The WorldSBK field was put through their paces in near perfect conditions on the opening day of testing at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. Under blue skies and with a light breeze cooling the temperatures slightly the four hours of running for Superbike and Supersport classes offered a stark contrast to the winter testing undertaken in Europe.
Axel Bassani (47) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Pre-season title favourite Nicolo Bulega dominated the opening day of testing, leading both sessions for the Aruba.It Racing – Ducati squad. The Italian completed 72 laps. His pace was impressive with over 30 laps under 1m30s. The 90 second barrier was broken by only three other riders with Axel Bassani the closest challenger. The bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team rider ended the day just 0.291s adrift.
Sam Lowes (14) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
It was an action-packed day for Sam Lowes. The ELF Marc VDS Racing Team rider suffered a technical issue in the morning before crashing in the afternoon. The Brit responded strongly, setting his fastest time late in the day during a six-lap stint.
Xavi Vierge (97) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
After limited dry running over the winter, Xavi Vierge impressed as the fastest Yamaha rider, placing the Pata Maxus Yamaha ninth overall. A morning crash failed to derail Stefano Manzi, the reigning Supersport World Champion, who was just two tenths of a second slower than Vierge as he continues to adapt to the GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team machine.
Miguel Oliveira (88) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Jake Dixon (Honda HRC) led the rookie contingent. The former Moto2 rider finished tenth at the close of play, ahead of Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and Manzi.
Alvaro Bautista (19) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
There were eight crashes during Superbike running, including an early-afternoon fall for Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) at Turn 5. The double world champion, an eight-time winner at Phillip Island, ended the day eighth fastest, almost a second shy of Bulega’s benchmark, but will expect to make gains heading into the next session.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati): “It was important to start like this. We have a new bike and during the winter we weren’t able to test properly because of the weather. This meant that today was really our first proper day on track. It was important to ride as much as possible and I completed a lot of laps, so I’m happy. We did a good job and we’ve started the weekend well. Last year the winter testing conditions were better and we arrived in Phillip Island with two or three full test days already completed. This time we’re not starting from zero but we have a new bike to understand. It was very hot today so that means we’re a few tenths slower than we expected. I’m quite happy with the setup but we can improve in some areas. Tomorrow we’ll try to take another step forward and see if we can be competitive for the race weekend.”
Jaume Masia (5) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) completed 50 laps across both sessions and topped the times in both the morning and afternoon. The two-time race winner in 2025 looked comfortable throughout, completing short stints typically consisting of five laps.
Oli Bayliss (32) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) performed well at his home round. The Australian ended the day second fastest, 0.344s slower than Masia, while Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) was third fastest after completing 64 laps on his Ducati.
Josh Whatley (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) and Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) were the only riders in the top ten to set their fastest times of the day in the afternoon session. The track temperature rose by 15°C, so their improvement was noteworthy, with Whatley ending the day eighth fastest.
Double WorldSSP champion Dominique Aegerter returns to the class this year. The Kawasaki WorldSSP Team rider completed 59 laps and set his fastest time on his penultimate lap as he continues to gain experience on the Kawasaki ZX-6R 636.
Garrett Gerloff and his Kawasaki WorldSBK Team, plus Jeremy Alcoba and Dominique Aegerter from the Kawasaki WorldSSP Team, will soon take part in a final official pre-season test at the 4.445km-long Phillip Island. Shortly before, they unveiled the full 2026 colours and sponsorship packages of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR and Ninja ZX-6R 636.
After finding some challenging wet weather conditions in recent winter tests in Europe, the entire Kawasaki WorldSBK and WorldSSP team set-up is now looking forward to two days of dry and settled climatic conditions on which they will take to the track on 16 and 17 February.
Before the testing action took place, the team revealed its WorldSBK and WorldSSP liveries, which feature Kawasaki’s green colour scheme extensively, but also an additional touch of blue this time around.
The 2026 sponsor and partner line-up had their logos on prominent display on the latest machines, with a refreshed team and ambitions for a new campaign.
Gerloff enters the 2026 season reunited with a former crew chief, Les Pearson, while Aegerter is a new rider to the Kawasaki WorldSSP Team set-up alongside 2025 rider Alcoba. Dominique is no rookie, however, as he re-enters WorldSSP racing as a double WorldSSP champion from recent years gone by.
After the two days test, the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship season begins for real at Phillip Island in Australia, between 20-22 February.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Kawasaki
Garrett Gerloff stated: “We’ve travelled a long way to reach Phillip Island, but we can finally enjoy some solid testing time here. I’m confident in my team and in the new Ninja ZX-10RR. That’s why I think we can see good results in the official test and, more importantly, in the first round, even though we weren’t able to complete the work programme we’d laid out for the winter tests. A lot of time has passed since my last race, and I can’t wait to line up on the grid in Australia.”
Jeremy Alcoba (52). Photo courtesy Kawasaki
Jeremy Alcoba, stated:“I’m really excited and can’t wait for the championship to start. I’ve trained very hard over the winter and even though we’ve barely tested on a dry track, the bike feels like mine. I have a great feeling with both my Ninja ZX-6R 636 and my team. We’re a very close-knit squad and this is key. I’m keen to get to Phillip Island and start testing, finally making the most of a dry track and pushing to the max with my bike.”
Dominique Aegerter (77). Photo courtesy Kawasaki
Dominique Aegerter, stated:“It’s a long way to Australia but it’s worth it because the track is amazing and the place itself is beautiful. I can’t wait to see my team again and work with my technicians. Because of the bad weather during winter testing I don’t yet have a setup to suit my riding style with which to start the tests, and I still need to adapt to riding a Supersport bike again. But the motivation is high and I’m totally ready, both mentally and physically. I can’t wait to get testing so that we’re all set for the first WorldSSP round.”
Manuel Puccetti, Team Principal, stated:“We can’t wait to start working and test on a dry track at last. This test will be important in helping us to make the best possible start to the season. The whole team is highly motivated, and we have a lot of work to get through, with many technical updates for both Superbike and Supersport machines. The aim is to complete the full programme to be ready for the first race weekend, which will start just a few days later.”
Do not forget about our Annual Awards Banquet next Saturday February 21st, held together with ASRA Racing!
