesitter Pecco, whilst Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) and super-sub Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) completed the points-paying positions. On his comeback ride, Martin finished in 11th, just behind Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). Alex Marquez, meanwhile, was forced to settle for P17 and zero points after the nightmare start. That’s 12 more lost to Marc Marquez in the championship chase… but Sunday is another day.
Barry Baltus was the man to beat during Moto2 World qualifying Saturday at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his Pirelli-shod Fantic Racing Lino Sonego Kalex, Baltus navigated the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) course in 1:58.322, breaking Joe Roberts 2025 All-Time Lap Record of 1:58.444 he set this morning.
American Joe Roberts was second-best with a 1:58.342 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex, and his teammate, Marcos Ramirez claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 1:58.579.
Manuel Gonzalez crossed the finish line fourth on his LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex with a lap time of 1:58.711.
Daniel Holgado got fifth with a time of 1:58.805 on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.
Baltus edges out Roberts for pole, Canet P18 in Brno. Just 0.020 sees the Belgian deny the American as Canet faces a fightback after solid qualifying for key title rivals.
Barry Baltus (Fantic Racing Lino Sonego) went from Q1 to pole position at Brno, just edging out Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) by 0.020. Just to rub it in, the Belgian also set his lap behind the American. Roberts’ teammate Marcos Ramirez completes the front row, pushing Championship leader Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) down to P4.
A crash for Aron Canet (Fantic Racing Lino Sonego) early in Q2 sees him start from P18 on the grid, giving the #44 some work to do on Sunday as key challengers start much further forward.
Daniel Holgado (CFMoto Inde Aspar Team) and Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) join Gonzalez on Row 2, ahead of Jake Dixon (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in P7. Wildcard Mattia Pasini (Fantic Racing Redemption) and home hero Filip Salač (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) complete the third row.
We know Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) starts from pitlane due to his penalty from the German GP, and the Brazilian also sat out Q1. More familiar names were left behind by the time Q2 began too, including reigning Moto3 Champion David Alonso (CFMoto Inde Aspar Team) and multiple podium finisher Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo).
Can they – and Canet – fight back on Sunday? See full qualifying results from Brno for Moto2 here and tune in for the Triumph-powered symphony from 12:15 (UTC +2) to find out!
Guido Pini earned pole position during Moto3 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP KTM on Pirelli control tires, the rookie turned a lap time of 2:05.019. Not only was that good enough to lead the 24-rider field, it was also good enough to eclipse Jose Antonio Rueda’s 2025 All-Time Lap Record he set during FP2 of 2:05.421.
Jose Antonio Rueda was the best of the rest with a 2:05.045 on his Red Bull KTM Ajo, and Pini’s teammate, David Muñoz claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 2:05.057.
Row-two qualifiers included Leopard Racing Honda’s David Almansa (2:05.091), Maximo Quiles on his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM (2:05.175) and his teammate Dennis Foggia (2:05.188).
Pini powers to first-ever Moto3™ pole. The rookie Italian was in fine form to make it back-to-back front rows.
Moto3 was frantic as ever during qualifying; Guido Pini (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) took pole position to lead the charge into Sunday, ahead of Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) in second and David Muñoz (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) in P3. Muñoz’s back of the grid start means it’s David Almansa (Leopard Racing) who returns to the front row on the grid in P3.
Moving through Q1 and into Q2, Angel Piqueras (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) lead the way ahead of Marcos Uriarte (LEVELUP-MTA), super debutant Marco Morelli (DENSSI Racing – BOE) and Noah Detwiller (CIP Green Power), ready to do battle for pole. After the opening laps of Q2, Rueda led the way ahead of Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) and Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team). At the opposite end of the leaderboard, Joel Kelso (LEVELUP-MTA) didn’t set a lap time and fellow FP2 crasher Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was P12. With just three minutes left, it was all to play for.
A flurry of action delivered the goods in the closing stages and after being down in the first three sectors, Pini pulled the pin in the fourth to make it back-to-back front rows and a career-first front row. Rueda will go from P2 after being denied in the last moments with Muñoz P3 but with a back of the grid start coming, it promotes David Almansa (Leopard Racing) to the front row. Quiles was pushed down the order but salvaged fifth across the line, leading up the second row of the grid on Sunday, ahead of teammate Dennis Foggia and Perrone.
Rounding out the top ten, Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) was eighth ahead of the impressive Morelli, whilst Piqueras will complete row three on Sunday and Uriarte leads from the head of the fourth row – not a bad showing from the riders who came through Q1. Polesitter last time out Scott Ogden (CIP Green Power), Carpe and Ryusei Yamanaka (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) are just some of the names with work to do on Sunday.
Jose Antonio Rueda won the FIM Moto3 World Championship race Sunday at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Using his Pirelli-shod Red Bull KTM Ajo, the Spaniard won the 16-lap race by just 3.471 seconds.
Maximo Quiles was the runner-up on his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM.
David Muñoz, piloting his LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP KTM was third, 3.495 seconds behind Rueda.
Angel Piqueras crossed the finish line fourth on his FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI KTM.
Dennis Foggia took fifth on his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM.
Poleman and Muñoz’s teammate, Guido Pini finished the race 10th.
