Roland Sands: The AMA Championship-winning racer, designer, entrepreneur, and inventor of the MotoAmerica Super Hooligan class took time to talk with Roadracing World‘s Sam Fleming at Circuit Of The Americas (COTA) to discuss the origins and future of Super Hooligan racing.
Honda is hosting Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) activities for students and teachers at 11 of its U.S. production facilities, promoting the exciting career opportunities that exist for students in modern manufacturing whether at Honda, within the company’s supplier network, or at other manufacturing companies across America.
MFG Day 2024 was officially held on Friday, Oct. 4, but the company actually began welcoming students to several plants in late September and activities will continue through October at some facilities.
Students have the opportunity to meet Honda associates and participate in hands-on activities such as building a model car on a simulated assembly line, virtual welding, or a vehicle painting simulation that highlight different manufacturing areas and career paths. Honda MFG Day events will reach over 1,700 students from 45 different schools in Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, and the Carolinas.
“Honda has a proud tradition of celebrating Manufacturing Day, and associates love to share their passion for creating things by providing students with an up-close look at modern manufacturing,” said Meredith Reffey, workforce partnerships leader at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “We take Manufacturing Day very seriously at Honda because it offers a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation to explore careers in modern manufacturing.”
MFG Day Activities at Honda
Students visiting Honda production facilities will learn about manufacturing directly from the associates who build world-class Honda and Acura products. Students at every location will tour manufacturing facilities to learn how technology, automation, and teamwork influence the advanced approach to manufacturing at Honda. Students will experience a variety of Honda and Acura products that are produced in the company’s U.S. facilities using domestic and globally sourced parts.
Each participating Honda facility will have exciting, immersive experiences for students that are unique to their locations and the products they build.
Alabama – Honda associates at the Alabama Auto Plant will explain how they build the Honda Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline, and Passport, in addition to the V-6 engines that power them. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a team assembly challenge and a virtual paint simulator that demonstrates how Honda uses automation to assist in the painting process.
Georgia – Honda associates at the Honda Transmission Plant in Georgia will demonstrate how they build automatic transmissions, gears, and components that help power Honda and Acura cars and light trucks made in America. Students will have the opportunity to try their hand at securing a bolt and interact with an automated robot used in the facility.
Indiana – Associates at the Honda Indiana Auto Plant will share insights about advanced manufacturing and how this innovative plant builds the Honda Civic Hatchback and CR-V. Here, students will have the opportunity to virtually weld parts of a vehicle and test their skills as a race car driver on a racing simulator.
Ohio – Associates across Honda manufacturing facilities in Ohio including the Marysville Auto Plant, East Liberty Auto Plant, Anna Engine Plant, and the transmission plant in Russells Point will explain how they build Honda and Acura products, engines, and the two-motor hybrid-electric system and demonstrate new innovations in technology, helping sustain the success of Honda manufacturing in America for more than 40 years. Students will have an opportunity to participate in a model car assembly race, torque bolt race, and a bolt stacking game, highlighting assembly jobs. Students will also tour the Dyno Operations department to learn about quality testing careers and can participate in a large pedal tricycle race, highlighting the opportunities available with the Honda of America Racing Team.
North Carolina – Associates at Honda North Carolina Mfg. in Swepsonville, North Carolina plant will explain how they produce Honda FourTrax and TRX series all-terrain vehicle (ATV) models, as well as a variety of outdoor power equipment products. Students will get to experience a variety of the products made at the facility and participate in a virtual reality activity and model car assembly, demonstrating the teamwork and attention to detail required in building Honda products. Associates at Honda Aircraft Company in Greensboro, North Carolina will show students the unique technology and innovation used in producing the HondaJet Elite II.
South Carolina – Honda associates at Honda South Carolina Mfg. in Timmonsville, South Carolina will show students how they build side-by-side vehicles, as the exclusive global source for the Honda Pioneer and Talon models. Students will participate in a model car assembly as well as a 3-D printer activity, highlighting the technology and innovation used at Honda.
About Honda Manufacturing in America
Honda has produced automobiles in North America for over 40 years, beginning in November 1982 at the Marysville Auto Plant. Honda began manufacturing operations in North America in 1979 with motorcycle production in Marysville, Ohio.
Over the past four decades, Honda has steadily grown local production capabilities and now employs more than 33,000 associates in North America who support manufacturing operations at Honda’s 18 plants with the annual capacity to produce 1.86 million automobiles, nearly 4 million engines, 500,000 power equipment products, and 300,000 powersports products, as well as the HondaJet advanced light jet and GE Honda HF120 turbofan engines. In 2023, more than 99% of all U.S.-sold Honda and Acura automobiles were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.
Cumulatively, Honda has invested more than $24 billion in its North American manufacturing capabilities, including more than $4.7 billion over the past five years alone. The company works with over 700 original equipment suppliers in North America with cumulative parts purchases of more than $562 billion.
Learn more at https://hondainamerica.com/.
More information about Honda is available in the Digital FactBook.
MOTO GUZZI TO PARTICIPATE IN 2024 BARBER VINTAGE FESTIVAL OCTOBER 11-13
FROM THE SHORES OF LAKE COMO, THE STORIED MARQUE CELEBRATES OVER A
CENTURY OF CONTINUOUS PRODUCTION, ARRIVING AT BARBER WITH NEW MODELS,
GIVING ENTHUSIASTS PERFECT BLEND OF TIMELESS STYLE IN MODERN MACHINES
Moto Guzzi, the iconic Italian motorcycle manufacturer and a historic marque with over 100 years of heritage, is thrilled to announce its participation in the prestigious Barber Vintage Festival, taking place October 11-13 in Birmingham, Alabama.
As Europe’s oldest continuously manufactured motorcycle brand, Moto Guzzi has excited
enthusiasts around the globe with its timeless style, expert craftsmanship, and unique character for over a century. The brand’s enduring appeal is evident in the passionate following it has cultivated, and perfectly aligned with the audience that makes the pilgrimage to Barber Motorsports Park each year for Vintage Fest.
Moto Guzzi will have a prominent presence at the Barber Vintage Festival, aligning with the
event’s focus on celebrating its motorcycle history and culture. Visitors to the Moto Guzzi display will have the opportunity to see the latest machines from Mandello del Lario and speak with product specialists about the brand offerings. In addition, Moto Guzzi will offer demo rides, giving enthusiasts the chance to experience firsthand the celebrated feeling of riding a Moto Guzzi, which is unlike any other motorcycle.
“We are excited to be part of the Barber Vintage Festival and share our passion for Moto Guzzi and its legacy with enthusiasts that make the journey to the legendary Barber Vintage Festival,” said Joshua Marsh, Trade Marketing Manager at Piaggio Group Americas, parent company of Moto Guzzi. “This event is a perfect opportunity to showcase all that Moto Guzzi has to offer today, while connecting with the vibrant motorcycle community that knows and loves our brand.”
Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia won the FIM MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP24 on Michelin control tires, the two-time and defending World Champion won the 24-lap race by 1.189 second.
Bagnaia’s rival, Jorge Martin took a runner-up finish on his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati.
Marc Marquez made it an all-Ducati podium by placing third on his Gresini Ducati.
For the championship, Bagnaia is now 10 points behind his principal rival Martin who has 382 points. Bastianini is third with 313 points.
Race classification
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
The Italian stormed to glory at Motegi, securing an eighth win of the season ahead of Jorge Martin and Marc Marquez.
Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) delivers win number eight of the season at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, adding his name to an illustrious list after the #1 claimed the perfect launch off the line before setting a relentless pace from start to finish. The reigning World Champion defeated Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), who charged from P11 on the grid and now has his advantage reduced to just 10 points. It is heating up to be an unmissable end to the season, with everything remaining up for grabs.
Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) came home on a strong third after an incredible ride from the #93, who defended hard in the closing laps. Meanwhile, there was further disappointment for Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), with the rookie crashing out from the Grand Prix and ending the weekend with zero points scored.