This is one of our favorite gatherings of the year, where riders, families, and friends all come together to celebrate the season in a warm and relaxed setting.
You do not need to have won anything to attend. This night is for every rider, every parent, and everyone who has supported MiniGP throughout the 2025 season. WE WILL NOT BE HAVING THE CHILI COOK-OFF. We have catered a lot of food.
The Martinn, located on the same property, will have rooms available for anyone staying overnight. Room information and reservations: https://themartinn.com/
We hope you’ll join us, alongside ASRA Racing, for an evening of good food, awards, and time spent with the people who make this community so special.
Interior view of the Kathedral Event Center set up for the 2024 ASRA Awards Banquet.
– Dorna Sports, S.L. will be officially renamed MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, introducing a refreshed identity aligned with the future direction of the sport.
– The new name signals the organisation’s global ambition, expanding MotoGP’s position as a world leading sports entertainment platform built on world innovation.
Dorna Sports, S.L. today announced that the company will officially be known as MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, reflecting the ongoing evolution and continuous growth of the organisation, which has served as the exclusive commercial and broadcast rights holder of MotoGP since 1992.
The new company name represents a clear vision for the future of MotoGP and reflects the evolution of the sport from a premier racing championship into a global sports entertainment platform with worldwide cultural impact and resonance.
The renaming follows the brand refresh in 2024 and captures the organisation’s ambition to expand beyond traditional motorsport boundaries embracing digital innovation, immersive fan engagement, global storytelling, and new forms of entertainment that complement the on track spectacle.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group: “The company name change is much more than a new identity – it is a statement of intent. MotoGP has grown far beyond just a championship; it has become a global entertainment property followed passionately around the world.
“As MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, we are building on years of continuous growth to accelerate innovation and global expansion, while always preserving the spirit and values that define our sport.”
The transition aligns with long term strategic initiatives designed to strengthen MotoGP’s reach across continents, broaden its appeal to younger and more diverse audiences, and elevate the fan experience on-and-off the track.
The group will continue to lead the commercial, sporting, and fan engagement development of MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, the Road to MotoGP programmes, the World Superbike Championship, and the newly created Harley Davidson Bagger World Cup – strengthening its role across every level of elite motorcycle sport.
Here at Oxley Bom, everyone knows that the thing we’re most famous for are our ‘charming’ personalities. Like, we can promise we don’t physically bite – but that’s about the limit of what we can guarentee. So you’ll understand when I say it is a great honor to have an actual returning guest to our show! Who is this dauntless fellow? Why, it’s the awesome Livio Suppo!
For those not in the know (or those who haven’t listened to our interview two years ago) we should probably tell you that Livio is an actual real-life legend in the pit, leading teams for Ducati, Honda and Suzuki. Oh, and he worked with some small riders like Casey Stoner and Marc Marquez. I don’t know, you might have heard of them…
So get ready to hear some insights from our man on the inside – but be warned, because this week we’re taking no prisoners!
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club for writing our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
SEATTLE – Just a week removed from a Super Bowl victory for the hometown Seattle Seahawks, the energy inside Lumen Field for a Valentine’s Day visit to the Emerald City featured a heightened sense of energy and excitement for Round 6 of the 2026 Monster Energy SMX World Championship. The incredible atmosphere encapsulated the most action-packed night yet in the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship, where the always challenging Seattle track conditions became a central player in the battle for victory. After a grueling 20 Minutes + 1 Lap Main Event, it was Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac who prevailed with his third victory of the season, wrestling the lead away from Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb before soldiering home to a bounce-back win following an adversity plagued outing last weekend.
Eli Tomac Prevails for Third Monster Energy Supercross Victory of the Season Following Grueling Battle in Seattle
The 450SMX Class Main Event got underway with Webb leading the way for the holeshot as Tomac and his Red Bull KTM Factory Racing teammate Aaron Plessinger gave chase ahead of season race winners Chase Sexton (fifth) and Ken Roczen (sixth), as well as championship leader Hunter Lawrence (seventh). Webb was able to assert his hold of the lead while Tomac eventually settled into second and Roczen into third aboard his Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki. It wasn’t long before the lead trio settled in on the soft, rutted, technical conditions and established a significant lead over the rest of the field. Tomac chipped away at the deficit and applied pressure for the lead as the race passed halfway. He made a quick and decisive move around Webb to seize control of the race and opened a multi-second lead. Lapped riders allowed Webb to close back within a second, but Tomac extended the lead once again to effectively end the threat. Behind them, Roczen’s hold of third came under fire from Lawrence, who overcame an early miscue to climb from seventh to fourth aboard his Honda HRC Progressive machine. Lawrence was the faster rider and was in position to take third until he went too aggressive in the track’s sand section, collided with last week’s winner, and took both riders to the ground. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Justin Cooper rode by to assume third as Lawrence remounted in fourth and Roczen continued well back in ninth.
Tomac navigated the deteriorating conditions to perfection and took his 56th career win by 9.2 seconds over Webb, who grabbed a third straight podium in second. Cooper landed on the podium for the first time this season in third. Lawrence recovered to finish fourth, while Sexton rounded out the top five aboard his Monster Energy Kawasaki. Roczen got the worst of the exchange with Lawrence and finished a season-low 10th, a net-loss of seven positions.
Lawrence’s finish proved significant in the championship standings as he maintained control of the lead by a single point over Tomac. Roczen and Webb now sit tied for third, 11 points behind Lawrence.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac battled through the most demanding track conditions of the season to capture his third win of the championship campaign. Photo courtesy SMX
Eli Tomac – 1st Place – 450SMX Class:
“Seattle was the usual. It’s a tough track to really get a hold of and get comfortable on. I saved the best for last of course. I had my best start and my best ride there [in the Main Event]. I cleaned up some lines, did some different jump combinations. Just typical Seattle. One of the toughest we have all year. Glad to conquer it.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb (1) led half of the Main Event and ultimately settled for a third straight podium finish. Photo courtesy SMX
Cooper Webb – 2nd Place – 450SMX Class:
“Overall, it was fun, with a side of sketch. The track was really gnarly. It’s always gnarly here, but this [track] with still having to hit the rhythms [sections], they’re pretty big. It was brutal. Obviously, Eli [Tomac] picked up on a good line and kept doing it and got past me. I tightened up for sure with a little arm pump, but it is what it is. At the end of the day, I can’t be hitting whoops like that and expect to win. We’ll get back to work.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Justin Cooper kept digging and was rewarded with his first podium result of the season. Photo courtesy SMX
Justin Cooper – 3rd Place – 450SMX Class:
“It’s just Seattle. This track was absolutely gnarly. With 20 [minutes] plus 1 [lap] out there with these 450s, it gets really demanding. I just put together solid laps and got a little gift from [Lawrence and Roczen]. Sometimes you’ve got to stay in it and that’s what we did tonight. Really pumped to get back on the box.”
