On the Front Cover: Defending MotoGP World Champion Marc Márquez (93) is shown testing aboard a 2026 Ducati Lenovo GP26. This season is the last for massive
wings and shape-shifting (lowering suspension for better starts and
more acceleration), banned for 2027. Photo by Gigi Soldano/DPPI Media.
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MARCH / APRIL 2026 ISSUE
FEATURES
Inside Info: KTM’s hot-rod 2026 990 Duke R; MotoGP deserting Phillip
Island in favor of a street race in 2027; Marco Bezzecchi “marries”
his Aprilia; Barber Museum and Barber Motorsports Park founder
George Barber passes away, and more…
Intro: 2026 Triumph Trident 800 Roadster, Emphasis On “Road”
Tracks: Chuckwalla Valley Raceway, An Oasis Blooms
RACING
Racing History: Reg Pridmore, The World’s First Superbike King
MotoGP Analysis: Agent Carlos Pernat, The Last Wildman
COLUMNS
Letters To The Editor: A Racer And Business Man Says Goodbye
10 Years Ago: Racing Editor Chris Ulrich is on the cover of the March
2016 issue, riding a new 2016 Kawasaki ZX-10R at Sepang
International Raceway in Malaysia. Rich Schlachter, the 1979-1980
AMA Formula One Champion, was featured in a where-are-they-now
piece, and said that at age 63, he was slowing down working
as a carpenter. MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley looked at Valentino Rossi
losing the 2015 MotoGP title, and also picked his favorite
MotoGP battles….
The Crash Page: Steve McLaughlin, Upside Down In 1976
2026 Racing, School & Track Day Calendar: Where & When To Ride
Classified Ads/Advertiser Index
High Performance Parts & Services Directory
Chris Ulrich’s Adventures Of An Ex-Racer: Headed to Daytona
More from a press release issued by Aprilia Racing:
Marco Bezzecchi and Aprilia Racing dominate Buriram season opener race.
The first full-length race of the 2026 season at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand concluded with two Aprilia Racing riders on the podium. Starting from pole position, Marco Bezzecchi ran a solid race, maintaining the lead from the first corner to the chequered flag and claiming his first victory at the Thai circuit. This marks the Italian rider’s third consecutive Grand Prix win (Portimão, Valencia and Buriram). It is also his fourth victory in a full-length race in the top class with Aprilia, an all-time record. It was also a good day for Jorge Martín, who was in contention for the podium for much of the race and finished fourth at the flag, equalling his best result with Aprilia Racing in a full-length race.
The Trackhouse MotoGP Team riders also delivered an excellent performance. Raúl Fernández claimed third place in the full-length race, his second podium of the weekend after the sprint, while Ai Ogura completed a spectacular charge from further back to finish fifth, bringing four Aprilias into the top five.
Marco Bezzecchi at Buriram. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
MARCO BEZZECCHI: “After the mistake in the sprint, it was important to stay calm and bounce back. The victory in Buriram is a very pleasing result. We worked well in testing, so it was crucial to confirm our form over the race weekend as well – something we were unable to do last year, despite a good test here. In the race, I tried to give it my all without making mistakes, so I’m very pleased with this victory.”
Jorge Martin at Buriram. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
JORGE MARTÍN: “A few months ago, I couldn’t even feed myself, and today I finished the race in fourth position. I’m very happy and very grateful to the people who supported and helped me. It has been a winter of great mental preparation to feel ready and to believe in what I’m doing. Today I didn’t have high expectations, but from the very start I felt comfortable and was able to battle with Marc and Pedro.”
MASSIMO RIVOLA: “It’s great to see Marco pick up from where he finished last year. The dominance of this weekend may seem unusual, but if there is one thing I firmly believe in, it is the work of the Factory in Noale, and I have no doubt that the talent and determination of our riders will continue to come through strongly. However, it’s only the first race, and our competitors won’t sit back and watch. Marc remains the favourite, but Aprilia is right there.”
More from a press release issued by KTM Factory Racing:
Sizzling 2nd place for Acosta at Thai MotoGP as Red Bull KTM lead the World Championship.
Red Bull KTM kicked off their tenth season of MotoGP Grand Prix racing through the demanding Thai heat with Pedro Acosta earning a brilliant runner-up result. 91,455 spectators on-site watched the opening chapter of the 22-round series where the team and brand walked away as world championship leaders for the first time.
Highlights and key moments from race day at the Chang International Circuit:
Pedro Acosta adds a confident runner-up Grand Prix finish to his Sprint victory from Saturday to lead MotoGP by seven points
Brad Binder is the next highest classifier on the KTM RC16 at Buriram with P7 through difficult conditions for the machinery and the tires
Valentin Perrone walks the Moto3™ podium with 3rd place on the Red Bull KTM Tech3 RC4 as Alvaro Carpe finishes a close 4th for Red Bull KTM Ajo
Pedro Acosta on the podium at Buriram. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM.
Scorching sunshine, sticky air and high temperatures created a typically draining Thai Grand Prix in the city of Buriram. 2026 marked the second year in a row that MotoGP launched at the packed Chang International Circuit, 300km north of Bangkok. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Red Bull KTM Tech3 started from qualifying slots on the second, third, sixth and seventh rows of the grid.
Pedro Acosta began the 26-lap chase from P6 and with his confidence high, less than 24 hours after he grabbed victory in the Saturday Sprint. The Spaniard had to work his way past two riders to reach 3rd place and then hunted P2 in what was an eye-catching display of overtaking and tire management. Pedro ended the weekend with 1-2 scores and 32 points to sit at the top of the standings. He now has four podiums from the last six rounds of MotoGP, stretching back to Indonesia 2025.
Brad Binder was busy in a close second group where the South African had to sustain grip and be cautious of tire pressures. Brad kept a solid pace to improve on his 2025 position in Thailand thanks to his P7. He occupies P6 in the early championship table. Enea Bastianini persevered for the race duration and used his skill in administering the best traction from the tire/set-up package to make his way from P19 on the grid to P12. Maverick Viñales had a tough first lap when he ran wide into Turn 12 but he also completed the distance and arrived back to the box with P16.
Round two will venture to Brazilian shores for the first time since 2004. The Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna in Goiania will be the scene for the next episode of MotoGP on March 20-22.
Brad Binder at Buriram. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM.
Pedro Acosta, 2nd and 1st in the championship:“We’re not only leading the world championship for a day! The team is working super-good. We struggled so much here last year and this time we made back-to-back podiums. We have to be happy. Thanks to all at KTM; all the people back there must have been pushing for us in the early morning. Thanks to everyone at home who has been supporting me. We made good.”
Brad Binder, 7th and 6th in the championship: “Happy on one hand but on the other I’d like more than a 7th. We’re going step-by-step and moving forwards because it was good to be in Q2 directly on Friday and both races were pretty good. We’ve made a step with consistency. Today was a lot more challenging than the Sprint. The bike clearly has the potential, so we’ll keep working and try to catch up to Pedro.”
Aki Ajo, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager: “A win and a podium this weekend means we have to be very happy with the work, both by the team and the riders but also the factory after a busy winter. We made an obvious improvement from 2025. This race can be difficult for a few factors and I think we approached the weekend in the right way and showed some good early potential. Of course, there is still work to do and we can see the results for all four riders were quite different but this is the first GP of a long championship. Congratulations to Pedro, it is really good to begin the season with this positive feeling.”
More from a press release issued by Pertamino Enduro VR46 Racing Team:
Double Top10 for the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team in Thailand GP. Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli finish Sunday’s race at Buriram in sixth and eighth place respectively.
The Thailand GP is in the history books, and it marks the end of the first race weekend of the 2026 campaign: in challenging conditions due to the extreme heat in Sunday’s race, the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team secured a double Top10 with Fabio Di Giannantonio, who is sixth at the finish line, and Franco Morbidelli, who had a comeback riding and ended in eighth place.
Starting from second row, Di Giannantonio immediately tried to join the podium battle. From the first laps, the heat put Fabio and his Ducati to the test, but they defended strongly, showing consistency despite the challenging conditions. The rider from Rome arrived at the finish line of the Thailand GP in sixth place – best Ducati rider at the chequered flag – and he now sits in seventh place in the World Standing with 12 points.
It was a comeback Sunday for Morbidelli, who started from the third row but was in nineteenth place at lap five. Despite the extreme heat, Franco showed a good speed and a strong pace, gaining many positions lap by lap. The Italian-Brazilian rider, with a decisive overtake in the final stage of the race, secured the eighth place in the Thailand GP and he now sits in ninth place in the World Standing with 8 points.
The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team is back on track in two weeks, when the MotoGP World Championship flies to America for the Brazilian GP, which is going to take place from 20th to 22nd March at Goiana Circuit for the first time ever.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) at Buriram. Photo courtesy VR46 Team.
FABIO DI GIANNANTONIO: “The race plan was to start strong and immediately stay in the front group. Unfortunately, we struggled because the others had an incredibly fast start. So we had to manage the tyres. Then, we had a technical issue from lap six and I couldn’t push the way I wanted. On top of that, there was very little grip on track today and the temperatures were really high. But if we finished sixth despite a problem, we can be optimistic, because today we could have had a really great race. I think we could have fought at least for third place because we were there in terms of pace. Overall, the bike is working very well: it’s only the first race, there are many positives, and I’ve never prepared for a season this well. We’ve worked with calm and confidence. We’re very fast and we had a solid weekend. It’s a pity we couldn’t complete the job with two strong races, but we head to Brazil with a smile and the confidence that we can be competitive.”
Franco Morbidelli (21) at Buriram. Photo courtesy VR46 Team.
FRANCO MORBIDELLI: “Today it felt like there were two races for us: at the start I struggled a lot, and I was nineteenth until lap five. Then I found my rhythm and started gaining many positions. I’d say the first part of the race wasn’t good, but after that it became very strong and solid. I had a bit of a grip issue. In this race the tyres were consuming quickly and the feeling wasn’t at its best, but I managed it well. Overall, it was a weekend of ups and downs. There are some aspects of the new package we still need to work on in depth. But there’s definitely a very good potential.”
PABLO NIETO: “I think it’s important to always be among the protagonists. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to be there in the Sprint on Saturday, but that’s racing. Today’s race was really tough – the temperatures and the heat put us to the test. We finished sixth with Fabio and eighth with Franco, which means we had a good weekend. Franco made an incredible comeback: at one point he was nineteenth, but he finished eighth. That shows the speed is there. We need to try to improve the opening laps. Now we go back home to recharge and work ahead of the next race in Brazil.”
More from a press release issued by Ducati Lenovo:
Ninth-place finish for Francesco Bagnaia and the Ducati Lenovo Team in the Grand Prix of Thailand. Marc Márquez forced to retire while battling for the podium.
The Ducati Lenovo Team completed the opening Grand Prix of the season at the Chang International Circuit: Francesco Bagnaia was ninth at the flag, while Marc Márquez had to retire from the encounter with six laps remaining.
Bagnaia made up four positions in the first two laps, before moving up to seventh place in the closing stages and then finishing ninth. Following a good start from the front row of the grid, Márquez battled for the podium until lap twenty-one, when an impact with a kerb led to the deformation of the rear rim, which in turn caused the tyre to lose pressure.
As the Grand Prix of Thailand draws to a close, Marc Márquez is eighth in the championship standings with nine points. Francesco Bagnaia is tenth, one point behind his teammate. The Ducati Lenovo Team is fifth in the teams’ standings (17 points), while Ducati is third in the constructors’ championship (19 points).
The Ducati Lenovo Team will be back in action on March 20th for the first day of action of the Estrella Galicia 0,0 Grand Prix of Brazil, at the Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna.
Francesco Bagnaia (63) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Francesco Bagnaia (#63 Ducati Lenovo Team) – 9th: “It was a tough race. I tried to manage the situation from the beginning, without pushing, in order to get to the end of the race with the best possible grip conditions. In the final laps, when I got closer to the group ahead of me, I started to feel the drop in grip. This weekend, unlike in testing, I had a hard time getting the bike stopped and making it turn the way I would have liked. We need to roll up our sleeves to get back to the front, but I think this race was a bit of a one-off.”
Marc Marquez (93) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Marc Márquez (#93 Ducati Lenovo Team) – DNF: “It’s true that other riders, even in testing, had jumped the kerb in that spot and nothing happened. I ran wide at turn four, but when I ran over the kerb I felt a strong impact and that the tyre had deflated due to the rim breaking. It was an unfortunate incident, as I was managing the situation. I knew it would have been a long race and my approach was therefore a conservative one, but in the end I saw that I was getting closer to the podium, so I tried to attack. Unfortunately, these things can happen, but we know we’re already at a good level.”
More from a press release issued by Honda HRC:
Marini puts Honda in top ten as misfortune strikes promising Mir.
A demanding start to the season in what is already looking to be one of the hottest races of the year, Luca Marini opening his 2026 points account with tenth while heartbreak struck Joan Mir as he battled tooth and claw for a fantastic fifth.
Joan Mir (left) and Luca Marini (right) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
The 2026 MotoGP World Championship season officially began with the 26-lap Thai Grand Prix, a physically demanding affair as temperatures approached 40°C. Undeterred and unphased, the Honda HRC Castrol duo shot off the line when the lights went out and immediately began their battle.
From 14th on the grid, Luca Marini made a near perfect start to immediately close in on his teammate and charging into the top ten. Battling for the majority of the race with the likes of Bagnaia, Binder and Ogura, the Italian paid special attention to managing his tyres in the critical ambient temperatures of the day. Picking up where he left off in 2025, Luca Marini crossed the line in tenth – leading the remaining Honda trio and sitting as the lead Honda RC213V rider in the World Championship, 11th with six points.
Joan Mir authored an incredible race, starting strongly and quickly catching the group battling for third position. His confidence was easy to see as he demonstrated his unrivalled ability on the brakes, a particularly spectacular move on Fabio Di Giannantonio promoting him to fifth. Unfortunately, disaster would strike and the 2020 MotoGP World Champion was forced to retire through no fault of his own. He leaves Thailand in 15th place overall with three points.
New frontiers are waiting at round two as the MotoGP World Championship makes a welcome return to Brazil. The Autodromo Internacional de Goiania – Aryton Senna hosting round two, a brand-new circuit for the entire grid. In 2025, Luca Marini briefly lapped on a road bike and highlighted the high speed and exciting nature of the track.
Luca Marini (10) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
Luca Marini:“I think the race was tough for everyone, not so much from the temperature and the physical side because this is what we train for, but you really had to manage everything with the bike to arrive to the end. After four laps we weren’t able to brake as we’d like, which made the race very long as that is our strongest point normally. I made a really good start but then lost three positions on the straight quite soon after. Everyone from about fifth to 14th has a very similar pace, so if you miss something in Qualifying or early in the race you spend a lot of time catching up. But a good way to start the year, we learned a lot and know what we have to do next.”
Joan Mir (36) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
Joan Mir:“A real shame what happened today. I really enjoyed the race, I was riding really well and making some great overtakes. Then something happened which was not in our control and our race finished. We have to check properly what happened. We have to focus on the positives that we have done this race weekend and bring it to Brazil. Normally at new tracks we can be strong, I think I am a quick learner, so we will try and take advantage of that. Focusing on the positives, we showed our speed and the progress Honda have made.”
More from a press release issued by Castrol Honda LCR:
Castrol Honda LCR rider Johann Zarco secured 11th place on Sunday in Buriram.
Facing extremely hot temperatures and a demanding 26-lap race, Zarco made a strong start and consistently maintained his pace throughout.
The Frenchman executed a smart and measured strategy, carefully managing all the variables, as tyre degradation and extreme heat proved to be decisive factors.
Ultimately, despite significant tyre drop-off, Zarco kept the situation under control and crossed the line in 11th position, collecting valuable points in the opening race of the season.
Johann Zarco (5) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Castrol Honda LCR.