Jose Antonio Rueda leads the championship with 228 points, 85 ahead of Angel Piqueras who has 143 points. Alvaro Carpe is third with 133 points.
Rueda takes lights-to-flag Brno victory ahead of gloves-off P2 battle. Leading every lap and controlling the 16-lap encounter, Rueda sports a healthy lead into summer.
A record gap between P1 and P2 in the standings after 12 rounds is just what Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) ordered ahead summer break and it’s what he came away with from his first visit to Brno. Behind, a battle between Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) and teammate Dennis Foggia lit up the group battle, with Quiles ultimately securing second ahead of David Muñoz (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) who came from last on the grid to third for a third straight rostrum finish.
Storming into Turn 1 and grabbing the advantage, Championship leader Rueda edged out polesitter Guido Pini (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) and fellow front-row starter David Almansa (Leopard Racing). Quiles was soon up into P2 halfway through the first lap whilst further behind, Muñoz had made a lightning getaway from the back of the grid and was already into the points. By the start of Lap 3, the Aragon and German GP winner was already inside the top ten whilst 2020 Czech GP winner Dennis Foggia (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) had clambered his way into the top three.
At the halfway stage, Rueda had begun to get the hammer down whilst Quiles and Angel Piqueras (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) battled for podium honours. Foggia was up to second but the fight had left a second gap between the #99 out front and the chasing pack. By the end of Lap 9, Quiles was back into P2 but back-to-back fastest laps by Rueda meant the pressure was on for the #28.
The scrapping continued and with five to go and a two second gap to Rueda, it was very much a battle to decide the final two spots on the podium. Behind the duelling CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar machines came Piqueras, Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing), Muñoz and Almansa. Into the last lap and Quiles led the way with Piqueras, Muñoz and Foggia nipping at his heels. At Turn 6, the #64 muscled his way into P3 and then P2 by Turn 10. It was all coming down to Turn 13 but fantastic defensive work from Muñoz made it hard for Quiles. Rueda took a seventh win of the season, Quiles managed to slipstream his way into second whilst Muñoz’s last-to-third ride keeps up his run of top five finishes and makes it a fourth podium in five GPs. Piqueras’ wait for a rostrum return continues as he took P4, ahead of Foggia and Fernandez, the latter of which took his first points since Le Mans.
Almansa took more solid points in seventh and closes in on top Honda honours in the standings, whilst Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) fought his way into eighth. Ryusei Yamanaka (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) and polesitter Pini rounded out the top ten. Elsewhere, it was a notable ride for Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia), working his way up the order into P11 before a double Long Lap for causing a crash drops him out the points, meaning star debutant Marco Morelli (DENSSI Racing – BOE) moves up to 13th to impress first time out.
That’s it from Brno, join us for more Moto3 after the summer break as we touch down in Austria.
SMX Round 25 - Pro Motocross Championship at Washougal, Washington. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
The 2025 Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, made its final trip to the west coast as the Pacific Northwest’s scenic Washougal MX Park was the site for the eighth race of the summer campaign and Round 25 of the SMX World Championship regular season. Clear skies and balmy temperatures set the stage for the Military Appreciation Race at the FLY Racing Washougal National Presented by Peterson CAT where the 450 Class dominance by Honda HRC Progressive’s Jett Lawrence came to an end at the hands of defending champion and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Chase Sexton, who impressed en route to his fourth win at the venue in five years. In the 250 Class, Honda HRC Progressive’s Jo Shimoda earned the edge over championship leader and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing rider Haiden Deegan via tiebreaker for the Japanese rider’s second win in three races.
Chase Sexton Ends Jett Lawrence’s Dominance in Pro Motocross Championship with Fourth Washougal Win in Five Years
Moto 1
The first moto of the afternoon began with the Monster Energy Kawasaki of Jorge Prado edging out Jett Lawrence for the Pro Motocross Holeshot. As Prado pushed wide to close off Lawrence’s advance, it allowed Sexton, the defending class champion, to slip under both riders and grab the lead. As Sexton dropped the hammer and looked to pull away, Lawrence pressured Prado and was patient before he made the pass for second. Prado then lost his hold of third to Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac.
The lead trio settled into their respective spots through the opening 10 minutes of the moto, with Sexton managing a lead between one to two seconds. As they approached the halfway point of the moto Lawrence was able to pressure Sexton and got alongside the KTM rider, but Sexton fended off the challenge and reestablished his advantage. The pair moved out nearly 10 seconds ahead of Tomac in third.
As he made another run on Sexton, Lawrence lost traction and went down. As he remounted, Tomac rode past for second as Lawrence was forced to regroup in third. Without the pursuit from Lawrence, Sexton built a lead of nearly 10 seconds while Tomac looked to keep a resurgent Lawrence at bay. The Honda rider moved to within striking distance, but lapped riders allowed Tomac to inch away in the closing stages of the moto.
Sexton backed it down on the final lap and cruised to his first moto win of the season, 3.4 seconds ahead of Tomac, while Lawrence settled for third. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire finished fourth, with Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence in fifth.