450SMX Class Podium (left to right): Cooper Webb, Eli Tomac, and Justin Cooper. Photo courtesy SMX
Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence bounced back from a crash during a battle for third to finish fourth and keep hold of the red plate. Photo courtesy SMX
Hunter Lawrence – 4th Place – 450SMX Class:
“[My race] started with wheel spin off the start. I just didn’t get myself good track position. I was coming through and had good pace. I feel like an idiot. I jumped on the inside [and] was already going down and got Kenny involved. That just sucked, honestly. Not how I would have wanted the night to go, but we’re fourth and still have the red plate. We’ll head on to Dallas.”
Haiden Deegan Outduels Levi Kitchen for Captivating 250SMX Class Win
The sixth race of the Western Divisional 250SMX Class also served as the midseason send off before the Eastern Divisional Championship begins next weekend. That presented an opportunity to enter the break with momentum, and the added motivation produced an instant classic between Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan, the dominant championship leader, and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Levi Kitchen, the hometown favorite. Off the start it was another Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing rider out front, with Max Anstie securing the holeshot, but it didn’t take long for Deegan to storm into the lead just a few minutes into the 15 Minute + 1 Lap race. Kitchen, meanwhile, was on a torrid charge to the front as he clawed his way from fifth to second prior to the halfway point. The tense rivalry between Deegan and Kitchen entered its next chapter during an incredible head-to-head showdown that produced four exchanges for the lead. As he navigated lapped riders Deegan appeared to let Kitchen assume the lead with a little more than seven minutes to go. Kitchen then established a multi-second advantage for several laps, but the degrading track and increased lapped traffic forced both riders to take alternate lines and caused minor miscues. Deegan showed patience and closed back in, then made multiple inside pass attempts before he took advantage of a missed rhythm by Kitchen to reclaim the position with a little more than two minutes to go. With the support of the crowd, Kitchen fought back and retook the lead, but Deegan made one final pass back with about a minute remaining.
Deegan stormed to his fifth consecutive win by 1.5 seconds over Kitchen, who became the first fellow competitor to give Deegan a significant challenge during his run of dominance. The near-miss in front of the hometown crowd continued a recent surge for Kitchen, who now has three straight runner-up finishes. Anstie rode to a quiet and comfortable third-place finish, his first podium since winning the opening race of the season.
Deegan now owns a dozen career victories and has moved out to a healthy 35-point lead over Anstie heading into the break. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Michael Mosiman, who finished sixth, and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Ryder DiFrancesco, who finished fourth, are tied for third, 36 points behind Deegan. After a slow start to the season, Kitchen has fought his way up to fifth, 42 points behind Deegan and just seven points behind Anstie for second.
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan (1) came out on top of a thrilling head-to-head battle with Levi Kitchen for his fifth straight victory. Photo courtesy SMX
Haiden Deegan – 1st Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“That was gnarly. I went through after [the finish] and told [Kitchen] that was the gnarliest battle I have ever had racing. We were going back and forth. I don’t know what to say, that was the best I’ve had. I know it’s in his hometown so the [fans] may not like it, but I hope they enjoyed that one.”
Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Levi Kitchen (47) battled it out with Deegan and finished a close second in from of the hometown crowd. Photo courtesy SMX
Levi Kitchen – 2nd Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“I think that’s the race everyone has been waiting for. I’m bummed I couldn’t get it done for the hometown, but I rode my heart out and [Deegan] did too. That had to be the coolest race of my life. We were going at it the whole time. Thanks to everyone here in Seattle, they were amazing. That was fun.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Max Anstie made his return to the podium for the first time since he won the season opening race. Photo courtesy SMX
Max Anstie – 3rd Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“That was really tough. That was a tough track, and those boys [Deegan and Kitchen] were obviously riding awesome. It was amazing to hear the fans cheering for Levi. I’ve been struggling since Anaheim 1. I don’t know what it is, but my throat and my chest have been burning. Last week was bad too. I need to get it checked out because I don’t feel sick, but I can’t breathe right. My chest just burns.”
The battle for victory between Deegan and Kitchen became an instant classic as they traded for the lead on four separate occasions. Photo courtesy SMX
Western Divisional 250SMX Class Podium (left to right): Levi Kitchen, Haiden Deegan, and Max Anstie. Photo courtesy SMX
The annual visit to Seattle was highlighted by the inclusion of bowhunting icon and ultramarathon runner Cameron Hanes, who served as Grand Marshal. The hugely popular outdoorsman has become captivated by the sport of SMX and its athletes. Photo courtesy SMX
The Monster Energy SMX World Championship and Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will continue next Saturday, February 21, for the seventh race of the season from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The race will open the Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Championship. Live broadcast coverage on Peacock will begin at 1 p.m. ET with Race Day Live, while a special pre-race show will air at 6:30 p.m. ET followed by the Gate Drop at 7 p.m. ET. Additionally, a domestic Spanish language broadcast is available on Pea cock while international viewers can choose from dedicated English, French, and Spanish broadcasts via SMX Video Pass (www.SMXVideoPass.com).
All 17 rounds of the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and 11 rounds of the Pro Motocross Championship are on sale. Tickets for the SMX World Championship Playoff Rounds and Final are now on sale at Supermotocross.com. Saturday FanFest will take place at all postseason races, Friday FanFest and camping will be available in Columbus and Ridgedale, additional details to follow.
For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
Continuing the theme we started last month, award banquets are great fun. Here are photos taken by Louis Stevenson during the 2025 WMRRA award banquet.
