Despite encountering unseasonably cool ambient air temperaures, combined with strong breezes that produced wind chills in the 30s, a cadré of road racers from MotoAmerica’s Superbike, Supersport, Mission King Of The Baggers, Mission Super Hooligan National Championship, and Talent Cup classes participated in the first day of the two-day Dunlop Pre-Season Test at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas.
OrangeCat Racing BMW Superbike rider Sean Dylan Kelly emerged as the fastest overall rider on day one with a lap of 2:09.538. The Miami-based former Supersport Champion and former Moto2 World Championship rider seemed completely non-plussed by the weather as he and his crew worked diligently to hone the setup on his #40 BMW M 1000 RR Superbike.
“It was a really solid first day of testing,” commented Kelly. “I’m really happy to be back at COTA. Obviously, the one track that I have a Superbike win at, so it holds a special place in my heart. It’s more important than that. It’s just nice to come to a track that I have a direct comparison with the BMW of what I’ve done here. It makes the test look more efficient because we’ve been testing at other tracks that I haven’t ridden the BMW at ever, since 2024. It was a bit of a difficult day because of the weather, but it was still nice to be able to get through our whole testing plan today. Did a lot of laps. Really happy with how I grew throughout the day. Confidence got a lot better. Connection with the bike was improving lap by lap. We answered a lot of questions too, which I’m happy about. Lap times are off because of the conditions, but at least it put us still best for the day. Obviously suits well. Looking forward to more work tomorrow. We’re going to keep on working hard. I do want to take a second to say thank you to the whole OrangeCat Racing team. They’re doing an amazing job. I’m really proud of the crew and the team.”
SDK goes well at COTA, the track where he won his first MotoAmerica Superbike race in 2024, on a BMW. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
“The weather does look a little bit better for tomorrow, and we need it. Tomorrow will be our last day of testing before round one, so that means we still have some more questions to answer and get us as 100% ready as we can be for round one.”
Class leaders on day one were Supersport rider Xavi Forés, who is Strack Racing Yamaha rider Blake Davis’s crew chief. The former Supersport Champion and World Championship competitor threw his leg over Davis’s spare Yamaha YZF-R9 and notched a fastest lap of 2:14.621. Kyle Wyman was the fastest Mission King Of The Baggers rider with a lap of 2:14.070 aboard his #1 Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing Road Glide. Andrew Lee went quickest among the Superbike Cup riders with a lap of 2:12.725 on his Real Steel Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. Mission Super Hooligan National Championship competitor Corey Alexander led the high-handlebars class with a 2:18.320 fastest lap in the saddle of his ARCH Racing 2s-R. And former Mini Cup Champion Nathan Gouker was the fastest Talent Cup rider on day one with a lap of 2:28.897 on his Quarterley Racing Krämer APX-350 MA.
The Dunlop Pre-Season Test concludes on Tuesday at COTA, and the riders are expected to lower their lap times even more as a result of the improved weather conditions that are forecast, as well as insights gained from having a good amount of laps under their belts from day one.
Loudon, New Hampshire – The United States Classic Racing Association (USCRA), the oldest vintage motorcycle road racing organization in the U.S., is excited to announce pioneer female racer, American Motorcyclist Association Hall of Fame and Motorsports Hall of Fame nominee Gina Bovaird to serve as Grand Marshal at the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) North America Vintage Road Racing Championships, scheduled for June 12-14, 2026, at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, New Hampshire.
Fast Fearless Females Take Center Stage
The USCRA is once again honored to host the only FIM-sanctioned vintage road racing competition on the continent. This year’s event marks the 24th annual gathering, which will take place on the opening weekend of the 103rd annual Laconia Bike Week.
The theme of the 2026 FIM-sanctioned championships is Fast Fearless Females—honoring the women who pioneered motorcycle road racing and those who continue to make an impact today. Throughout the event, the skill, determination, and achievements of female racers— past and present—will be showcased in celebration of their lasting influence on the sport.
“For me, it was not about being a woman, I just loved the speed of the bikes and the competition. As Grand Marshal, I am honored to stand with all the gritty and determined women racing motorcycles, now and in the past.” – Grand Marshal, Gina Bovaird
Gina Bovaird. Photo by Jaqueline Bovaird / courtesy USCRA
Groundbreaking. Trailblazing. Revolutionary. Gina Bovaird isn’t just part of motorcycle racing history—she helped rewrite it. The Boston-born rider shattered barriers at the highest levels of international motorcycle competition, carving out a place in a sport long dominated by men.
Gina began racing a Yamaha 125 twin in AAMRR events and the Daytona amateur races. In 1973, she moved up to a Yamaha TZ250 and competed in WERA, earning early success. After the AMA began issuing licenses to women in 1974, she obtained her AMA Novice license. That same year at Mosport International Raceway in Canada, despite initial resistance, she was eventually allowed to compete—and promptly set a new lap record in the final practice session on her Honda 125.
In 1975, with sponsorship from Hawaiian Tropic, Gina raced the Daytona Novice 250cc event, recording the fastest trap speed at 144 mph. Later that season she scored WERA victories at Savannah and Nelson Ledges.
By 1980 she had earned her AMA Expert license and became the first woman to qualify for the Daytona 200 on a Yamaha TZ500, recording the fastest rookie trap speed at 184 mph. She returned in 1981 and finished the race, placing 25th.
Later that year, she made history again by becoming the first woman to qualify for and start in the 500cc class of the FIM Grand Prix World Motorcycle Championships at the French Grand Prix of Nogaro. Her trailblazing career has paved the way for generations of female racers who followed.
Gina and her husband Bill Beck currently reside on their horse farm in Ocala, Florida, where she enjoys riding her dressage horses just about every day.
The USCRA and New England Racing Museum will be hosting a reception for Gina at the museum on Saturday evening, June 13th at 7pm, after the conclusion of racing. For more information, visit www.nermuseum.com.
Special Events During the FIM Race Weekend
Along with celebrating female riders, the weekend will showcase thrilling competition featuring some of North America’s top vintage and modern motorcycle and sidecar racers.
On Friday, June 12, the club will host the second race of the new Trackmaster Triple Crown Endurance Series presented by Rick’s Motorsport Electrics. This three-hour contest will test both rider stamina and mechanical reliability, delivering hours of high-intensity racing and excitement. More information can be found at http://www.race-uscra.com.
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The 2026 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held Sept. 10 at the Event Center at Violet Woods in Pickerington, Ohio.
This special event serves as the formal induction of the Class of 2026 into the hallowed halls of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and is a grand celebration of that esteemed group, as well as the Hall of Fame as an institution. Candidates and voting for this year’s class will be announced at a later date.
“Each year, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony gives us the opportunity to honor the remarkable individuals whose passion, innovation and achievements have advanced motorcycling in America,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “As we prepare to welcome a new class of inductees into this distinguished group of Hall of Famers, we look forward to bringing together the motorcycling community and industry in Pickerington to celebrate their lasting impact on our sport and lifestyle.”
Located just minutes away from the AMA Headquarters and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the Event Center at Violet Woods provides a theater-style venue excellent for hosting this prestigious event.
Immediately following the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, there will be a cocktail reception at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, during which Hall of Famers will be on hand to sign autographs and speak with fans.
Follow the Hall of Fame on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on the latest news regarding the 2026 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
About the American Motorcyclist Association:
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
HOT HEADLINES: MotoGP back in business in Brazil. After a titanic opener in Thailand, we’re heading west for our much-awaited return to Brazil – with a first-time Championship leader.
Caught your breath yet? After a long winter of waiting, the season opener in Thailand certainly didn’t disappoint, with two stunning showdowns opening our account for 2026. Now we’re off to Brazil for the first time in more than two decades, racing in Goiânia for the first time in even longer, and with a first time Championship leader in Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). We have a home hero, a new pecking order (so far!) and so many unknowns up and down the grid that we don’t want to call it. But if Buriram was unpredictable enough, Brazil could prove even more so as the 22-rider field gear up to take on a venue that’s completely new to each and every one of them.
Pedro Acosta at Buriram. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM.
LEADING THE CHARGE: ACOSTA & KTM
Controversial? For some. But what a debut Tissot Sprint win that was for Acosta in Thailand. A no inches given, fairing-bashing head-to-head between the #37 and Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) was an unbelievable way to begin proceedings in 2026, and after Acosta backed his scintillating Saturday outing up with another gutsy effort to a podium on Sunday, he’s World Championship leader and spearheads the MotoGP field heading to Brazil. It wasn’t the Sunday victory Acosta craves, but it was a weekend which proved serious steps have been made compared to this time last season. Could that first 25-pointer arrive in Goiânia? That’s the question we’re all asking about the early title frontrunner.