Chase Sexton’s prowess at Washougal MX Park continued with his fourth win in five seasons, ending Jett Lawrence’s eight-race win streak. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Moto 2
The second and deciding moto started with Hunter Lawrence leading the field to the Pro Motocross Holeshot with his brother Jett in tow. Prado slotted into third initially, but Sexton made the move and gave chase to the Honda duo. Tomac started just outside the top five in seventh but made quick passes to move up into fourth and make it a four-rider lead group.
The intensity up front ramped up five minutes into the moto as Jett Lawrence had to fend off a pass attempt from Sexton, which then pushed the championship leader onto the rear fender of his older brother. Jett amped up the aggression to get alongside Hunter and took the lead. Not long after, Sexton made the pass for second, but Hunter Lawrence fought back to reclaim the position. Sexton then went on the attack again and moved back into second. Moments later, the red flag was waved for a downed rider, which brought a halt to the race with 21:22 left in the moto.
The first-ever staggered restart in Pro Motocross saw the race resume with the field launching out the starting gate individually, in sequential running order from the previously completed lap. Jett Lawrence started first, followed by Hunter Lawrence, Sexton, and Tomac. Sexton was able to make the pass on Hunter Lawrence for second and brought Tomac along into third to drop Lawrence outside the top three.
The lead trio settled in through the halfway point of the moto, with just three seconds between them. As the moto wore on, Jett Lawrence managed a lead of just over two seconds on Sexton, as Tomac slowly lost touch in third. Lawrence’s margin continued to grow and eventually surpassed five seconds as the Honda rider completed his 12th moto win of the season by 8.7 seconds over Sexton, with Tomac in third.
Jett Lawrence failed to win for just the second time in his career, finishing second. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Overall
In just his third race back after a crash took him out of action at the opening round, Sexton’s 1-2 finishes bettered Lawrence’s 3-1 effort to end an eight-race win streak for the Australian. It signified the 14th win of Sexton’s career and his fourth in five years at Washougal. He also remains the only rider to defeat Jett Lawrence in the Pro Motocross Championship, with two wins across the 24 races Lawrence has entered. The Honda rider’s second ever non-win still produced a runner-up effort, while Tomac finished overall podium (2-3) for the fifth time this season and the 77th time in his career.
Lawrence’s lead in the championship standings increased to 61 points over Hunter Lawrence, who finished fourth (3-5), with Tomac third, 94 points out of the lead.
Eli Tomac made his return to the podium for the 77th time in his career. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
1st Place: Chase Sexton, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing (1-2)
“It feels good [to get the win]. I was pretty far off last weekend and went to work this week to be better. I knew I was really good at this track and had the ability to win here. I got great starts, rode well, and made it happen. We’ll regroup over the next two off weeks and will come out swinging for the final three races.”
“Washougal ain’t my track. Chase is really good here. In that first moto I just asked way too much of the motorcycle [and went down]. I really had to work hard in the second moto and the restart made it even more difficult to have to stop and get going again. But hey, it was still a good day, so we’ll take it.”
3rd Place: Eli Tomac, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing (2-3)
“Huge gains today compared to last week. We were within the same zip code [of the leaders]. I wish we could have won, but I’m happy with what we’ve got to work with. I love it here at this track, so I’m just really pleased with how the day went.”
Podium picture with, from left to right, Jett Lawrence, Chase Sexton and Eli Tomac. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Shimoda Edges Deegan via Tiebreaker for Second 250 Class Win in Three Races.
Moto 1
The opening moto got underway with the Triumph Factory Racing machine of Jalek Swoll leading the way to the Pro Motocross Holeshot, followed by Rockstar Energy GASGAS Factory Racing’s Ryder DiFranceso and Deegan, the defending class champion. Swoll then crashed out of the lead, which moved DiFrancesco into the lead Deegan into second, as Shimoda moved into third.
Deegan started to apply pressure on the lead and got alongside DiFrancesco, who nearly jumped into the Yamaha rider. The two made slight contact in the air, with DiFranseco going to the ground and Deegan able to keep it on two wheels to take over the lead. Shimoda moved into second followed by Toyota Redlands BarX Yamaha’s Dilan Schwartz.
As the moto surpassed its halfway point, Shimoda had closed the deficit to about a second on Deegan and started to apply pressure on the lead. Deegan responded and picked up his pace significantly to push the lead to more than three seconds after logging his fastest laps of the moto. The lead then stabilized at around four seconds. Behind them, the battle for third intensified between Schwartz and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Garrett Marchbanks. The veteran Kawasaki rider went on the attack and successfully moved into the top three.
Deegan maintained his lead through to the finish and secured his 10th moto win of the season, six seconds ahead of Shimoda, with Marchbanks in a distant third. Schwartz earned a career-best moto result in fourth, with Triumph Factory Racing’s Austin Forkner in fifth.
A pair of strong starts helped Jo Shimoda earn his second win in the past three races. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Moto 2
The final moto of the afternoon kicked off with the Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki of Seth Hammaker out front of Shimoda and Triumph Factory Racing’s Mikkel Haarup. Deegan started deep inside the top 10 in eighth. Back up front, Shimoda went on the attack and made the pass on Hammaker to begin the second lap.