Getting championship trophies (or watching your friends get championship trophies) is one of the best things about award banquets. These WMRRA trophies and plaques are ready and waiting to be handed out. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
WMRRA President Kumpy Kump (left) and announcer Mark DeGross get the award banquet going. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
The racing Pinkstaff brothers, Kevin on the left and Brian on the right. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
Zlock Racing, from left, Brent Prindle, Dale Zlock, Kevin Pinkstaff, Brian Pinkstaff, and Dan Zlock. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
WMRRA #117 Chance Terrell is at far right, Glenda Hudson is middle left, and we don’t have names for their tablemates. If you do, send the intel to [email protected]. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
More WMRRA championship trophies ready to be awarded. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
The buffet at the 2025 WMRRA award banquet. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
Injured while training ahead of Round 6 of AMA Supercross Championship in Seattle.
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider RJ Hampshire has been sidelined with a foot injury sustained while training ahead of Round 6 of the 2026 AMA Supercross Championship in Seattle this weekend.
Hampshire – who sat out Glendale due to illness – fractured his foot in a training crash this week at Baker’s Factory in Florida, unfortunately ruling him out of upcoming rounds in the SMX World Championship.
“It’s never good to get a mid-morning phone call from Baker’s Factory on a ride day,” said Nathan Ramsey, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Manager.“Unfortunately, RJ had a crash and the handlebars caught his foot in just the wrong way, resulting in a fracture. Our focus now is on the best path forward to get RJ healthy and back racing as soon as possible.”
In his first full season of 450SX competition onboard the Husqvarna FC 450 Factory Edition, Hampshire’s best result to date is ninth place at Anaheim 2. Further updates on his recovery timeline will be announced once available.
Lily Coyner, wife of TrackDaz owner Dustin Coyner, tragically died suddenly on the morning of January 10, 2026. This tragedy has not only rocked the entire world of Dustin, but also the motorbike community. Lily has been a fixture in the paddock for over 25 years. She’s the one who greeted TrackDaz riders in the morning at registration. She listened to whatever complaints or comments riders had, sold merch, rented Yamaha generators. She also was the one calling loved ones using the emergency contact info when something happened. She loved all TrackDaz riders, and wanted to help keep us all safe.
Since TrackDaz already had an event scheduled that weekend, we’re working with Buttonwillow Raceway Park (BRP) and the Roadracing World Action Fund (RWAF) to raise money in her honor for more Airfence at the track. BRP will be donating all gate fees and likely offer other things for raffles. We’ll do raffles and other things as well.
We ask for the community to come together and show strong support for this lovely woman who cared so much in spite of not riding herself.
New York, NY (February 13, 2026) – Following North America’s only MotoGP Round at Circuit of the Americas, Aprilia returns to Austin to host Aprilia Racers Days at COTA, taking place Monday, March 30th, and Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 – delivering an unmatched post-race riding experience at one of the most iconic circuits in the world.
Watch your heroes race on Sunday, then join them on track Monday!
Monday, March 30th will be an exclusive VIP experience, featuring invited guests, special access, and the presence of Aprilia MotoGP riders and members of Aprilia Racing and Trackhouse MotoGP Team. This intimate day is designed to bring participants closer than ever to the passion, performance, and people behind Aprilia’s racing DNA.
Set within the MotoGP race garages, Aprilia Racers Days at COTA offers a truly unheard-of environment. Rider groups are limited to just 45 participants, maximizing track time, exclusivity, and the adrenaline that comes from riding the Circuit of the Americas immediately following MotoGP race weekend. As always, each ticket includes complimentary professional photography and lunch, along with the opportunity to ride select models from the 2026 Aprilia lineup on track. This is more than a track day – it’s a rare opportunity to ride, connect, and experience Aprilia in its element.
From left to right with Marco Bezzecchi, Lorenzo Savadori and Max Biaggi at COTA. Photo courtesy Aprilia
Event Details – VIP Experience (Monday, 3/30)
● Price: $1,500
● Aprilia Racing Team in Attendance
● VIP Guests
● On-Site Coaching
● Communal Garages (first come, first served)
● 1 Demo Ride Per Guest
● Complimentary Lunch
● Complimentary Photography
● Aprilia Gift Bag Including Commemorative T-Shirt
Event Details – Standard ARD Ticket (Tuesday, 3/31)
● Price: $850
● Communal Garages
● 1 Demo Ride Per Guest
● Complimentary Lunch
● Complimentary Photography
More Than Just a Ride – An Unmatched Experience
Aprilia Racers Days is about more than just riding – it’s about precision, passion, and performance. With expert coaching, professional photography, and direct support from Aprilia-trained technicians and brand representatives, every rider gets an immersive and tailored experience. Enthusiasts can ride the full Aprilia street lineup, including the RSV4, Tuono V4, RS 660, Tuono 660, and RS 457 or bring their own motorcycles for additional track time in skill-based riding groups.
Sign Up for the Aprilia Racers Days Experience.
Aprilia Racers Days at Circuit of the Americas 2026 is an unmissable event for riders looking to elevate their skills and experience the thrill of Aprilia’s high-performance motorcycles. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today!
Seen at a 2025 Aprilia Racers Days event at COTA. Aprilia photo.
Aprilia Racers Days events will be supported directly by Aprilia trained technicians and product specialists, as well as partners Pirelli, Dainese and AGV to offer the best on track experience with expert advice, performance and protection. The cost of participation in the events will not only qualify for an incredible track day experience with your existing motorcycle, but also include a VIP Aprilia Racers Days package, with ability to demo a new Aprilia for one of the track day sessions, equipped with Pirelli performance tires. Additionally, activities will include coaching, event photography, and an included lunch.
Nicolo Bulega (11) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
The WorldSBK field was put through their paces in near perfect conditions on the opening day of testing at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. Under blue skies and with a light breeze cooling the temperatures slightly the four hours of running for Superbike and Supersport classes offered a stark contrast to the winter testing undertaken in Europe.
Axel Bassani (47) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Pre-season title favourite Nicolo Bulega dominated the opening day of testing, leading both sessions for the Aruba.It Racing – Ducati squad. The Italian completed 72 laps. His pace was impressive with over 30 laps under 1m30s. The 90 second barrier was broken by only three other riders with Axel Bassani the closest challenger. The bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team rider ended the day just 0.291s adrift.