At the start, Bagnaia made a great initial start, with the reigning World Champion levelled by Acosta on the brakes. The reigning World Champion was fierce, pouncing into the lead, forcing Acosta to slot into second. Meanwhile, a huge fight for third began to break out, with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) holding firm.
Martin and Marc Marquez were on the move in the opening stages, launching their machines inside the top five. Marc Marquez would complete an incredible overtake on Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jack Miller to enter the all-important top five.
Meanwhile, there was drama further back with Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) suffering an early end to his day after a collision with Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) – riders OK. The FIM MotoGP™ Stewards investigated the incident and handed Alex Marquez a Long Lap for the Australian GP.
At the end of Lap 3, everything came to an end for Acosta, who crashed out of Grand Prix at the final corner – promoting Martin to P2. Acosta’s blunder allowed the reigning World Champion to stretch his lead to over one second from his closest rival, Martin. The fastest laps would begin to trade hands in the opening stages as Martin began to edge closer in an enthralling twist.
Marc Marquez continued to make ground, bravely passing Binder for the final spot on the podium. The South African was soon under pressure from Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team), who continued to find time after a busy start. Bastianini made the move stick on Lap 10, with ‘The Beast’ now in a strong fourth.
Further back, Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) had a tough start after launching from the front row. The #12 soon began to battle with his teammate Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) for the final spot inside the top 10 before crashing on Lap 12 – rider OK.
It was building to be a rematch of Saturday’s Sprint battle, with Bastianini making inroads on Marc Marquez after a mistake on the entry to Turn 1. The gap was less than a second as a podium fight brewed, to the delight of the Japanese fans.
The leading duo continued to run an astonishing pace, with Bagnaia maintaining an eight-tenth gap to Martin with just a handful of laps remaining. The #1 responded, stretching the margin to over one second – pushing Martin to the limit.
On the final lap, Bagnaia looked unstoppable, stealing the spotlight on Sunday and reducing Martin’s Championship advantage with four rounds remaining. It is building to be a classic end to 2024, with Martin crossing the line in second, ahead of Marc Marquez. The #93 worked hard in the closing stages, bagging a podium after starting from ninth.
Bastianini crossed the line in fourth, securing a strong points tally on Sunday and beating Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing), with the #21 rounding out the top five. Morbidelli’s Sunday consistency continues, finishing ahead of Binder after an intense finish with just 0.562s separating the pair. Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team’s Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Di Giannantonio rounded out the top eight spots, completing a strong day for the Bologna brand.
Espargaro and Miller took the final spots inside the top 10, with the Australian unable to find late race pace after a string start. Meanwhile, Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) placed 11th, pipping Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) at the line after the #20 ran out of fuel. Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) finished an emotional Grand Prix, beating Luca Marini (Repsol Honda Team) and Trackhouse Racing’s Raul Fernandez, who took the final points on Sunday.
After an incredible weekend in Japan, the world’s most exciting sport returns in two weeks for the long-awaited Qatar Airways Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix as we return to the iconic twists and turns of Phillip Island, with the title lead down to just 10 points. Can Bagnaia reclaim the Championship advantage in Australia? Make sure you join us to find out!
Manuel Gonzalez won the Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2 Kalex on Pirelli control slick tires, the Spaniard won the 12-lap race by 2.535 seconds. The race was red-flagged when it started raining on the first lap, then declared a wet race, shortened to 12 laps, and restarted.
Championship leader Ai Ogura was the runner-up on his MT Helmets – MSI BOSCOSCURO, also on slicks.
Filip Salac took third on his Elf Marc VDS Racing Team Kalex, on slicks.
American Joe Roberts started on rain tires but pitted for slicks and rejoined the race, ultimately being credited as 27th on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex. Roberts left Japan fifth in the Moto2 World Championship point standings.
Ai Ogura leaves Japan with a 60-point lead in the World Championship.
race classification moto2
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
Manuel Gonzalez is a Grand Prix winner, beating Ai Ogura and Filip Salac after an intense Sunday in Japan.
Manuel Gonzalez (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) is a Grand Prix winner after a showstopping race at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, with the #18 remaining on slick tyres in tricky conditions. It was an intense Grand Prix, which saw Gonzalez grab victory from home hero Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI), who battled through the field in what could be a pivotal day for the Moto2™ World Championship. Meanwhile, Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) completed an unbelievable recovery ride in third after carving through the field from 18th on the grid.
At the start, it was an incredible launch from polesitter Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team), launching into the lead at Turn 1. The #96 led on the opening lap from Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) and Ogura as the rain began to fall in Japan. The red flag was brought out with the race to be restarted with original grid positions.
The race was restarted for 12 laps, with mixed choices in terms of tyres and a handful of riders opting for slicks, including Championship leader Ogura. Once the Grand Prix restarted, it was another phenomenal launch from Dixon, leading ahead of his teammate Izan Guevara (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) on wet tyres.
Meanwhile, Championship leader Ogura plummeted down the order in the opening laps, dropping to 14th on Lap 1. However, the home hero began to make ground, building temperature in his Pirelli tyres – storming into seventh on Lap 2. It was sensational to watch, with Ogura using the most out of his Triumph engine to enter the podium places one lap later.
One of the key moves came at the start of Lap 4, with Ogura snatching the lead and setting the fastest lap. Gonzalez also began to find incredible speed on slicks, battling into second with Jeremy Alcoba (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team), soon entering the podium positions.
At the front, Gonzalez began to edge closer to Ogura, reducing the Japanese star’s lead to two seconds. Salac also entered the podium, overtaking Alcoba after starting from 18th on the grid. It was an intense three-way fight, with Alcoba and RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP’s Zonta Van den Goorbergh in chase.
The decisive move came on Lap 9, with Gonzalez pouncing on Ogura – dropping the #79 to second position. Once Gonzalez hit the front, it was an impressive pace from the Spaniard – stretching a one-second advantage.
On the final lap, Gonzalez continued his sensational pace, remaining unstoppable and cruising across the line to take his maiden Moto2™ victory. It was a dramatic day, which saw Ogura take second and, crucially, a 60-point advantage in the Championship. The Japanese hero stood on the podium at home, beating Salac, who claimed the final spot on the podium after an incredible recovery.
Alcoba was able to take the flag in fourth, finishing just 0.137s adrift from the podium rostrum in Japan. The #52 was able to stretch the gap to Van den Goorbergh in fifth as Xavier Artigas (KLINT Forward Factory Team) claimed a remarkable sixth place finish. Artigas had an incredible day, finishing ahead of Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo), with the Italian only able to finish as high as seventh. Italtrans Racing Team’s Diogo Moreira was eighth at the flag, a further 0.512s behind.
Claiming the final spots inside the top 10 on Sunday were Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) and Izan Guevara (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team), with the Spaniards both opting for wet tyres. Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) scored 11th, while Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) took 12th. Polesitter Dixon crossed the flag in 13th, with Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) and Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP’s Darryn Binder securing the final points.
Now we head to the iconic Phillip Island for the Australian GP in two weeks, where Ogura will have his first chance to be crowned the Moto2™ World Champion!
David Alonso won the Moto3 World Championship race Sunday at Motegi, in, Japan. Riding his Gaviota Aspar Team CFMOTO on spec Pirelli tires, the young Colombian won the 17-lap race by 0.524-second. With his victory, Alonso became the 2024 Moto3 World Champion.
Collin Veijer was the runner-up on his Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP racebike.
Adrian Fernandez placed third on his Leopard Racing Honda.
Race classification moto3More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
David Alonso stormed to victory at the Japanese Grand Prix and was crowned the first-ever Colombian World Champion.
David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) made history at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, earning his moment in the sun as the #80 was crowned the first-ever Colombian World Champion. It was an unforgettable day for the entire Aspar Team after an incredible season for Alonso, who took his 10th Grand Prix win of the season so far – taking glory by 0.524s. Alonso took victory from Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), with the Dutchman beating Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing), who completed a talented podium rostrum.