On the other side of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing box, Brad Binder also enjoyed a positive stint in Thailand. Acosta took much of the KTM limelight, but the South African’s double top seven means he’s P6 in the championship going to Round 2. That will give Red Bull KTM Tech3’s Enea Bastianini and Maverick Viñales even more hunger for this weekend. The latter, who showed stand-out promise at the Sepang Test, suffered a real low-key weekend in Buriram, with Bastianini picking up a P12 to ensure some points were on offer for Guenther Steiner’s squad. With Acosta leading the championship and Binder finding some form, there’s clearly pace in the RC16 for the two Tech3 team’s MotoGP winners to extract.
Marco Bezzecchi won the MotoGP race at Buriram. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
ARISE, APRILIA
They’d threatened levelling up during pre-season, but delivering the goods in a Grand Prix setting is a different ball game – and come Sunday afternoon, Bezzecchi and Aprilia were unstoppable. Acosta may lead the championship, but leaving Thailand, there was a real sense that one factory have bridged the gap to Ducati. Maybe even more than just bridged it?
It’s early days to call it, but at a track where Marc Marquez and Ducati cleaned up one year prior, Bezzecchi was the outstanding rider. The #72 slipped up in the Sprint, but a lap record pole position and a Sunday cruise to P1, coupled with Raul Fernandez’s (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) double podium, Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) looking much more like his 2024 title-winning self, and Ai Ogura’s (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) Grand Prix top five, meant the Noale camp had a ball in Buriram. The quartet are P2, P3, P4, and P5 in the standings heading to Brazil. So now, it’s all about trying to back up Thailand’s success on unfamiliar territory – for all.
Franco Morbidelli (21) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) at Buriram. Photo courtesy VR46
DUCATI ON A BOUNCE BACK MISSION
Buriram is certainly not what the reigning champions had on the menu for Round 1 – nor was it what many expected to happen. But that’s so often MotoGP. And while they’re currently down after losing their ridiculously impressive consecutive podium streak of 88 in a row, Ducati are certainly far from out and bouncing back will be the mission in Brazil. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) lands in South America as the Ducati frontrunner in the championship and the Italian radiated positivity – while also lamenting bad luck – in Thailand, so maybe fortunes change in Goiânia?
That’s what reigning MotoGP king Marc Marquez will be hoping for. An unlucky, unusual rear tyre puncture cost the #93 a podium shot on Sunday in Thailand, so the seven-time World Champion kickstarts his Brazil visit 23 points adrift of his Buriram Sprint rival Acosta. No one is counting the World Champion out though (we’ve watched the sport before, don’t worry), especially on a level playing field this weekend. At new tracks too, Marc Marquez’s record is second to none. Although Bezzecchi at Buddh was quite something to watch…
On the other side of the red garage, lack of front-end feeling and differing conditions to the Test blighted what looked set to be a bright weekend for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) in Thailand. Both the Italian and last year’s runner-up, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP), had weekends to put behind them – especially the latter, who walked away from the Chang International Circuit with zero points compared to Pecco’s eight. Fermin Aldeguer, now confirmed to return, will hope to slot back in with their learnings already processed and find a few answers waiting for him as he gets back in the fold at BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP.
Behind Di Giannantonio and Marc Marquez in the championship, meanwhile, it’s Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), who has shown some solid flashes of speed in pre-season and Thailand. A special weekend arrives for the rider who has Brazilian roots, and the #21 will be craving a podium challenge to make it a weekend to remember.
Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pro Honda LCR.
MOREIRA ARRIVES TO HOME SHORES
Speaking of, a very warm welcome is promised to our home hero Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) this weekend, with the MotoGP rookie landing in Brazil as a points finisher in his first attempt. It was a weekend that quietly impressed. Now, with the home crowd on side and no one else having track knowledge on a MotoGP bike in Goiânia, more points are certainly on offer for Moreira as a special weekend awaits for Brazil’s #11.
Joan Mir (left) and Luca Marini (right) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
BUILDING UP
It was a case of more bad luck for Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) in Sunday’s Thai encounter after an issue stopped the 2020 World Champion from bagging a healthy points haul. Mir was HRC’s leading light during Round 1, but a top 10 for teammate Luca Marini, points for Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) AND the aforementioned Moreira meant it was a decent start for HRC – but not enough, based on their own adjusted aims for 2026. MotoGP’s most successful factory aren’t where they want to be just yet, but there continues to be significant progress. Mir’s Sunday performance demonstrated that, so maybe Brazil can offer more? Certainly, no one else on the grid arrives with any more knowledge of the track – which could prove helpful for those looking to develop.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu talking with Alex Rins (left) on the MotoGP Sprint race grid. Photo courtesy Pramac Yamaha.
SEARCHING FOR MORE
That’s definitely true of Yamaha. The new V4-powered YZR-M1 era hasn’t begun as smoothly as they would have liked, but there were positives – and now it’s a venue no one else has dialled in. The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP duo of Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins got points on the board in Thailand, and Toprak Razgatlioglu put together about as quality a weekend as he and Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP could have asked for. The rookie was right in the mix with the experienced runners, despite absolutely everything being new to him. His teammate Jack Miller pushed on and then dropped back but put more miles on the clock as they look to learn and improve. Results will likely not be the focus for the Brazilian GP – but maybe a new circuit can bring the Yamahas closer to the frontrunners.
From Thailand’s terrific opener, we’re landing back in brilliant Brazil for Round 2. As we look ahead to the three days on track, we really couldn’t tell you how the script will play out – just the way we like it. Brazil, are you ready?
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – AMA Pro Racing is pleased to announce that Progressive Insurance will continue to serve as the title sponsor of American Flat Track in a new multi-year agreement, extending a relationship that has helped drive the series’ growth and national reach.
Progressive was first named Title Sponsor and Official Insurance of American Flat Track in 2020 and has expanded its support of the sport over the years through digital initiatives. Through the renewal, Progressive will continue as the official title sponsor across series branding, broadcast and streaming coverage, live event presentation, and official digital platforms.
“Progressive has been an outstanding sponsor for American Flat Track, and we’re proud to continue building on a relationship that has helped elevate the series in meaningful ways,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “From event presentation and broadcast visibility to our digital platforms and fan engagement efforts, Progressive’s support has played an important role in our growth. Progressive brings an authentic connection to the AFT community, and we’re excited to continue working together to strengthen the sport and deliver even more for our fans, riders and stakeholders in the years ahead.”
Progressive, the country’s No. 1 motorcycle insurer, has been a trusted name for riders, with one in three motorcyclists choosing Progressive for their insurance needs. Founded in 1937, the company has grown into the second largest personal auto insurer in the United States while maintaining a long-standing connection to the riding community through specialized motorcycle coverage and support for motorsports. Progressive’s continued involvement reflects its understanding of the passion and commitment shared by riders and race fans, and its focus on helping motorcyclists protect what matters.
“At Progressive, we’ve seen first-hand the enthusiasm and dedication of the riders and racing community,” said Eric Doubler, Progressive Recreational Lines Business Leader. “As the country’s leading motorcycle insurer, we share that passion and are thrilled to deepen our relationship with American Flat Track. This sponsorship reflects our commitment to the sport and the broader motorcycle community.”
The announcement follows the 2026 season opening doubleheader at DAYTONA Flat Track. The season continues next week with the Yamaha Atlanta Short Track, the third round of the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season.
Progressive American Flat Track is televised on FOX Sports and streams live on FloRacing. Visit, flosports.link/AFT2026 to watch every lap live.
For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, including the 2026 schedule, tickets and streaming options, visit AmericanFlatTrack.com.
Due to the ongoing war in the Middle East the Qatar MotoGP round has been rescheduled from April 10-12 to November 6-8, following events at Phillip Island, Australian and Sepang, Malaysia. To accommodate the change, events in Portimao, Portugal & in Valencia, Spain have each been moved back a week to November 20-22 and November 27-29, respectively. The schedule changes assume that the fighting will be over by then and that the track and related infrastructure (hotels, airport, etc.) are still standing and operating…
(Above) The revised 2026 MotoGP schedule.(Above) The Lusail International Circuit in Qatar seen at night. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
More, from a press release issued by MotoGP:
MotoGP confirms new date for the Qatar Grand Prix
MotoGP confirms that the Qatar Grand Prix, originally scheduled for April, has been postponed to 8 November due to the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
This decision has been taken in close coordination with the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the Promoter and the local authorities in Qatar, with the primary objective of ensuring the safety, well-being, and highest‑quality delivery of the event for all participants and attendees.
Following extensive scenario planning and calendar analysis, the revised date has been chosen to ensure minimal disruption to the wider MotoGP schedule. As a result, the Portuguese GP in Portimão will now take place on 22 November, and the season finale in Valencia will move to 29 November, while all other rounds of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship remain unaffected.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP, said: “This decision was taken with great care and in full coordination with our partners in Qatar and across the paddock. Our priority is always the safety and well-being of everyone involved in MotoGP, as well as ensuring that every Grand Prix is delivered to the highest possible standard. We also recognize the importance of providing clarity for our fans as early as possible and ticket holders will be given the opportunity to rollover their tickets to the next event.