Sam Lowes (14) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
It was an action-packed day for Sam Lowes. The ELF Marc VDS Racing Team rider suffered a technical issue in the morning before crashing in the afternoon. The Brit responded strongly, setting his fastest time late in the day during a six-lap stint.
Xavi Vierge (97) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
After limited dry running over the winter, Xavi Vierge impressed as the fastest Yamaha rider, placing the Pata Maxus Yamaha ninth overall. A morning crash failed to derail Stefano Manzi, the reigning Supersport World Champion, who was just two tenths of a second slower than Vierge as he continues to adapt to the GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team machine.
Miguel Oliveira (88) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Jake Dixon (Honda HRC) led the rookie contingent. The former Moto2 rider finished tenth at the close of play, ahead of Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and Manzi.
Alvaro Bautista (19) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
There were eight crashes during Superbike running, including an early-afternoon fall for Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) at Turn 5. The double world champion, an eight-time winner at Phillip Island, ended the day eighth fastest, almost a second shy of Bulega’s benchmark, but will expect to make gains heading into the next session.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati): “It was important to start like this. We have a new bike and during the winter we weren’t able to test properly because of the weather. This meant that today was really our first proper day on track. It was important to ride as much as possible and I completed a lot of laps, so I’m happy. We did a good job and we’ve started the weekend well. Last year the winter testing conditions were better and we arrived in Phillip Island with two or three full test days already completed. This time we’re not starting from zero but we have a new bike to understand. It was very hot today so that means we’re a few tenths slower than we expected. I’m quite happy with the setup but we can improve in some areas. Tomorrow we’ll try to take another step forward and see if we can be competitive for the race weekend.”
Jaume Masia (5) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) completed 50 laps across both sessions and topped the times in both the morning and afternoon. The two-time race winner in 2025 looked comfortable throughout, completing short stints typically consisting of five laps.
Oli Bayliss (32) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) performed well at his home round. The Australian ended the day second fastest, 0.344s slower than Masia, while Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) was third fastest after completing 64 laps on his Ducati.
Josh Whatley (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) and Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) were the only riders in the top ten to set their fastest times of the day in the afternoon session. The track temperature rose by 15°C, so their improvement was noteworthy, with Whatley ending the day eighth fastest.
Double WorldSSP champion Dominique Aegerter returns to the class this year. The Kawasaki WorldSSP Team rider completed 59 laps and set his fastest time on his penultimate lap as he continues to gain experience on the Kawasaki ZX-6R 636.
From left to right with Dominique Aegerter (77), Jeremy Alcoba (52) and Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Kawasaki
Garrett Gerloff and his Kawasaki WorldSBK Team, plus Jeremy Alcoba and Dominique Aegerter from the Kawasaki WorldSSP Team, will soon take part in a final official pre-season test at the 4.445km-long Phillip Island. Shortly before, they unveiled the full 2026 colours and sponsorship packages of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR and Ninja ZX-6R 636.
After finding some challenging wet weather conditions in recent winter tests in Europe, the entire Kawasaki WorldSBK and WorldSSP team set-up is now looking forward to two days of dry and settled climatic conditions on which they will take to the track on 16 and 17 February.
Before the testing action took place, the team revealed its WorldSBK and WorldSSP liveries, which feature Kawasaki’s green colour scheme extensively, but also an additional touch of blue this time around.
The 2026 sponsor and partner line-up had their logos on prominent display on the latest machines, with a refreshed team and ambitions for a new campaign.
Gerloff enters the 2026 season reunited with a former crew chief, Les Pearson, while Aegerter is a new rider to the Kawasaki WorldSSP Team set-up alongside 2025 rider Alcoba. Dominique is no rookie, however, as he re-enters WorldSSP racing as a double WorldSSP champion from recent years gone by.
After the two days test, the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship season begins for real at Phillip Island in Australia, between 20-22 February.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Kawasaki
Garrett Gerloff stated: “We’ve travelled a long way to reach Phillip Island, but we can finally enjoy some solid testing time here. I’m confident in my team and in the new Ninja ZX-10RR. That’s why I think we can see good results in the official test and, more importantly, in the first round, even though we weren’t able to complete the work programme we’d laid out for the winter tests. A lot of time has passed since my last race, and I can’t wait to line up on the grid in Australia.”
Jeremy Alcoba (52). Photo courtesy Kawasaki
Jeremy Alcoba, stated:“I’m really excited and can’t wait for the championship to start. I’ve trained very hard over the winter and even though we’ve barely tested on a dry track, the bike feels like mine. I have a great feeling with both my Ninja ZX-6R 636 and my team. We’re a very close-knit squad and this is key. I’m keen to get to Phillip Island and start testing, finally making the most of a dry track and pushing to the max with my bike.”
Dominique Aegerter (77). Photo courtesy Kawasaki
Dominique Aegerter, stated:“It’s a long way to Australia but it’s worth it because the track is amazing and the place itself is beautiful. I can’t wait to see my team again and work with my technicians. Because of the bad weather during winter testing I don’t yet have a setup to suit my riding style with which to start the tests, and I still need to adapt to riding a Supersport bike again. But the motivation is high and I’m totally ready, both mentally and physically. I can’t wait to get testing so that we’re all set for the first WorldSSP round.”
Manuel Puccetti, Team Principal, stated:“We can’t wait to start working and test on a dry track at last. This test will be important in helping us to make the best possible start to the season. The whole team is highly motivated, and we have a lot of work to get through, with many technical updates for both Superbike and Supersport machines. The aim is to complete the full programme to be ready for the first race weekend, which will start just a few days later.”
Exterior view of the Kathedral Event Center in Hammonton, New Jersey.
Do not forget about our Annual Awards Banquet next Saturday February 21st, held together with ASRA Racing!
This is one of our favorite gatherings of the year, where riders, families, and friends all come together to celebrate the season in a warm and relaxed setting.
You do not need to have won anything to attend. This night is for every rider, every parent, and everyone who has supported MiniGP throughout the 2025 season. WE WILL NOT BE HAVING THE CHILI COOK-OFF. We have catered a lot of food.
The Martinn, located on the same property, will have rooms available for anyone staying overnight. Room information and reservations: https://themartinn.com/
We hope you’ll join us, alongside ASRA Racing, for an evening of good food, awards, and time spent with the people who make this community so special.