Johann Zarco – 11th:“I’m happy to finish the race and take some points, it’s a good way to start the championship. We still have many races to go, but starting the season with this level of control is positive. I tried to manage the situation from the beginning and did my best considering the huge tyre drop. I managed to bring it to a close because if I had pushed harder, I probably wouldn’t have finished. I believe in the work we’re doing, the bike is performing well, we have a good base, and we just need to adjust a few small things”.
More from a press release issued by Red Bull KTM Tech3:
The 2026 MotoGP™ World Championship kicked off in spectacular style at the Chang International Circuit, Buriram, where a record number of Thai fans created an electric atmosphere for the opening round of the season.
Under extreme heat on Sunday, the premier class lined up for the first Grand Prix of the year, ready to take on 26 demanding laps in front of over 91,000 attendees.
Starting from 20th on the grid, Enea Bastianini faced an early setback, losing a position on the opening lap. By the fourth lap, however, the Italian had recovered to 18th and began building momentum.
By the eighth lap, Bastianini was already up to 16th, and a couple of decisive overtakes soon followed as he continued carving his way through the field. With three riders retiring ahead, the #23 rider capitalised fully, jumping up to 12th and firmly placing himself back in the fight after a challenging start to the weekend.
On the other side of the garage, Maverick Viñales held firm in 17th on the opening lap but then lost ground on the straight heading into the next, dropping the Spaniard further down the order.
Struggling for grip and rhythm in the early stages, Viñales found himself down in 21st. Gradually, Top Gun climbed the order as the Marquez brothers and Joan Mir left the action. Finally, a well-executed overtake later in the race secured 16th, just shy of the points, rewarding Viñales’ persistence despite a difficult race.
Next up on the calendar is the Grand Prix of Brazil at the Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna (20-22 March), as the 2026 campaign continues its global journey.
Enea Bastianini (23) and Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Tech3.
Enea Bastianini:“It was a difficult race, but we made a small step forward compared to the previous race. The feeling was similar to last year, even if the result was not as strong. In the final laps I was able to manage things quite well and gain some positions, which was encouraging. We’re still working on improving stability and overall feeling, but I’m confident we can make another step soon.”
Maverick Viñales (12) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Tech3.
Maverick Viñales: “It was a challenging race for us. We’re missing some front grip, especially through the corners, which makes it difficult to be consistent and carry the speed we need. On the straight we’re competitive, but we’re not able to maximise the potential when it matters most.We tried different things across the weekend and now it’s about analysing the data to understand where we can improve and how to generate more feeling from the front. The potential is there, so we need to stay focused, respond well and come back stronger at the next round.”
Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager:“Clearly, this opening round in Thailand is a disappointment for Red Bull KTM Tech3. It’s not the result we were aiming for, and we have to take that honestly. Now it’s important that we sit down together, analyse what didn’t work as expected this weekend, and understand where we need to improve.We can see the potential of the package, which makes it even more important for us to find answers quickly. We have two weeks before Brazil, and our focus is to use that time constructively, come back stronger, and ensure we’re fighting where we belong.”
More from a press release issued by Pro Honda LCR:
Pro Honda LCR rider Diogo Moreira finished 13th on Sunday in Buriram.
Following a positive Sprint on Saturday, Brazilian Diogo Moreira approached the Sunday race fully committed to maximize his performance.
The rider got off to a strong start and consistently positioned himself in the battle for points.
He acknowledged feeling the effects of significant tyre drop, which limited his ability to push further, but he rode cleanly and crossed the line in 13th, scoring points in his first-ever MotoGP Sunday race. Well done, Diogo!
Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pro Honda LCR.
Diogo Moreira – 13th: “It was a good race, I’m super happy. I fought with Enea, and it was fun. The tyre dropped off quite a lot, so I struggled a bit, but overall it was really good. At some point I was alone pushing, because after 12 laps, the tyre degradation was significant, but it was still a positive race for me. We’ve started the season with high motivation, and this is a learning process. I can’t wait to do more races, I’ve had so much fun this weekend!”
More from a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:
Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Push On in Blistering Hot Buriram Race.
The Grand Prix of Thailand in sweltering heat proved a tricky season opener for Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP. Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins completed the 26-lap MotoGP Race in 14th and 15th place respectively.
The incredibly hot 26-lap Grand Prix of Thailand MotoGP Race was a tough outing, but Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins persevered and found themselves in P14 and P15 at the chequered flag.
Quartararo launched from P16 and made up a position on the opening lap. Unable to make further inroads, he came under pressure from Franco Morbidelli and Enea Bastianini and dropped to 17th place on lap 10. With three late DNFs for rivals, El Diablo ultimately held 14th position over the finish line.
Rins started from P18 and completed lap 1 in P16 behind Quartararo. He mainly rode amongst his fellow Yamaha riders during the 26-lap contest and was in P18 when he too benefitted from some late misfortunes of rivals. He held 15th place at the chequered flag.
Today’s race results put Quartararo in 16th place in the championship standings with 2 points. Rins is in 17th place with 1 point. Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP are in 9th position in the team classifications with 3 points, and Yamaha is fifth in the contructor rankings with 2 points.
The team will enjoy two weeks off before travelling to Brazil for Round 2, held at the Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna from 20-22 March.
Fabio Quartararo (20) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Fabio Quartararo:“It was a tough race, but a bit of what we expected. Hopefully in Brazil we will feel better with the bike.”
Alex Rins (42) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Alex Rins:“It was a really tough race, and it was very difficult to manage the tyres. I gave my 100% on every lap. We leave Thailand after preseason testing and the race weekend with some good conclusions. Let’s keep going, and let’s keep growing this project, and I’m looking forward to Brazil.”
Massimo Meregalli:“As expected, today’s Race was hugely challenging for us. The heat and humidity made the 26 laps a real test of endurance and an important benchmark for this brand new project. It’s still early on in the timeline, but we are getting to know the bike better lap by lap, learning about every aspect. On top of this, this type of circuit and the construction of the tyres usually assigned to us in very hot conditions made everything more difficult. There’s not much more to say right now except that we will study all the data we were able to gather this weekend to see if we can prepare a bit better for the next GP.”
More from a press release issued by Prima Pramac Yamaha:
Opening round in Buriram proves a struggle for Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP Team.
In extremely hot conditions at the opening round of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship in Buriram, Jack Miller and Toprak Razgatlıoğlu faced a demanding race, with both riders and their machinery appearing to suffer more from the heat and tyre drop than their direct competitors.
In the first full race for the 2026 Yamaha YZR-M1 machine, powered by the new V4 engine, Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP riders battled extreme heat and tyre management issues in demanding conditions.
Despite crossing the line disappointed with their final positions, both Razgatlıoğlu and Miller remain focused on analysing the valuable data collected and continuing the development of the new package.
The attention now shifts to the Brazilian Grand Prix, where the team aims to start fresh with renewed motivation and build on the lessons learned in Buriram.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu (07) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: “It was my first full race in MotoGP and, of course, I was hoping for a better result. But it was a long and very demanding race — 26 laps in that kind of heat is physically tough. We had some clear issues with rear grip, especially as the race went on, but I‘m not looking to put the blame anywhere else. I know I still have a lot to learn, and at the same time we know Yamaha is working hard to improve the package. Grip was quite limited throughout the race, and it seemed to be a common situation for all Yamaha riders, as we were running close together. Now we focus on the next race. I know I will give my best, and I know the whole team will do the same.”
Jack Miller (43) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha.
Jack Miller:“Obviously it wasn‘t the race we were hoping for. Overall, the bike itself didn‘t feel bad over the distance and physically I felt fine, but from the very beginning I understood we had an issue with the rear tyre. I tried to manage it as best as I could — short-shifting, being smooth, waiting to pick the bike up on the exits — but as the laps went on it became more and more difficult. In the end the tyre was completely worn in the centre and on the straights I couldn‘t use more than about a quarter throttle. It was a tough situation to manage. Still, it was our first full race with the V4. It didn‘t go the way we wanted, but the important thing is that all four bikes finished and we gathered a lot of information. It‘s a base to build from, and there‘s plenty of room to improve as we head to Brazil.”
Gino Borsoi: “We knew Sunday was going to be difficult. During the tests we already struggled, and that was confirmed again in the race. On the positive side, the Sprint showed that we are capable of maintaining a fairly competitive rhythm, so that‘s something we can build on. Today the main issue was the high temperature, which affected everyone, but it seemed to impact us a little more. We have to accept that this is our starting point. We‘re confident that we can improve from here as we move into the next races.”
More from a press release issued by BK8 Gresini:
Thailand to forget.
RACEDAY
ALEX MARQUEZ DNF
MICHELE PIRRO 19º
Alex Marquez (73) at Buriram. Photo courtesy BK8 Gresini.
ALEX MÁRQUEZ: “Starting from the third row didn’t help us, but it was still a race of management until the crash. The others have definitely improved, but we need to keep working and stay calm. My race was about staying behind Mir at a distance so as not to overheat the front tire, with no real chance to overtake. The crash came when I tried to push a bit more; I didn’t have any feeling with the front end and I lost it with a small mistake.”
Michele Pirro (51) at Buriram. Photo courtesy BK8 Gresini.
MICHELE PIRRO: “I’m a bit disappointed, I thought I could do better by putting together all the pieces of the puzzle from these past few days. Instead, from the start of the race I immediately felt uncomfortable with the tires, a feeling I hadn’t had all weekend. I tried to manage the tire, but it was quite strange. I’m sorry because I wanted a bit more consistency. I gave it my all, and I want to thank Nadia and the whole group for the trust they’ve shown me over these days.”
Triumph unveils the Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike for 2026 at the opening round of Moto2™ in Thailand; the #001 Triumph Street Triple Moto2™ Edition with a bespoke yoke engraving.
• Fans can vote for their favorite rider each round and enter a free prize draw to win their own #765 Triumph Street Triple Moto2™ Edition with a matching engraving.
• In preparation for the 2027 season, Triumph will begin testing 100% nonfossil fuels in the Moto2TM engines, assessing performance and durability.
On the eve of the opening Grand Prix of the 2026 MotoGP™ season, Triumph Motorcycles and MotoGP have pulled the covers off two exclusive Limited Edition prize bikes that will be awarded through year’s Triumph Triple Trophy competition.
The #001 Triumph Street Triple 765 Moto2™ Edition model will be awarded to the rider who delivers the most stand-out performances in Moto2 this season, as voted for by the fans. In addition, one lucky Triumph and Moto2™ fan will win the #765 model in a free prize draw for the 2026 season. With only 1,000 motorcycles being produced worldwide, the Moto2™ Edition features carbon fiber components, and these two bikes will feature an individually numbered and personalized billet-machined top yoke, making this prize even more exclusive.
At the official press conference at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent also outlined the next steps in Triumph’s sustainable fuel development program, ahead of the 2027 Moto2™ season when, regulations will mandate the use of 100% non-fossil fuels. Following successful durability testing with 40% non-fossil fuels last year, Triumph has now completed the majority of engine mapping and optimization work required to begin the next phase of testing. Throughout this year, Triumph and Moto2™ will evaluate samples of 100% non-fossil fuels for both performance and durability.
Steve Sargent, Chief Product Officer, Triumph Motorcycles and Alfonso Cartujo, MotoGP Sporting Director. Photo courtesy Triumph.
Steve Sargent, Chief Product Officer, Triumph Motorcycles said: “Powering the Moto2™ World Championship over the past seven years has been a journey. From the first race in Qatar in 2019, we haven’t stopped working to develop the Moto2™ project. Together, we have completed 1,781,698 kms in the Moto2™ World Championship and all that mileage helps us to develop and introduce updates to further benefit on-track performance. Alongside improving performance, we are also committed to supporting the development of a sustainable future for motorcycling and motorcycle sport. So, as the championship moves toward 100% non-fossil fuels, we will be using samples of 100% non-fossil fuels to test performance and durability during this season.”
Sargent continued, “The Triumph Triple Trophy competition is also proving to be increasingly popular with fans and riders. With a record number of votes last year and thousands of fans entering the competition from around the world, we wanted to create a Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike that was another step closer to the Moto2™ World Championship machine. That’s why we’re giving riders and fans the chance to win a highly exclusive Moto2TM Limited Edition Street Triple 765. Customized with specially engraved yokes, the riders will be fighting on the track for the #001 motorcycle, while the fans will be entering for their chance to take home the #765 model.”
Alfonso Cartujo, MotoGP Sporting Director: “The Triumph Triple Trophy is a great way to connect with fans around the world, and it makes sure they feel part of the competition. Moto2™ continues to deliver exciting action, and we know that 2026 will be no different. It was amazing to see so many fans engage with the 2025 season, and congratulations to Mr. Ma from China who took home their own Triumph Triple Trophy bike. This year, it’s exciting to see these Moto2™ Edition models selected as the grand prize which makes the 2026 Triumph Triple Trophy even more special for the riders and fans to be involved in.”
Triumph Triple Trophy victor and 2025 Moto2 World Champion Diogo Moreira with his Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike. Photo courtesy Triumph.
RECOGNIZING STANDOUT PERFORMANCES SINCE 2020
Running alongside the Moto2™ World Championship, the Triumph Triple Trophy has celebrated standout performances since 2020, recognizing that there are more success stories during a Grand Prix weekend than just the race win. The inaugural Triumph Triple Trophy was won by Marco Bezzecchi in 2020, with Raul Fernandez in 2021, Jeremy Alcoba in 2022, Pedro Acosta in 2023, Ai Ogura in 2024, and Diogo Moreira in 2025 adding their names to the winners list.
Moreira, who was also crowned the Moto2™ World Champion, earned the most fan votes during the 2025 season and was declared the Triumph Triple Trophy winner after securing the decisive votes in the penultimate round at Portimão. He collected his Street Triple 765 RS the following week in Valencia.
Steve Sargent, Chief Product Officer, Triumph Motorcycles and the Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike for 2026. Photo courtesy Triumph.
FINDING THE TRIUMPH TRIPLE TROPHY WINNER
On the Sunday of each Grand Prix weekend, three Moto2™ riders will be shortlisted by a judging panel made up of representatives from MotoGP and Triumph for their standout performances on track. Fans can then vote for their chosen rider through the official MotoGP™ Instagram channel, and each rider will receive points based on the number of votes cast.
In reference to Triumph’s 765cc engine, points at each GP are awarded as follows:
• 7 points for the rider with the most fan votes
• 6 points for the rider with the second most fan votes
• 5 points for the rider with the third most fan votes
Once voting closes, the final order of the three shortlisted riders is confirmed, and the leaderboard is updated after each round.
For the second year in a row, fans can also register to win their own Triumph Triple Trophy motorcycle through a free prize draw on the Triumph Motorcycles website. A simple entry form provides the chance to win, and last year the prize was awarded to a fan in China.
The 2026 Triumph Triple Trophy begins on Sunday, March 1, following the season opener at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, when the competition goes live and fans can vote and enter for the first time this season.
Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike for 2026. Photo courtesy Triumph.
TWO WINNERS, TWO PERSONALIZED MOTORCYCLES
The two winners will each receive a highly exclusive Street Triple Moto2™ Edition, featuring the 765cc triple engine derived from the Moto2™ race platform. The #001 motorcycle is reserved for the winning Moto2™ rider, while number 765 will be presented to a fan at the end of the season.
This circuit-bred model includes premium race-inspired details such as carbon fiber side panels, a carbon fiber front mudguard, belly pan, and a carbon fiber silencer end cap that delivers a lightweight, high-tech finish. It features a bold Moto2™-embossed seat with a dimpled pattern for improved grip, a clear-lens rear light, and a laser-etched Moto2™ logo on the silencer. The striking Mineral Grey and Crystal White color scheme is paired with a vibrant Triumph Performance Yellow rear subframe and a matching rear wheel stripe for a distinctive race-bred look.
Each bike is individually numbered on a billet-machined top yoke, which also carries Moto2™ branding, positioned alongside a TFT display featuring a Moto2™ branded start-up screen. This will be enhanced with a personalized engraving and Triumph Triple Trophy branding, reinforcing its unique, limitededition status and collector appeal.