There was drama on the sighting lap for Alonso, nearly crashing and breaking the screen of his bike. The team kept calm, fixing the machine in time and allowing Alonso to claim a great start, slotting into P2 behind Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI), who stormed into the lead at Turn 1. Meanwhile, Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) began to work hard from the start, carving through the field from ninth on the grid to inside the top five – soon setting sights on the podium.
Holgado took the lead for the first time on Lap 3 before Fernandez pulled off an incredible double overtake at Turn 5. Alonso began to lose positions in the early laps, dropping to seventh behind David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) – with Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) now glued to the #80’s tail.
A huge train formed at the front, with Fernandez setting a red-hot pace, allowing the #31 to eke out a slight margin from Holgado, who was under pressure from Ortola and Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing). Ortola soon charged into P2, edging closer at every sector as Joel Kelso’s (BOE Motorsports) day came to an end with a crash at Turn 10 – rider OK.
The gloves were off at half-race distance, with Alonso soon entering the top five before overtaking Piqueras on Lap 10 for fourth. The #80 made his first attempt on a move on Holgado at Turn 10 before making it crucially stick on Lap 11. The Colombian did not stop there, sliding into second before grabbing the lead on Lap 14 – demoting Fernandez to second.
Veijer was beginning to make moves, battling through the field after a tough start. The Dutchman was soon in the podium battle, with Veijer in an intense fight with Holgado before he began to edge closer to Fernandez.
In the closing stages, Alonso stretched out a fourth-tenth margin, with Ortola dramatically losing the front at Turn 10. It was an intense final lap, with the Colombian moving one step closer to the World Championship at every corner. At the flag, it was a magical day that was all about Alonso, who made history and became Moto3 World Championship.
Holgado could only manage fourth after a passionate ride from the #96, who pushed hard throughout the 17 lap showdown. Rueda rounded out the top five spots, while Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI) bagged a strong sixth place finish at home. Yamanaka crossed the line ahead of compatriot Tatsuki Suzuki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), while BOE Motorsports’ David Muñoz took eighth.
Meanwhile, Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) and LEVELUP – MTA’s Stefano Nepa grabbed the final spot inside the top 10. Further back, Kopron Rivacold Sniper Team’s Matteo Bertelle and David Almansa took solid points in 11th and 12th as Filippo Farioli (SIC58 Squadra Corse) claimed 13th. Riccardo Rossi (CIP Green Power) was 14th as the final point was scored by Joel Kelso on a magical day for the CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team.
Although the title is decided, there is still plenty up for grabs in 2024, so make sure you join us in Australia in just two weeks for yet another thriller!
First Person/Opinion:
By Michael Gougis
“You can use a knife to play ping-pong!” Romano Albesiano once told me. Aprilia’s MotoGP Technical Director was talking about the swingarm-mounted spoilers that snuck onto MotoGP machines under the explanation that they were “tire cooling” devices. The ping-pong reference was Albesiano’s way of saying that no matter what you called it, it was a spoiler that generated downforce.
The nearly simultaneous news on Friday that Albesiano was moving from Aprilia to Honda, and Fabiano Sterlacchini from KTM to take Albesiano’s place at Aprilia, illustrated that Honda and Aprilia have clear ideas on where they are lacking and how to fix those problems as quickly as possible. The pair have very specific skill sets that correspond to the weaknesses of the Honda RC213V and the Aprilia RS-GP.
Albesiano first. I remember the comment above because it illustrated his ability to see things for what they really are. And if you can see what is happening, you have a chance to fix it or improve it. Remember that it was not long ago that Moto2 riders were turning down offers from Aprilia to race their MotoGP machine–it was that bad. Under Albesiano’s direction, the company swallowed its pride and abandoned the 72-degree V-4 engine it had developed and copied the 90-degree configuration used by Ducati and Honda. More than that, Albesiano was not far behind Ducati’s Luigi “Gigi” Dall’Igna in recognizing the importance of aerodynamics. As one Roadracing World reader wrote in to us, historically most of the work on racebikes focused on flowing gasses through the engine, but it has become equally critical to utilize gasses flowing around the motorcycle.
Albesiano’s most recent RS-GPs have pushed the aerodynamic edge for MotoGP machines. The team perfected the “fat fairing” that created suction under the bike when it was at full lean, pressing the tires into the pavement. Aprilia engineers experimented with fork-mounted wings, NACA ducts on the upper fairing, “bat wing” tail sections, and aero bits everywhere the rules allowed them.
And when everything is right, the bike is every bit the equal of Dall’Igna’s dominant Desmosedici machines. Maverick Vinales simply rode away from the field at Circuit of The Americas earlier this season. In Barcelona last year, at one point, three Aprilias led the Grand Prix race, and the two factory machines finished 1-2.
Albesiano’s overall knowledge of how to configure a winning MotoGP machine is exactly what the struggling Honda team needs. Honda doesn’t have time to learn everything that Albesiano already knows. The RC213V is usually the slowest bike in the field, and its riders say it’s lacking pretty much everywhere. Building a bike that is better everywhere, all at once, is a brutal hill to climb. Albesiano’s hiring is a shortcut. He already knows how all the components of a winning bike work together. It’s usually better to struggle, suffer and learn on your own. But sometimes there’s no time, and desperate measures are needed to end the downward spiral. Losing all the time makes it harder to hire the top-level talent that is needed to reverse the trend. Given a free hand, Albesiano knows how to make a bike that can, occasionally, beat the best in MotoGP. And that is far better than HRC can even dream of right now.
Where Aprilia struggles is consistency. The team can be on another level compared to the competition one weekend and absolutely nowhere the next. And that’s why the company’s hiring of Sterlacchini is a brilliant move. He spent 17 years at Ducati, helping build the structure and processes that allow the Desmosedici’s riders to get on the bike when race time rolls around knowing that it is as perfect as it can get. One of Ducati’s strengths is in its ability to process data and use that to fine-tune the bike, but that points to a bigger strength. And that is the company’s procedures that keep mechanical and set-up issues to a minimum and maximizing the bike’s potential on any given day. When it is set up perfectly, the Aprilia RS-GP is the equal of the Desmosedici. But Ducati’s technicians get their bikes perfect, or close to it, far, far more often than do their counterparts at Aprilia. I was shooting the very first practice session at the Assen TT this year and watched Aleix Espargaro’s Aprilia coast to a halt a few hundred yards after leaving pit lane for the first time. An Aprilia tech cruised out to the first turn on a scooter and pushed him back to the garages. That sort of thing can be crushing for the morale and mentality of everyone on the team, including the riders.
Sterlacchini’s relatively short stint at KTM–he was there from 2021 to 2024–will not have hurt his ability to put into place processes that, hopefully, will eliminate the erratic performances of the Aprilia squad. The KTM is good and improving. But it is the Aprilia that has demonstrated the best raw performance on the track, Ducatis aside. With Jorge Martin signed for next season, the rider puzzle is complete. Aprilia is hoping that Sterlacchini will be able to help put a competitive bike under Martin, week after week. If he can, maybe next season’s MotoGP Championship race won’t be an all-Ducati affair.
Two-time and defending World Champion Francesco Bagnaia won the MotoGP World Championship Tissot Sprint Race Saturday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his Lenovo Ducati on Michelin control tires, Bagnaia won the 12-lap race by just 0.181-second.
His teammate Enea Bastianini was the runner-up.
Championship points leader Jorge Martin was fourth on his Prima Pramac Ducati. Bagnaia is 15 points behind his principal title rival Martin, who has 372 points. Bastianini is third with 300 points.
Tissot Sprint MotoGP ResultsWorld Championship Classification
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
Bagnaia capitalises as Acosta slides out and Bastianini duels Marquez at Motegi.
The Italian secures Tissot Sprint victory ahead of Enea Bastianini and Marc Marquez, with polesitter Pedro Acosta crashing out.
Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) has powered to an impressive Tissot Sprint victory at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, initially claiming the lead before keeping his cool and charging to victory on Saturday. Bagnaia has brought the title gap down to just 15 points ahead of Sunday after Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) could only manage fourth – fighting from P11 on the grid. Bagnaia would defeat Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) after the pair had their own breathtaking battle.
Tension was high on the grid, and with variable conditions throughout the day and spots of rain in the air, it was building to be an unforgettable Tissot Sprint. Bagnaia bagged the perfect launch, storming into the lead on the run to Turn 1. The #1 put the hammer down immediately, with polesitter Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) dropping to third.
However, Acosta began to gain back some of the ground lost, passing Bastianini for second and beginning to set sights on the reigning World Champion. The move came on Lap 3, with Acosta charging into the Sprint lead for the first time and began to push on.
Meanwhile, Martin pieced together a strong opening lap, carving through from the fourth row to P5, with Marc Marquez now glued onto his tailpipe. The #93 soon found his way through on the current Championship leader, demoting Martin to sixth.
There was early disappointment for Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team), crashing in the early stages at Turn 11. Soon, drama would strike for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Brad Binder, with the #33 retiring to the pit lane. Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) also suffered a crash, colliding with his teammate on Lap 5 – Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) was handed a Long Lap for this incident.
Meanwhile, at the front, Acosta eked out a marginal fourth-tenth gap over Bagnaia, with the top three remaining locked together on the circuit. The gap soon increased on Lap 8, with the rookie edging his lead to over half a second for the first time. However, everything came crashing down for Acosta on Lap 9, crashing out of the Sprint lead – rider OK.
Crucially, Bagnaia was promoted into P1, extending a seven-tenth margin to teammate Bastianini, who was now under pressure from Marc Marquez in third. The #93 pounced on Bastianini on Lap 11, with ‘The Beast’ not waiting to respond, launching an attack at Turn 11 with inches separating the pair – to the delight of the Japanese fans.
Heading onto the final lap, Bagnaia had a one-second advantage, which was closed to less than two-tenths. However, Pecco remained unstoppable, claiming an incredible Tissot Sprint victory from Bastianini, who denied the recovering Marc Marquez second, who claimed an incredible result – battling from the third row.
Martin was able to bag a strong fourth on Saturday, taking solid Championship points after beating teammate Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing), with the #21 completing yet another confidence-boosting ride. Meanwhile, Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) grabbed sixth, placing 0.120s ahead of Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™). Behind, Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Aprilia Racing’s Maverick Viñales took the final point-scoring positions after another Saturday thriller.
There is further action to come at Motegi, and with the World Championship gap closing in, the Japanese Grand Prix could prove to be crucial as Acosta aims for redemption and Bagnaia sets sights on reclaiming the title advantage from Martin, who will start from P11. Find out what will unfold in the next chapter of the season as MotoGP™ returns on Sunday at 14:00 (UTC +9)!
Jake Dixon took pole position during Moto2 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the British rider covered the 2.9-mile (4.8 km) track in 1:52.693.
Zonta Vd Goorbergh was the best of the rest with a 1:52.699 on his RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP Kalex, and Fantic Racing rider Aron Canet claimed the third and final spot on the front with a time of 1:53.000 on his Kalex.
American Joe Roberts finished fourth in qualifying with a 1:53.002 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Moto2 qualifying resultsMore, from a press release issued by Dorna:
The #96 will start the Japanese GP from pole position after setting a strong early time, which proved to be crucial.
Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) will start the Motul Grand Prix of Japan from pole position after a brave time from the British rider. The #96 set an early 1:52.693, which proved to be crucial as track conditions worsened due to rain. Dixon will start from pole, ending Q2 a mere 0.006s ahead of Zonta Van den Goorbergh (RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP) in an impressive result from the #84. Meanwhile, Aron Canet brought his Triumph-powered Fantic Racing machine to third on the grid, clocking a 1:53.000 as the Spaniard sets his sights on repeating his success from Indonesia.
Practice 2 began Saturday’s action, with nobody able to improve on their time from Friday after mixed conditions due to rain overnight, seeing Canet taking the top spot as Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) remained quickest overall. However, once Q1 got underway, Manuel Gonzalez (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) set a stunning 1:49.711, earning a spot in Q2 alongside Van den Goorbergh, Barry Baltus (RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP) and Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI).
It was a dramatic start to Q2, with Dixon bagging provisional pole in the opening laps as the rain began to fall. The #96 led in the early stages from Van den Goorbergh and Canet. Meanwhile, Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) was 18th in the early stages after the #12 left it late to post a time. The rain continued to fall, with the majority of the field returning to the pits and Dixon clinching pole positions.
Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing Team) will start from fourth on the grid in a great result from the #16. The American heads a talented second row of the grid alongside Izan Guevara, who capped off a great day for the CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team. The #28 will be joined by the returning Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) in sixth on the grid.
Meanwhile, Barry Baltus brought his RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP machine to seventh on the grid, placing ahead of Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp). The #21 was the top Boscoscuro rider at the end of proceedings, finishing in front of Championship leader Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI).
Further back, Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) will line up from 15th on the grid, while Garcia is left with work to do from 17th position on the grid. The #3 will start alongside Salac, who, after looking unstoppable on Friday, was unable to find time late in the session – qualifying in 18th.
Make sure you join us on Sunday as we prepare to go racing at Motegi with lights out at 12:15 local time (UTC +9)!
Ivan Ortola captured pole position during FIM Moto3 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his MT Helmets – MSI KTM on Pirelli control tires, the young Spaniard lapped the 2.9-mile (4.8 km) course in 1:54.761 to lead the field of 26 riders.
Collin Veijer was the best of the rest with a 1:55.117 on his Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP racebike, and Aspar Team CFMOTO rider David Alonso earned the third and final spot on the front row by doing a 1:55.170.
Moto3 qualifying result
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
The #48 demolished the lap record in Q2 and will start alongside Collin Veijer and David Alonso at Motegi.
Moto3™ brought drama by the bucketload at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, with Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) charging to pole position at the Mobility Resort Motegi. It was an unbelievable lap from the #48, clocking a 1:54.761 and obliterating the lap record. It was a tense fight for pole position, with Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) grabbing second on the grid, ending Saturday 0.356s behind. It ends a great day for the Dutchman, placing ahead of Championship leader David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), who claims the final spot on the front row in a weekend which could see the #80 leave as Champion.
Due to rain overnight, no riders were able to improve on their times from Friday, with Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing) fastest on Saturday morning and Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) remaining at the top of the combined standings. It was a tense Q1, with the top four spots decided on the final flying lap, with David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) topping the session and earning a spot in Q2 alongside Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA), Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) and CIP Green Power’s Riccardo Rossi.
It was a hectic start to Q2, with rain beginning to fall around the circuit it led to a frantic opening five minutes, which saw Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) in P1 before Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) destroyed the lap record. It was a dramatic end to Q2, with Veijer continuing to improve on his second run, reclaiming P1 in the final minute of the session, before Ortola responded and entered the 1:54 bracket.
Heading the second row of the grid on Sunday will be Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing), ending the morning 0.315s adrift from a spot on the front row. The Spaniard had a rock-solid session, qualifying as the top Honda and will now be joined by Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI) and Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) on the second row. It was a strong qualifying for the Australian, who will set sights on a good result on Sunday to prepare himself for his home GP next time out.
Meanwhile, Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) starts at the head of row three, setting a strong 1:55.928 to place in front of Muñoz. The #64 battled hard from Q1, earning eighth on the grid ahead of Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), who jumped from 18th to ninth on his final run. Further back, home hero Furusato starts from 13th on the grid, ending Q2 ahead of Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo).
Do not miss a potential title-deciding Japanese GP, with action getting underway at 11:00 local time (UTC +9), as we prepare to go racing on Sunday!