Interior view of the Kathedral Event Center set up for the 2024 ASRA Awards Banquet.
Start of the MotoGP Sprint at Valencia, 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.
– Dorna Sports, S.L. will be officially renamed MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, introducing a refreshed identity aligned with the future direction of the sport.
– The new name signals the organisation’s global ambition, expanding MotoGP’s position as a world leading sports entertainment platform built on world innovation.
Dorna Sports, S.L. today announced that the company will officially be known as MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, reflecting the ongoing evolution and continuous growth of the organisation, which has served as the exclusive commercial and broadcast rights holder of MotoGP since 1992.
The new company name represents a clear vision for the future of MotoGP and reflects the evolution of the sport from a premier racing championship into a global sports entertainment platform with worldwide cultural impact and resonance.
The renaming follows the brand refresh in 2024 and captures the organisation’s ambition to expand beyond traditional motorsport boundaries embracing digital innovation, immersive fan engagement, global storytelling, and new forms of entertainment that complement the on track spectacle.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group: “The company name change is much more than a new identity – it is a statement of intent. MotoGP has grown far beyond just a championship; it has become a global entertainment property followed passionately around the world.
“As MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, we are building on years of continuous growth to accelerate innovation and global expansion, while always preserving the spirit and values that define our sport.”
The transition aligns with long term strategic initiatives designed to strengthen MotoGP’s reach across continents, broaden its appeal to younger and more diverse audiences, and elevate the fan experience on-and-off the track.
The group will continue to lead the commercial, sporting, and fan engagement development of MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, the Road to MotoGP programmes, the World Superbike Championship, and the newly created Harley Davidson Bagger World Cup – strengthening its role across every level of elite motorcycle sport.
Here at Oxley Bom, everyone knows that the thing we’re most famous for are our ‘charming’ personalities. Like, we can promise we don’t physically bite – but that’s about the limit of what we can guarentee. So you’ll understand when I say it is a great honor to have an actual returning guest to our show! Who is this dauntless fellow? Why, it’s the awesome Livio Suppo!
For those not in the know (or those who haven’t listened to our interview two years ago) we should probably tell you that Livio is an actual real-life legend in the pit, leading teams for Ducati, Honda and Suzuki. Oh, and he worked with some small riders like Casey Stoner and Marc Marquez. I don’t know, you might have heard of them…
So get ready to hear some insights from our man on the inside – but be warned, because this week we’re taking no prisoners!
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club for writing our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
A memorable week at Lumen Field was capped off by a Valentine's Day visit from Monster Energy Supercross for Round 6 of the 2026 season. Photo courtesy SMX
SEATTLE – Just a week removed from a Super Bowl victory for the hometown Seattle Seahawks, the energy inside Lumen Field for a Valentine’s Day visit to the Emerald City featured a heightened sense of energy and excitement for Round 6 of the 2026 Monster Energy SMX World Championship. The incredible atmosphere encapsulated the most action-packed night yet in the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship, where the always challenging Seattle track conditions became a central player in the battle for victory. After a grueling 20 Minutes + 1 Lap Main Event, it was Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac who prevailed with his third victory of the season, wrestling the lead away from Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb before soldiering home to a bounce-back win following an adversity plagued outing last weekend.
Eli Tomac Prevails for Third Monster Energy Supercross Victory of the Season Following Grueling Battle in Seattle
The 450SMX Class Main Event got underway with Webb leading the way for the holeshot as Tomac and his Red Bull KTM Factory Racing teammate Aaron Plessinger gave chase ahead of season race winners Chase Sexton (fifth) and Ken Roczen (sixth), as well as championship leader Hunter Lawrence (seventh). Webb was able to assert his hold of the lead while Tomac eventually settled into second and Roczen into third aboard his Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki. It wasn’t long before the lead trio settled in on the soft, rutted, technical conditions and established a significant lead over the rest of the field. Tomac chipped away at the deficit and applied pressure for the lead as the race passed halfway. He made a quick and decisive move around Webb to seize control of the race and opened a multi-second lead. Lapped riders allowed Webb to close back within a second, but Tomac extended the lead once again to effectively end the threat. Behind them, Roczen’s hold of third came under fire from Lawrence, who overcame an early miscue to climb from seventh to fourth aboard his Honda HRC Progressive machine. Lawrence was the faster rider and was in position to take third until he went too aggressive in the track’s sand section, collided with last week’s winner, and took both riders to the ground. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Justin Cooper rode by to assume third as Lawrence remounted in fourth and Roczen continued well back in ninth.
Tomac navigated the deteriorating conditions to perfection and took his 56th career win by 9.2 seconds over Webb, who grabbed a third straight podium in second. Cooper landed on the podium for the first time this season in third. Lawrence recovered to finish fourth, while Sexton rounded out the top five aboard his Monster Energy Kawasaki. Roczen got the worst of the exchange with Lawrence and finished a season-low 10th, a net-loss of seven positions.
Lawrence’s finish proved significant in the championship standings as he maintained control of the lead by a single point over Tomac. Roczen and Webb now sit tied for third, 11 points behind Lawrence.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac battled through the most demanding track conditions of the season to capture his third win of the championship campaign. Photo courtesy SMX
Eli Tomac – 1st Place – 450SMX Class:
“Seattle was the usual. It’s a tough track to really get a hold of and get comfortable on. I saved the best for last of course. I had my best start and my best ride there [in the Main Event]. I cleaned up some lines, did some different jump combinations. Just typical Seattle. One of the toughest we have all year. Glad to conquer it.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb (1) led half of the Main Event and ultimately settled for a third straight podium finish. Photo courtesy SMX
Cooper Webb – 2nd Place – 450SMX Class:
“Overall, it was fun, with a side of sketch. The track was really gnarly. It’s always gnarly here, but this [track] with still having to hit the rhythms [sections], they’re pretty big. It was brutal. Obviously, Eli [Tomac] picked up on a good line and kept doing it and got past me. I tightened up for sure with a little arm pump, but it is what it is. At the end of the day, I can’t be hitting whoops like that and expect to win. We’ll get back to work.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Justin Cooper kept digging and was rewarded with his first podium result of the season. Photo courtesy SMX
Justin Cooper – 3rd Place – 450SMX Class:
“It’s just Seattle. This track was absolutely gnarly. With 20 [minutes] plus 1 [lap] out there with these 450s, it gets really demanding. I just put together solid laps and got a little gift from [Lawrence and Roczen]. Sometimes you’ve got to stay in it and that’s what we did tonight. Really pumped to get back on the box.”