As Shimoda quickly distanced himself from the field Deegan methodically worked his way forward and broke into the top five 10 minutes into the moto. Meanwhile, Hammaker asserted his hold of second while a multi-rider battle for third took shape between Haarup, DiFrancesco, and Deegan, with Marchbanks closing in from sixth. Both Deegan and Marchbanks made their way around DiFrancesco to move into fourth and fifth, respectively, and gave chase to Haarup.
With Deegan closing in, Haarup tucked the front end and went down, which allowed Deegan and Marchbanks to get by as the Danish rider lost multiple positions. The focus then shifted on the battle for third between Deegan and Marchbanks, who were separated by just a couple seconds in the closest battle up front. With their higher pace, both riders closed in on Hammaker in the closing stages of the moto. With less than two minutes remaining, Deegan quickly caught and passed Hammaker for second and then faced a deficit of 20 seconds to Shimoda.
Shimoda was in a class of his own out front and easily captured his third moto win of the season by 18.2 seconds over Deegan. Hammaker kept his teammate Marchbanks at bay for third.
Despite missing out on a third straight Washougal victory Haiden Deegan didn’t lose a single point in the championship battle. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Overall
Another pair of strong starts allowed Shimoda to capture his second win in three races (2-1) via a second-moto tiebreaker over Deegan. It signified the fifth victory of the Japanese racer’s career. Deegan’s trademark resiliency resulted in a runner-up effort (1-2) for his seventh podium in nine races, while Marchbanks broke through for his first ever Pro Motocross podium in third (3-4).
Deegan’s lead in the championship standings remains at 45 points over Shimoda, while Marchbanks has taken sole control of third, 116 points out of the lead.
After knocking on the door all summer long Garrett Marchbanks finally broke through for his maided podium result in Pro Motocross. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
1st Place: Jo Shimoda, Honda HRC Progressive (2-1)
“It was a good day. This one means a lot to me. As a team, we worked really hard for this. I know we’re far out of the championship, but this is awesome, and I hope we can keep doing it.”
2nd Place: Haiden Deegan, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing (1-2)
“I felt like I was riding a bull out there, it was wild. We finished second and didn’t lose any points, so in the big picture it was a good day.”
3rd Place: Garret Marchbanks, Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki (3-4)
“Every time I got close to Haiden I couldn’t finish it, so it was tough on the track today. I made some mistakes and lost some energy late, but it was a good day. I’m really excited to get my first podium outdoors.”
Podium picture with, from left to right, Hayden Deegan, Jo Shimoda and Garret Marchbanks. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
250 Class Overall Results (Moto Finishes // Points)
Julien Beaumer, Lake Havasu City, Ariz., KTM – 295
Maximus Vohland, Sacramento, Calif., Yamaha – 288
Jordon Smith, Belmont, N.C., Triumph – 278
Levi Kitchen, Washougal, Wash., Kawasaki – 278
The 2025 Pro Motocross Championship will take an extended break in action before its three-race stretch run to crown champions, with two off weekends through the end of July and beginning of August. The series will make its anticipated return on Saturday, August 9, from Indiana’s Ironman Raceway for the Tucker Freight Lines Ironman National. Exclusive and comprehensive live broadcast coverage of the ninth race of the season can be seen on Peacock, beginning with Race Day Live at 7 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. ET, followed by uninterrupted coverage of the motos at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET.
World Superbike star Michael van der Mark. Photo courtesy EWC.
With four wins in the Suzuka 8 Hours to his name, World Superbike star Michael van der Mark has joined BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team to go for a fifth victory when the legendary EWC event takes place from 1-3 August.
The 32-year-old Dutchman took time out from his preparations for round three of the 2025 FIM Endurance World Championship season to answer five key questions.
What is it about the Suzuka 8 Hours that brings the best out in you?
“Consistency and focus, the stints are long, they’re like over an hour. You have to be consistent. You have to push but you cannot be as fast as you want for the full hour. Then you have to focus because you have to pass a lot of people. To do the focus and the consistency together is quite difficult but it’s the only way during these stints.”
Van der Mark was part of the winning Yamaha Factory Racing Team at Suzuka in 2018. Photo courtesy EWC.
You join a BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team fighting for the 2025 EWC title. What element of pressure does that bring?
“Our main goal is to make history and that’s to be the first European brand to be on the Suzuka podium. It will be even better to win the race and that’s for sure the goal.”
With Sylvain Guintoli not racing at Suzuka this year you join forces with Steven Odendaal and Markus Reiterberger. What are they like as guys and team-mates?
“They’re really nice, we did a test a couple of weeks ago and there was a good atmosphere. For me it was like, ‘I’m like new in the team’, so I just came there to ride the bike, I didn’t want to be the new guy, I did my thing, listened to them and we had a good time. From the first moment we were on same level and the same way we want to work.”
Suzuka testing in June was a reminder of the high temperatures in store for Japan’s EWC round. Photo courtesy EWC.
The Suzuka 8 Hours often means very difficult conditions, crazy humidity and temperatures. Where does the key lie at least for a podium for BMW?
“The main thing is consistency, we know we have a good speed, a good pace but it’s eight hours and so many things can happen. Everyone knows their pace, we know what we can do, we’re all ready to do our stints but no one knows what’s going to happen. This is the nice thing about endurance, it’s eight hours, it’s eight long hours but we have to push for eight hours, we have to be smart, ride on our toes to do everything as perfectly as we can.”