Roland Sands: The AMA Championship-winning racer, designer, entrepreneur, and inventor of the MotoAmerica Super Hooligan class took time to talk with Roadracing World‘s Sam Fleming at Circuit Of The Americas (COTA) to discuss the origins and future of Super Hooligan racing.
Honda is hosting Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) activities for students and teachers at 11 of its U.S. production facilities, promoting the exciting career opportunities that exist for students in modern manufacturing whether at Honda, within the company’s supplier network, or at other manufacturing companies across America.
MFG Day 2024 was officially held on Friday, Oct. 4, but the company actually began welcoming students to several plants in late September and activities will continue through October at some facilities.
Students have the opportunity to meet Honda associates and participate in hands-on activities such as building a model car on a simulated assembly line, virtual welding, or a vehicle painting simulation that highlight different manufacturing areas and career paths. Honda MFG Day events will reach over 1,700 students from 45 different schools in Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, and the Carolinas.
“Honda has a proud tradition of celebrating Manufacturing Day, and associates love to share their passion for creating things by providing students with an up-close look at modern manufacturing,” said Meredith Reffey, workforce partnerships leader at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “We take Manufacturing Day very seriously at Honda because it offers a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation to explore careers in modern manufacturing.”
MFG Day Activities at Honda
Students visiting Honda production facilities will learn about manufacturing directly from the associates who build world-class Honda and Acura products. Students at every location will tour manufacturing facilities to learn how technology, automation, and teamwork influence the advanced approach to manufacturing at Honda. Students will experience a variety of Honda and Acura products that are produced in the company’s U.S. facilities using domestic and globally sourced parts.
Each participating Honda facility will have exciting, immersive experiences for students that are unique to their locations and the products they build.
Alabama – Honda associates at the Alabama Auto Plant will explain how they build the Honda Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline, and Passport, in addition to the V-6 engines that power them. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a team assembly challenge and a virtual paint simulator that demonstrates how Honda uses automation to assist in the painting process.
Georgia – Honda associates at the Honda Transmission Plant in Georgia will demonstrate how they build automatic transmissions, gears, and components that help power Honda and Acura cars and light trucks made in America. Students will have the opportunity to try their hand at securing a bolt and interact with an automated robot used in the facility.
Indiana – Associates at the Honda Indiana Auto Plant will share insights about advanced manufacturing and how this innovative plant builds the Honda Civic Hatchback and CR-V. Here, students will have the opportunity to virtually weld parts of a vehicle and test their skills as a race car driver on a racing simulator.
Ohio – Associates across Honda manufacturing facilities in Ohio including the Marysville Auto Plant, East Liberty Auto Plant, Anna Engine Plant, and the transmission plant in Russells Point will explain how they build Honda and Acura products, engines, and the two-motor hybrid-electric system and demonstrate new innovations in technology, helping sustain the success of Honda manufacturing in America for more than 40 years. Students will have an opportunity to participate in a model car assembly race, torque bolt race, and a bolt stacking game, highlighting assembly jobs. Students will also tour the Dyno Operations department to learn about quality testing careers and can participate in a large pedal tricycle race, highlighting the opportunities available with the Honda of America Racing Team.
North Carolina – Associates at Honda North Carolina Mfg. in Swepsonville, North Carolina plant will explain how they produce Honda FourTrax and TRX series all-terrain vehicle (ATV) models, as well as a variety of outdoor power equipment products. Students will get to experience a variety of the products made at the facility and participate in a virtual reality activity and model car assembly, demonstrating the teamwork and attention to detail required in building Honda products. Associates at Honda Aircraft Company in Greensboro, North Carolina will show students the unique technology and innovation used in producing the HondaJet Elite II.
South Carolina – Honda associates at Honda South Carolina Mfg. in Timmonsville, South Carolina will show students how they build side-by-side vehicles, as the exclusive global source for the Honda Pioneer and Talon models. Students will participate in a model car assembly as well as a 3-D printer activity, highlighting the technology and innovation used at Honda.
About Honda Manufacturing in America
Honda has produced automobiles in North America for over 40 years, beginning in November 1982 at the Marysville Auto Plant. Honda began manufacturing operations in North America in 1979 with motorcycle production in Marysville, Ohio.
Over the past four decades, Honda has steadily grown local production capabilities and now employs more than 33,000 associates in North America who support manufacturing operations at Honda’s 18 plants with the annual capacity to produce 1.86 million automobiles, nearly 4 million engines, 500,000 power equipment products, and 300,000 powersports products, as well as the HondaJet advanced light jet and GE Honda HF120 turbofan engines. In 2023, more than 99% of all U.S.-sold Honda and Acura automobiles were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.
Cumulatively, Honda has invested more than $24 billion in its North American manufacturing capabilities, including more than $4.7 billion over the past five years alone. The company works with over 700 original equipment suppliers in North America with cumulative parts purchases of more than $562 billion.
Learn more at https://hondainamerica.com/.
More information about Honda is available in the Digital FactBook.
MOTO GUZZI TO PARTICIPATE IN 2024 BARBER VINTAGE FESTIVAL OCTOBER 11-13
FROM THE SHORES OF LAKE COMO, THE STORIED MARQUE CELEBRATES OVER A
CENTURY OF CONTINUOUS PRODUCTION, ARRIVING AT BARBER WITH NEW MODELS,
GIVING ENTHUSIASTS PERFECT BLEND OF TIMELESS STYLE IN MODERN MACHINES
Moto Guzzi, the iconic Italian motorcycle manufacturer and a historic marque with over 100 years of heritage, is thrilled to announce its participation in the prestigious Barber Vintage Festival, taking place October 11-13 in Birmingham, Alabama.
As Europe’s oldest continuously manufactured motorcycle brand, Moto Guzzi has excited
enthusiasts around the globe with its timeless style, expert craftsmanship, and unique character for over a century. The brand’s enduring appeal is evident in the passionate following it has cultivated, and perfectly aligned with the audience that makes the pilgrimage to Barber Motorsports Park each year for Vintage Fest.
Moto Guzzi will have a prominent presence at the Barber Vintage Festival, aligning with the
event’s focus on celebrating its motorcycle history and culture. Visitors to the Moto Guzzi display will have the opportunity to see the latest machines from Mandello del Lario and speak with product specialists about the brand offerings. In addition, Moto Guzzi will offer demo rides, giving enthusiasts the chance to experience firsthand the celebrated feeling of riding a Moto Guzzi, which is unlike any other motorcycle.
“We are excited to be part of the Barber Vintage Festival and share our passion for Moto Guzzi and its legacy with enthusiasts that make the journey to the legendary Barber Vintage Festival,” said Joshua Marsh, Trade Marketing Manager at Piaggio Group Americas, parent company of Moto Guzzi. “This event is a perfect opportunity to showcase all that Moto Guzzi has to offer today, while connecting with the vibrant motorcycle community that knows and loves our brand.”
Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia won the FIM MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP24 on Michelin control tires, the two-time and defending World Champion won the 24-lap race by 1.189 second.
Bagnaia’s rival, Jorge Martin took a runner-up finish on his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati.
Marc Marquez made it an all-Ducati podium by placing third on his Gresini Ducati.
For the championship, Bagnaia is now 10 points behind his principal rival Martin who has 382 points. Bastianini is third with 313 points.
Race classification
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
The Italian stormed to glory at Motegi, securing an eighth win of the season ahead of Jorge Martin and Marc Marquez.
Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) delivers win number eight of the season at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, adding his name to an illustrious list after the #1 claimed the perfect launch off the line before setting a relentless pace from start to finish. The reigning World Champion defeated Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), who charged from P11 on the grid and now has his advantage reduced to just 10 points. It is heating up to be an unmissable end to the season, with everything remaining up for grabs.
Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) came home on a strong third after an incredible ride from the #93, who defended hard in the closing laps. Meanwhile, there was further disappointment for Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), with the rookie crashing out from the Grand Prix and ending the weekend with zero points scored.