“I would also like to thank our partners in Portimão and Valencia for their collaboration and flexibility in helping us deliver a smooth transition to the revised calendar. We are confident that the updated schedule will allow us to preserve the quality of the championship while offering fans an exceptional season of racing.”
Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit (LIC), said: “The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit (LIC) respect and support the decision of the MotoGP Sport and Entertainment Group to postpone the MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar to November 6–8, 2026. We sincerely thank our fans, teams and partners for their understanding and ongoing support, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to Lusail International Circuit.”
Jorge Viegas, President of the FIM, added: “The FIM fully supports the decision to reschedule the Qatar Grand Prix. Considering the current geopolitical situation, safeguarding our riders, teams, officials, and fans must always come first. We are confident that the updated calendar ensures that the event in Qatar can be delivered in the safest and most professional conditions.”
At what is arguably the best annual motorcycle awards banquet in the United States, the Trailblazers Motorcycle Club honored eight industry luminaries Saturday, March 14th at the Carson Center in Carson, California. The 2026 event sold out with 750 tickets purchased.
The 2026 inductees included Dave Arnold, Brad Baker, Kel Carruthers, Randy Hall, Jim Holley, Ronnie Jones, Mitch Payton, and Jeff Ward.
The 2026 Trailblazers honorees, from left, Brad Baker, Ronnie Jones, Jim Holley, Dave Arnold, Kel Carruthers, Mitch Payton, Jeff Ward, and Randy Hall. Photo by Larry Lawrence/Rider Files.Official Trailblazers banquet artwork, courtesy Trailblazers Motorcycle Club.
David Aldana with Aki Goto and Ron Turner. Photo courtesy David Aldana.Ron Pierce and David Aldana at the 2026 Trailblazers banquet. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
David Aldana with 1969 250cc World Champion Kel Carruthers. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
The Mission CTR Showcase Series of flat track events is designed to combine fun with a “Road to AFT” component and will continue on Friday, March 20th at Senoia Raceway in Senoia, Georgia. The series launched at Daytona with a two-day event that attracted several MotoAmerica racers, including Twins Cup competitor Sam Drane and Talent Cup racer Jake Paige (who also competes in the FIM Asia Talent Cup series).
This is Scotty Taylor’s report on what happened at the opening round held at Daytona:
Mission CTR Showcase: Daytona
If the walls of Daytona International Speedway could talk, you would hear legendary tales featuring names like Petty, Earnhardt, Tomac and Russell. The World Center of Racing saw an addition in 2010 with the opening of the Daytona Flat Track outside NASCAR turns one and two. Sixteen years later, a new crop of talented athletes prepared to start building their own legacy with the inaugural Mission Foods Cory Texter Promotions Showcase Event.
A three-day flat track spectacular at the Daytona Flat Track, part of 2026 Daytona Bike Week, would culminate in the opening rounds of the 2026 American Flat Track Season Every good show needs a strong opening act and this story began with top amateur riders having the opportunity to begin paving their own Road to American Flat Track. Californian Ryder Bitz-Hay became the first Road to AFT winner of the year with a wire-to-wire victory, literally riding off into the Florida sunset in the day’s final race. Bitz-Hay’s success ended what had been a perfect afternoon for Estenson Yamaha Rider Sam Drane. The Australian, Drane, had a loaded Daytona Bike Week, also competing in Twins Cup action for Moto America on the high banks. Drane’s week began triumphantly topping the 450 Amateur and Open Amateur Main Events. Drane also picked up a win in the Mission Challenge Dash for Cash during the afternoon.
MotoAmerica Twins Cup winner Sam Drane (7) picked up two main event wins and the Mission Challenge victory during the Mission Foods CTR Showcase event at Daytona. Photo by Madcap Imaging.
The Showcase event split riders into two groups with a morning session that highlighted AMA Youth Classes where Jayden Nickens and Cruise Texter would join Drane with multiple victories on the day. For Nickens, his 85cc victory came after a hard fought battle with 2025 Amateur National Champion Jackson Joiner. The two got together going into turn one fighting for the top spot resulting in Joiner going down. Nickens victory in the Youth Premier Main Event was much more comfortable as the Virginian was unphased by multiple restarts and would cruise to a victory by over seven seconds. The word “cruise” perfectly describes how Texter claimed his two victories during the day. Texter was dominant in the 50cc Chain and Mini Open Classes. It appeared Cruise could be in line for a perfect day but a moment in lap traffic brought the 65cc Main Event to a dramatic conclusion. Texter, nicknamed “Shark Bait,” left blood in the water when attempting to make a move outside a lap rider. A patient attack and perfectly timed pass on the last lap by a looming Reef Pendergrass would secure him the 65cc victory.
Jayden Nickens (17) chatting with mechanic Tyler Raggio. Nickens scored two wins on the day during the CTR event at Daytona. Photo by Madcap Imaging.
Maddox Wingard was also successful in youth competition picking up a win in the 50cc Air Cooled Class. Additional Group One Winners would include Evan Myers in Open Novice and Brianna McHigh in the Women’s Class. McHugh from Georgia would prevail over rising stars from the United Kingdom; Skye Adams and Jamie Kimber. Doug O’Boyle also found success in the 60+ Main Event as part of the morning session.
Future stars of flat track are ready to launch in the 50cc Chain Main Event during the CTR Showdown. Photo by Madcap Imaging.
While Bitz-Hay and Drane may have seen the spotlight shine a little brighter on their success during the afternoon portion, several other competitors earned wins on the hallowed grounds of Daytona. Kenneth Shaffer (50+), Robby “Bobby” McLendon (40+) and John Poorman (30+) topped the AMA Vet Classes. Stephan Flach and Nicholas Myers won the event’s Vintage Classes with Flach taking Vintage Light honors and Myers being the Vintage Open winner. Joshua Pierce topped the 250 Amateur Class and James Parker held off Jon Kruppenbacker for the Hooligan victory.
The next Mission Foods, Cory Texter Promotions Showcase Event will commence at Senoia Raceway on March 20th.
Other series events are scheduled in conjunction with AFT rounds at Ventura Speedway in Ventura, California on April 24th; Silver Dollar Speedway in Chico, California on May 1st; Budds Creek MX at Mechanicsville, Maryland on May 15th; Williams Grove Half Mile at Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania on May 23rd; and Tennessee National Raceway on June 5th.
ASRA is creating a new Heavyweight Production class based on increased affordability and cost containment.
Rules updates for the 2026 ASRA season will include:
The addition of a Heavyweight ASRA Production class for new sportbikes, without added expense, opening up other classes for the same bikes, and allowing “next gen” bikes in certain classes–for now.
Testing splitting Thunderbike into two categories, starting at CMP and Ozarks.
As the landscape for Middleweight Sportbikes continues to evolve, the rules must evolve with it.
Cost containment has to remain a priority in today’s racing environment. The addition of balancing packages and complex electronic systems that can more than double the cost of a motorcycle is simply out of control. When the price of being competitive requires investments like this, it puts the sport further out of reach for the very racers who keep it alive.
Motorcycle racing has always been about the rider, the machine, and the competition—-not about mandating the most advanced electronics package. If dramatically increasing costs becomes the only path forward, the long-term future of the sport is at risk.
ASRA believes there should still be a place for riders to compete on the current generation of sportbikes without the need for expensive add-on electronics and balancing packages.
And 2027 proposals may include overall fuel restriction, with more on this coming out later. And the elimination of GP classes.
ASRA is built by racers for racers. We welcome suggestions via email at [email protected]
More about the new Heavyweight Production class from ASRA:
South Florida Mini GP Will Host Two Mission Mini Cup Area Qualifiers In 2026
Southeast-Based Racing Organization Will Qualify Young Stars For National Final This Summer
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce that South Florida MiniGP (SFL MiniGP) has joined the growing list of organizations hosting qualifying rounds for the 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final.
The addition of SFL MiniGP further strengthens MotoAmerica’s nationwide grassroots development program, giving riders in Florida and the Southeast an opportunity to earn bonus points and prepare for the biggest Mission Mini Cup event of the season.
”We appreciate SFL MiniGP and their commitment to hosting these MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup qualifiers,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “Michael (Correa) and his team at SFLMiniGP have stepped up by giving young racers in the Southeast two chances to earn the 10 available bonus points towards the National Final in August, and we look forward to seeing them compete for a title.”
The Mission Mini Cup features riders ranging from six to 16-years-old in the following classes:
Stock 50cc (ages 6-8)
Stock 110 (ages 8-12)
GP 110 (ages 10-14)
GP 160 (10-14)
GP 190 (12-16)
The Mission Mini Cup classes serve as the official youth development ladder of MotoAmerica and are a proving ground for the sport’s next generation of professional talent.