Dutchman van der Mark in recent World Superbike action at Donington Park. Photo courtesy EWC.
Your father Henk van der Mark won the 24 Heures Motos in 1984. Can we expect to see you doing a 24-hour race in the future?
“At the moment eight hours is long enough for me so not yet, but I will never say never. I would like to experience [a 24 hour race] but not now.”
The 46th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race takes place from 1-3 August. Click HERE for more information.
Van der Mark is a four-time winner of the Suzuka 8 Hours. Photo courtesy EWC.
MICHAEL VAN DER MARK’S SUZUKA WINS REVISITED
2013: With Leon Haslam and Takumi Takahashi (Honda)
2014: With Leon Haslam and Takumi Takahashi (Honda)
2017: With Alex Lowes and Katsuyuki Nakasuga (Yamaha)
2018: With Alex Lowes and Katsuyuki Nakasuga (Yamaha)
Julian Correa (44) during ESBK Race 1 at Navara Race Circuit, Spain. Photo by Dast Media.
Despite a challenging qualifying session marred by heavy traffic, Julian Correa of Pons Motorsport Italika Racing showcased exceptional race craft at today’s Race 1, climbing from a P12 starting position to secure a commendable P7 finish.
The qualifying session proved to be a frustrating affair as he struggled to find clear track amidst a congested field. “It was tough out there in qualifying,” Julian commented. “Every time I tried to put in a quick lap, I ran into traffic. It definitely didn’t reflect our true pace.”
However, the race was a different story. Starting from the fourth row, he demonstrated remarkable determination and strategic prowess. Consistently making clean overtakes and maintaining strong race pace, he steadily worked his way through the pack.
“I knew we had a good race setup, and I was determined to make up for qualifying,” he explained. “The bike felt strong, and I focused on hitting my marks and being smart with my moves. To finish P7 after starting P12, especially against such a strong field, feels like a real victory.”
The P7 result is a testament to Julian’s skill and resilience, proving their ability to perform under pressure and overcome adversity. The team now looks ahead to Julian with renewed confidence.
Mission AFT SuperTwins riders Briar Bauman (3), Dan Bromley (62), Davis Fisher (67), Trent Lowe (48), Bronson Bauman (37), Brandon Robinson (44) and Max Whale (18) during the Main Event at Lucas Oil Speedway Friday night. Photo by: Tim Lester / courtesy American Flat Track
The world’s elite motorcycle dirt trackers put on quite the show in the inaugural Short Track at Lucas Oil Speedway in Wheatland, Missouri, to open the second half of an intense 2025 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.
The “Diamond of Dirt Tracks” was properly introduced to two-wheeled action on the night, playing witness to the two best riders in the world performing at the top of their games. In the end, Briar Bauman (No. 3 RWR/Parts Plus/Latus Motors Harley-Davidson XG750R) overcame the valiant effort of a relentless Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) to score his fifth victory of the season and break their points tie atop of the Mission AFT SuperTwins standings.
Prior to the race, Bauman’s victory felt nearly preordained considering both his form on the season and throughout the day. That seemed especially true once he got the holeshot and Daniels languished down near tenth after struggling uncharacteristically and qualifying on the third row.
However, Daniels locked onto an extreme low line and made it work, leaping up to fifth in short order and then sitting on the back of a fight for third waged by Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing KTM 790 Duke) and Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Progressive Insurance Honda Transalp).
That became a four-rider dispute for second once Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) dropped his pursuit of Bauman and fell into the clutches of Fisher, Lowe, and Daniels as the contest approached half-distance.
A minute later, Daniels used that ultra-low route to dive past all three and jump up from fifth to second in one extended swoop. By that point, however, Bauman held an advantage of 1.354 seconds and seemed safe on his way to victory.
Daniels made it less and less safe, however, ultimately closing to within 0.329 seconds by the time they arrived at the checkered flag.
Bauman’s triumph was his ninth-ever Short Track win, elevating him into a four-way tie with Chris Carr, Henry Wiles, and Jared Mees for the career lead in the discipline. It was also his 31st overall premier-class win, moving him into the all-time top ten in terms of career victories.
Bauman said, “(Daniels) just figured it out halfway through the Main Event and was clicking laps. I thought I was hitting my marks, but he’s so good and this is so tight, that I’m just numb to it at this point…
“I’m fired up. When Jared Mees stepped away, I said I need to be the guy to fill his shoes. I know there are a lot of people who want to see us succeed, and I can feel that. That gets me fired up. Once again, Rick Ware Racing, Parts Plus, Latus Motors… Rick (Ware) and George (Latus) came together to put this thing together. I never thought I’d have five wins. This Harley-Davidson XG750R is working really good.”
Meanwhile, Fisher held off the impressive Lowe to get his season back on track with a third podium result of ‘25.
Unfortunately for Robinson, he was a non-finisher; he pulled off with a mechanical issue just as Lowe overtook him for fourth with under a minute-and-a-half remaining on the clock.
Jarod VanDerKooi (No. 20 Fastrack Racing/Wally Brown Racing KTM 790 Duke) won out in a scrap for sixth with James Ott (No. 19 G&G Racing Yamaha MT-07) and Declan Bender (No. 70 Memphis Shades/Luczak Racing Yamaha MT-07).