At the start, Bagnaia made a great initial start, with the reigning World Champion levelled by Acosta on the brakes. The reigning World Champion was fierce, pouncing into the lead, forcing Acosta to slot into second. Meanwhile, a huge fight for third began to break out, with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) holding firm.
Martin and Marc Marquez were on the move in the opening stages, launching their machines inside the top five. Marc Marquez would complete an incredible overtake on Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jack Miller to enter the all-important top five.
Meanwhile, there was drama further back with Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) suffering an early end to his day after a collision with Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) – riders OK. The FIM MotoGP™ Stewards investigated the incident and handed Alex Marquez a Long Lap for the Australian GP.
At the end of Lap 3, everything came to an end for Acosta, who crashed out of Grand Prix at the final corner – promoting Martin to P2. Acosta’s blunder allowed the reigning World Champion to stretch his lead to over one second from his closest rival, Martin. The fastest laps would begin to trade hands in the opening stages as Martin began to edge closer in an enthralling twist.
Marc Marquez continued to make ground, bravely passing Binder for the final spot on the podium. The South African was soon under pressure from Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team), who continued to find time after a busy start. Bastianini made the move stick on Lap 10, with ‘The Beast’ now in a strong fourth.
Further back, Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) had a tough start after launching from the front row. The #12 soon began to battle with his teammate Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) for the final spot inside the top 10 before crashing on Lap 12 – rider OK.
It was building to be a rematch of Saturday’s Sprint battle, with Bastianini making inroads on Marc Marquez after a mistake on the entry to Turn 1. The gap was less than a second as a podium fight brewed, to the delight of the Japanese fans.
The leading duo continued to run an astonishing pace, with Bagnaia maintaining an eight-tenth gap to Martin with just a handful of laps remaining. The #1 responded, stretching the margin to over one second – pushing Martin to the limit.
On the final lap, Bagnaia looked unstoppable, stealing the spotlight on Sunday and reducing Martin’s Championship advantage with four rounds remaining. It is building to be a classic end to 2024, with Martin crossing the line in second, ahead of Marc Marquez. The #93 worked hard in the closing stages, bagging a podium after starting from ninth.
Bastianini crossed the line in fourth, securing a strong points tally on Sunday and beating Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing), with the #21 rounding out the top five. Morbidelli’s Sunday consistency continues, finishing ahead of Binder after an intense finish with just 0.562s separating the pair. Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team’s Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Di Giannantonio rounded out the top eight spots, completing a strong day for the Bologna brand.
Espargaro and Miller took the final spots inside the top 10, with the Australian unable to find late race pace after a string start. Meanwhile, Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) placed 11th, pipping Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) at the line after the #20 ran out of fuel. Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) finished an emotional Grand Prix, beating Luca Marini (Repsol Honda Team) and Trackhouse Racing’s Raul Fernandez, who took the final points on Sunday.
After an incredible weekend in Japan, the world’s most exciting sport returns in two weeks for the long-awaited Qatar Airways Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix as we return to the iconic twists and turns of Phillip Island, with the title lead down to just 10 points. Can Bagnaia reclaim the Championship advantage in Australia? Make sure you join us to find out!
Manuel Gonzalez won the Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2 Kalex on Pirelli control slick tires, the Spaniard won the 12-lap race by 2.535 seconds. The race was red-flagged when it started raining on the first lap, then declared a wet race, shortened to 12 laps, and restarted.
Championship leader Ai Ogura was the runner-up on his MT Helmets – MSI BOSCOSCURO, also on slicks.
Filip Salac took third on his Elf Marc VDS Racing Team Kalex, on slicks.
American Joe Roberts started on rain tires but pitted for slicks and rejoined the race, ultimately being credited as 27th on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex. Roberts left Japan fifth in the Moto2 World Championship point standings.
Ai Ogura leaves Japan with a 60-point lead in the World Championship.
race classification moto2
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
Manuel Gonzalez is a Grand Prix winner, beating Ai Ogura and Filip Salac after an intense Sunday in Japan.
Manuel Gonzalez (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) is a Grand Prix winner after a showstopping race at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, with the #18 remaining on slick tyres in tricky conditions. It was an intense Grand Prix, which saw Gonzalez grab victory from home hero Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI), who battled through the field in what could be a pivotal day for the Moto2™ World Championship. Meanwhile, Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) completed an unbelievable recovery ride in third after carving through the field from 18th on the grid.
At the start, it was an incredible launch from polesitter Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team), launching into the lead at Turn 1. The #96 led on the opening lap from Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) and Ogura as the rain began to fall in Japan. The red flag was brought out with the race to be restarted with original grid positions.
The race was restarted for 12 laps, with mixed choices in terms of tyres and a handful of riders opting for slicks, including Championship leader Ogura. Once the Grand Prix restarted, it was another phenomenal launch from Dixon, leading ahead of his teammate Izan Guevara (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) on wet tyres.
Meanwhile, Championship leader Ogura plummeted down the order in the opening laps, dropping to 14th on Lap 1. However, the home hero began to make ground, building temperature in his Pirelli tyres – storming into seventh on Lap 2. It was sensational to watch, with Ogura using the most out of his Triumph engine to enter the podium places one lap later.
One of the key moves came at the start of Lap 4, with Ogura snatching the lead and setting the fastest lap. Gonzalez also began to find incredible speed on slicks, battling into second with Jeremy Alcoba (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team), soon entering the podium positions.
At the front, Gonzalez began to edge closer to Ogura, reducing the Japanese star’s lead to two seconds. Salac also entered the podium, overtaking Alcoba after starting from 18th on the grid. It was an intense three-way fight, with Alcoba and RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP’s Zonta Van den Goorbergh in chase.
The decisive move came on Lap 9, with Gonzalez pouncing on Ogura – dropping the #79 to second position. Once Gonzalez hit the front, it was an impressive pace from the Spaniard – stretching a one-second advantage.
On the final lap, Gonzalez continued his sensational pace, remaining unstoppable and cruising across the line to take his maiden Moto2™ victory. It was a dramatic day, which saw Ogura take second and, crucially, a 60-point advantage in the Championship. The Japanese hero stood on the podium at home, beating Salac, who claimed the final spot on the podium after an incredible recovery.
Alcoba was able to take the flag in fourth, finishing just 0.137s adrift from the podium rostrum in Japan. The #52 was able to stretch the gap to Van den Goorbergh in fifth as Xavier Artigas (KLINT Forward Factory Team) claimed a remarkable sixth place finish. Artigas had an incredible day, finishing ahead of Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo), with the Italian only able to finish as high as seventh. Italtrans Racing Team’s Diogo Moreira was eighth at the flag, a further 0.512s behind.
Claiming the final spots inside the top 10 on Sunday were Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) and Izan Guevara (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team), with the Spaniards both opting for wet tyres. Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) scored 11th, while Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) took 12th. Polesitter Dixon crossed the flag in 13th, with Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) and Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP’s Darryn Binder securing the final points.
Now we head to the iconic Phillip Island for the Australian GP in two weeks, where Ogura will have his first chance to be crowned the Moto2™ World Champion!
David Alonso won the Moto3 World Championship race Sunday at Motegi, in, Japan. Riding his Gaviota Aspar Team CFMOTO on spec Pirelli tires, the young Colombian won the 17-lap race by 0.524-second. With his victory, Alonso became the 2024 Moto3 World Champion.
Collin Veijer was the runner-up on his Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP racebike.
Adrian Fernandez placed third on his Leopard Racing Honda.
Race classification moto3More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
David Alonso stormed to victory at the Japanese Grand Prix and was crowned the first-ever Colombian World Champion.
David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) made history at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, earning his moment in the sun as the #80 was crowned the first-ever Colombian World Champion. It was an unforgettable day for the entire Aspar Team after an incredible season for Alonso, who took his 10th Grand Prix win of the season so far – taking glory by 0.524s. Alonso took victory from Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), with the Dutchman beating Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing), who completed a talented podium rostrum.