Follow to vote for your favorite rider and enter the free prize draw for a chance to win the Triumph Triple Trophy 2026 motorcycle.
Find out more about Triumph’s Street Triple 765 RS, RX and Moto2 Edition at triumphmotorcycles.com.
In the second race of the Moto4 Asia Cup at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand, 15-year-old MotoAmerica Twins Cup racer Bodie Paige finished 9th, taking the checkered flag 3.419 seconds behind the race winner.
Bodie Paige at Buriram. Photo courtesy Bodie Paige’s social media.
His 14-year-old younger brother Jake Paige, who will be racing in MotoAmerica Talent Cup this season, crossed the finish line 17th, ending the race 31.587 seconds off the lead at Chang International Circuit.
Jake Paige at Buriram. Photo courtesy Jake Paige’s social media.
Bodie Paige is currently 12th in the Moto4 Asia Cup Championship standings with 11 points after the Thailand round, while Jake Paige is 20th overall with 0 points.
More from a press release issued by Idemitsu Moto4 Asia Cup:
Chishiki doubles up as podium fight goes to final corner. The Japanese star makes it two wins from two in Buriram as Irfan and Togashi clinch maiden podiums in the class.
Hayato Chishiki claimed a maximum 50 points from the opening weekend of Idemitsu Moto4 Asia Cup action in Thailand thanks to his classy Race 2 victory on Sunday morning. The Japanese rider rode clear of the chasers to earn a second win in the class by over two seconds, as Qabil Irfan and Kotaro Togashi clinched their first podiums in P2 and P3.
In the latter stages of the 15-lap race, Chishiki pulled the pin at the front and unlike in Race 1 where Waku Kunitate went with the #16, no one was able to tag onto the back of the eventual race winner. However, the fight for the final podium spots went right down to the wire. Irfan eventually won that particular battle by 0.127s over Togashi, as both the Malaysian and Japanese rising stars celebrate their first Moto4 Asia Cup rostrums.
Kunitate ended Race 2 in P4 to collect a good haul of points from Round 1, while Bintang Pranata eventually settled for P5 after the Indonesian was demoted one position after the chequered flag for irresponsible riding on the final lap.
What a start to the season then in Thailand! Next up, we rejoin the MotoGP paddock at the Qatar Grand Prix in April for Round 2, where we can expect more of the same epic racing.
Want to watch the Idemitsu Moto4 Asia Cup race 2 ? Click HERE !
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – It was a historic night inside The World Center of Racing for Round 8 of the 2026 Monster Energy SMX World Championship, as Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac cemented his place atop the all-time greatest racers at Daytona International Speedway with a record breaking eighth Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship win at the iconic venue. The Colorado native broke a three-year tie with NASCAR legend Richard Petty, owner of seven Daytona 500 victories, to become the most decorated athlete of the speedway’s celebrated 67-year history.
Eli Tomac Becomes Most Decorated Racer in Daytona International Speedway History with Eighth Monster Energy Supercross Victory at Iconic Venue.
It wasn’t an easy path to victory for Tomac, as he began the 450SMX Class Main Event in fourth, behind each of his primary competitors in the championship. Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence, last week’s winner and current points leader, opened the 20 Minute + 1 Lap race with the holeshot, but was quickly passed by Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb, the defending series champion, slotted into third ahead of Tomac, which set the stage for a thrilling battle between the best in the class. As Roczen and Lawrence settled in out front, Tomac started his pursuit of the lead with an early pass on Webb for third. The top three continuously searched for faster lines on the ever-changing rutty, technical, sandy racetrack and sat within 1.5 seconds of one another with around 14 minutes remaining.
As the race approached the halfway point Tomac elected to make his push and took advantage of a couple sections on the track where he excelled to attack his rivals. He first made an assertive pass on Lawrence for second and on the ensuing lap railed the outside of an option lane to shoot past Roczen as they sprinted to the finish line jump. Tomac seized control of the lead with about 12:30 left on the race clock and quickly opened up a multi-second margin. Roczen held strong in second until the race closed in on the final five minutes, when Lawrence’s patience and persistence paid off and allowed the Australian to take over second. About three seconds separated Tomac from Lawrence, but the championship leader was unable to make significant inroads on his deficit as the race drew to a close.
Tomac was never challenged once he moved into the lead and carried on to take his fourth win of the season and the 57th victory of his career by 1.3 seconds over Lawrence. Roczen finished in a distant third while Webb was largely on his own en route to fourth, with Quad Lock Honda’s Joey Savatgy in fifth.
Tomac closed to within a single point of Lawrence in the championship standings, while Roczen and Webb now sit tied for third, 20 points out of the lead.
The fourth win of the season for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac made him one of the most transcendent figures in motorsports history at Daytona with eight victories at the iconic speedway. Photo courtesy SMX
Eli Tomac – 1st Place – 450SMX Class:
“[The wins] are all awesome, but somehow, I’ve won eight of these. I don’t want to think about how old I am. I just go out there and roost the berms like I’m at my home track [in Colorado]. I love this dirt and just love how this track develops. Of course, I had to work for it there and went through all my main competition. I just had a great time on my motorcycle and happy to make up points this weekend.”
Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence maintained his hold of the championship points lead with his fifth runner-up finish of the season. Photo courtesy SMX
Hunter Lawrence – 2nd Place – 450SMX Class:
“It was a tough [Main Event] on a really tough track. I was figuring out where to compensate with the bike and it just took me too long to do that. In the end I was kind of making it work, but it was too late and Eli [Tomac] got his eighth win here. I really wanted to stop that tonight, but I couldn’t make up the difference.”
Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen led early on for the second week in a row and recorded his fifth podium result of the year. Photo courtesy SMX
Ken Roczen – 3rd Place – 450SMX Class:
“I gave it my best out there and led for a bunch. I had a really good start too and in the Main Event that really counts. I was searching a little bit in the beginning, it was a tricky track and a lot faster than what we’ve seen the past few years here. Once I got passed, I knew those guys were maybe a little bit faster, so I tried to hang on and follow some lines. I was right there until the end and just got messed up by some lappers and those guys got away a little bit. I just wasn’t the best tonight, but I’m happy with a podium.”
450SMX Class Podium (left to right) Hunter Lawrence, Eli Tomac, and Ken Roczen. Photo courtesy SMX
Seth Hammaker Goes Wire-to-Wire for Dominant 250SMX Class Win
The second race of the Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Championship featured an impressive showing from Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker, who entered the night show banged up from a hard crash in afternoon qualifying. The Pennsylvania native was able to secure the holeshot over Honda HRC Progressive’s Jo Shimoda and established a firm grasp on the lead from the outset of the 15 Minute + 1 Lap Main Event. Behind them was Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Nate Thrasher, Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Drew Adams, and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Pierce Brown, the opening round winner and points leader.
As Hammaker and Shimoda asserted themselves out front, Adams continued what was turning into a breakout night with a pass for third. Behind them, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies was making moves as the fastest rider on the track. The New Zealander made an impressive climb from ninth off the start to pass both his teammates and move into fourth. He then set his sights on Adams and successfully made the pass for third with six minutes to go. Not long after that Adams crashed out of the race, which allowed Brown to assume fourth.
With just over a minute remaining Shimoda went down in the sand section as he simultaneously looked to close in on Hammaker and fend off Davies. The defending SMX World Champion remounted quickly, but not before Davies and Brown got by for second and third. Hammaker completed a dominant wire-to-wire effort by a margin of 4.2 seconds over Davies, while Brown rounded out the podium. Shimoda was forced to settle for fourth, with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Daxton Bennick in fifth.
Hammaker’s fourth career win ended a reign of dominance for the Star Yamaha effort, which had won every 250SMX Class race of the season up to that point. The Kawasaki rider’s victory moved him into second in the Eastern Divisional standings, where he is now two points behind Brown for the lead. Shimoda dropped to third, five points back.
Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker dominated the Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Main Event with a wire-to-wire performance. Photo courtesy SMX
Seth Hammaker – 1st Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“It feels unreal [to win at Daytona]. I had a big crash in qualifying, and I feel like it really tests you mentally how you come back from that. I’m proud of the effort tonight and the team crushed it. It’s super cool to get a win at Daytona. It’s an unreal feeling. Really good to get this win and keep the momentum rolling.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies (37) made an impressive climb from ninth to second for his first podium finish of the season. Photo courtesy SMX.
Cole Davies – 2nd Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“They didn’t prep the gates all day, so I didn’t get good traction out the gate and was buried off the start. It was a good comeback. I did what I could. I wanted that win, but still a good ride.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Pierce Brown maintained his hold of the points lead with a third-place effort. Photo courtesy SMX.
Pierce Brown – 3rd Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“It was a battle. Not the best start. I took a gamble with my gate, and we chose the wrong one. It happens. We battled and were there late when other riders made mistakes to salvage a third. I can’t be too mad about it. We’re in good shape [in points] and will keep doing our thing.”
Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Podium (left to right) Cole Davies, Seth Hammaker, and Pierce Brown. Photo courtesy SMX
Daytona also signified the third race of SMX Next – Supercross, which featured 22 of the top A and B class prospects in amateur motocross. Two different winners stood atop the podium through the first two races and that trend continued as a third different up-and-coming racer claimed victory at Daytona. Triumph Racing’s Deacon Denno opened the 8 Minute + 1 Lap with the holeshot and led early before he gave way to Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Green’s Kade Johnson. Denno fought back to reclaim the lead after just a lap and carried on to become the third different SMX Next winner in as many races. It was the first SMX Next victory for the 17-year-old Texan as well as the first for the budding Triumph amateur program. He took the checkered flag 4.4 seconds ahead of 18-year-old Landen Gordon, who rides for Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing, while 16-year-old Vincent Wey rounded out the podium for Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Green.
Triumph Racing’s Deacon Denno became the third different prospect to emerge victorious in SMX Next – Supercross competition this season. Photo courtesy SMX
Deacon Denno – 1st Place – SMX Next – Supercross:
“I got the start but then jumped the whoops for the first time after skimming all day and lost the lead. It was a dumb move by me, but I made the pass back. Last year here in Daytona I finished 14th. There’s a lot that’s been done since then and just proves that if you work your butt off you can be up here like I am. I knew I could do it and I put the track together. I’m so stoked.”
SMX Next – Supercross Podium (left to right) Landen Gordon, Deacon Denno, and Vincent Wey. Photo courtesy SMX
The Monster Energy SMX World Championship and Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will continue next Saturday, March 7, for the ninth race of the season from Indianapolis’ Lucas Oil Stadium, which will signify the second Triple Crown race of the 2026 season. Live broadcast coverage on Peacock will begin at 1 p.m. ET with Race Day Live, 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:
Marco Bezzecchi won the FIM MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Thailand. Riding his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26 on Michelin control tires, the Italian won the 26-lap race by over five seconds.
Sprint race winner, Pedro Acosta was the runner-up on his Red Bull KTM Factory RC16.
Raul Fernandez placed third on his Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.
Bezzecchi’s teammate, Jorge Martin, finished fourth, and Fernandez’s teammate, Ai Ogura, completed the top five.
Pedro Acosta leads the championship with 32 points, 7 ahead of Marco Bezzecchi who has 25 points. Raul Fernandez is third with 23 points.
Bezzecchi bounces back with victory as Marc Marquez suffers Thailand DNF. The Aprilia star beats Acosta and Fernandez to Round 1 glory as a rear tyre puncture ends the reigning World Champion’s podium hopes in Buriram.
Marco Bezzecchi and Aprilia Racing are hat-trick heroes in MotoGP for the first time after the Italian dominates a dramatic PT Grand Prix of Thailand to back up his 2025 Portugal and Valencia victories with a Buriram beauty at the beginning of 2026. Tissot Sprint winner Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) finished P2 to make sure he leaves Thailand as the MotoGP World Championship leader, as Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) begins the year with a P3 in a Grand Prix which saw reigning World Champion Marc Marquez suffer a race-ending puncture while in the podium fight. And that means Ducati’s unbelievable record-breaking podium streak of 88 in a row is over – for the first time since the 2021 British GP, no Ducati rider stood on the Sunday rostrum.
BEZ GETS THE LAUNCH, MM93 UNDER ATTACK
After an incredible Tissot Sprint on Saturday, it was time for lights out on Sunday and getting the perfect launch from pole was Bezzecchi, with Marc Marquez keeping hold of P2. But not for long. Turn 7 saw Fernandez pinch P2 away from the reigning World Champion and then, a third Aprilia was having a bite at #93. Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) was briefly ahead of the 2025 World Champion, but the latter bit back.
Bezzecchi was into a great early Grand Prix rhythm at the front, with Fernandez 0.9s away at the end of Lap 3. Then, attacking down at Turn 3 on Lap 4, Martin struck again. Marc Marquez was shuffled back to P4 by the 2024 World Champion, and then, Acosta entered the battle.
ACOSTA VS MARTIN VS MARC MARQUEZ
Turn 12. #93 vs #37. Shades of a memorable Sprint scrap. Acosta made a move up the inside stick to climb into fourth, with Marc Marquez down to P5 and as things stood, the current King had zero answers.
As Bezzecchi and Fernandez continued to set a similar pace in P1 and P2, we strapped ourselves in to enjoy Martin vs Acosta. The KTM star had several bites at the cherry on Lap 8 and 9, but Aprilia’s #89 was defending brilliantly.
Then, Acosta did find a way through on Martin. On the exit of a move at Turn 3, Acosta was through but getting a Lap 10 two-for-one deal on the run up to Turn 4 was Marc Marquez. But Acosta wasn’t having any of that. The pre-Grand Prix title leader chose Turn 8 to attack his compatriot, and it was a leap up the inside that worked. Acosta, eventually, was P3.
PODIUM CHASE ON AS DRAMA BEGINS TO UNFOLD
Now though, by Lap 14, the gap to second place Fernandez and leader Bezzecchi had grown. However, Acosta was beginning to catch the Trackhouse Aprilia, with the gap just below two seconds as the Grand Prix entered its final 10 laps.
Behind, Marc Marquez sat 1.4s away from Acosta, with Martin sitting 0.8s back of the leading Ducati. Bezzecchi, meanwhile, was over three seconds up the road and in relative cruise control. It was the Italian’s 25 points to throw away at this stage.
With seven to go, Fernandez’s grip on P2 was loosening. Acosta was now under a second away from the #25, and Marc Marquez was lurking too. Until he wasn’t. As we panned back to watch Fernandez, Acosta and Marc Marquez come through Turn 4, it was clear the latter had a problem. And it became obvious it was a rear tyre puncture. Drama in Buriram, the reigning World Champion was out of the Thai Grand Prix.
Then, last year’s runner-up was out too. Alex Marquez crashed at the rapid Turn 4, thankfully the #73 was up and walking, but that ended a disappointing weekend at the office for the Gresini Racing star.
More drama then occurred. Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) was forced to retire from the Grand Prix with rear tyre problems too after the 2020 World Champion had strung a very strong race together in the top six, and all of a sudden, there were four Aprilias in the top five, with Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) showing some aggressive late pace.
And so, after a punishing Thai Grand Prix, Bezzecchi made amends for his Sprint error to clinch victory on Sunday and win three Grands Prix in a row for the first time. Acosta’s wait for a Grand Prix win goes on, but that was another sublime performance from the KTM star, who will head to Brazil as the MotoGP World Championship leader. And fair play to Fernandez. After some serious shoulder troubles surfaced in Warm Up, the Spaniard celebrates another P3 to grab a double Round 1 podium.
YOUR POINTS SCORERS IN THAILAND
Having missed the Sepang Test and considering what he went through in 2025, Martin will be elated to start the campaign with P4, with the very impressive #89 finished three tenths ahead of Ogura. The Japanese rider recovers to round out the top five, with the lead Ducati rider over the line being Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) in P6.
Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) hands KTM a double top seven finish in P7, as Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) leaves it late – the final corner of the final lap to be precise – to pocket P8 from Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team). It’s P9 on Sunday for the 2022 and 2023 MotoGP World Champion, as Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) completed the top 10.
Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) and Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) were P11 and P12 across the line, with rookie Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) pocketing points on debut with a P13 ahead of the Brazilian’s home round next. Rounding out the points-paying positions were Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP duo Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins.
THANK YOU, THAILAND
Round 1 = completed. What a start to the year that was in MotoGP, as Acosta heads to Brazil as the World Championship leader after a drama-filled opening chapter. Boy, it’s good to be back.
Manuel Gonzalez won the FIM Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Thailand. Riding his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard won the 7-lap race by 0.099 second.
The race was halted twice by red flags after early incidents at the Chang International Circuit. An initial crash on lap 3 involving Senna Agius, David Alonso and Filip Salac brought out the first red flag. After the restart, a second incident involving Sergio Garcia and Luca Lunetta triggered another red flag and led to a full reset.
Izan Guevara was the runner-up on his Blu Cru Pramac Yamaha Boscoscuro.
Daniel Holgado was third on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.
Ivan Ortola finished fourth on his QJMotor Pons Grup MSi Kalex and Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Collin Veijer took fifth.
American Joe Roberts crashed his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Manuel Gonzalez leads the championship with 25 points, 5 ahead of Izan Guevara who has 20 points. Daniel Holgado is third with 16 points.
Gonzalez denies Guevara in tense stand-off for Buriram glory. Two red flags and a head-to-head finish but even with the same victor as 12 months ago, there were plenty of talking points in Moto2.
A dramatic start to the Moto2 season saw two red flags at Buriram before a tense final two laps welcomed a head-to-head battle between Manuel Gonzalez (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) and Izan Guevera (BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2). Last year’s runner-up took gold in the opening encounter ahead of Guevara, whilst Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) took third.
Manuel Gonzalez on the podium at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pirelli.
From P2 on the grid, it was a perfect start for Guevara as he grabbed Moto2’s first holeshot of 2026. He didn’t hold the lead for long though as he ran wide at Turn 3 along with polesitter Senna Agius (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) and Ivan Ortola (QJMOTOR – PONT GRUP – MSI), allowing Holgado into P1 from fourth. However, on Lap 3, an incident at Turn 9 involving Agius, David Alonso (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) and Filip Salac (OnlyFans American Racing Team) brought out the red flag. Alonso was taken to the medical centre with arm pain whilst Agius and Salac could take the restart from pitlane.
With the distance reduced to just 11 laps, it promised to be elbows out from the start. Holgado got to Turn 1 first and led the field down to Turn 3 where there was more drama. Sergio Garcia (ITALJET Gresini Moto2) tucked the front, leaving class rookie Luca Lunetta (SYNC Group SpeedRS Team) nowhere to go. This brought out the second red flag of the Grand Prix with a new distance of seven laps set to sort out the order.
For the final start for a seven-lap dash, it was Holgado who once again led the charge but was soon behind Guevara who got under him at Turn 3. The battle was fierce as Gonzalez pushed through on Holgado on Lap 2 before going after Guevera; Holgado was third with Ortola fourth, all four riders in the leading group.
Moto2 podium, from left to right, with Izan Guevara, Manuel Gonzalez and Daniel Holgado. Photo courtesy Pirelli.
After stalking Guevara, Gonzalez pounced on the penultimate lap at Turn 7 with a bold move but the #28 wasn’t giving up as he tried to fight back at Turns 8, 9 and 12. Onto the final lap and it was last year’s runner-up who held the advantage and despite Guevara’s best efforts at the final corner around the outside, Gonzalez held on to repeat his season-opening victory from 2025 and take charge in 2026. Behind them, Holgado rounded out the first podium of the season whilst Ortola and Collin Veijer (Red Bull KTM Ajo) rounded out the top five.
Celestino Vietti (Sync SpeedRS Team) took P6 ahead of Alonso Lopez (ITALJET Gresini Moto2), Daniel Muñoz (Italtrans Racing Team) and Deniz Öncu (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team), with Ayumu Sasaki (Momoven Idrofoglia RW Racing Team) completing the top ten.
Find here full results from Moto2 in Buriram and come back for more from Brazil in a couple of weeks!
David Almansa won the FIM Moto3 World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Thailand. Using his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM, the Spaniard won the 19-lap race by just 0.003 second.
Maximo Quiles was the runner-up on his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM.
Valentin Perrone was third, 9.480 seconds behind Almansa.
Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe got fourth and Veda Pratama crossed the finish line fifth on his Honda Team Asia machine.
David Almansa leads the championship with 25 points, 5 ahead of Maximo Quiles who has 20 points. Valentin Perrone is third with 16 points.
Converting pole position to a first-ever victory doesn’t tell the full story but the #22 takes the early Championship leader and the winner’s trophy from Thailand.
A classic start Moto3’s 2026 campaign? Just what we ordered. It was very much a case of the calm before the storm as David Almansa (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) battled to a maiden victory in a final corner, last lap thriller ahead of Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team). 0.003s and the joint-closest finish, Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) opened his account with a podium behind the duelling Spaniards up ahead.
Moto3 podium, from left to right, with Maximo Quiles, David Almansa and Valentin Perrone. Photo courtesy Pirelli
The first holeshot of the season went to polesitter Almansa, who let the brakes off to hold P1. It was a drag race down to Turn 3 against Quiles but the #22 held firm and lead the opening lap of the season. Behind, there was drama for Ryusei Yamanaka (AEON Credit – MT Helmets – MSI) who crashed at Turn 5 on Lap 2, the same corner that ended hiss Thai GP last year. Lap 3 saw another rider fall from the top ten as Guido Pini’s (Leopard Racing) debut with his new team saw him crash at Turn 12 but the Italian sophomore remounted and rejoined the action, eventually finishing 20th.
Five laps in and what looked like a breakaway group of four – consisting of Almansa, Quiles, Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) – had been reeled in. They now had rookie sensation Veda Pratama (Honda Team Asia) and Argentinean Perrone for company with approximately one second covering the top six. At the end of Lap 6, a mistake from Carpe allowed Fernandez through before another mistake allowed Pratama into fourth and the Indonesian didn’t stop there. He forced his way under Fernandez to take P3 at the end of Lap 7, sitting in a provisional podium position on his debut.
As half distance approached the front two had scarpered. At the end of Lap 11, our first change in the lead as Quiles decided to take over at the front from Almansa at Turn 12, now giving his fellow Spaniard a chance to study his own strengths and weaknesses. It didn’t last long though, as Quiles ran off at Turn 1 to gift his rival the lead straight back. Both were matching each other’s lap times, the only riders in the 1’41s – a true head-to-head to get us started in 2026. Seven seconds behind, there were passes in abundance with Fernandez, having dropped to sixth, climbing back into third with three to go.
Onto the last lap and after a Turn 12 error from Quiles, Almansa sported a half a second advantage as they took in the final 4.5km of Buriram. However, Quiles wasn’t finished and put in an outstanding final lap to get back on terms for one final attack into the last corner. Defending his line, he forced Quiles to let the brakes off and it looked like he got the job done but on the run to the line, Almansa had better drive to snatch his first victory in Moto3 by just 0.003s, equalling the closest finish of all-time in Moto3. In the scrap for third, Perrone fought his way ahead of Carpe, likewise in a final corner pass whilst Pratama took top Honda honours in fifth on his debut, ahead of Fernandez.
Valentin Perrone (73), Joel Esteban (78) and Casey O’Gorman at Buriram. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
Outside the top six, Brian Uriarte (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was a strong seventh ahead of Marco Morelli (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), Joel Esteban (LEVEL UP – MTA) and David Muñoz (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) who rounded out the top ten. Just missing out on the top ten by 0.206s, it was 11th for rookie Casey O’Gorman (SIC58 Squadra Corse).
Adventure Has No Limits with More Fuel Capacity, Rider Aids, Suspension Travel, and Adventure Touring Enhancements.
MARIETTA, Ga. –Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, is bringing its highly anticipated adventure motorcycle, the Ténéré 700 World Raid, to the United States. Built for riders seeking the longest, most challenging journeys, the 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid expands Yamaha’s Adventure Touring (ADV) lineup with premium upgrades, new components and the latest technology, elevating the Dakar-bred long-distance adventure-tourer to new horizons.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
KEY DETAILS
Yamaha’s 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid is coming to the U.S.
Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) with two power modes, 6-axis IMU and lean-sensitive traction control, slide control and ABS add flexibility to every ride
One-piece seat, dual tanks and updated bodywork enable more freedom of movement
Upgraded suspension, strong steel frame, new steering damper and ergonomic updates elevate the riding experience and provide better comfort and performance both on- and off-road
Large TFT dash, handlebar switches, cruise control and rider selectable speed limiter add long-distance comfort
POWER AND CONTROL
The latest iteration of Yamaha’s acclaimed 689cc CP2 twin engine offers linear, useable torque and precise control suited to adventures both on- and off-road. To make the best use of the power from the CP2 engine, the Ténéré 700 World Raid utilizes the Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) with two power modes: ‘Sport’ mode for dynamic power delivery on spirited road rides, and ‘Explorer’ for smoother throttle reaction in off-road sections or on wet surfaces. Riders can switch between the power modes on the go, with closed throttle, from the handlebar switchgear.
The Ténéré 700 World Raid is equipped with a 6-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit). It constantly measures the machine’s acceleration and angular velocity to determine forces affecting the bike. The lean-sensitive Traction Control System (TCS) and Slide Control System (SCS) both use data from the IMU to adjust the engine power and control the amount of traction and slide the rider has selected to use. Both systems feature three modes – STREET, OFF-ROAD and OFF – to give riders the option to select the level of system support, and to achieve optimum levels of traction and slide whether riding on- or off-road.
For ABS/Brake Control, there is a dedicated button to select between ABS modes. When ABS is switched ON, Brake Control can be enabled to provide cornering ABS, while the off-road focused REAR OFF and OFF modes allow either the rear or both wheels to lock for full off-road control. Strong stopping power and excellent braking consistency are achieved with steel-braided brake lines that run to the Brembo front callipers paired with large 282mm brake discs.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
BUILT TO GO FURTHER
The 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid features enhanced ergonomics and technology to make long-distance adventures more exhilarating and comfortable while the large dual fuel tanks ensure the ride is not cut short.
The new fuel tank assembly consists of two connected aluminum fuel tanks with a total capacity of 6.1 gallons (1.8 gallons more than the Ténéré 700) providing around 300 miles of range. Separate tanks reduce the effect of fuel movement improving handling, while the low position of the fuel pump contributes to a more centralised weight distribution.
A one-piece rally-style seat makes it easy to transition from sitting to standing or move from front to rear, offering the rider greater freedom of movement and strengthening the ADV nature of the machine. Adding to rider comfort, a new windscreen and easily removable side deflectors provide high levels of wind and weather protection.
For highway cruising, the 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid is equipped with Cruise Control, along with a switchable and adjustable Speed Limiter to make adhering to speed limits effortless. Large footpegs provide high levels of control and grip, with removable rubber inserts to provide extra comfort for long highway journeys. The Ténéré 700 World Raid is also ready to be fitted with the optional up and down quickshifter, for seamless shifting on any journey.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
ON-ROAD OR OFF-ROAD
The Ténéré 700 World Raid adds nearly an inch of wheel travel in both the front (230mm/9.1 inches) and rear (220mm/8.6 inches) from the standard Ténéré 700. The fully adjustable KYB suspension package provides control and comfort in demanding off-road conditions as well as absorbing bumps and potholes on the road. At the front, high-grade aluminum triple clamps and upside-down forks with preload, compression and rebound adjustment offer optimised rigidity and feel. The forks now feature larger 46mm diameter inner tubes, up from 43mm, but the total weight of the front fork assembly remains the same. With Kashima coating, friction and abrasion have been minimised, and revised spring and damping specifications improve shock absorption and tire contact with the ground, resulting in greater rider comfort and confidence. In extreme riding situations, suspension bottoming is also reduced.
The fully adjustable linked-type KYB Monocross rear suspension has also been upgraded. It now provides improved performance in demanding off-road conditions thanks to the increased shock stroke (+5mm to 106mm), and a specifically designed linkage contribute to more progressive suspension. The aluminum shock body is lightweight and ensures heat dissipation, while the piggyback reservoir offers extra oil capacity to ensure the damper performs well under all conditions. With the suspension enhancements, more than half-an-inch of ground clearance is added from the standard Ténéré 700, bringing total clearance to 255mm/10-inches.
For best performance both on- and off-road, spoked aluminum wheels (21-inch front, 18-inch rear) run the Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires with 50/50 on-road and off-road behavior, providing high levels of grip on both dry and wet roads, strong agility and good stability at higher speeds, traction in off-road situations and reduced road noise.
A 16-step adjustable steering damper provides a wide range of feel and feedback to the rider, with the option to dial up damping for more support in off-road riding. The impact of riding in ruts, bouncing over potholes or experiencing strong side winds is transmitted to the handlebars more gently, resulting in better rider comfort and confidence, and reduced fatigue on long adventure trips.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
STAY CONNECTED
A premium 6.3-inch full-color TFT display is vertically positioned to offer the best visibility for the rider whether sitting or standing. The display offers three theme options – STREET, EXPLORER and RAID – focusing on specific information to suit different riding styles and environments. Ergonomic handlebar switches enable the rider to easily and effortlessly use the controls and make adjustments to the bike on the go.
Key information is displayed in all themes, including speed, engine rpm, fuel level, average fuel consumption, gearshift indicator, coolant temperature, ambient temperature, odometer, trip meter and time. With analog elements, the STREET theme is the closest to the classic Ténéré look. The EXPLORER theme is crafted for off-road riding with all the essential information accessible at a single glance in a refined and modern dynamic digital style. The RAID theme includes two large trip meters in a roadbook-inspired design.
The 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid connects to mobile devices over Bluetooth, allowing riders to make calls, listen to messages and emails, and enjoy music. The free Yamaha MyRide app enables the bike to sync with iOS or Andriod devices. It enables phone controls and Google-powered turn-by-turn navigation on the TFT display, tracks and stores every route covered, and enables users to create their own story and add pictures which can be shared on social media. MyRide also allows users to review all riding statistics including total distance, elevation, top speed, average speed, acceleration and lean angle to compare with fellow riders.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
TOP FEATURES
Large-capacity dual fuel tanks with centralized weight distribution
Six-axis IMU with Lean-sensitive Traction Control, Slide Control, and ABS
Fully adjustable 46mm KYB® forks and high-spec KYB rear suspension
Ride-by-wire Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T®) System with two power modes
Cruise Control and selectable Speed Limiter
Long-distance rider comfort and weather protection features
New adjustable steering damper for improved comfort and reduced fatigue
Large 6.3-inch full-color vertical TFT display with Raid theming
New four-beam rectangular LED headlight unit offers excellent illumination
The 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid comes in Redline White and Midnight Black colorways and are branded with premium emblems and decals. It will be available from U.S. dealers in May starting at $12,999 MSRP. It will join Yamaha’s Adventure Touring lineup alongside the standard Ténéré 700, which returns for 2026 unchanged, available in Team Yamaha Blue and Tech Titanium in March for the same starting price of $10,999 MSRP.
YAMAHA GENUINE ACCESSORIES
Genuine Yamaha accessories make it easy to personalize the Ténéré 700 World Raid for any specific usage and preference. While several 2025 and 2026 Ténéré 700 accessories are compatible, model-specific accessories for the 2026 World Raid will also be available, such as a front guard, skid plate, radiator guard, side grip pads, lowering kit, panel guard and fog light bracket.
DAYTONA BEACH, FL –On The Box Racing (OTB Racing) is proud to officially announce its five-rider team for the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season, marking a significant expansion for the team across three premier classes: Mission AFT SuperTwins, KICKER AFT Singles, and AFT AdventureTrackers.