450SMX Class Podium (left to right): Cooper Webb, Eli Tomac, and Justin Cooper. Photo courtesy SMX
Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence bounced back from a crash during a battle for third to finish fourth and keep hold of the red plate. Photo courtesy SMX
Hunter Lawrence – 4th Place – 450SMX Class:
“[My race] started with wheel spin off the start. I just didn’t get myself good track position. I was coming through and had good pace. I feel like an idiot. I jumped on the inside [and] was already going down and got Kenny involved. That just sucked, honestly. Not how I would have wanted the night to go, but we’re fourth and still have the red plate. We’ll head on to Dallas.”
Haiden Deegan Outduels Levi Kitchen for Captivating 250SMX Class Win
The sixth race of the Western Divisional 250SMX Class also served as the midseason send off before the Eastern Divisional Championship begins next weekend. That presented an opportunity to enter the break with momentum, and the added motivation produced an instant classic between Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan, the dominant championship leader, and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Levi Kitchen, the hometown favorite. Off the start it was another Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing rider out front, with Max Anstie securing the holeshot, but it didn’t take long for Deegan to storm into the lead just a few minutes into the 15 Minute + 1 Lap race. Kitchen, meanwhile, was on a torrid charge to the front as he clawed his way from fifth to second prior to the halfway point. The tense rivalry between Deegan and Kitchen entered its next chapter during an incredible head-to-head showdown that produced four exchanges for the lead. As he navigated lapped riders Deegan appeared to let Kitchen assume the lead with a little more than seven minutes to go. Kitchen then established a multi-second advantage for several laps, but the degrading track and increased lapped traffic forced both riders to take alternate lines and caused minor miscues. Deegan showed patience and closed back in, then made multiple inside pass attempts before he took advantage of a missed rhythm by Kitchen to reclaim the position with a little more than two minutes to go. With the support of the crowd, Kitchen fought back and retook the lead, but Deegan made one final pass back with about a minute remaining.
Deegan stormed to his fifth consecutive win by 1.5 seconds over Kitchen, who became the first fellow competitor to give Deegan a significant challenge during his run of dominance. The near-miss in front of the hometown crowd continued a recent surge for Kitchen, who now has three straight runner-up finishes. Anstie rode to a quiet and comfortable third-place finish, his first podium since winning the opening race of the season.
Deegan now owns a dozen career victories and has moved out to a healthy 35-point lead over Anstie heading into the break. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Michael Mosiman, who finished sixth, and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Ryder DiFrancesco, who finished fourth, are tied for third, 36 points behind Deegan. After a slow start to the season, Kitchen has fought his way up to fifth, 42 points behind Deegan and just seven points behind Anstie for second.
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan (1) came out on top of a thrilling head-to-head battle with Levi Kitchen for his fifth straight victory. Photo courtesy SMX
Haiden Deegan – 1st Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“That was gnarly. I went through after [the finish] and told [Kitchen] that was the gnarliest battle I have ever had racing. We were going back and forth. I don’t know what to say, that was the best I’ve had. I know it’s in his hometown so the [fans] may not like it, but I hope they enjoyed that one.”
Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Levi Kitchen (47) battled it out with Deegan and finished a close second in from of the hometown crowd. Photo courtesy SMX
Levi Kitchen – 2nd Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“I think that’s the race everyone has been waiting for. I’m bummed I couldn’t get it done for the hometown, but I rode my heart out and [Deegan] did too. That had to be the coolest race of my life. We were going at it the whole time. Thanks to everyone here in Seattle, they were amazing. That was fun.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Max Anstie made his return to the podium for the first time since he won the season opening race. Photo courtesy SMX
Max Anstie – 3rd Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“That was really tough. That was a tough track, and those boys [Deegan and Kitchen] were obviously riding awesome. It was amazing to hear the fans cheering for Levi. I’ve been struggling since Anaheim 1. I don’t know what it is, but my throat and my chest have been burning. Last week was bad too. I need to get it checked out because I don’t feel sick, but I can’t breathe right. My chest just burns.”
The battle for victory between Deegan and Kitchen became an instant classic as they traded for the lead on four separate occasions. Photo courtesy SMX
Western Divisional 250SMX Class Podium (left to right): Levi Kitchen, Haiden Deegan, and Max Anstie. Photo courtesy SMX
The annual visit to Seattle was highlighted by the inclusion of bowhunting icon and ultramarathon runner Cameron Hanes, who served as Grand Marshal. The hugely popular outdoorsman has become captivated by the sport of SMX and its athletes. Photo courtesy SMX
The Monster Energy SMX World Championship and Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will continue next Saturday, February 21, for the seventh race of the season from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The race will open the Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Championship. Live broadcast coverage on Peacock will begin at 1 p.m. ET with Race Day Live, while a special pre-race show will air at 6:30 p.m. ET followed by the Gate Drop at 7 p.m. ET. Additionally, a domestic Spanish language broadcast is available on Pea cock while international viewers can choose from dedicated English, French, and Spanish broadcasts via SMX Video Pass (www.SMXVideoPass.com).
All 17 rounds of the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and 11 rounds of the Pro Motocross Championship are on sale. Tickets for the SMX World Championship Playoff Rounds and Final are now on sale at Supermotocross.com. Saturday FanFest will take place at all postseason races, Friday FanFest and camping will be available in Columbus and Ridgedale, additional details to follow.
For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
WMRRA Open Supersport Champion Brian Pinkstaff (121) in action at Pacific Raceways in Kent, Washington in August 2025. Photo by StevensonFoto.
First Person/Opinion:
By John Ulrich
Continuing the theme we started last month, award banquets are great fun. Here are photos taken by Louis Stevenson during the 2025 WMRRA award banquet.