Max Whale (No. 18 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Mission Foods/Roof Systems Yamaha MT-07), and Billy Ross (No. 29 Racing Unlimited/Bel Ray Kawasaki Ninja 650) rounded out the top ten.
Bauman now leads Daniels 185-181 in what’s truly taken shape as a two-rider battle for the Grand National Championship. Despite his misfortune on the evening, Robinson remains ranked third, albeit 66 points back of the lead at 119.
AFT Singles presented by KICKER
Trevor Brunner (No. 21 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) pulled off an epic final-lap, final-corner pass on AFT Singles presented by KICKER title leader Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) to claim his first victory of the season.
After Drane made quick work of the fast-starting Bradon Pfanders (No. 83 Hannum’s HD/Pfanders Racing KTM 450 SX-F), it looked as if the Australian might simply march off to his fourth consecutive victory.
And Drane did in fact open up a second-plus advantage before championship rival Chase Saathoff (No. 88 RWR/Parts Plus Honda CRF450R) and Brunner finally made their way into second and third with right around three minutes remaining on the clock.
From that point forward, Saathoff and Brunner couldn’t decide who should lead the charge in their joint attempt to track down Drane. Instead, they battled it out all non-stop but somehow continued to reel in the Estenson Racing ace all the while.
The two finally moved to within striking distance as the clocks hit zero; Brunner and Saathoff flanked Drane from close behind with the Turner Honda pilot perched on his right shoulder and the RWR rider there on his left.
Just when it looked like it was all too little, too late, Brunner threw in a last-gasp Hail Mary maneuver and was rewarded for his audaciousness, stealing the checkered flag from Drane by a scant 0.069 seconds.
“It feels amazing,” Brunner said. “I feel like I’ve got like 300 pounds lifted off my chest. I knew I could get it done, but we were just missing the little things, and I think it’s a lot mentally from myself. But, man, this facility is awesome, the fans are awesome, the whole experience here at Lucas Oil Speedway has been awesome.”
Three seconds behind Brunner, Drane, and Saathoff, Jared Lowe (No. 63 Big R/Little Debbie Racing Honda CRF450R) completed a charge of his own to fight his way into fourth.
Early leader Pfanders equaled his career-best finish of fifth, while car track expert Aidan RoosEvans (No. 26 FRA Trust/ATV’s and More Yamaha YZ450F) came home sixth.
Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450), Tarren Santero (No. 75 Mission Roof Systems Honda CRF450R), Walker Porter (No. 100 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Evan Kelleher (No. 31 Schaeffer’s Motorsports KTM 450 SX-F) finished seventh through tenth, respectively.
Despite the narrow defeat on the night, Drane actually extended his points lead. He now leads Saathoff by 23 points (172-149), while Brunner closed in just a bit, upping his tally to 137.
Next Up:
Progressive American Flat Track will make its way to the 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for the Jackpine Gypsies Short Track I & II on Monday, August 4 and Tuesday, August 5.
For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at https://flosports.link/aft.
FOX Sports coverage of the Short Track at Lucas Oil Speedway, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, August 10, at 11:00 a.m. ET (8:00 a.m. PT).
A CAT D9 Dozer as sold by Carter Machinery. The company is sponsoring Josh Herrin's Warhorse Ducati Superbike at VIR and is holding a meet and greet event on the Thursday before the race weekend.
Carter Machinery Teams Up with Warhorse Racing for MotoAmerica Superbikes at VIRginia International Raceway
Unique livery, fan poll, and special event to celebrate the collaboration.
MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Josh Herrin has been on a winning streak. Photo by Brian J. Nelson/HSBK.
Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati is proud to announce a new partnership with Carter Machinery, the official Caterpillar® dealer for Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and Washington, D.C., for the upcoming MotoAmerica round at Virginia International Raceway (August 1–3). Carter Machinery will serve as the team title sponsor for the weekend, marking a new alliance between the motorsports and heavy equipment industries.
This collaboration will come to life with Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati debuting a Caterpillar-inspired livery for the race weekend. In the spirit of fan engagement, the team is giving its followers the chance to vote between two custom bike designs. The winning livery will be unveiled just ahead of the race.
Warhorse Ducati Graphics Version 1.Warhorse Ducati Graphics Version 2.
“As a team always looking to push boundaries, we’re thrilled to welcome Carter Machinery as a partner for the Virginia Round,” said Bobby Shekarabi, Team Principal of Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati. “It’s exciting to collaborate with a respected brand outside of the motorsports world and explore innovative ways to connect with fans. This partnership represents exactly the kind of energy and forward thinking we strive for in racing.”
The weekend festivities will kick off with a special bike unveiling and rider meet-and-greet at Carter Machinery’s Lynchburg location on Thursday, July 31, from 12–2 pm. Fans will have the chance to meet Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati and MotoAmerica Superbike Champion, Josh Herrin, see the winning livery up close, and get autographs.
The location is Carter Machinery–Lynchburg, 45 Industrial Circle, Lynchburg, VA 24501
In addition to the on-track excitement, Carter Machinery will host an activation within the team’s hospitality space, featuring a CAT® machine simulator that invites fans to experience the precision and skill required to operate heavy equipment.
MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Josh Herrin usually runs this red graphics package. At VIR his bike will be black and yellow, in CAT colors. Photo by Brian J. Nelson/HSBK.
“With our roots in southwestern Virginia, MotoAmerica’s return to VIR is the perfect chance for Carter Machinery to join the excitement,” said Craig Kahoun, Executive Vice President of Carter Machinery. “Our team brings the same passion and drive to work that Warhorse Racing brings to the track, and we’re excited to give our followers a chance to be part of the ride.”
About Carter Machinery
Carter Machinery is the authorized Cat® dealer for Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and Washington, D.C., offering a full range of equipment, rental and power solutions. With over 30 locations and a 97-year track record of success, Carter Machinery empowers industries to build, connect and power communities through smart, durable equipment and service excellence. Learn more about Carter Machinery by visiting their website.
Mini Cup racer Warren Mazzotta in action. Photo courtesy Tyler O'Hara.
The MotoAmerica Mini Cup Qualifier run by MotoAmerica racers Tyler O’Hara and Hawk Mazzotta (originally scheduled for March but rescheduled due to torrential rains) in conjunction with Sierra Nevada Mini Moto is happening now on the kart track at Sonoma Raceway Karting Center, 29355 Arnold Dr., Sonoma, CA 95476.
Practice with the Hawk Mazzotta New Racer School runs today from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with free camping tonight. Races run by Sierra Nevada Mini Moto are on Sunday, with gates opening at 6:00 a.m.
Classes include:
Mission Mini Cup
Exhibition
GP World Cup
Amateur/Pro SuperMoto (asphalt only)
DTX (asphalt only)
Adult Mini GP
John Hopkins and Ohvale USA are on site with a limited supply of rental bikes.
Ohvale Mini Cup bikes seen at the track. Photo courtesy Tyler O’Hara.
Marc Marquez (93) and Francesco Bagnaia (63) during the MotoGP Sprint race at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Marc Marquez won the MotoGP Tissot Sprint race Saturday afternoon at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25 on Michelin control tires, the six-time World Champion won the 10-lap race by 0.798 second.
Pedro Acosta was the runner-up on his Red Bull KTM Factory Racing RC16.
Enea Bastianini finished third on his Red Bull KTM Tech3 RC16.
Marco Bezzecchi got fourth on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP25.
Fabio Quartararo took fifth on his Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1.
Poleman, Francesco Bagnaia crossed the finish line 7th on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25.
For his comeback, Jorge Martin got 11th on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP25.
Marc Marquez leads the championship with 356 points, 95 ahead of Alex Marquez who has 261 points. Bagnaia is third with 200 points.
Marc Marquez beats Acosta despite strategy intrigue in Brno Sprint. Another strategic master stroke for the #93 whilst two KTMs are behind as Acosta and Bastianini shine on Saturday.
It was the first ever Tissot Sprint at Brno and a first pole start of 2025 for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) so right from lights out, there was lots on the line. After what seemed like a tyre pressure battle led to both Pecco and teammate Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) slowing up, the #93 soon pushed his way to the front to make it another Sprint success. He took gold ahead of Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3), making it two KTMs on a podium for the first time this season.
FIRST STAGES: battles all the way through the pack
Snatching the holeshot, Pecco lead the way until Turn 3 when teammate Marc attacked and took over at the front. Elsewhere, a poor start from Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) left him down in 19th on Lap 1 whilst at Turn 3 on Lap 2, Augusto Fernandez (Yamaha Factory Racing Team) slid off and collected Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR), ending both their Sprints. Into P3 on the second lap, Acosta got himself ahead of Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) whilst the Frenchman was rubbing fairings with Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) at Turn 10. Meanwhile, Bez’s returning teammate, World Champion Jorge Martin, was up into P7 in the early stages.
TYRE PRESSURE CONCERNS: Pecco and Marc slow from leading positions
At the end of Lap 4, Bastianini was capitalising on his strong weekend so far and into fourth and ahead of Quartararo, but the drama was further up the road. On the exit of Turn 4, Bagnaia slowed down and was passed by Acosta, Bastianini and Quartararo. A lap later and it could have been a replay – this time for Marc Marquez; the #93 likewise slowing down and letting Acosta through to let the #37 lead in his first outing at Brno.
Both the Ducatis slowing down but getting straight back into the pace suggested that tyre pressures needed controlling but whatever it was, the last three laps had Acosta, Marc Marquez, Bastianini and Quartararo all in victory contention. Behind, Bezzecchi clambered ahead of Pecco at Turn 11, now into the top five, with Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) next up.
LATE CHARGES: Bezzecchi and Fernandez move up, Marc retakes P1
On the penultimate lap, Bezzecchi worked his way into fourth ahead of Quartararo as his trademark late pace came to the fore. Up at the front and on the direction change from Turn 8 into Turn 9, Marc Marquez pounced in what would prove to be a Sprint-winning pass on ‘El Tiburon’. Another success in the Sprint for the Championship leader who extended his Championship advantage, with a first Sprint podium for Acosta since Aragon 2024. Two KTMs on a Sprint podium underline their previous happy memories at Brno and it’s a first rostrum of the year for Bastianini. There was a small caveat on top of the podium with Marquez’s tyre pressure under investigation but that was soon over, the win standing for Marc.