The 2026 program represents the largest and most comprehensive effort in the team’s existence and reflects the continued support and investment from our sponsors.
Competing in AFT’s premier division, the Mission AFT SuperTwins, OTB Racing will field Declan Bender and Brandon Price. Price sat out a majority of the season in 2025 due to injury, where OTB picked up Bender for the remaining eleven races of the season. Bender finished 10th overall in 2025 with one podium finish, four top five finishes, and nine top 10 finishes. Price finished 13th overall, with only competing in five of the seventeen races last year, two of which were podium finishes.
“I am so excited to be back with OTB racing for this season,” says Bender. “After how we finished 2025, I can’t wait to get back in the saddle and continue where we left off. The team and I have been putting in a lot of work this off-season, and are very confident in where we believe we should be, so now we just have to turn it into reality!”
Price also chimed in on his gratitude. “I’m grateful to Wayne for the opportunity to race a full season at the top level once again with OTB Racing. I’m really comfortable on the Yamaha MT-07’s and I’m looking forward to working with Mike Luczak and Wyatt Neal. I’ve been putting in the work this offseason to run up front more consistently and contend for wins.”
Brandon Price (92). Photo courtesy AFT.
For the first time, OTB also has brought on a KICKER AFT Singles rider, Bradon Pfanders. Last year, Bradon finished 6th overall in the standings with one podium and eleven top ten finishes.
Pfanders is super excited for the opportunity to ride for the OTB racing team in 2026.“It’s a fresh start for me, after riding another brand for most of my career and having this opportunity to ride Yamahas I was a little skeptical at first, but maybe it’s the piece of the puzzle that’s been missing to be where I know I should be. I am confident with myself and all the people in my corner we can consistently be fighting at the front all season long.”
Brandon Pfanders (83). Photo courtesy AFT.
Wrapping up the team’s line up is the two riders who will be competing in the AFT AdventureTrackers series, Austin Luczak and Will Harris. Both Luczak and Harris competed in the class last year. Luczak ran all four races of the series, finishing 6th overall and grabbing a third place finish as well as three tops fives.
Team Owner, Wayne Sody is looking forward to the new challenges. “2026 is our year. We have researched and developed new technologies which will take us to the top. Crew chief, Mike Luczak has prepared our bikes for the last two years with absolute perfection and we are so excited to have the best equipment for our riders this season. I am thrilled to have OTB represented in three classes and see what is in store for us this season. We need to show our sponsors that their dedication to the team is well deserved and will bring home the consistent podium finishes that we strive for!”
OTB has also added some new faces to the pit. Mike Luczak returns as crew chief along with Wyatt Neal as Brandon Price’s mechanic and Meg Neal as team manager. Rich Pfanders will be wrenching for Declan Bender, and Ryan Wells will wrench and coach the young gun, Bradon Pfanders.
Thank you to our sponsors who make this all possible – Memphis Shades, Corbin, Sody Concrete, Glen’s Auto, Luczak Racing, Rausch Racing, Vortex Brewing Company, Fredericktown Yamaha, Lisa Niner, Black Hills Powersports, Vinson Construction, Motion Pro, Vortex, Arai, ODI, RP Exhausts, and Upstate Coatings.
Next Up
The 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season will kick off with the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA doubleheader at the DAYTONA Flat Track during Daytona’s Bike Week festivities. The twin short track races will take place at the “World Center of Racing” on Thursday, March 5 and Friday, March 6.
For those that can’t catch the live action at the track, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive American Flat Track. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2026. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/aft or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.
FS1
FOX Sports will provide in-depth coverage of the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA doubleheader featuring rider features and thrilling onboard cameras. Stay tuned for an upcoming announcement regarding premiere airdates on FS1 and re-airs on FS2. The full listing of American Flat Track’s television premieres will be posted to the AFT website at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports.
On the Front Cover: Defending MotoGP World Champion Marc Márquez (93) is shown testing aboard a 2026 Ducati Lenovo GP26. This season is the last for massive
wings and shape-shifting (lowering suspension for better starts and
more acceleration), banned for 2027. Photo by Gigi Soldano/DPPI Media.
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MARCH / APRIL 2026 ISSUE
FEATURES
Inside Info: KTM’s hot-rod 2026 990 Duke R; MotoGP deserting Phillip
Island in favor of a street race in 2027; Marco Bezzecchi “marries”
his Aprilia; Barber Museum and Barber Motorsports Park founder
George Barber passes away, and more…
Intro: 2026 Triumph Trident 800 Roadster, Emphasis On “Road”
Tracks: Chuckwalla Valley Raceway, An Oasis Blooms
RACING
Racing History: Reg Pridmore, The World’s First Superbike King
MotoGP Analysis: Agent Carlos Pernat, The Last Wildman
COLUMNS
Letters To The Editor: A Racer And Business Man Says Goodbye
10 Years Ago: Racing Editor Chris Ulrich is on the cover of the March
2016 issue, riding a new 2016 Kawasaki ZX-10R at Sepang
International Raceway in Malaysia. Rich Schlachter, the 1979-1980
AMA Formula One Champion, was featured in a where-are-they-now
piece, and said that at age 63, he was slowing down working
as a carpenter. MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley looked at Valentino Rossi
losing the 2015 MotoGP title, and also picked his favorite
MotoGP battles….
The Crash Page: Steve McLaughlin, Upside Down In 1976
2026 Racing, School & Track Day Calendar: Where & When To Ride
Classified Ads/Advertiser Index
High Performance Parts & Services Directory
Chris Ulrich’s Adventures Of An Ex-Racer: Headed to Daytona
Marco Bezzecchi won the MotoGP race at Buriram. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
More from a press release issued by Aprilia Racing:
Marco Bezzecchi and Aprilia Racing dominate Buriram season opener race.
The first full-length race of the 2026 season at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand concluded with two Aprilia Racing riders on the podium. Starting from pole position, Marco Bezzecchi ran a solid race, maintaining the lead from the first corner to the chequered flag and claiming his first victory at the Thai circuit. This marks the Italian rider’s third consecutive Grand Prix win (Portimão, Valencia and Buriram). It is also his fourth victory in a full-length race in the top class with Aprilia, an all-time record. It was also a good day for Jorge Martín, who was in contention for the podium for much of the race and finished fourth at the flag, equalling his best result with Aprilia Racing in a full-length race.
The Trackhouse MotoGP Team riders also delivered an excellent performance. Raúl Fernández claimed third place in the full-length race, his second podium of the weekend after the sprint, while Ai Ogura completed a spectacular charge from further back to finish fifth, bringing four Aprilias into the top five.
Marco Bezzecchi at Buriram. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
MARCO BEZZECCHI: “After the mistake in the sprint, it was important to stay calm and bounce back. The victory in Buriram is a very pleasing result. We worked well in testing, so it was crucial to confirm our form over the race weekend as well – something we were unable to do last year, despite a good test here. In the race, I tried to give it my all without making mistakes, so I’m very pleased with this victory.”
Jorge Martin at Buriram. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
JORGE MARTÍN: “A few months ago, I couldn’t even feed myself, and today I finished the race in fourth position. I’m very happy and very grateful to the people who supported and helped me. It has been a winter of great mental preparation to feel ready and to believe in what I’m doing. Today I didn’t have high expectations, but from the very start I felt comfortable and was able to battle with Marc and Pedro.”
MASSIMO RIVOLA: “It’s great to see Marco pick up from where he finished last year. The dominance of this weekend may seem unusual, but if there is one thing I firmly believe in, it is the work of the Factory in Noale, and I have no doubt that the talent and determination of our riders will continue to come through strongly. However, it’s only the first race, and our competitors won’t sit back and watch. Marc remains the favourite, but Aprilia is right there.”
More from a press release issued by KTM Factory Racing:
Sizzling 2nd place for Acosta at Thai MotoGP as Red Bull KTM lead the World Championship.
Red Bull KTM kicked off their tenth season of MotoGP Grand Prix racing through the demanding Thai heat with Pedro Acosta earning a brilliant runner-up result. 91,455 spectators on-site watched the opening chapter of the 22-round series where the team and brand walked away as world championship leaders for the first time.
Highlights and key moments from race day at the Chang International Circuit:
Pedro Acosta adds a confident runner-up Grand Prix finish to his Sprint victory from Saturday to lead MotoGP by seven points
Brad Binder is the next highest classifier on the KTM RC16 at Buriram with P7 through difficult conditions for the machinery and the tires
Valentin Perrone walks the Moto3™ podium with 3rd place on the Red Bull KTM Tech3 RC4 as Alvaro Carpe finishes a close 4th for Red Bull KTM Ajo
Pedro Acosta on the podium at Buriram. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM.
Scorching sunshine, sticky air and high temperatures created a typically draining Thai Grand Prix in the city of Buriram. 2026 marked the second year in a row that MotoGP launched at the packed Chang International Circuit, 300km north of Bangkok. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Red Bull KTM Tech3 started from qualifying slots on the second, third, sixth and seventh rows of the grid.
Pedro Acosta began the 26-lap chase from P6 and with his confidence high, less than 24 hours after he grabbed victory in the Saturday Sprint. The Spaniard had to work his way past two riders to reach 3rd place and then hunted P2 in what was an eye-catching display of overtaking and tire management. Pedro ended the weekend with 1-2 scores and 32 points to sit at the top of the standings. He now has four podiums from the last six rounds of MotoGP, stretching back to Indonesia 2025.
Brad Binder was busy in a close second group where the South African had to sustain grip and be cautious of tire pressures. Brad kept a solid pace to improve on his 2025 position in Thailand thanks to his P7. He occupies P6 in the early championship table. Enea Bastianini persevered for the race duration and used his skill in administering the best traction from the tire/set-up package to make his way from P19 on the grid to P12. Maverick Viñales had a tough first lap when he ran wide into Turn 12 but he also completed the distance and arrived back to the box with P16.
Round two will venture to Brazilian shores for the first time since 2004. The Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna in Goiania will be the scene for the next episode of MotoGP on March 20-22.
Brad Binder at Buriram. Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM.
Pedro Acosta, 2nd and 1st in the championship:“We’re not only leading the world championship for a day! The team is working super-good. We struggled so much here last year and this time we made back-to-back podiums. We have to be happy. Thanks to all at KTM; all the people back there must have been pushing for us in the early morning. Thanks to everyone at home who has been supporting me. We made good.”
Brad Binder, 7th and 6th in the championship: “Happy on one hand but on the other I’d like more than a 7th. We’re going step-by-step and moving forwards because it was good to be in Q2 directly on Friday and both races were pretty good. We’ve made a step with consistency. Today was a lot more challenging than the Sprint. The bike clearly has the potential, so we’ll keep working and try to catch up to Pedro.”
Aki Ajo, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager: “A win and a podium this weekend means we have to be very happy with the work, both by the team and the riders but also the factory after a busy winter. We made an obvious improvement from 2025. This race can be difficult for a few factors and I think we approached the weekend in the right way and showed some good early potential. Of course, there is still work to do and we can see the results for all four riders were quite different but this is the first GP of a long championship. Congratulations to Pedro, it is really good to begin the season with this positive feeling.”
More from a press release issued by Pertamino Enduro VR46 Racing Team:
Double Top10 for the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team in Thailand GP. Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli finish Sunday’s race at Buriram in sixth and eighth place respectively.
The Thailand GP is in the history books, and it marks the end of the first race weekend of the 2026 campaign: in challenging conditions due to the extreme heat in Sunday’s race, the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team secured a double Top10 with Fabio Di Giannantonio, who is sixth at the finish line, and Franco Morbidelli, who had a comeback riding and ended in eighth place.
Starting from second row, Di Giannantonio immediately tried to join the podium battle. From the first laps, the heat put Fabio and his Ducati to the test, but they defended strongly, showing consistency despite the challenging conditions. The rider from Rome arrived at the finish line of the Thailand GP in sixth place – best Ducati rider at the chequered flag – and he now sits in seventh place in the World Standing with 12 points.
It was a comeback Sunday for Morbidelli, who started from the third row but was in nineteenth place at lap five. Despite the extreme heat, Franco showed a good speed and a strong pace, gaining many positions lap by lap. The Italian-Brazilian rider, with a decisive overtake in the final stage of the race, secured the eighth place in the Thailand GP and he now sits in ninth place in the World Standing with 8 points.
The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team is back on track in two weeks, when the MotoGP World Championship flies to America for the Brazilian GP, which is going to take place from 20th to 22nd March at Goiana Circuit for the first time ever.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (49) at Buriram. Photo courtesy VR46 Team.
FABIO DI GIANNANTONIO: “The race plan was to start strong and immediately stay in the front group. Unfortunately, we struggled because the others had an incredibly fast start. So we had to manage the tyres. Then, we had a technical issue from lap six and I couldn’t push the way I wanted. On top of that, there was very little grip on track today and the temperatures were really high. But if we finished sixth despite a problem, we can be optimistic, because today we could have had a really great race. I think we could have fought at least for third place because we were there in terms of pace. Overall, the bike is working very well: it’s only the first race, there are many positives, and I’ve never prepared for a season this well. We’ve worked with calm and confidence. We’re very fast and we had a solid weekend. It’s a pity we couldn’t complete the job with two strong races, but we head to Brazil with a smile and the confidence that we can be competitive.”
Franco Morbidelli (21) at Buriram. Photo courtesy VR46 Team.
FRANCO MORBIDELLI: “Today it felt like there were two races for us: at the start I struggled a lot, and I was nineteenth until lap five. Then I found my rhythm and started gaining many positions. I’d say the first part of the race wasn’t good, but after that it became very strong and solid. I had a bit of a grip issue. In this race the tyres were consuming quickly and the feeling wasn’t at its best, but I managed it well. Overall, it was a weekend of ups and downs. There are some aspects of the new package we still need to work on in depth. But there’s definitely a very good potential.”
PABLO NIETO: “I think it’s important to always be among the protagonists. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to be there in the Sprint on Saturday, but that’s racing. Today’s race was really tough – the temperatures and the heat put us to the test. We finished sixth with Fabio and eighth with Franco, which means we had a good weekend. Franco made an incredible comeback: at one point he was nineteenth, but he finished eighth. That shows the speed is there. We need to try to improve the opening laps. Now we go back home to recharge and work ahead of the next race in Brazil.”
More from a press release issued by Ducati Lenovo:
Ninth-place finish for Francesco Bagnaia and the Ducati Lenovo Team in the Grand Prix of Thailand. Marc Márquez forced to retire while battling for the podium.
The Ducati Lenovo Team completed the opening Grand Prix of the season at the Chang International Circuit: Francesco Bagnaia was ninth at the flag, while Marc Márquez had to retire from the encounter with six laps remaining.
Bagnaia made up four positions in the first two laps, before moving up to seventh place in the closing stages and then finishing ninth. Following a good start from the front row of the grid, Márquez battled for the podium until lap twenty-one, when an impact with a kerb led to the deformation of the rear rim, which in turn caused the tyre to lose pressure.
As the Grand Prix of Thailand draws to a close, Marc Márquez is eighth in the championship standings with nine points. Francesco Bagnaia is tenth, one point behind his teammate. The Ducati Lenovo Team is fifth in the teams’ standings (17 points), while Ducati is third in the constructors’ championship (19 points).
The Ducati Lenovo Team will be back in action on March 20th for the first day of action of the Estrella Galicia 0,0 Grand Prix of Brazil, at the Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna.
Francesco Bagnaia (63) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Francesco Bagnaia (#63 Ducati Lenovo Team) – 9th: “It was a tough race. I tried to manage the situation from the beginning, without pushing, in order to get to the end of the race with the best possible grip conditions. In the final laps, when I got closer to the group ahead of me, I started to feel the drop in grip. This weekend, unlike in testing, I had a hard time getting the bike stopped and making it turn the way I would have liked. We need to roll up our sleeves to get back to the front, but I think this race was a bit of a one-off.”