Seven-year-old Cruise Texter was the Mission Mini Cup Stock 50 Champion at last year’s Mission Mini Cup National Final, held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex. Photo by Larry Lawrence.
“SFL MiniGP is proud to host these two qualifying rounds,” said Michael Correa, Founder and Owner of SFL MiniGP. “SFL MiniGP was established to provide a fun way for families to go racing, and it has grown to be part of this amazing development system for the future road racing stars of the US. We are thrilled to qualify our young racers for this national final, and we wish them all the best on their journey to Road America this summer.”
The SFL MiniGP-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers will take place at the following locations:
April 25-26: Gainesville Raceway, Gainesville, FL
June 6-7: Bushnell Motorsports Park, Bushnell, FL
A one-time, 10-point bonus is awarded to participants in any of the 2026 Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, regardless of the number of events entered and will be used to calculate the final finishing order for the Mission Mini Cup National Final, to be held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex on August 7-9, 2026.
Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha again provide manufacturer contingency to support the Stock 50 and Stock 110 classes, further enhancing the offering for riders throughout the 2026 season.
You can watch all the Mission Mini Cup National Final action on MotoAmerica Live+ this August.
More, from another press release issued by MotoAmerica:
Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp Hosting Four Mission Mini Cup Qualifiers In 2026
West-Coast Moto Training Camp Offers Pathway For Young Riders Eyeing National Mini Cup Title
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce that Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp has joined the growing list of organizations hosting qualifying rounds for the 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final.
The addition of Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp further strengthens MotoAmerica’s nationwide grassroots development program, giving riders all throughout California an opportunity to earn bonus points and prepare for the biggest Mission Mini Cup event of the season.
“We appreciate Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp’s commitment to hosting these MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup qualifiers,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “Hawk and his training camp are giving young racers throughout California multiple chances to earn the 10 available bonus points toward the National Final in August. It is great to see one of our own MotoAmerica racers getting involved in the Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, and we look forward to seeing these young racers compete for a championship.”
The Mission Mini Cup program features riders aged six to 16 in the following classes:
• Stock 50 (ages 6-8)
• Stock 110 (ages 8-12)
• GP 110 (ages 10-14)
• GP 160 (10-14)
• GP 190 (12-16)
The Mission Mini Cup classes serve as the official youth development ladder of MotoAmerica and are a proving ground for the sport’s next generation of professional talent.
Mahdi Salem leaning his Ohvale GP 190 into a tight corner at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex last summer. Photo by Larry Lawrence.
“Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp is proud to host these four qualifying rounds,” said Hawk Mazzotta, owner of Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp. “We have already completed one successful round at Buttonwillow Raceway Park, and we look forward to qualifying more West Coast riders at our three remaining races throughout the state.”
The remaining Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers will take place at the following locations:
March 14 – 15: Apex Motorsports Club – Perris, CA
June 6-7: Redding Race Complex – Redding, CA
July 25-26: Sonoma Raceway – Sonoma, CA
A one-time, 10-point bonus is awarded to participants in any of the 2026 Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, regardless of the number of events entered and will be used to calculate the final finishing order for the Mission Mini Cup National Final, to be held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex on August 7-9, 2026.
Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha again provide manufacturer contingency to support the Stock 50 and Stock 110 classes, further enhancing the offering for riders throughout the 2026 season.
For more information on the Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers visit hawkmazzottamotocamp.com
You can watch all the Mission Mini Cup National Final action on MotoAmerica Live+ this August.
More, from yet another press release issued by MotoAmerica:
Ohvale USA Will Host Three Mission Mini Cup Qualifiers In 2026
MiniGP Motorcycle Distributor Hosts Three Qualifiers For 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce that Ohvale USA has joined the growing list of organizations hosting qualifying rounds for the 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final.
The addition of Ohvale USA further strengthens MotoAmerica’s nationwide grassroots development program, giving riders in Southern California three opportunities to earn bonus points and prepare for the biggest Mission Mini Cup event of the season.
”We appreciate Ohvale USA stepping up to host these three rounds of MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup qualifiers,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “‘The Ohvale USA team continues to show their commitment to the future of our sport by providing these three qualifying opportunities on the West Coast. It’s great to see a former champion like John ‘Hopper’ Hopkins and a company like Ohvale USA work together in an effort to grow our sport and give these racers a path to the national final.”
The Mission Mini Cup program features riders aged six to 16 in the following classes:
Stock 50 (ages 6-8)
Stock 110 (ages 8-12)
GP 110 (ages 10-14)
GP 160 (10-14)
GP 190 (12-16)
The Mission Mini Cup classes serve as the official youth development ladder of MotoAmerica and are a proving ground for the sport’s next generation of professional talent.
A one-time, 10-point bonus is awarded to participants in any of the 2026 Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, regardless of the number of events entered and will be used to calculate the final finishing order for the Mission Mini Cup National Final, to be held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex on August 7-9, 2026.
15-year-old Kensei Matsudaira is the most recent graduate of the Mission Mini Cup program. Matsudaira won the GP 190 title this past summer and will make his MotoAmerica Talent Cup debut for Team Roberts at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) March 25–27, 2026. Photo by Larry Lawrence.
“Ohvale USA is proud to host these three qualifiers at Apex Motorsports Park,” said John “Hopper” Hopkins, multi-class AMA Road Racing Champion, former MotoGP rider, and current Managing Director at Ohvale USA. “We understand how important it is to give young racers an opportunity to build their racing skills. As a motorcycle racer who grew up in Southern California myself, I feel a special connection to providing our local riders a pathway to the Mission Mini Cup National Final this summer.”
Three Ohvale USA-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers are scheduled for April 11, May 16, and May 30, with all rounds taking place at Apex Motorsports Park in Perris, California.
For more information on the Ohvale USA-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers visit ohvaleusa.com
You can watch all the Mission Mini Cup National Final action on MotoAmerica Live+ this August.
More, from even another press release issued by MotoAmerica:
ASRA/New Jersey MiniGP Announces Mission Mini Cup Qualifying Round
Northeast-Based Racing Organization Will Hold Qualifying Round For Mission Mini Cup National Final
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce that ASRA and New Jersey MiniGP have joined the growing list of organizations hosting qualifying rounds for the 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final.
The combined effort of ASRA and New Jersey MiniGP further strengthens MotoAmerica’s nationwide grassroots development program, giving riders in the Northeast an opportunity to earn bonus points and prepare for the biggest Mission Mini Cup event of the season.
”We appreciate Alex (Spellman, President of ASRA) and the team at New Jersey MiniGP for joining forces to host this MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup qualifier,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “Alex and his team are giving young racers in the Northeast a chance to earn the 10 available bonus points towards the National Final, and we look forward to watching them compete for a championship this summer.”
The Mission Mini Cup program features riders aged six to 16 in the following classes:
• Stock 50 (ages 6-8)
• Stock 110 (ages 8-12)
• GP 110 (ages 10-14)
• GP 160 (10-14)
• GP 190 (12-16)
The Mission Mini Cup classes serve as the official youth development ladder of MotoAmerica and are a proving ground for the sport’s next generation of professional talent.
“ASRA is proud to combine efforts with New Jersey MiniGP to host this important qualifier in support of the future stars of MotoAmerica.”, said Spellman. “These young racers are training for the professional ranks, and the upcoming Mission Mini Cup National Final at Road America will offer them a chance to test their skills against the top amateur racers in the country.”
The ASRA/New Jersey MiniGP-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifier is planned for May 23-24 at Summit Point Motorsports Park in Summit Point, West Virginia.
A one-time, 10-point bonus is awarded to participants in any of the 2026 Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, regardless of the number of events entered and will be used to calculate the final finishing order for the Mission Mini Cup National Final, to be held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex on August 7-9, 2026.
Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha again are providing manufacturer contingency to support the Stock 50 and Stock 110 classes, further enhancing the offering for riders throughout the 2026 season.
For more details on the ASRA/New Jersey MiniGP-hosted Mission Mini Cup Qualifier, visit asraracing.com
You can watch all the Mission Mini Cup National Final action on MotoAmerica Live+ this August.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Twins Cup, Talent Cup, Super Hooligan National Championship, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on demand service, MotoAmerica Live+
OrangeCat Racing’s Sean Dylan Kelly led the pack with the fastest overall lap on day one of the Dunlop Pre-Season Test at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Despite encountering unseasonably cool ambient air temperaures, combined with strong breezes that produced wind chills in the 30s, a cadré of road racers from MotoAmerica’s Superbike, Supersport, Mission King Of The Baggers, Mission Super Hooligan National Championship, and Talent Cup classes participated in the first day of the two-day Dunlop Pre-Season Test at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas.