ROUNDING OUT THE ORDER: Bezzecchi just off the podium, Martin 11th
Bezzecchi claimed P4 with Quartararo behind him. On the final lap, Fernandez pushed his way into sixth place ahead of polesitter Pecco, whilst Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) and super-sub Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) completed the points-paying positions. On his comeback ride, Martin finished in 11th, just behind Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). Alex Marquez, meanwhile, was forced to settle for P17 and zero points after the nightmare start. That’s 12 more lost to Marc Marquez in the championship chase… but Sunday is another day.
Barry Baltus in Parc fermé after his pole position at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Barry Baltus was the man to beat during Moto2 World qualifying Saturday at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his Pirelli-shod Fantic Racing Lino Sonego Kalex, Baltus navigated the 3.36-mile (5.40 km) course in 1:58.322, breaking Joe Roberts 2025 All-Time Lap Record of 1:58.444 he set this morning.
American Joe Roberts was second-best with a 1:58.342 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex, and his teammate, Marcos Ramirez claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 1:58.579.
Manuel Gonzalez crossed the finish line fourth on his LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex with a lap time of 1:58.711.
Daniel Holgado got fifth with a time of 1:58.805 on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.
Baltus edges out Roberts for pole, Canet P18 in Brno. Just 0.020 sees the Belgian deny the American as Canet faces a fightback after solid qualifying for key title rivals.
Barry Baltus (Fantic Racing Lino Sonego) went from Q1 to pole position at Brno, just edging out Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) by 0.020. Just to rub it in, the Belgian also set his lap behind the American. Roberts’ teammate Marcos Ramirez completes the front row, pushing Championship leader Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) down to P4.
A crash for Aron Canet (Fantic Racing Lino Sonego) early in Q2 sees him start from P18 on the grid, giving the #44 some work to do on Sunday as key challengers start much further forward.
Daniel Holgado (CFMoto Inde Aspar Team) and Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) join Gonzalez on Row 2, ahead of Jake Dixon (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in P7. Wildcard Mattia Pasini (Fantic Racing Redemption) and home hero Filip Salač (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) complete the third row.
We know Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) starts from pitlane due to his penalty from the German GP, and the Brazilian also sat out Q1. More familiar names were left behind by the time Q2 began too, including reigning Moto3 Champion David Alonso (CFMoto Inde Aspar Team) and multiple podium finisher Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo).
Can they – and Canet – fight back on Sunday? See full qualifying results from Brno for Moto2 here and tune in for the Triumph-powered symphony from 12:15 (UTC +2) to find out!
Guido Pini in Parc fermé after his pole position at Brno. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Guido Pini earned pole position during Moto3 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Automotodrom Brno, in Czech Republic. Riding his LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP KTM on Pirelli control tires, the rookie turned a lap time of 2:05.019. Not only was that good enough to lead the 24-rider field, it was also good enough to eclipse Jose Antonio Rueda’s 2025 All-Time Lap Record he set during FP2 of 2:05.421.
Jose Antonio Rueda was the best of the rest with a 2:05.045 on his Red Bull KTM Ajo, and Pini’s teammate, David Muñoz claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 2:05.057.
Row-two qualifiers included Leopard Racing Honda’s David Almansa (2:05.091), Maximo Quiles on his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM (2:05.175) and his teammate Dennis Foggia (2:05.188).
Pini powers to first-ever Moto3™ pole. The rookie Italian was in fine form to make it back-to-back front rows.
Moto3 was frantic as ever during qualifying; Guido Pini (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) took pole position to lead the charge into Sunday, ahead of Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) in second and David Muñoz (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) in P3. Muñoz’s back of the grid start means it’s David Almansa (Leopard Racing) who returns to the front row on the grid in P3.
Moving through Q1 and into Q2, Angel Piqueras (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) lead the way ahead of Marcos Uriarte (LEVELUP-MTA), super debutant Marco Morelli (DENSSI Racing – BOE) and Noah Detwiller (CIP Green Power), ready to do battle for pole. After the opening laps of Q2, Rueda led the way ahead of Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) and Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team). At the opposite end of the leaderboard, Joel Kelso (LEVELUP-MTA) didn’t set a lap time and fellow FP2 crasher Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was P12. With just three minutes left, it was all to play for.
A flurry of action delivered the goods in the closing stages and after being down in the first three sectors, Pini pulled the pin in the fourth to make it back-to-back front rows and a career-first front row. Rueda will go from P2 after being denied in the last moments with Muñoz P3 but with a back of the grid start coming, it promotes David Almansa (Leopard Racing) to the front row. Quiles was pushed down the order but salvaged fifth across the line, leading up the second row of the grid on Sunday, ahead of teammate Dennis Foggia and Perrone.
Rounding out the top ten, Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) was eighth ahead of the impressive Morelli, whilst Piqueras will complete row three on Sunday and Uriarte leads from the head of the fourth row – not a bad showing from the riders who came through Q1. Polesitter last time out Scott Ogden (CIP Green Power), Carpe and Ryusei Yamanaka (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) are just some of the names with work to do on Sunday.
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