Marc Marquez (93) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Marc Márquez (#93 Ducati Lenovo Team) – DNF: “It’s true that other riders, even in testing, had jumped the kerb in that spot and nothing happened. I ran wide at turn four, but when I ran over the kerb I felt a strong impact and that the tyre had deflated due to the rim breaking. It was an unfortunate incident, as I was managing the situation. I knew it would have been a long race and my approach was therefore a conservative one, but in the end I saw that I was getting closer to the podium, so I tried to attack. Unfortunately, these things can happen, but we know we’re already at a good level.”
More from a press release issued by Honda HRC:
Marini puts Honda in top ten as misfortune strikes promising Mir.
A demanding start to the season in what is already looking to be one of the hottest races of the year, Luca Marini opening his 2026 points account with tenth while heartbreak struck Joan Mir as he battled tooth and claw for a fantastic fifth.
Joan Mir (left) and Luca Marini (right) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
The 2026 MotoGP World Championship season officially began with the 26-lap Thai Grand Prix, a physically demanding affair as temperatures approached 40°C. Undeterred and unphased, the Honda HRC Castrol duo shot off the line when the lights went out and immediately began their battle.
From 14th on the grid, Luca Marini made a near perfect start to immediately close in on his teammate and charging into the top ten. Battling for the majority of the race with the likes of Bagnaia, Binder and Ogura, the Italian paid special attention to managing his tyres in the critical ambient temperatures of the day. Picking up where he left off in 2025, Luca Marini crossed the line in tenth – leading the remaining Honda trio and sitting as the lead Honda RC213V rider in the World Championship, 11th with six points.
Joan Mir authored an incredible race, starting strongly and quickly catching the group battling for third position. His confidence was easy to see as he demonstrated his unrivalled ability on the brakes, a particularly spectacular move on Fabio Di Giannantonio promoting him to fifth. Unfortunately, disaster would strike and the 2020 MotoGP World Champion was forced to retire through no fault of his own. He leaves Thailand in 15th place overall with three points.
New frontiers are waiting at round two as the MotoGP World Championship makes a welcome return to Brazil. The Autodromo Internacional de Goiania – Aryton Senna hosting round two, a brand-new circuit for the entire grid. In 2025, Luca Marini briefly lapped on a road bike and highlighted the high speed and exciting nature of the track.
Luca Marini (10) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
Luca Marini:“I think the race was tough for everyone, not so much from the temperature and the physical side because this is what we train for, but you really had to manage everything with the bike to arrive to the end. After four laps we weren’t able to brake as we’d like, which made the race very long as that is our strongest point normally. I made a really good start but then lost three positions on the straight quite soon after. Everyone from about fifth to 14th has a very similar pace, so if you miss something in Qualifying or early in the race you spend a lot of time catching up. But a good way to start the year, we learned a lot and know what we have to do next.”
Joan Mir (36) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
Joan Mir:“A real shame what happened today. I really enjoyed the race, I was riding really well and making some great overtakes. Then something happened which was not in our control and our race finished. We have to check properly what happened. We have to focus on the positives that we have done this race weekend and bring it to Brazil. Normally at new tracks we can be strong, I think I am a quick learner, so we will try and take advantage of that. Focusing on the positives, we showed our speed and the progress Honda have made.”
More from a press release issued by Castrol Honda LCR:
Castrol Honda LCR rider Johann Zarco secured 11th place on Sunday in Buriram.
Facing extremely hot temperatures and a demanding 26-lap race, Zarco made a strong start and consistently maintained his pace throughout.
The Frenchman executed a smart and measured strategy, carefully managing all the variables, as tyre degradation and extreme heat proved to be decisive factors.
Ultimately, despite significant tyre drop-off, Zarco kept the situation under control and crossed the line in 11th position, collecting valuable points in the opening race of the season.
Johann Zarco (5) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Castrol Honda LCR.
Johann Zarco – 11th:“I’m happy to finish the race and take some points, it’s a good way to start the championship. We still have many races to go, but starting the season with this level of control is positive. I tried to manage the situation from the beginning and did my best considering the huge tyre drop. I managed to bring it to a close because if I had pushed harder, I probably wouldn’t have finished. I believe in the work we’re doing, the bike is performing well, we have a good base, and we just need to adjust a few small things”.
More from a press release issued by Red Bull KTM Tech3:
The 2026 MotoGP™ World Championship kicked off in spectacular style at the Chang International Circuit, Buriram, where a record number of Thai fans created an electric atmosphere for the opening round of the season.
Under extreme heat on Sunday, the premier class lined up for the first Grand Prix of the year, ready to take on 26 demanding laps in front of over 91,000 attendees.
Starting from 20th on the grid, Enea Bastianini faced an early setback, losing a position on the opening lap. By the fourth lap, however, the Italian had recovered to 18th and began building momentum.
By the eighth lap, Bastianini was already up to 16th, and a couple of decisive overtakes soon followed as he continued carving his way through the field. With three riders retiring ahead, the #23 rider capitalised fully, jumping up to 12th and firmly placing himself back in the fight after a challenging start to the weekend.
On the other side of the garage, Maverick Viñales held firm in 17th on the opening lap but then lost ground on the straight heading into the next, dropping the Spaniard further down the order.
Struggling for grip and rhythm in the early stages, Viñales found himself down in 21st. Gradually, Top Gun climbed the order as the Marquez brothers and Joan Mir left the action. Finally, a well-executed overtake later in the race secured 16th, just shy of the points, rewarding Viñales’ persistence despite a difficult race.
Next up on the calendar is the Grand Prix of Brazil at the Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna (20-22 March), as the 2026 campaign continues its global journey.
Enea Bastianini (23) and Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Tech3.
Enea Bastianini:“It was a difficult race, but we made a small step forward compared to the previous race. The feeling was similar to last year, even if the result was not as strong. In the final laps I was able to manage things quite well and gain some positions, which was encouraging. We’re still working on improving stability and overall feeling, but I’m confident we can make another step soon.”
Maverick Viñales (12) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Tech3.
Maverick Viñales: “It was a challenging race for us. We’re missing some front grip, especially through the corners, which makes it difficult to be consistent and carry the speed we need. On the straight we’re competitive, but we’re not able to maximise the potential when it matters most.We tried different things across the weekend and now it’s about analysing the data to understand where we can improve and how to generate more feeling from the front. The potential is there, so we need to stay focused, respond well and come back stronger at the next round.”
Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager:“Clearly, this opening round in Thailand is a disappointment for Red Bull KTM Tech3. It’s not the result we were aiming for, and we have to take that honestly. Now it’s important that we sit down together, analyse what didn’t work as expected this weekend, and understand where we need to improve.We can see the potential of the package, which makes it even more important for us to find answers quickly. We have two weeks before Brazil, and our focus is to use that time constructively, come back stronger, and ensure we’re fighting where we belong.”
More from a press release issued by Pro Honda LCR:
Pro Honda LCR rider Diogo Moreira finished 13th on Sunday in Buriram.
Following a positive Sprint on Saturday, Brazilian Diogo Moreira approached the Sunday race fully committed to maximize his performance.
The rider got off to a strong start and consistently positioned himself in the battle for points.
He acknowledged feeling the effects of significant tyre drop, which limited his ability to push further, but he rode cleanly and crossed the line in 13th, scoring points in his first-ever MotoGP Sunday race. Well done, Diogo!
Diogo Moreira (11) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pro Honda LCR.
Diogo Moreira – 13th: “It was a good race, I’m super happy. I fought with Enea, and it was fun. The tyre dropped off quite a lot, so I struggled a bit, but overall it was really good. At some point I was alone pushing, because after 12 laps, the tyre degradation was significant, but it was still a positive race for me. We’ve started the season with high motivation, and this is a learning process. I can’t wait to do more races, I’ve had so much fun this weekend!”
More from a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:
Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Push On in Blistering Hot Buriram Race.
The Grand Prix of Thailand in sweltering heat proved a tricky season opener for Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP. Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins completed the 26-lap MotoGP Race in 14th and 15th place respectively.
The incredibly hot 26-lap Grand Prix of Thailand MotoGP Race was a tough outing, but Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins persevered and found themselves in P14 and P15 at the chequered flag.
Quartararo launched from P16 and made up a position on the opening lap. Unable to make further inroads, he came under pressure from Franco Morbidelli and Enea Bastianini and dropped to 17th place on lap 10. With three late DNFs for rivals, El Diablo ultimately held 14th position over the finish line.
Rins started from P18 and completed lap 1 in P16 behind Quartararo. He mainly rode amongst his fellow Yamaha riders during the 26-lap contest and was in P18 when he too benefitted from some late misfortunes of rivals. He held 15th place at the chequered flag.
Today’s race results put Quartararo in 16th place in the championship standings with 2 points. Rins is in 17th place with 1 point. Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP are in 9th position in the team classifications with 3 points, and Yamaha is fifth in the contructor rankings with 2 points.
The team will enjoy two weeks off before travelling to Brazil for Round 2, held at the Autódromo Internacional de Goiânia – Ayrton Senna from 20-22 March.
Fabio Quartararo (20) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Fabio Quartararo:“It was a tough race, but a bit of what we expected. Hopefully in Brazil we will feel better with the bike.”
Alex Rins (42) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Alex Rins:“It was a really tough race, and it was very difficult to manage the tyres. I gave my 100% on every lap. We leave Thailand after preseason testing and the race weekend with some good conclusions. Let’s keep going, and let’s keep growing this project, and I’m looking forward to Brazil.”
Massimo Meregalli:“As expected, today’s Race was hugely challenging for us. The heat and humidity made the 26 laps a real test of endurance and an important benchmark for this brand new project. It’s still early on in the timeline, but we are getting to know the bike better lap by lap, learning about every aspect. On top of this, this type of circuit and the construction of the tyres usually assigned to us in very hot conditions made everything more difficult. There’s not much more to say right now except that we will study all the data we were able to gather this weekend to see if we can prepare a bit better for the next GP.”
More from a press release issued by Prima Pramac Yamaha:
Opening round in Buriram proves a struggle for Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP Team.
In extremely hot conditions at the opening round of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship in Buriram, Jack Miller and Toprak Razgatlıoğlu faced a demanding race, with both riders and their machinery appearing to suffer more from the heat and tyre drop than their direct competitors.
In the first full race for the 2026 Yamaha YZR-M1 machine, powered by the new V4 engine, Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP riders battled extreme heat and tyre management issues in demanding conditions.
Despite crossing the line disappointed with their final positions, both Razgatlıoğlu and Miller remain focused on analysing the valuable data collected and continuing the development of the new package.
The attention now shifts to the Brazilian Grand Prix, where the team aims to start fresh with renewed motivation and build on the lessons learned in Buriram.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu (07) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: “It was my first full race in MotoGP and, of course, I was hoping for a better result. But it was a long and very demanding race — 26 laps in that kind of heat is physically tough. We had some clear issues with rear grip, especially as the race went on, but I‘m not looking to put the blame anywhere else. I know I still have a lot to learn, and at the same time we know Yamaha is working hard to improve the package. Grip was quite limited throughout the race, and it seemed to be a common situation for all Yamaha riders, as we were running close together. Now we focus on the next race. I know I will give my best, and I know the whole team will do the same.”
Jack Miller (43) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha.
Jack Miller:“Obviously it wasn‘t the race we were hoping for. Overall, the bike itself didn‘t feel bad over the distance and physically I felt fine, but from the very beginning I understood we had an issue with the rear tyre. I tried to manage it as best as I could — short-shifting, being smooth, waiting to pick the bike up on the exits — but as the laps went on it became more and more difficult. In the end the tyre was completely worn in the centre and on the straights I couldn‘t use more than about a quarter throttle. It was a tough situation to manage. Still, it was our first full race with the V4. It didn‘t go the way we wanted, but the important thing is that all four bikes finished and we gathered a lot of information. It‘s a base to build from, and there‘s plenty of room to improve as we head to Brazil.”
Gino Borsoi: “We knew Sunday was going to be difficult. During the tests we already struggled, and that was confirmed again in the race. On the positive side, the Sprint showed that we are capable of maintaining a fairly competitive rhythm, so that‘s something we can build on. Today the main issue was the high temperature, which affected everyone, but it seemed to impact us a little more. We have to accept that this is our starting point. We‘re confident that we can improve from here as we move into the next races.”
More from a press release issued by BK8 Gresini:
Thailand to forget.
RACEDAY
ALEX MARQUEZ DNF
MICHELE PIRRO 19º
Alex Marquez (73) at Buriram. Photo courtesy BK8 Gresini.
ALEX MÁRQUEZ: “Starting from the third row didn’t help us, but it was still a race of management until the crash. The others have definitely improved, but we need to keep working and stay calm. My race was about staying behind Mir at a distance so as not to overheat the front tire, with no real chance to overtake. The crash came when I tried to push a bit more; I didn’t have any feeling with the front end and I lost it with a small mistake.”
Michele Pirro (51) at Buriram. Photo courtesy BK8 Gresini.
MICHELE PIRRO: “I’m a bit disappointed, I thought I could do better by putting together all the pieces of the puzzle from these past few days. Instead, from the start of the race I immediately felt uncomfortable with the tires, a feeling I hadn’t had all weekend. I tried to manage the tire, but it was quite strange. I’m sorry because I wanted a bit more consistency. I gave it my all, and I want to thank Nadia and the whole group for the trust they’ve shown me over these days.”
Steve Sargent, Chief Product Officer, Triumph Motorcycles and Alfonso Cartujo, MotoGP Sporting Director. Photo courtesy Triumph.
Triumph unveils the Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike for 2026 at the opening round of Moto2™ in Thailand; the #001 Triumph Street Triple Moto2™ Edition with a bespoke yoke engraving.
• Fans can vote for their favorite rider each round and enter a free prize draw to win their own #765 Triumph Street Triple Moto2™ Edition with a matching engraving.
• In preparation for the 2027 season, Triumph will begin testing 100% nonfossil fuels in the Moto2TM engines, assessing performance and durability.
On the eve of the opening Grand Prix of the 2026 MotoGP™ season, Triumph Motorcycles and MotoGP have pulled the covers off two exclusive Limited Edition prize bikes that will be awarded through year’s Triumph Triple Trophy competition.
The #001 Triumph Street Triple 765 Moto2™ Edition model will be awarded to the rider who delivers the most stand-out performances in Moto2 this season, as voted for by the fans. In addition, one lucky Triumph and Moto2™ fan will win the #765 model in a free prize draw for the 2026 season. With only 1,000 motorcycles being produced worldwide, the Moto2™ Edition features carbon fiber components, and these two bikes will feature an individually numbered and personalized billet-machined top yoke, making this prize even more exclusive.
At the official press conference at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent also outlined the next steps in Triumph’s sustainable fuel development program, ahead of the 2027 Moto2™ season when, regulations will mandate the use of 100% non-fossil fuels. Following successful durability testing with 40% non-fossil fuels last year, Triumph has now completed the majority of engine mapping and optimization work required to begin the next phase of testing. Throughout this year, Triumph and Moto2™ will evaluate samples of 100% non-fossil fuels for both performance and durability.
Steve Sargent, Chief Product Officer, Triumph Motorcycles and Alfonso Cartujo, MotoGP Sporting Director. Photo courtesy Triumph.
Steve Sargent, Chief Product Officer, Triumph Motorcycles said: “Powering the Moto2™ World Championship over the past seven years has been a journey. From the first race in Qatar in 2019, we haven’t stopped working to develop the Moto2™ project. Together, we have completed 1,781,698 kms in the Moto2™ World Championship and all that mileage helps us to develop and introduce updates to further benefit on-track performance. Alongside improving performance, we are also committed to supporting the development of a sustainable future for motorcycling and motorcycle sport. So, as the championship moves toward 100% non-fossil fuels, we will be using samples of 100% non-fossil fuels to test performance and durability during this season.”