OrangeCat Racing BMW Superbike rider Sean Dylan Kelly emerged as the fastest overall rider on day one with a lap of 2:09.538. The Miami-based former Supersport Champion and former Moto2 World Championship rider seemed completely non-plussed by the weather as he and his crew worked diligently to hone the setup on his #40 BMW M 1000 RR Superbike.
“It was a really solid first day of testing,” commented Kelly. “I’m really happy to be back at COTA. Obviously, the one track that I have a Superbike win at, so it holds a special place in my heart. It’s more important than that. It’s just nice to come to a track that I have a direct comparison with the BMW of what I’ve done here. It makes the test look more efficient because we’ve been testing at other tracks that I haven’t ridden the BMW at ever, since 2024. It was a bit of a difficult day because of the weather, but it was still nice to be able to get through our whole testing plan today. Did a lot of laps. Really happy with how I grew throughout the day. Confidence got a lot better. Connection with the bike was improving lap by lap. We answered a lot of questions too, which I’m happy about. Lap times are off because of the conditions, but at least it put us still best for the day. Obviously suits well. Looking forward to more work tomorrow. We’re going to keep on working hard. I do want to take a second to say thank you to the whole OrangeCat Racing team. They’re doing an amazing job. I’m really proud of the crew and the team.”
SDK goes well at COTA, the track where he won his first MotoAmerica Superbike race in 2024, on a BMW. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
“The weather does look a little bit better for tomorrow, and we need it. Tomorrow will be our last day of testing before round one, so that means we still have some more questions to answer and get us as 100% ready as we can be for round one.”
Class leaders on day one were Supersport rider Xavi Forés, who is Strack Racing Yamaha rider Blake Davis’s crew chief. The former Supersport Champion and World Championship competitor threw his leg over Davis’s spare Yamaha YZF-R9 and notched a fastest lap of 2:14.621. Kyle Wyman was the fastest Mission King Of The Baggers rider with a lap of 2:14.070 aboard his #1 Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing Road Glide. Andrew Lee went quickest among the Superbike Cup riders with a lap of 2:12.725 on his Real Steel Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. Mission Super Hooligan National Championship competitor Corey Alexander led the high-handlebars class with a 2:18.320 fastest lap in the saddle of his ARCH Racing 2s-R. And former Mini Cup Champion Nathan Gouker was the fastest Talent Cup rider on day one with a lap of 2:28.897 on his Quarterley Racing Krämer APX-350 MA.
The Dunlop Pre-Season Test concludes on Tuesday at COTA, and the riders are expected to lower their lap times even more as a result of the improved weather conditions that are forecast, as well as insights gained from having a good amount of laps under their belts from day one.
Loudon, New Hampshire – The United States Classic Racing Association (USCRA), the oldest vintage motorcycle road racing organization in the U.S., is excited to announce pioneer female racer, American Motorcyclist Association Hall of Fame and Motorsports Hall of Fame nominee Gina Bovaird to serve as Grand Marshal at the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) North America Vintage Road Racing Championships, scheduled for June 12-14, 2026, at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, New Hampshire.
Fast Fearless Females Take Center Stage
The USCRA is once again honored to host the only FIM-sanctioned vintage road racing competition on the continent. This year’s event marks the 24th annual gathering, which will take place on the opening weekend of the 103rd annual Laconia Bike Week.
The theme of the 2026 FIM-sanctioned championships is Fast Fearless Females—honoring the women who pioneered motorcycle road racing and those who continue to make an impact today. Throughout the event, the skill, determination, and achievements of female racers— past and present—will be showcased in celebration of their lasting influence on the sport.
“For me, it was not about being a woman, I just loved the speed of the bikes and the competition. As Grand Marshal, I am honored to stand with all the gritty and determined women racing motorcycles, now and in the past.” – Grand Marshal, Gina Bovaird
Gina Bovaird. Photo by Jaqueline Bovaird / courtesy USCRA
Groundbreaking. Trailblazing. Revolutionary. Gina Bovaird isn’t just part of motorcycle racing history—she helped rewrite it. The Boston-born rider shattered barriers at the highest levels of international motorcycle competition, carving out a place in a sport long dominated by men.
Gina began racing a Yamaha 125 twin in AAMRR events and the Daytona amateur races. In 1973, she moved up to a Yamaha TZ250 and competed in WERA, earning early success. After the AMA began issuing licenses to women in 1974, she obtained her AMA Novice license. That same year at Mosport International Raceway in Canada, despite initial resistance, she was eventually allowed to compete—and promptly set a new lap record in the final practice session on her Honda 125.
In 1975, with sponsorship from Hawaiian Tropic, Gina raced the Daytona Novice 250cc event, recording the fastest trap speed at 144 mph. Later that season she scored WERA victories at Savannah and Nelson Ledges.
By 1980 she had earned her AMA Expert license and became the first woman to qualify for the Daytona 200 on a Yamaha TZ500, recording the fastest rookie trap speed at 184 mph. She returned in 1981 and finished the race, placing 25th.
Later that year, she made history again by becoming the first woman to qualify for and start in the 500cc class of the FIM Grand Prix World Motorcycle Championships at the French Grand Prix of Nogaro. Her trailblazing career has paved the way for generations of female racers who followed.
Gina and her husband Bill Beck currently reside on their horse farm in Ocala, Florida, where she enjoys riding her dressage horses just about every day.
The USCRA and New England Racing Museum will be hosting a reception for Gina at the museum on Saturday evening, June 13th at 7pm, after the conclusion of racing. For more information, visit www.nermuseum.com.
Special Events During the FIM Race Weekend
Along with celebrating female riders, the weekend will showcase thrilling competition featuring some of North America’s top vintage and modern motorcycle and sidecar racers.
On Friday, June 12, the club will host the second race of the new Trackmaster Triple Crown Endurance Series presented by Rick’s Motorsport Electrics. This three-hour contest will test both rider stamina and mechanical reliability, delivering hours of high-intensity racing and excitement. More information can be found at http://www.race-uscra.com.
Photo from the 2025 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Photo courtesy AMA.
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The 2026 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held Sept. 10 at the Event Center at Violet Woods in Pickerington, Ohio.
This special event serves as the formal induction of the Class of 2026 into the hallowed halls of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and is a grand celebration of that esteemed group, as well as the Hall of Fame as an institution. Candidates and voting for this year’s class will be announced at a later date.
“Each year, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony gives us the opportunity to honor the remarkable individuals whose passion, innovation and achievements have advanced motorcycling in America,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “As we prepare to welcome a new class of inductees into this distinguished group of Hall of Famers, we look forward to bringing together the motorcycling community and industry in Pickerington to celebrate their lasting impact on our sport and lifestyle.”
Located just minutes away from the AMA Headquarters and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, the Event Center at Violet Woods provides a theater-style venue excellent for hosting this prestigious event.
Immediately following the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, there will be a cocktail reception at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, during which Hall of Famers will be on hand to sign autographs and speak with fans.
Follow the Hall of Fame on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on the latest news regarding the 2026 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
About the American Motorcyclist Association:
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pro Honda LCR.
HOT HEADLINES: MotoGP back in business in Brazil. After a titanic opener in Thailand, we’re heading west for our much-awaited return to Brazil – with a first-time Championship leader.
Caught your breath yet? After a long winter of waiting, the season opener in Thailand certainly didn’t disappoint, with two stunning showdowns opening our account for 2026. Now we’re off to Brazil for the first time in more than two decades, racing in Goiânia for the first time in even longer, and with a first time Championship leader in Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). We have a home hero, a new pecking order (so far!) and so many unknowns up and down the grid that we don’t want to call it. But if Buriram was unpredictable enough, Brazil could prove even more so as the 22-rider field gear up to take on a venue that’s completely new to each and every one of them.
Pedro Acosta at Buriram. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM.
LEADING THE CHARGE: ACOSTA & KTM
Controversial? For some. But what a debut Tissot Sprint win that was for Acosta in Thailand. A no inches given, fairing-bashing head-to-head between the #37 and Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) was an unbelievable way to begin proceedings in 2026, and after Acosta backed his scintillating Saturday outing up with another gutsy effort to a podium on Sunday, he’s World Championship leader and spearheads the MotoGP field heading to Brazil. It wasn’t the Sunday victory Acosta craves, but it was a weekend which proved serious steps have been made compared to this time last season. Could that first 25-pointer arrive in Goiânia? That’s the question we’re all asking about the early title frontrunner.
On the other side of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing box, Brad Binder also enjoyed a positive stint in Thailand. Acosta took much of the KTM limelight, but the South African’s double top seven means he’s P6 in the championship going to Round 2. That will give Red Bull KTM Tech3’s Enea Bastianini and Maverick Viñales even more hunger for this weekend. The latter, who showed stand-out promise at the Sepang Test, suffered a real low-key weekend in Buriram, with Bastianini picking up a P12 to ensure some points were on offer for Guenther Steiner’s squad. With Acosta leading the championship and Binder finding some form, there’s clearly pace in the RC16 for the two Tech3 team’s MotoGP winners to extract.