Getting championship trophies (or watching your friends get championship trophies) is one of the best things about award banquets. These WMRRA trophies and plaques are ready and waiting to be handed out. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
WMRRA President Kumpy Kump (left) and announcer Mark DeGross get the award banquet going. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
The racing Pinkstaff brothers, Kevin on the left and Brian on the right. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
Zlock Racing, from left, Brent Prindle, Dale Zlock, Kevin Pinkstaff, Brian Pinkstaff, and Dan Zlock. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
WMRRA #117 Chance Terrell is at far right, Glenda Hudson is middle left, and we don’t have names for their tablemates. If you do, send the intel to [email protected]. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
More WMRRA championship trophies ready to be awarded. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
The buffet at the 2025 WMRRA award banquet. Photo by Louis Stevenson.
RJ Hampshire at Houston Supercross. Photo courtesy Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing
Injured while training ahead of Round 6 of AMA Supercross Championship in Seattle.
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider RJ Hampshire has been sidelined with a foot injury sustained while training ahead of Round 6 of the 2026 AMA Supercross Championship in Seattle this weekend.
Hampshire – who sat out Glendale due to illness – fractured his foot in a training crash this week at Baker’s Factory in Florida, unfortunately ruling him out of upcoming rounds in the SMX World Championship.
“It’s never good to get a mid-morning phone call from Baker’s Factory on a ride day,” said Nathan Ramsey, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Manager.“Unfortunately, RJ had a crash and the handlebars caught his foot in just the wrong way, resulting in a fracture. Our focus now is on the best path forward to get RJ healthy and back racing as soon as possible.”
In his first full season of 450SX competition onboard the Husqvarna FC 450 Factory Edition, Hampshire’s best result to date is ninth place at Anaheim 2. Further updates on his recovery timeline will be announced once available.
TrackDaz owners Dustin and Lily Coyner at the track. TrackDaz photo.
Lily Coyner, wife of TrackDaz owner Dustin Coyner, tragically died suddenly on the morning of January 10, 2026. This tragedy has not only rocked the entire world of Dustin, but also the motorbike community. Lily has been a fixture in the paddock for over 25 years. She’s the one who greeted TrackDaz riders in the morning at registration. She listened to whatever complaints or comments riders had, sold merch, rented Yamaha generators. She also was the one calling loved ones using the emergency contact info when something happened. She loved all TrackDaz riders, and wanted to help keep us all safe.
Since TrackDaz already had an event scheduled that weekend, we’re working with Buttonwillow Raceway Park (BRP) and the Roadracing World Action Fund (RWAF) to raise money in her honor for more Airfence at the track. BRP will be donating all gate fees and likely offer other things for raffles. We’ll do raffles and other things as well.
We ask for the community to come together and show strong support for this lovely woman who cared so much in spite of not riding herself.
Marco Bezzecchi and others riders at a previous Aprilia Racers Days track event. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
New York, NY (February 13, 2026) – Following North America’s only MotoGP Round at Circuit of the Americas, Aprilia returns to Austin to host Aprilia Racers Days at COTA, taking place Monday, March 30th, and Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 – delivering an unmatched post-race riding experience at one of the most iconic circuits in the world.
Watch your heroes race on Sunday, then join them on track Monday!
Monday, March 30th will be an exclusive VIP experience, featuring invited guests, special access, and the presence of Aprilia MotoGP riders and members of Aprilia Racing and Trackhouse MotoGP Team. This intimate day is designed to bring participants closer than ever to the passion, performance, and people behind Aprilia’s racing DNA.
Set within the MotoGP race garages, Aprilia Racers Days at COTA offers a truly unheard-of environment. Rider groups are limited to just 45 participants, maximizing track time, exclusivity, and the adrenaline that comes from riding the Circuit of the Americas immediately following MotoGP race weekend. As always, each ticket includes complimentary professional photography and lunch, along with the opportunity to ride select models from the 2026 Aprilia lineup on track. This is more than a track day – it’s a rare opportunity to ride, connect, and experience Aprilia in its element.
From left to right with Marco Bezzecchi, Lorenzo Savadori and Max Biaggi at COTA. Photo courtesy Aprilia
Event Details – VIP Experience (Monday, 3/30)
● Price: $1,500
● Aprilia Racing Team in Attendance
● VIP Guests
● On-Site Coaching
● Communal Garages (first come, first served)
● 1 Demo Ride Per Guest
● Complimentary Lunch
● Complimentary Photography
● Aprilia Gift Bag Including Commemorative T-Shirt
Event Details – Standard ARD Ticket (Tuesday, 3/31)
● Price: $850
● Communal Garages
● 1 Demo Ride Per Guest
● Complimentary Lunch
● Complimentary Photography
More Than Just a Ride – An Unmatched Experience
Aprilia Racers Days is about more than just riding – it’s about precision, passion, and performance. With expert coaching, professional photography, and direct support from Aprilia-trained technicians and brand representatives, every rider gets an immersive and tailored experience. Enthusiasts can ride the full Aprilia street lineup, including the RSV4, Tuono V4, RS 660, Tuono 660, and RS 457 or bring their own motorcycles for additional track time in skill-based riding groups.
Sign Up for the Aprilia Racers Days Experience.
Aprilia Racers Days at Circuit of the Americas 2026 is an unmissable event for riders looking to elevate their skills and experience the thrill of Aprilia’s high-performance motorcycles. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today!
Seen at a 2025 Aprilia Racers Days event at COTA. Aprilia photo.
Aprilia Racers Days events will be supported directly by Aprilia trained technicians and product specialists, as well as partners Pirelli, Dainese and AGV to offer the best on track experience with expert advice, performance and protection. The cost of participation in the events will not only qualify for an incredible track day experience with your existing motorcycle, but also include a VIP Aprilia Racers Days package, with ability to demo a new Aprilia for one of the track day sessions, equipped with Pirelli performance tires. Additionally, activities will include coaching, event photography, and an included lunch.
A “press release” is promotional text issued by a rider, team, company or organization to inform
the public about an event, product, or service from the issuer’s own point of view, and if deemed
to have news value, may be placed on roadracingworld.com as a service to our readers.
A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. When a post is labeled with the words “press release”, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors.
Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode
Improves website's visuals
This mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode
Helps to focus on specific content
This mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode
Reduces distractions and improve focus
This mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
This mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
November 11, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