Sargent continued, “The Triumph Triple Trophy competition is also proving to be increasingly popular with fans and riders. With a record number of votes last year and thousands of fans entering the competition from around the world, we wanted to create a Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike that was another step closer to the Moto2™ World Championship machine. That’s why we’re giving riders and fans the chance to win a highly exclusive Moto2TM Limited Edition Street Triple 765. Customized with specially engraved yokes, the riders will be fighting on the track for the #001 motorcycle, while the fans will be entering for their chance to take home the #765 model.”
Alfonso Cartujo, MotoGP Sporting Director: “The Triumph Triple Trophy is a great way to connect with fans around the world, and it makes sure they feel part of the competition. Moto2™ continues to deliver exciting action, and we know that 2026 will be no different. It was amazing to see so many fans engage with the 2025 season, and congratulations to Mr. Ma from China who took home their own Triumph Triple Trophy bike. This year, it’s exciting to see these Moto2™ Edition models selected as the grand prize which makes the 2026 Triumph Triple Trophy even more special for the riders and fans to be involved in.”
Triumph Triple Trophy victor and 2025 Moto2 World Champion Diogo Moreira with his Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike. Photo courtesy Triumph.
RECOGNIZING STANDOUT PERFORMANCES SINCE 2020
Running alongside the Moto2™ World Championship, the Triumph Triple Trophy has celebrated standout performances since 2020, recognizing that there are more success stories during a Grand Prix weekend than just the race win. The inaugural Triumph Triple Trophy was won by Marco Bezzecchi in 2020, with Raul Fernandez in 2021, Jeremy Alcoba in 2022, Pedro Acosta in 2023, Ai Ogura in 2024, and Diogo Moreira in 2025 adding their names to the winners list.
Moreira, who was also crowned the Moto2™ World Champion, earned the most fan votes during the 2025 season and was declared the Triumph Triple Trophy winner after securing the decisive votes in the penultimate round at Portimão. He collected his Street Triple 765 RS the following week in Valencia.
Steve Sargent, Chief Product Officer, Triumph Motorcycles and the Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike for 2026. Photo courtesy Triumph.
FINDING THE TRIUMPH TRIPLE TROPHY WINNER
On the Sunday of each Grand Prix weekend, three Moto2™ riders will be shortlisted by a judging panel made up of representatives from MotoGP and Triumph for their standout performances on track. Fans can then vote for their chosen rider through the official MotoGP™ Instagram channel, and each rider will receive points based on the number of votes cast.
In reference to Triumph’s 765cc engine, points at each GP are awarded as follows:
• 7 points for the rider with the most fan votes
• 6 points for the rider with the second most fan votes
• 5 points for the rider with the third most fan votes
Once voting closes, the final order of the three shortlisted riders is confirmed, and the leaderboard is updated after each round.
For the second year in a row, fans can also register to win their own Triumph Triple Trophy motorcycle through a free prize draw on the Triumph Motorcycles website. A simple entry form provides the chance to win, and last year the prize was awarded to a fan in China.
The 2026 Triumph Triple Trophy begins on Sunday, March 1, following the season opener at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, when the competition goes live and fans can vote and enter for the first time this season.
Triumph Triple Trophy prize bike for 2026. Photo courtesy Triumph.
TWO WINNERS, TWO PERSONALIZED MOTORCYCLES
The two winners will each receive a highly exclusive Street Triple Moto2™ Edition, featuring the 765cc triple engine derived from the Moto2™ race platform. The #001 motorcycle is reserved for the winning Moto2™ rider, while number 765 will be presented to a fan at the end of the season.
This circuit-bred model includes premium race-inspired details such as carbon fiber side panels, a carbon fiber front mudguard, belly pan, and a carbon fiber silencer end cap that delivers a lightweight, high-tech finish. It features a bold Moto2™-embossed seat with a dimpled pattern for improved grip, a clear-lens rear light, and a laser-etched Moto2™ logo on the silencer. The striking Mineral Grey and Crystal White color scheme is paired with a vibrant Triumph Performance Yellow rear subframe and a matching rear wheel stripe for a distinctive race-bred look.
Each bike is individually numbered on a billet-machined top yoke, which also carries Moto2™ branding, positioned alongside a TFT display featuring a Moto2™ branded start-up screen. This will be enhanced with a personalized engraving and Triumph Triple Trophy branding, reinforcing its unique, limitededition status and collector appeal.
Follow to vote for your favorite rider and enter the free prize draw for a chance to win the Triumph Triple Trophy 2026 motorcycle.
Find out more about Triumph’s Street Triple 765 RS, RX and Moto2 Edition at triumphmotorcycles.com.
Bodie Paige (12) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Bodie Paige's social media.
In the second race of the Moto4 Asia Cup at the PT Grand Prix of Thailand, 15-year-old MotoAmerica Twins Cup racer Bodie Paige finished 9th, taking the checkered flag 3.419 seconds behind the race winner.
Bodie Paige at Buriram. Photo courtesy Bodie Paige’s social media.
His 14-year-old younger brother Jake Paige, who will be racing in MotoAmerica Talent Cup this season, crossed the finish line 17th, ending the race 31.587 seconds off the lead at Chang International Circuit.
Jake Paige at Buriram. Photo courtesy Jake Paige’s social media.
Bodie Paige is currently 12th in the Moto4 Asia Cup Championship standings with 11 points after the Thailand round, while Jake Paige is 20th overall with 0 points.
More from a press release issued by Idemitsu Moto4 Asia Cup:
Chishiki doubles up as podium fight goes to final corner. The Japanese star makes it two wins from two in Buriram as Irfan and Togashi clinch maiden podiums in the class.
Hayato Chishiki claimed a maximum 50 points from the opening weekend of Idemitsu Moto4 Asia Cup action in Thailand thanks to his classy Race 2 victory on Sunday morning. The Japanese rider rode clear of the chasers to earn a second win in the class by over two seconds, as Qabil Irfan and Kotaro Togashi clinched their first podiums in P2 and P3.
In the latter stages of the 15-lap race, Chishiki pulled the pin at the front and unlike in Race 1 where Waku Kunitate went with the #16, no one was able to tag onto the back of the eventual race winner. However, the fight for the final podium spots went right down to the wire. Irfan eventually won that particular battle by 0.127s over Togashi, as both the Malaysian and Japanese rising stars celebrate their first Moto4 Asia Cup rostrums.
Kunitate ended Race 2 in P4 to collect a good haul of points from Round 1, while Bintang Pranata eventually settled for P5 after the Indonesian was demoted one position after the chequered flag for irresponsible riding on the final lap.
What a start to the season then in Thailand! Next up, we rejoin the MotoGP paddock at the Qatar Grand Prix in April for Round 2, where we can expect more of the same epic racing.
Want to watch the Idemitsu Moto4 Asia Cup race 2 ? Click HERE !
The most unique setting in Monster Energy Supercross welcomed a
massive crowd to the high banks of Daytona International Speedway
for the 56th running of the Daytona Supercross. Photo courtesy SMX
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – It was a historic night inside The World Center of Racing for Round 8 of the 2026 Monster Energy SMX World Championship, as Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac cemented his place atop the all-time greatest racers at Daytona International Speedway with a record breaking eighth Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship win at the iconic venue. The Colorado native broke a three-year tie with NASCAR legend Richard Petty, owner of seven Daytona 500 victories, to become the most decorated athlete of the speedway’s celebrated 67-year history.
Eli Tomac Becomes Most Decorated Racer in Daytona International Speedway History with Eighth Monster Energy Supercross Victory at Iconic Venue.
It wasn’t an easy path to victory for Tomac, as he began the 450SMX Class Main Event in fourth, behind each of his primary competitors in the championship. Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence, last week’s winner and current points leader, opened the 20 Minute + 1 Lap race with the holeshot, but was quickly passed by Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb, the defending series champion, slotted into third ahead of Tomac, which set the stage for a thrilling battle between the best in the class. As Roczen and Lawrence settled in out front, Tomac started his pursuit of the lead with an early pass on Webb for third. The top three continuously searched for faster lines on the ever-changing rutty, technical, sandy racetrack and sat within 1.5 seconds of one another with around 14 minutes remaining.
As the race approached the halfway point Tomac elected to make his push and took advantage of a couple sections on the track where he excelled to attack his rivals. He first made an assertive pass on Lawrence for second and on the ensuing lap railed the outside of an option lane to shoot past Roczen as they sprinted to the finish line jump. Tomac seized control of the lead with about 12:30 left on the race clock and quickly opened up a multi-second margin. Roczen held strong in second until the race closed in on the final five minutes, when Lawrence’s patience and persistence paid off and allowed the Australian to take over second. About three seconds separated Tomac from Lawrence, but the championship leader was unable to make significant inroads on his deficit as the race drew to a close.
Tomac was never challenged once he moved into the lead and carried on to take his fourth win of the season and the 57th victory of his career by 1.3 seconds over Lawrence. Roczen finished in a distant third while Webb was largely on his own en route to fourth, with Quad Lock Honda’s Joey Savatgy in fifth.
Tomac closed to within a single point of Lawrence in the championship standings, while Roczen and Webb now sit tied for third, 20 points out of the lead.
The fourth win of the season for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac made him one of the most transcendent figures in motorsports history at Daytona with eight victories at the iconic speedway. Photo courtesy SMX
Eli Tomac – 1st Place – 450SMX Class:
“[The wins] are all awesome, but somehow, I’ve won eight of these. I don’t want to think about how old I am. I just go out there and roost the berms like I’m at my home track [in Colorado]. I love this dirt and just love how this track develops. Of course, I had to work for it there and went through all my main competition. I just had a great time on my motorcycle and happy to make up points this weekend.”
Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence maintained his hold of the championship points lead with his fifth runner-up finish of the season. Photo courtesy SMX
Hunter Lawrence – 2nd Place – 450SMX Class:
“It was a tough [Main Event] on a really tough track. I was figuring out where to compensate with the bike and it just took me too long to do that. In the end I was kind of making it work, but it was too late and Eli [Tomac] got his eighth win here. I really wanted to stop that tonight, but I couldn’t make up the difference.”
Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen led early on for the second week in a row and recorded his fifth podium result of the year. Photo courtesy SMX
Ken Roczen – 3rd Place – 450SMX Class:
“I gave it my best out there and led for a bunch. I had a really good start too and in the Main Event that really counts. I was searching a little bit in the beginning, it was a tricky track and a lot faster than what we’ve seen the past few years here. Once I got passed, I knew those guys were maybe a little bit faster, so I tried to hang on and follow some lines. I was right there until the end and just got messed up by some lappers and those guys got away a little bit. I just wasn’t the best tonight, but I’m happy with a podium.”
450SMX Class Podium (left to right) Hunter Lawrence, Eli Tomac, and Ken Roczen. Photo courtesy SMX
Seth Hammaker Goes Wire-to-Wire for Dominant 250SMX Class Win
The second race of the Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Championship featured an impressive showing from Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker, who entered the night show banged up from a hard crash in afternoon qualifying. The Pennsylvania native was able to secure the holeshot over Honda HRC Progressive’s Jo Shimoda and established a firm grasp on the lead from the outset of the 15 Minute + 1 Lap Main Event. Behind them was Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Nate Thrasher, Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Drew Adams, and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Pierce Brown, the opening round winner and points leader.
As Hammaker and Shimoda asserted themselves out front, Adams continued what was turning into a breakout night with a pass for third. Behind them, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies was making moves as the fastest rider on the track. The New Zealander made an impressive climb from ninth off the start to pass both his teammates and move into fourth. He then set his sights on Adams and successfully made the pass for third with six minutes to go. Not long after that Adams crashed out of the race, which allowed Brown to assume fourth.
With just over a minute remaining Shimoda went down in the sand section as he simultaneously looked to close in on Hammaker and fend off Davies. The defending SMX World Champion remounted quickly, but not before Davies and Brown got by for second and third. Hammaker completed a dominant wire-to-wire effort by a margin of 4.2 seconds over Davies, while Brown rounded out the podium. Shimoda was forced to settle for fourth, with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Daxton Bennick in fifth.
Hammaker’s fourth career win ended a reign of dominance for the Star Yamaha effort, which had won every 250SMX Class race of the season up to that point. The Kawasaki rider’s victory moved him into second in the Eastern Divisional standings, where he is now two points behind Brown for the lead. Shimoda dropped to third, five points back.
Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Seth Hammaker dominated the Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Main Event with a wire-to-wire performance. Photo courtesy SMX
Seth Hammaker – 1st Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“It feels unreal [to win at Daytona]. I had a big crash in qualifying, and I feel like it really tests you mentally how you come back from that. I’m proud of the effort tonight and the team crushed it. It’s super cool to get a win at Daytona. It’s an unreal feeling. Really good to get this win and keep the momentum rolling.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cole Davies (37) made an impressive climb from ninth to second for his first podium finish of the season. Photo courtesy SMX.
Cole Davies – 2nd Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“They didn’t prep the gates all day, so I didn’t get good traction out the gate and was buried off the start. It was a good comeback. I did what I could. I wanted that win, but still a good ride.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Pierce Brown maintained his hold of the points lead with a third-place effort. Photo courtesy SMX.
Pierce Brown – 3rd Place – Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class:
“It was a battle. Not the best start. I took a gamble with my gate, and we chose the wrong one. It happens. We battled and were there late when other riders made mistakes to salvage a third. I can’t be too mad about it. We’re in good shape [in points] and will keep doing our thing.”
Eastern Divisional 250SMX Class Podium (left to right) Cole Davies, Seth Hammaker, and Pierce Brown. Photo courtesy SMX
Daytona also signified the third race of SMX Next – Supercross, which featured 22 of the top A and B class prospects in amateur motocross. Two different winners stood atop the podium through the first two races and that trend continued as a third different up-and-coming racer claimed victory at Daytona. Triumph Racing’s Deacon Denno opened the 8 Minute + 1 Lap with the holeshot and led early before he gave way to Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Green’s Kade Johnson. Denno fought back to reclaim the lead after just a lap and carried on to become the third different SMX Next winner in as many races. It was the first SMX Next victory for the 17-year-old Texan as well as the first for the budding Triumph amateur program. He took the checkered flag 4.4 seconds ahead of 18-year-old Landen Gordon, who rides for Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing, while 16-year-old Vincent Wey rounded out the podium for Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Green.
Triumph Racing’s Deacon Denno became the third different prospect to emerge victorious in SMX Next – Supercross competition this season. Photo courtesy SMX
Deacon Denno – 1st Place – SMX Next – Supercross:
“I got the start but then jumped the whoops for the first time after skimming all day and lost the lead. It was a dumb move by me, but I made the pass back. Last year here in Daytona I finished 14th. There’s a lot that’s been done since then and just proves that if you work your butt off you can be up here like I am. I knew I could do it and I put the track together. I’m so stoked.”
SMX Next – Supercross Podium (left to right) Landen Gordon, Deacon Denno, and Vincent Wey. Photo courtesy SMX
The Monster Energy SMX World Championship and Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will continue next Saturday, March 7, for the ninth race of the season from Indianapolis’ Lucas Oil Stadium, which will signify the second Triple Crown race of the 2026 season. Live broadcast coverage on Peacock will begin at 1 p.m. ET with Race Day Live, 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:
MotoGP race start at Buriram. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
Marco Bezzecchi won the FIM MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Thailand. Riding his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26 on Michelin control tires, the Italian won the 26-lap race by over five seconds.
Sprint race winner, Pedro Acosta was the runner-up on his Red Bull KTM Factory RC16.
Raul Fernandez placed third on his Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.
Bezzecchi’s teammate, Jorge Martin, finished fourth, and Fernandez’s teammate, Ai Ogura, completed the top five.
Pedro Acosta leads the championship with 32 points, 7 ahead of Marco Bezzecchi who has 25 points. Raul Fernandez is third with 23 points.
Bezzecchi bounces back with victory as Marc Marquez suffers Thailand DNF. The Aprilia star beats Acosta and Fernandez to Round 1 glory as a rear tyre puncture ends the reigning World Champion’s podium hopes in Buriram.