Marco Bezzecchi won the MotoGP race at Buriram. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
ARISE, APRILIA
They’d threatened levelling up during pre-season, but delivering the goods in a Grand Prix setting is a different ball game – and come Sunday afternoon, Bezzecchi and Aprilia were unstoppable. Acosta may lead the championship, but leaving Thailand, there was a real sense that one factory have bridged the gap to Ducati. Maybe even more than just bridged it?
It’s early days to call it, but at a track where Marc Marquez and Ducati cleaned up one year prior, Bezzecchi was the outstanding rider. The #72 slipped up in the Sprint, but a lap record pole position and a Sunday cruise to P1, coupled with Raul Fernandez’s (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) double podium, Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) looking much more like his 2024 title-winning self, and Ai Ogura’s (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) Grand Prix top five, meant the Noale camp had a ball in Buriram. The quartet are P2, P3, P4, and P5 in the standings heading to Brazil. So now, it’s all about trying to back up Thailand’s success on unfamiliar territory – for all.
Franco Morbidelli (21) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) at Buriram. Photo courtesy VR46
DUCATI ON A BOUNCE BACK MISSION
Buriram is certainly not what the reigning champions had on the menu for Round 1 – nor was it what many expected to happen. But that’s so often MotoGP. And while they’re currently down after losing their ridiculously impressive consecutive podium streak of 88 in a row, Ducati are certainly far from out and bouncing back will be the mission in Brazil. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) lands in South America as the Ducati frontrunner in the championship and the Italian radiated positivity – while also lamenting bad luck – in Thailand, so maybe fortunes change in Goiânia?
That’s what reigning MotoGP king Marc Marquez will be hoping for. An unlucky, unusual rear tyre puncture cost the #93 a podium shot on Sunday in Thailand, so the seven-time World Champion kickstarts his Brazil visit 23 points adrift of his Buriram Sprint rival Acosta. No one is counting the World Champion out though (we’ve watched the sport before, don’t worry), especially on a level playing field this weekend. At new tracks too, Marc Marquez’s record is second to none. Although Bezzecchi at Buddh was quite something to watch…
On the other side of the red garage, lack of front-end feeling and differing conditions to the Test blighted what looked set to be a bright weekend for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) in Thailand. Both the Italian and last year’s runner-up, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP), had weekends to put behind them – especially the latter, who walked away from the Chang International Circuit with zero points compared to Pecco’s eight. Fermin Aldeguer, now confirmed to return, will hope to slot back in with their learnings already processed and find a few answers waiting for him as he gets back in the fold at BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP.
Behind Di Giannantonio and Marc Marquez in the championship, meanwhile, it’s Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), who has shown some solid flashes of speed in pre-season and Thailand. A special weekend arrives for the rider who has Brazilian roots, and the #21 will be craving a podium challenge to make it a weekend to remember.
Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pro Honda LCR.
MOREIRA ARRIVES TO HOME SHORES
Speaking of, a very warm welcome is promised to our home hero Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) this weekend, with the MotoGP rookie landing in Brazil as a points finisher in his first attempt. It was a weekend that quietly impressed. Now, with the home crowd on side and no one else having track knowledge on a MotoGP bike in Goiânia, more points are certainly on offer for Moreira as a special weekend awaits for Brazil’s #11.
Joan Mir (left) and Luca Marini (right) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
BUILDING UP
It was a case of more bad luck for Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) in Sunday’s Thai encounter after an issue stopped the 2020 World Champion from bagging a healthy points haul. Mir was HRC’s leading light during Round 1, but a top 10 for teammate Luca Marini, points for Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) AND the aforementioned Moreira meant it was a decent start for HRC – but not enough, based on their own adjusted aims for 2026. MotoGP’s most successful factory aren’t where they want to be just yet, but there continues to be significant progress. Mir’s Sunday performance demonstrated that, so maybe Brazil can offer more? Certainly, no one else on the grid arrives with any more knowledge of the track – which could prove helpful for those looking to develop.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu talking with Alex Rins (left) on the MotoGP Sprint race grid. Photo courtesy Pramac Yamaha.
SEARCHING FOR MORE
That’s definitely true of Yamaha. The new V4-powered YZR-M1 era hasn’t begun as smoothly as they would have liked, but there were positives – and now it’s a venue no one else has dialled in. The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP duo of Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins got points on the board in Thailand, and Toprak Razgatlioglu put together about as quality a weekend as he and Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP could have asked for. The rookie was right in the mix with the experienced runners, despite absolutely everything being new to him. His teammate Jack Miller pushed on and then dropped back but put more miles on the clock as they look to learn and improve. Results will likely not be the focus for the Brazilian GP – but maybe a new circuit can bring the Yamahas closer to the frontrunners.
From Thailand’s terrific opener, we’re landing back in brilliant Brazil for Round 2. As we look ahead to the three days on track, we really couldn’t tell you how the script will play out – just the way we like it. Brazil, are you ready?
Tom Drane (No. 1) victory lap after winning the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA I. Photo by Kristen Lassen / courtesy AMA Pro Racing.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – AMA Pro Racing is pleased to announce that Progressive Insurance will continue to serve as the title sponsor of American Flat Track in a new multi-year agreement, extending a relationship that has helped drive the series’ growth and national reach.
Progressive was first named Title Sponsor and Official Insurance of American Flat Track in 2020 and has expanded its support of the sport over the years through digital initiatives. Through the renewal, Progressive will continue as the official title sponsor across series branding, broadcast and streaming coverage, live event presentation, and official digital platforms.
“Progressive has been an outstanding sponsor for American Flat Track, and we’re proud to continue building on a relationship that has helped elevate the series in meaningful ways,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “From event presentation and broadcast visibility to our digital platforms and fan engagement efforts, Progressive’s support has played an important role in our growth. Progressive brings an authentic connection to the AFT community, and we’re excited to continue working together to strengthen the sport and deliver even more for our fans, riders and stakeholders in the years ahead.”
Progressive, the country’s No. 1 motorcycle insurer, has been a trusted name for riders, with one in three motorcyclists choosing Progressive for their insurance needs. Founded in 1937, the company has grown into the second largest personal auto insurer in the United States while maintaining a long-standing connection to the riding community through specialized motorcycle coverage and support for motorsports. Progressive’s continued involvement reflects its understanding of the passion and commitment shared by riders and race fans, and its focus on helping motorcyclists protect what matters.
“At Progressive, we’ve seen first-hand the enthusiasm and dedication of the riders and racing community,” said Eric Doubler, Progressive Recreational Lines Business Leader. “As the country’s leading motorcycle insurer, we share that passion and are thrilled to deepen our relationship with American Flat Track. This sponsorship reflects our commitment to the sport and the broader motorcycle community.”
The announcement follows the 2026 season opening doubleheader at DAYTONA Flat Track. The season continues next week with the Yamaha Atlanta Short Track, the third round of the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season.
Progressive American Flat Track is televised on FOX Sports and streams live on FloRacing. Visit, flosports.link/AFT2026 to watch every lap live.
For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, including the 2026 schedule, tickets and streaming options, visit AmericanFlatTrack.com.
Lusail International Circuit, in Qatar. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Due to the ongoing war in the Middle East the Qatar MotoGP round has been rescheduled from April 10-12 to November 6-8, following events at Phillip Island, Australian and Sepang, Malaysia. To accommodate the change, events in Portimao, Portugal & in Valencia, Spain have each been moved back a week to November 20-22 and November 27-29, respectively. The schedule changes assume that the fighting will be over by then and that the track and related infrastructure (hotels, airport, etc.) are still standing and operating…
(Above) The revised 2026 MotoGP schedule.(Above) The Lusail International Circuit in Qatar seen at night. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
More, from a press release issued by MotoGP:
MotoGP confirms new date for the Qatar Grand Prix
MotoGP confirms that the Qatar Grand Prix, originally scheduled for April, has been postponed to 8 November due to the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
This decision has been taken in close coordination with the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the Promoter and the local authorities in Qatar, with the primary objective of ensuring the safety, well-being, and highest‑quality delivery of the event for all participants and attendees.
Following extensive scenario planning and calendar analysis, the revised date has been chosen to ensure minimal disruption to the wider MotoGP schedule. As a result, the Portuguese GP in Portimão will now take place on 22 November, and the season finale in Valencia will move to 29 November, while all other rounds of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship remain unaffected.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP, said: “This decision was taken with great care and in full coordination with our partners in Qatar and across the paddock. Our priority is always the safety and well-being of everyone involved in MotoGP, as well as ensuring that every Grand Prix is delivered to the highest possible standard. We also recognize the importance of providing clarity for our fans as early as possible and ticket holders will be given the opportunity to rollover their tickets to the next event.