There was drama on the sighting lap for Alonso, nearly crashing and breaking the screen of his bike. The team kept calm, fixing the machine in time and allowing Alonso to claim a great start, slotting into P2 behind Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI), who stormed into the lead at Turn 1. Meanwhile, Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) began to work hard from the start, carving through the field from ninth on the grid to inside the top five – soon setting sights on the podium.
Holgado took the lead for the first time on Lap 3 before Fernandez pulled off an incredible double overtake at Turn 5. Alonso began to lose positions in the early laps, dropping to seventh behind David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) – with Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) now glued to the #80’s tail.
A huge train formed at the front, with Fernandez setting a red-hot pace, allowing the #31 to eke out a slight margin from Holgado, who was under pressure from Ortola and Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing). Ortola soon charged into P2, edging closer at every sector as Joel Kelso’s (BOE Motorsports) day came to an end with a crash at Turn 10 – rider OK.
The gloves were off at half-race distance, with Alonso soon entering the top five before overtaking Piqueras on Lap 10 for fourth. The #80 made his first attempt on a move on Holgado at Turn 10 before making it crucially stick on Lap 11. The Colombian did not stop there, sliding into second before grabbing the lead on Lap 14 – demoting Fernandez to second.
Veijer was beginning to make moves, battling through the field after a tough start. The Dutchman was soon in the podium battle, with Veijer in an intense fight with Holgado before he began to edge closer to Fernandez.
In the closing stages, Alonso stretched out a fourth-tenth margin, with Ortola dramatically losing the front at Turn 10. It was an intense final lap, with the Colombian moving one step closer to the World Championship at every corner. At the flag, it was a magical day that was all about Alonso, who made history and became Moto3 World Championship.
Holgado could only manage fourth after a passionate ride from the #96, who pushed hard throughout the 17 lap showdown. Rueda rounded out the top five spots, while Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI) bagged a strong sixth place finish at home. Yamanaka crossed the line ahead of compatriot Tatsuki Suzuki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), while BOE Motorsports’ David Muñoz took eighth.
Meanwhile, Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) and LEVELUP – MTA’s Stefano Nepa grabbed the final spot inside the top 10. Further back, Kopron Rivacold Sniper Team’s Matteo Bertelle and David Almansa took solid points in 11th and 12th as Filippo Farioli (SIC58 Squadra Corse) claimed 13th. Riccardo Rossi (CIP Green Power) was 14th as the final point was scored by Joel Kelso on a magical day for the CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team.
Although the title is decided, there is still plenty up for grabs in 2024, so make sure you join us in Australia in just two weeks for yet another thriller!
First Person/Opinion:
By Michael Gougis
“You can use a knife to play ping-pong!” Romano Albesiano once told me. Aprilia’s MotoGP Technical Director was talking about the swingarm-mounted spoilers that snuck onto MotoGP machines under the explanation that they were “tire cooling” devices. The ping-pong reference was Albesiano’s way of saying that no matter what you called it, it was a spoiler that generated downforce.
The nearly simultaneous news on Friday that Albesiano was moving from Aprilia to Honda, and Fabiano Sterlacchini from KTM to take Albesiano’s place at Aprilia, illustrated that Honda and Aprilia have clear ideas on where they are lacking and how to fix those problems as quickly as possible. The pair have very specific skill sets that correspond to the weaknesses of the Honda RC213V and the Aprilia RS-GP.
Albesiano first. I remember the comment above because it illustrated his ability to see things for what they really are. And if you can see what is happening, you have a chance to fix it or improve it. Remember that it was not long ago that Moto2 riders were turning down offers from Aprilia to race their MotoGP machine–it was that bad. Under Albesiano’s direction, the company swallowed its pride and abandoned the 72-degree V-4 engine it had developed and copied the 90-degree configuration used by Ducati and Honda. More than that, Albesiano was not far behind Ducati’s Luigi “Gigi” Dall’Igna in recognizing the importance of aerodynamics. As one Roadracing World reader wrote in to us, historically most of the work on racebikes focused on flowing gasses through the engine, but it has become equally critical to utilize gasses flowing around the motorcycle.
Albesiano’s most recent RS-GPs have pushed the aerodynamic edge for MotoGP machines. The team perfected the “fat fairing” that created suction under the bike when it was at full lean, pressing the tires into the pavement. Aprilia engineers experimented with fork-mounted wings, NACA ducts on the upper fairing, “bat wing” tail sections, and aero bits everywhere the rules allowed them.
And when everything is right, the bike is every bit the equal of Dall’Igna’s dominant Desmosedici machines. Maverick Vinales simply rode away from the field at Circuit of The Americas earlier this season. In Barcelona last year, at one point, three Aprilias led the Grand Prix race, and the two factory machines finished 1-2.
Albesiano’s overall knowledge of how to configure a winning MotoGP machine is exactly what the struggling Honda team needs. Honda doesn’t have time to learn everything that Albesiano already knows. The RC213V is usually the slowest bike in the field, and its riders say it’s lacking pretty much everywhere. Building a bike that is better everywhere, all at once, is a brutal hill to climb. Albesiano’s hiring is a shortcut. He already knows how all the components of a winning bike work together. It’s usually better to struggle, suffer and learn on your own. But sometimes there’s no time, and desperate measures are needed to end the downward spiral. Losing all the time makes it harder to hire the top-level talent that is needed to reverse the trend. Given a free hand, Albesiano knows how to make a bike that can, occasionally, beat the best in MotoGP. And that is far better than HRC can even dream of right now.
Where Aprilia struggles is consistency. The team can be on another level compared to the competition one weekend and absolutely nowhere the next. And that’s why the company’s hiring of Sterlacchini is a brilliant move. He spent 17 years at Ducati, helping build the structure and processes that allow the Desmosedici’s riders to get on the bike when race time rolls around knowing that it is as perfect as it can get. One of Ducati’s strengths is in its ability to process data and use that to fine-tune the bike, but that points to a bigger strength. And that is the company’s procedures that keep mechanical and set-up issues to a minimum and maximizing the bike’s potential on any given day. When it is set up perfectly, the Aprilia RS-GP is the equal of the Desmosedici. But Ducati’s technicians get their bikes perfect, or close to it, far, far more often than do their counterparts at Aprilia. I was shooting the very first practice session at the Assen TT this year and watched Aleix Espargaro’s Aprilia coast to a halt a few hundred yards after leaving pit lane for the first time. An Aprilia tech cruised out to the first turn on a scooter and pushed him back to the garages. That sort of thing can be crushing for the morale and mentality of everyone on the team, including the riders.
Sterlacchini’s relatively short stint at KTM–he was there from 2021 to 2024–will not have hurt his ability to put into place processes that, hopefully, will eliminate the erratic performances of the Aprilia squad. The KTM is good and improving. But it is the Aprilia that has demonstrated the best raw performance on the track, Ducatis aside. With Jorge Martin signed for next season, the rider puzzle is complete. Aprilia is hoping that Sterlacchini will be able to help put a competitive bike under Martin, week after week. If he can, maybe next season’s MotoGP Championship race won’t be an all-Ducati affair.
Two-time and defending World Champion Francesco Bagnaia won the MotoGP World Championship Tissot Sprint Race Saturday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his Lenovo Ducati on Michelin control tires, Bagnaia won the 12-lap race by just 0.181-second.
His teammate Enea Bastianini was the runner-up.
Championship points leader Jorge Martin was fourth on his Prima Pramac Ducati. Bagnaia is 15 points behind his principal title rival Martin, who has 372 points. Bastianini is third with 300 points.
Tissot Sprint MotoGP ResultsWorld Championship Classification
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
Bagnaia capitalises as Acosta slides out and Bastianini duels Marquez at Motegi.
The Italian secures Tissot Sprint victory ahead of Enea Bastianini and Marc Marquez, with polesitter Pedro Acosta crashing out.
Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) has powered to an impressive Tissot Sprint victory at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, initially claiming the lead before keeping his cool and charging to victory on Saturday. Bagnaia has brought the title gap down to just 15 points ahead of Sunday after Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) could only manage fourth – fighting from P11 on the grid. Bagnaia would defeat Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) after the pair had their own breathtaking battle.
Tension was high on the grid, and with variable conditions throughout the day and spots of rain in the air, it was building to be an unforgettable Tissot Sprint. Bagnaia bagged the perfect launch, storming into the lead on the run to Turn 1. The #1 put the hammer down immediately, with polesitter Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) dropping to third.
However, Acosta began to gain back some of the ground lost, passing Bastianini for second and beginning to set sights on the reigning World Champion. The move came on Lap 3, with Acosta charging into the Sprint lead for the first time and began to push on.
Meanwhile, Martin pieced together a strong opening lap, carving through from the fourth row to P5, with Marc Marquez now glued onto his tailpipe. The #93 soon found his way through on the current Championship leader, demoting Martin to sixth.
There was early disappointment for Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team), crashing in the early stages at Turn 11. Soon, drama would strike for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Brad Binder, with the #33 retiring to the pit lane. Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) also suffered a crash, colliding with his teammate on Lap 5 – Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) was handed a Long Lap for this incident.
Meanwhile, at the front, Acosta eked out a marginal fourth-tenth gap over Bagnaia, with the top three remaining locked together on the circuit. The gap soon increased on Lap 8, with the rookie edging his lead to over half a second for the first time. However, everything came crashing down for Acosta on Lap 9, crashing out of the Sprint lead – rider OK.
Crucially, Bagnaia was promoted into P1, extending a seven-tenth margin to teammate Bastianini, who was now under pressure from Marc Marquez in third. The #93 pounced on Bastianini on Lap 11, with ‘The Beast’ not waiting to respond, launching an attack at Turn 11 with inches separating the pair – to the delight of the Japanese fans.
Heading onto the final lap, Bagnaia had a one-second advantage, which was closed to less than two-tenths. However, Pecco remained unstoppable, claiming an incredible Tissot Sprint victory from Bastianini, who denied the recovering Marc Marquez second, who claimed an incredible result – battling from the third row.
Martin was able to bag a strong fourth on Saturday, taking solid Championship points after beating teammate Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing), with the #21 completing yet another confidence-boosting ride. Meanwhile, Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) grabbed sixth, placing 0.120s ahead of Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™). Behind, Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Aprilia Racing’s Maverick Viñales took the final point-scoring positions after another Saturday thriller.
There is further action to come at Motegi, and with the World Championship gap closing in, the Japanese Grand Prix could prove to be crucial as Acosta aims for redemption and Bagnaia sets sights on reclaiming the title advantage from Martin, who will start from P11. Find out what will unfold in the next chapter of the season as MotoGP™ returns on Sunday at 14:00 (UTC +9)!
Jake Dixon took pole position during Moto2 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the British rider covered the 2.9-mile (4.8 km) track in 1:52.693.
Zonta Vd Goorbergh was the best of the rest with a 1:52.699 on his RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP Kalex, and Fantic Racing rider Aron Canet claimed the third and final spot on the front with a time of 1:53.000 on his Kalex.
American Joe Roberts finished fourth in qualifying with a 1:53.002 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Moto2 qualifying resultsMore, from a press release issued by Dorna:
The #96 will start the Japanese GP from pole position after setting a strong early time, which proved to be crucial.
Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) will start the Motul Grand Prix of Japan from pole position after a brave time from the British rider. The #96 set an early 1:52.693, which proved to be crucial as track conditions worsened due to rain. Dixon will start from pole, ending Q2 a mere 0.006s ahead of Zonta Van den Goorbergh (RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP) in an impressive result from the #84. Meanwhile, Aron Canet brought his Triumph-powered Fantic Racing machine to third on the grid, clocking a 1:53.000 as the Spaniard sets his sights on repeating his success from Indonesia.
Practice 2 began Saturday’s action, with nobody able to improve on their time from Friday after mixed conditions due to rain overnight, seeing Canet taking the top spot as Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) remained quickest overall. However, once Q1 got underway, Manuel Gonzalez (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) set a stunning 1:49.711, earning a spot in Q2 alongside Van den Goorbergh, Barry Baltus (RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP) and Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI).
It was a dramatic start to Q2, with Dixon bagging provisional pole in the opening laps as the rain began to fall. The #96 led in the early stages from Van den Goorbergh and Canet. Meanwhile, Filip Salac (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) was 18th in the early stages after the #12 left it late to post a time. The rain continued to fall, with the majority of the field returning to the pits and Dixon clinching pole positions.
Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing Team) will start from fourth on the grid in a great result from the #16. The American heads a talented second row of the grid alongside Izan Guevara, who capped off a great day for the CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team. The #28 will be joined by the returning Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) in sixth on the grid.
Meanwhile, Barry Baltus brought his RW-Idrofoglia Racing GP machine to seventh on the grid, placing ahead of Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp). The #21 was the top Boscoscuro rider at the end of proceedings, finishing in front of Championship leader Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI).
Further back, Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) will line up from 15th on the grid, while Garcia is left with work to do from 17th position on the grid. The #3 will start alongside Salac, who, after looking unstoppable on Friday, was unable to find time late in the session – qualifying in 18th.
Make sure you join us on Sunday as we prepare to go racing at Motegi with lights out at 12:15 local time (UTC +9)!
Ivan Ortola captured pole position during FIM Moto3 World Championship qualifying Saturday at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his MT Helmets – MSI KTM on Pirelli control tires, the young Spaniard lapped the 2.9-mile (4.8 km) course in 1:54.761 to lead the field of 26 riders.
Collin Veijer was the best of the rest with a 1:55.117 on his Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP racebike, and Aspar Team CFMOTO rider David Alonso earned the third and final spot on the front row by doing a 1:55.170.
Moto3 qualifying result
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
The #48 demolished the lap record in Q2 and will start alongside Collin Veijer and David Alonso at Motegi.
Moto3™ brought drama by the bucketload at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan, with Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) charging to pole position at the Mobility Resort Motegi. It was an unbelievable lap from the #48, clocking a 1:54.761 and obliterating the lap record. It was a tense fight for pole position, with Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) grabbing second on the grid, ending Saturday 0.356s behind. It ends a great day for the Dutchman, placing ahead of Championship leader David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), who claims the final spot on the front row in a weekend which could see the #80 leave as Champion.
Due to rain overnight, no riders were able to improve on their times from Friday, with Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing) fastest on Saturday morning and Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) remaining at the top of the combined standings. It was a tense Q1, with the top four spots decided on the final flying lap, with David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) topping the session and earning a spot in Q2 alongside Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA), Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) and CIP Green Power’s Riccardo Rossi.
It was a hectic start to Q2, with rain beginning to fall around the circuit it led to a frantic opening five minutes, which saw Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) in P1 before Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) destroyed the lap record. It was a dramatic end to Q2, with Veijer continuing to improve on his second run, reclaiming P1 in the final minute of the session, before Ortola responded and entered the 1:54 bracket.
Heading the second row of the grid on Sunday will be Angel Piqueras (Leopard Racing), ending the morning 0.315s adrift from a spot on the front row. The Spaniard had a rock-solid session, qualifying as the top Honda and will now be joined by Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI) and Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) on the second row. It was a strong qualifying for the Australian, who will set sights on a good result on Sunday to prepare himself for his home GP next time out.
Meanwhile, Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) starts at the head of row three, setting a strong 1:55.928 to place in front of Muñoz. The #64 battled hard from Q1, earning eighth on the grid ahead of Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), who jumped from 18th to ninth on his final run. Further back, home hero Furusato starts from 13th on the grid, ending Q2 ahead of Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo).
Do not miss a potential title-deciding Japanese GP, with action getting underway at 11:00 local time (UTC +9), as we prepare to go racing on Sunday!