“I would also like to thank our partners in Portimão and Valencia for their collaboration and flexibility in helping us deliver a smooth transition to the revised calendar. We are confident that the updated schedule will allow us to preserve the quality of the championship while offering fans an exceptional season of racing.”
Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit (LIC), said: “The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit (LIC) respect and support the decision of the MotoGP Sport and Entertainment Group to postpone the MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar to November 6–8, 2026. We sincerely thank our fans, teams and partners for their understanding and ongoing support, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to Lusail International Circuit.”
Jorge Viegas, President of the FIM, added: “The FIM fully supports the decision to reschedule the Qatar Grand Prix. Considering the current geopolitical situation, safeguarding our riders, teams, officials, and fans must always come first. We are confident that the updated calendar ensures that the event in Qatar can be delivered in the safest and most professional conditions.”
An overview of the 2026 trailblazers awards banquet, which sold out at 750 tickets purchased. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
At what is arguably the best annual motorcycle awards banquet in the United States, the Trailblazers Motorcycle Club honored eight industry luminaries Saturday, March 14th at the Carson Center in Carson, California. The 2026 event sold out with 750 tickets purchased.
The 2026 inductees included Dave Arnold, Brad Baker, Kel Carruthers, Randy Hall, Jim Holley, Ronnie Jones, Mitch Payton, and Jeff Ward.
The 2026 Trailblazers honorees, from left, Brad Baker, Ronnie Jones, Jim Holley, Dave Arnold, Kel Carruthers, Mitch Payton, Jeff Ward, and Randy Hall. Photo by Larry Lawrence/Rider Files.Official Trailblazers banquet artwork, courtesy Trailblazers Motorcycle Club.
David Aldana with Aki Goto and Ron Turner. Photo courtesy David Aldana.Ron Pierce and David Aldana at the 2026 Trailblazers banquet. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
David Aldana with 1969 250cc World Champion Kel Carruthers. Photo courtesy David Aldana.
Ryder Bitz-Hay was triumphant in the Road to AFT Main Event during the Mission CTR Showcase flat track at Daytona. Photoby Madcap Imaging.
The Mission CTR Showcase Series of flat track events is designed to combine fun with a “Road to AFT” component and will continue on Friday, March 20th at Senoia Raceway in Senoia, Georgia. The series launched at Daytona with a two-day event that attracted several MotoAmerica racers, including Twins Cup competitor Sam Drane and Talent Cup racer Jake Paige (who also competes in the FIM Asia Talent Cup series).
This is Scotty Taylor’s report on what happened at the opening round held at Daytona:
Mission CTR Showcase: Daytona
If the walls of Daytona International Speedway could talk, you would hear legendary tales featuring names like Petty, Earnhardt, Tomac and Russell. The World Center of Racing saw an addition in 2010 with the opening of the Daytona Flat Track outside NASCAR turns one and two. Sixteen years later, a new crop of talented athletes prepared to start building their own legacy with the inaugural Mission Foods Cory Texter Promotions Showcase Event.
A three-day flat track spectacular at the Daytona Flat Track, part of 2026 Daytona Bike Week, would culminate in the opening rounds of the 2026 American Flat Track Season Every good show needs a strong opening act and this story began with top amateur riders having the opportunity to begin paving their own Road to American Flat Track. Californian Ryder Bitz-Hay became the first Road to AFT winner of the year with a wire-to-wire victory, literally riding off into the Florida sunset in the day’s final race. Bitz-Hay’s success ended what had been a perfect afternoon for Estenson Yamaha Rider Sam Drane. The Australian, Drane, had a loaded Daytona Bike Week, also competing in Twins Cup action for Moto America on the high banks. Drane’s week began triumphantly topping the 450 Amateur and Open Amateur Main Events. Drane also picked up a win in the Mission Challenge Dash for Cash during the afternoon.
MotoAmerica Twins Cup winner Sam Drane (7) picked up two main event wins and the Mission Challenge victory during the Mission Foods CTR Showcase event at Daytona. Photo by Madcap Imaging.
The Showcase event split riders into two groups with a morning session that highlighted AMA Youth Classes where Jayden Nickens and Cruise Texter would join Drane with multiple victories on the day. For Nickens, his 85cc victory came after a hard fought battle with 2025 Amateur National Champion Jackson Joiner. The two got together going into turn one fighting for the top spot resulting in Joiner going down. Nickens victory in the Youth Premier Main Event was much more comfortable as the Virginian was unphased by multiple restarts and would cruise to a victory by over seven seconds. The word “cruise” perfectly describes how Texter claimed his two victories during the day. Texter was dominant in the 50cc Chain and Mini Open Classes. It appeared Cruise could be in line for a perfect day but a moment in lap traffic brought the 65cc Main Event to a dramatic conclusion. Texter, nicknamed “Shark Bait,” left blood in the water when attempting to make a move outside a lap rider. A patient attack and perfectly timed pass on the last lap by a looming Reef Pendergrass would secure him the 65cc victory.
Jayden Nickens (17) chatting with mechanic Tyler Raggio. Nickens scored two wins on the day during the CTR event at Daytona. Photo by Madcap Imaging.
Maddox Wingard was also successful in youth competition picking up a win in the 50cc Air Cooled Class. Additional Group One Winners would include Evan Myers in Open Novice and Brianna McHigh in the Women’s Class. McHugh from Georgia would prevail over rising stars from the United Kingdom; Skye Adams and Jamie Kimber. Doug O’Boyle also found success in the 60+ Main Event as part of the morning session.
Future stars of flat track are ready to launch in the 50cc Chain Main Event during the CTR Showdown. Photo by Madcap Imaging.
While Bitz-Hay and Drane may have seen the spotlight shine a little brighter on their success during the afternoon portion, several other competitors earned wins on the hallowed grounds of Daytona. Kenneth Shaffer (50+), Robby “Bobby” McLendon (40+) and John Poorman (30+) topped the AMA Vet Classes. Stephan Flach and Nicholas Myers won the event’s Vintage Classes with Flach taking Vintage Light honors and Myers being the Vintage Open winner. Joshua Pierce topped the 250 Amateur Class and James Parker held off Jon Kruppenbacker for the Hooligan victory.
The next Mission Foods, Cory Texter Promotions Showcase Event will commence at Senoia Raceway on March 20th.
Other series events are scheduled in conjunction with AFT rounds at Ventura Speedway in Ventura, California on April 24th; Silver Dollar Speedway in Chico, California on May 1st; Budds Creek MX at Mechanicsville, Maryland on May 15th; Williams Grove Half Mile at Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania on May 23rd; and Tennessee National Raceway on June 5th.
ASRA racer Jake Jansen at Ozarks International Raceway in September, 2025. Photo courtesy ASRA.
ASRA is creating a new Heavyweight Production class based on increased affordability and cost containment.
Rules updates for the 2026 ASRA season will include:
The addition of a Heavyweight ASRA Production class for new sportbikes, without added expense, opening up other classes for the same bikes, and allowing “next gen” bikes in certain classes–for now.
Testing splitting Thunderbike into two categories, starting at CMP and Ozarks.
As the landscape for Middleweight Sportbikes continues to evolve, the rules must evolve with it.
Cost containment has to remain a priority in today’s racing environment. The addition of balancing packages and complex electronic systems that can more than double the cost of a motorcycle is simply out of control. When the price of being competitive requires investments like this, it puts the sport further out of reach for the very racers who keep it alive.
Motorcycle racing has always been about the rider, the machine, and the competition—-not about mandating the most advanced electronics package. If dramatically increasing costs becomes the only path forward, the long-term future of the sport is at risk.
ASRA believes there should still be a place for riders to compete on the current generation of sportbikes without the need for expensive add-on electronics and balancing packages.
And 2027 proposals may include overall fuel restriction, with more on this coming out later. And the elimination of GP classes.
ASRA is built by racers for racers. We welcome suggestions via email at [email protected]
More about the new Heavyweight Production class from ASRA:
Jase Dill eyes the apex during the 2025 Mission Mini Cup National Final at the Briggs & Stratton Motorplex in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. Photo by Larry Lawrence.
South Florida Mini GP Will Host Two Mission Mini Cup Area Qualifiers In 2026
Southeast-Based Racing Organization Will Qualify Young Stars For National Final This Summer
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce that South Florida MiniGP (SFL MiniGP) has joined the growing list of organizations hosting qualifying rounds for the 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final.
The addition of SFL MiniGP further strengthens MotoAmerica’s nationwide grassroots development program, giving riders in Florida and the Southeast an opportunity to earn bonus points and prepare for the biggest Mission Mini Cup event of the season.
”We appreciate SFL MiniGP and their commitment to hosting these MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup qualifiers,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “Michael (Correa) and his team at SFLMiniGP have stepped up by giving young racers in the Southeast two chances to earn the 10 available bonus points towards the National Final in August, and we look forward to seeing them compete for a title.”
The Mission Mini Cup features riders ranging from six to 16-years-old in the following classes:
Stock 50cc (ages 6-8)
Stock 110 (ages 8-12)
GP 110 (ages 10-14)
GP 160 (10-14)
GP 190 (12-16)
The Mission Mini Cup classes serve as the official youth development ladder of MotoAmerica and are a proving ground for the sport’s next generation of professional talent.
Seven-year-old Cruise Texter was the Mission Mini Cup Stock 50 Champion at last year’s Mission Mini Cup National Final, held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex. Photo by Larry Lawrence.
“SFL MiniGP is proud to host these two qualifying rounds,” said Michael Correa, Founder and Owner of SFL MiniGP. “SFL MiniGP was established to provide a fun way for families to go racing, and it has grown to be part of this amazing development system for the future road racing stars of the US. We are thrilled to qualify our young racers for this national final, and we wish them all the best on their journey to Road America this summer.”
The SFL MiniGP-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers will take place at the following locations:
April 25-26: Gainesville Raceway, Gainesville, FL
June 6-7: Bushnell Motorsports Park, Bushnell, FL
A one-time, 10-point bonus is awarded to participants in any of the 2026 Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, regardless of the number of events entered and will be used to calculate the final finishing order for the Mission Mini Cup National Final, to be held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex on August 7-9, 2026.
Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha again provide manufacturer contingency to support the Stock 50 and Stock 110 classes, further enhancing the offering for riders throughout the 2026 season.
You can watch all the Mission Mini Cup National Final action on MotoAmerica Live+ this August.
More, from another press release issued by MotoAmerica:
Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp Hosting Four Mission Mini Cup Qualifiers In 2026
West-Coast Moto Training Camp Offers Pathway For Young Riders Eyeing National Mini Cup Title
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce that Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp has joined the growing list of organizations hosting qualifying rounds for the 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final.
The addition of Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp further strengthens MotoAmerica’s nationwide grassroots development program, giving riders all throughout California an opportunity to earn bonus points and prepare for the biggest Mission Mini Cup event of the season.
“We appreciate Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp’s commitment to hosting these MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup qualifiers,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “Hawk and his training camp are giving young racers throughout California multiple chances to earn the 10 available bonus points toward the National Final in August. It is great to see one of our own MotoAmerica racers getting involved in the Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, and we look forward to seeing these young racers compete for a championship.”
The Mission Mini Cup program features riders aged six to 16 in the following classes:
• Stock 50 (ages 6-8)
• Stock 110 (ages 8-12)
• GP 110 (ages 10-14)
• GP 160 (10-14)
• GP 190 (12-16)
The Mission Mini Cup classes serve as the official youth development ladder of MotoAmerica and are a proving ground for the sport’s next generation of professional talent.
Mahdi Salem leaning his Ohvale GP 190 into a tight corner at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex last summer. Photo by Larry Lawrence.
“Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp is proud to host these four qualifying rounds,” said Hawk Mazzotta, owner of Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp. “We have already completed one successful round at Buttonwillow Raceway Park, and we look forward to qualifying more West Coast riders at our three remaining races throughout the state.”
The remaining Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers will take place at the following locations:
March 14 – 15: Apex Motorsports Club – Perris, CA
June 6-7: Redding Race Complex – Redding, CA
July 25-26: Sonoma Raceway – Sonoma, CA
A one-time, 10-point bonus is awarded to participants in any of the 2026 Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, regardless of the number of events entered and will be used to calculate the final finishing order for the Mission Mini Cup National Final, to be held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex on August 7-9, 2026.
Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha again provide manufacturer contingency to support the Stock 50 and Stock 110 classes, further enhancing the offering for riders throughout the 2026 season.
For more information on the Hawk Mazzotta Moto Camp-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers visit hawkmazzottamotocamp.com
You can watch all the Mission Mini Cup National Final action on MotoAmerica Live+ this August.
More, from yet another press release issued by MotoAmerica:
Ohvale USA Will Host Three Mission Mini Cup Qualifiers In 2026
MiniGP Motorcycle Distributor Hosts Three Qualifiers For 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce that Ohvale USA has joined the growing list of organizations hosting qualifying rounds for the 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final.
The addition of Ohvale USA further strengthens MotoAmerica’s nationwide grassroots development program, giving riders in Southern California three opportunities to earn bonus points and prepare for the biggest Mission Mini Cup event of the season.
”We appreciate Ohvale USA stepping up to host these three rounds of MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup qualifiers,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “‘The Ohvale USA team continues to show their commitment to the future of our sport by providing these three qualifying opportunities on the West Coast. It’s great to see a former champion like John ‘Hopper’ Hopkins and a company like Ohvale USA work together in an effort to grow our sport and give these racers a path to the national final.”
The Mission Mini Cup program features riders aged six to 16 in the following classes:
Stock 50 (ages 6-8)
Stock 110 (ages 8-12)
GP 110 (ages 10-14)
GP 160 (10-14)
GP 190 (12-16)
The Mission Mini Cup classes serve as the official youth development ladder of MotoAmerica and are a proving ground for the sport’s next generation of professional talent.
A one-time, 10-point bonus is awarded to participants in any of the 2026 Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, regardless of the number of events entered and will be used to calculate the final finishing order for the Mission Mini Cup National Final, to be held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex on August 7-9, 2026.
15-year-old Kensei Matsudaira is the most recent graduate of the Mission Mini Cup program. Matsudaira won the GP 190 title this past summer and will make his MotoAmerica Talent Cup debut for Team Roberts at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) March 25–27, 2026. Photo by Larry Lawrence.
“Ohvale USA is proud to host these three qualifiers at Apex Motorsports Park,” said John “Hopper” Hopkins, multi-class AMA Road Racing Champion, former MotoGP rider, and current Managing Director at Ohvale USA. “We understand how important it is to give young racers an opportunity to build their racing skills. As a motorcycle racer who grew up in Southern California myself, I feel a special connection to providing our local riders a pathway to the Mission Mini Cup National Final this summer.”
Three Ohvale USA-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers are scheduled for April 11, May 16, and May 30, with all rounds taking place at Apex Motorsports Park in Perris, California.
For more information on the Ohvale USA-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifiers visit ohvaleusa.com
You can watch all the Mission Mini Cup National Final action on MotoAmerica Live+ this August.
More, from even another press release issued by MotoAmerica:
ASRA/New Jersey MiniGP Announces Mission Mini Cup Qualifying Round
Northeast-Based Racing Organization Will Hold Qualifying Round For Mission Mini Cup National Final
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce that ASRA and New Jersey MiniGP have joined the growing list of organizations hosting qualifying rounds for the 2026 Mission Mini Cup National Final.
The combined effort of ASRA and New Jersey MiniGP further strengthens MotoAmerica’s nationwide grassroots development program, giving riders in the Northeast an opportunity to earn bonus points and prepare for the biggest Mission Mini Cup event of the season.
”We appreciate Alex (Spellman, President of ASRA) and the team at New Jersey MiniGP for joining forces to host this MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup qualifier,” said Chuck Aksland, COO of MotoAmerica. “Alex and his team are giving young racers in the Northeast a chance to earn the 10 available bonus points towards the National Final, and we look forward to watching them compete for a championship this summer.”
The Mission Mini Cup program features riders aged six to 16 in the following classes:
• Stock 50 (ages 6-8)
• Stock 110 (ages 8-12)
• GP 110 (ages 10-14)
• GP 160 (10-14)
• GP 190 (12-16)
The Mission Mini Cup classes serve as the official youth development ladder of MotoAmerica and are a proving ground for the sport’s next generation of professional talent.
“ASRA is proud to combine efforts with New Jersey MiniGP to host this important qualifier in support of the future stars of MotoAmerica.”, said Spellman. “These young racers are training for the professional ranks, and the upcoming Mission Mini Cup National Final at Road America will offer them a chance to test their skills against the top amateur racers in the country.”
The ASRA/New Jersey MiniGP-hosted Mission Mini Cup qualifier is planned for May 23-24 at Summit Point Motorsports Park in Summit Point, West Virginia.
A one-time, 10-point bonus is awarded to participants in any of the 2026 Mission Mini Cup qualifiers, regardless of the number of events entered and will be used to calculate the final finishing order for the Mission Mini Cup National Final, to be held at Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex on August 7-9, 2026.
Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha again are providing manufacturer contingency to support the Stock 50 and Stock 110 classes, further enhancing the offering for riders throughout the 2026 season.
For more details on the ASRA/New Jersey MiniGP-hosted Mission Mini Cup Qualifier, visit asraracing.com
You can watch all the Mission Mini Cup National Final action on MotoAmerica Live+ this August.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Twins Cup, Talent Cup, Super Hooligan National Championship, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on demand service, MotoAmerica Live+
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