Marco Bezzecchi and Aprilia Racing are hat-trick heroes in MotoGP for the first time after the Italian dominates a dramatic PT Grand Prix of Thailand to back up his 2025 Portugal and Valencia victories with a Buriram beauty at the beginning of 2026. Tissot Sprint winner Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) finished P2 to make sure he leaves Thailand as the MotoGP World Championship leader, as Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) begins the year with a P3 in a Grand Prix which saw reigning World Champion Marc Marquez suffer a race-ending puncture while in the podium fight. And that means Ducati’s unbelievable record-breaking podium streak of 88 in a row is over – for the first time since the 2021 British GP, no Ducati rider stood on the Sunday rostrum.
BEZ GETS THE LAUNCH, MM93 UNDER ATTACK
After an incredible Tissot Sprint on Saturday, it was time for lights out on Sunday and getting the perfect launch from pole was Bezzecchi, with Marc Marquez keeping hold of P2. But not for long. Turn 7 saw Fernandez pinch P2 away from the reigning World Champion and then, a third Aprilia was having a bite at #93. Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) was briefly ahead of the 2025 World Champion, but the latter bit back.
Bezzecchi was into a great early Grand Prix rhythm at the front, with Fernandez 0.9s away at the end of Lap 3. Then, attacking down at Turn 3 on Lap 4, Martin struck again. Marc Marquez was shuffled back to P4 by the 2024 World Champion, and then, Acosta entered the battle.
ACOSTA VS MARTIN VS MARC MARQUEZ
Turn 12. #93 vs #37. Shades of a memorable Sprint scrap. Acosta made a move up the inside stick to climb into fourth, with Marc Marquez down to P5 and as things stood, the current King had zero answers.
As Bezzecchi and Fernandez continued to set a similar pace in P1 and P2, we strapped ourselves in to enjoy Martin vs Acosta. The KTM star had several bites at the cherry on Lap 8 and 9, but Aprilia’s #89 was defending brilliantly.
Then, Acosta did find a way through on Martin. On the exit of a move at Turn 3, Acosta was through but getting a Lap 10 two-for-one deal on the run up to Turn 4 was Marc Marquez. But Acosta wasn’t having any of that. The pre-Grand Prix title leader chose Turn 8 to attack his compatriot, and it was a leap up the inside that worked. Acosta, eventually, was P3.
PODIUM CHASE ON AS DRAMA BEGINS TO UNFOLD
Now though, by Lap 14, the gap to second place Fernandez and leader Bezzecchi had grown. However, Acosta was beginning to catch the Trackhouse Aprilia, with the gap just below two seconds as the Grand Prix entered its final 10 laps.
Behind, Marc Marquez sat 1.4s away from Acosta, with Martin sitting 0.8s back of the leading Ducati. Bezzecchi, meanwhile, was over three seconds up the road and in relative cruise control. It was the Italian’s 25 points to throw away at this stage.
With seven to go, Fernandez’s grip on P2 was loosening. Acosta was now under a second away from the #25, and Marc Marquez was lurking too. Until he wasn’t. As we panned back to watch Fernandez, Acosta and Marc Marquez come through Turn 4, it was clear the latter had a problem. And it became obvious it was a rear tyre puncture. Drama in Buriram, the reigning World Champion was out of the Thai Grand Prix.
Then, last year’s runner-up was out too. Alex Marquez crashed at the rapid Turn 4, thankfully the #73 was up and walking, but that ended a disappointing weekend at the office for the Gresini Racing star.
More drama then occurred. Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) was forced to retire from the Grand Prix with rear tyre problems too after the 2020 World Champion had strung a very strong race together in the top six, and all of a sudden, there were four Aprilias in the top five, with Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) showing some aggressive late pace.
And so, after a punishing Thai Grand Prix, Bezzecchi made amends for his Sprint error to clinch victory on Sunday and win three Grands Prix in a row for the first time. Acosta’s wait for a Grand Prix win goes on, but that was another sublime performance from the KTM star, who will head to Brazil as the MotoGP World Championship leader. And fair play to Fernandez. After some serious shoulder troubles surfaced in Warm Up, the Spaniard celebrates another P3 to grab a double Round 1 podium.
YOUR POINTS SCORERS IN THAILAND
Having missed the Sepang Test and considering what he went through in 2025, Martin will be elated to start the campaign with P4, with the very impressive #89 finished three tenths ahead of Ogura. The Japanese rider recovers to round out the top five, with the lead Ducati rider over the line being Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) in P6.
Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) hands KTM a double top seven finish in P7, as Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) leaves it late – the final corner of the final lap to be precise – to pocket P8 from Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team). It’s P9 on Sunday for the 2022 and 2023 MotoGP World Champion, as Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) completed the top 10.
Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) and Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) were P11 and P12 across the line, with rookie Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) pocketing points on debut with a P13 ahead of the Brazilian’s home round next. Rounding out the points-paying positions were Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP duo Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins.
THANK YOU, THAILAND
Round 1 = completed. What a start to the year that was in MotoGP, as Acosta heads to Brazil as the World Championship leader after a drama-filled opening chapter. Boy, it’s good to be back.
Moto2 race at Buriram. Photo courtesy Marc VDS Team.
Manuel Gonzalez won the FIM Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Thailand. Riding his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard won the 7-lap race by 0.099 second.
The race was halted twice by red flags after early incidents at the Chang International Circuit. An initial crash on lap 3 involving Senna Agius, David Alonso and Filip Salac brought out the first red flag. After the restart, a second incident involving Sergio Garcia and Luca Lunetta triggered another red flag and led to a full reset.
Izan Guevara was the runner-up on his Blu Cru Pramac Yamaha Boscoscuro.
Daniel Holgado was third on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.
Ivan Ortola finished fourth on his QJMotor Pons Grup MSi Kalex and Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Collin Veijer took fifth.
American Joe Roberts crashed his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Manuel Gonzalez leads the championship with 25 points, 5 ahead of Izan Guevara who has 20 points. Daniel Holgado is third with 16 points.
Gonzalez denies Guevara in tense stand-off for Buriram glory. Two red flags and a head-to-head finish but even with the same victor as 12 months ago, there were plenty of talking points in Moto2.
A dramatic start to the Moto2 season saw two red flags at Buriram before a tense final two laps welcomed a head-to-head battle between Manuel Gonzalez (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) and Izan Guevera (BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2). Last year’s runner-up took gold in the opening encounter ahead of Guevara, whilst Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) took third.
Manuel Gonzalez on the podium at Buriram. Photo courtesy Pirelli.
From P2 on the grid, it was a perfect start for Guevara as he grabbed Moto2’s first holeshot of 2026. He didn’t hold the lead for long though as he ran wide at Turn 3 along with polesitter Senna Agius (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) and Ivan Ortola (QJMOTOR – PONT GRUP – MSI), allowing Holgado into P1 from fourth. However, on Lap 3, an incident at Turn 9 involving Agius, David Alonso (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) and Filip Salac (OnlyFans American Racing Team) brought out the red flag. Alonso was taken to the medical centre with arm pain whilst Agius and Salac could take the restart from pitlane.
With the distance reduced to just 11 laps, it promised to be elbows out from the start. Holgado got to Turn 1 first and led the field down to Turn 3 where there was more drama. Sergio Garcia (ITALJET Gresini Moto2) tucked the front, leaving class rookie Luca Lunetta (SYNC Group SpeedRS Team) nowhere to go. This brought out the second red flag of the Grand Prix with a new distance of seven laps set to sort out the order.
For the final start for a seven-lap dash, it was Holgado who once again led the charge but was soon behind Guevara who got under him at Turn 3. The battle was fierce as Gonzalez pushed through on Holgado on Lap 2 before going after Guevera; Holgado was third with Ortola fourth, all four riders in the leading group.
Moto2 podium, from left to right, with Izan Guevara, Manuel Gonzalez and Daniel Holgado. Photo courtesy Pirelli.
After stalking Guevara, Gonzalez pounced on the penultimate lap at Turn 7 with a bold move but the #28 wasn’t giving up as he tried to fight back at Turns 8, 9 and 12. Onto the final lap and it was last year’s runner-up who held the advantage and despite Guevara’s best efforts at the final corner around the outside, Gonzalez held on to repeat his season-opening victory from 2025 and take charge in 2026. Behind them, Holgado rounded out the first podium of the season whilst Ortola and Collin Veijer (Red Bull KTM Ajo) rounded out the top five.
Celestino Vietti (Sync SpeedRS Team) took P6 ahead of Alonso Lopez (ITALJET Gresini Moto2), Daniel Muñoz (Italtrans Racing Team) and Deniz Öncu (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team), with Ayumu Sasaki (Momoven Idrofoglia RW Racing Team) completing the top ten.
Find here full results from Moto2 in Buriram and come back for more from Brazil in a couple of weeks!
Valentin Perrone (73), Alvaro Carpe (83) and Adrian Fernandez (31) at Buriram. Photo courtesy Tech3.
David Almansa won the FIM Moto3 World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Thailand. Using his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM, the Spaniard won the 19-lap race by just 0.003 second.
Maximo Quiles was the runner-up on his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM.
Valentin Perrone was third, 9.480 seconds behind Almansa.
Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe got fourth and Veda Pratama crossed the finish line fifth on his Honda Team Asia machine.
David Almansa leads the championship with 25 points, 5 ahead of Maximo Quiles who has 20 points. Valentin Perrone is third with 16 points.
Converting pole position to a first-ever victory doesn’t tell the full story but the #22 takes the early Championship leader and the winner’s trophy from Thailand.
A classic start Moto3’s 2026 campaign? Just what we ordered. It was very much a case of the calm before the storm as David Almansa (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) battled to a maiden victory in a final corner, last lap thriller ahead of Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team). 0.003s and the joint-closest finish, Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) opened his account with a podium behind the duelling Spaniards up ahead.
Moto3 podium, from left to right, with Maximo Quiles, David Almansa and Valentin Perrone. Photo courtesy Pirelli
The first holeshot of the season went to polesitter Almansa, who let the brakes off to hold P1. It was a drag race down to Turn 3 against Quiles but the #22 held firm and lead the opening lap of the season. Behind, there was drama for Ryusei Yamanaka (AEON Credit – MT Helmets – MSI) who crashed at Turn 5 on Lap 2, the same corner that ended hiss Thai GP last year. Lap 3 saw another rider fall from the top ten as Guido Pini’s (Leopard Racing) debut with his new team saw him crash at Turn 12 but the Italian sophomore remounted and rejoined the action, eventually finishing 20th.
Five laps in and what looked like a breakaway group of four – consisting of Almansa, Quiles, Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) – had been reeled in. They now had rookie sensation Veda Pratama (Honda Team Asia) and Argentinean Perrone for company with approximately one second covering the top six. At the end of Lap 6, a mistake from Carpe allowed Fernandez through before another mistake allowed Pratama into fourth and the Indonesian didn’t stop there. He forced his way under Fernandez to take P3 at the end of Lap 7, sitting in a provisional podium position on his debut.
As half distance approached the front two had scarpered. At the end of Lap 11, our first change in the lead as Quiles decided to take over at the front from Almansa at Turn 12, now giving his fellow Spaniard a chance to study his own strengths and weaknesses. It didn’t last long though, as Quiles ran off at Turn 1 to gift his rival the lead straight back. Both were matching each other’s lap times, the only riders in the 1’41s – a true head-to-head to get us started in 2026. Seven seconds behind, there were passes in abundance with Fernandez, having dropped to sixth, climbing back into third with three to go.
Onto the last lap and after a Turn 12 error from Quiles, Almansa sported a half a second advantage as they took in the final 4.5km of Buriram. However, Quiles wasn’t finished and put in an outstanding final lap to get back on terms for one final attack into the last corner. Defending his line, he forced Quiles to let the brakes off and it looked like he got the job done but on the run to the line, Almansa had better drive to snatch his first victory in Moto3 by just 0.003s, equalling the closest finish of all-time in Moto3. In the scrap for third, Perrone fought his way ahead of Carpe, likewise in a final corner pass whilst Pratama took top Honda honours in fifth on his debut, ahead of Fernandez.
Valentin Perrone (73), Joel Esteban (78) and Casey O’Gorman at Buriram. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
Outside the top six, Brian Uriarte (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was a strong seventh ahead of Marco Morelli (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), Joel Esteban (LEVEL UP – MTA) and David Muñoz (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) who rounded out the top ten. Just missing out on the top ten by 0.206s, it was 11th for rookie Casey O’Gorman (SIC58 Squadra Corse).
Adventure Has No Limits with More Fuel Capacity, Rider Aids, Suspension Travel, and Adventure Touring Enhancements.
MARIETTA, Ga. –Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, is bringing its highly anticipated adventure motorcycle, the Ténéré 700 World Raid, to the United States. Built for riders seeking the longest, most challenging journeys, the 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid expands Yamaha’s Adventure Touring (ADV) lineup with premium upgrades, new components and the latest technology, elevating the Dakar-bred long-distance adventure-tourer to new horizons.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
KEY DETAILS
Yamaha’s 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid is coming to the U.S.
Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) with two power modes, 6-axis IMU and lean-sensitive traction control, slide control and ABS add flexibility to every ride
One-piece seat, dual tanks and updated bodywork enable more freedom of movement
Upgraded suspension, strong steel frame, new steering damper and ergonomic updates elevate the riding experience and provide better comfort and performance both on- and off-road
Large TFT dash, handlebar switches, cruise control and rider selectable speed limiter add long-distance comfort
POWER AND CONTROL
The latest iteration of Yamaha’s acclaimed 689cc CP2 twin engine offers linear, useable torque and precise control suited to adventures both on- and off-road. To make the best use of the power from the CP2 engine, the Ténéré 700 World Raid utilizes the Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) with two power modes: ‘Sport’ mode for dynamic power delivery on spirited road rides, and ‘Explorer’ for smoother throttle reaction in off-road sections or on wet surfaces. Riders can switch between the power modes on the go, with closed throttle, from the handlebar switchgear.
The Ténéré 700 World Raid is equipped with a 6-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit). It constantly measures the machine’s acceleration and angular velocity to determine forces affecting the bike. The lean-sensitive Traction Control System (TCS) and Slide Control System (SCS) both use data from the IMU to adjust the engine power and control the amount of traction and slide the rider has selected to use. Both systems feature three modes – STREET, OFF-ROAD and OFF – to give riders the option to select the level of system support, and to achieve optimum levels of traction and slide whether riding on- or off-road.
For ABS/Brake Control, there is a dedicated button to select between ABS modes. When ABS is switched ON, Brake Control can be enabled to provide cornering ABS, while the off-road focused REAR OFF and OFF modes allow either the rear or both wheels to lock for full off-road control. Strong stopping power and excellent braking consistency are achieved with steel-braided brake lines that run to the Brembo front callipers paired with large 282mm brake discs.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
BUILT TO GO FURTHER
The 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid features enhanced ergonomics and technology to make long-distance adventures more exhilarating and comfortable while the large dual fuel tanks ensure the ride is not cut short.
The new fuel tank assembly consists of two connected aluminum fuel tanks with a total capacity of 6.1 gallons (1.8 gallons more than the Ténéré 700) providing around 300 miles of range. Separate tanks reduce the effect of fuel movement improving handling, while the low position of the fuel pump contributes to a more centralised weight distribution.
A one-piece rally-style seat makes it easy to transition from sitting to standing or move from front to rear, offering the rider greater freedom of movement and strengthening the ADV nature of the machine. Adding to rider comfort, a new windscreen and easily removable side deflectors provide high levels of wind and weather protection.
For highway cruising, the 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid is equipped with Cruise Control, along with a switchable and adjustable Speed Limiter to make adhering to speed limits effortless. Large footpegs provide high levels of control and grip, with removable rubber inserts to provide extra comfort for long highway journeys. The Ténéré 700 World Raid is also ready to be fitted with the optional up and down quickshifter, for seamless shifting on any journey.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
ON-ROAD OR OFF-ROAD
The Ténéré 700 World Raid adds nearly an inch of wheel travel in both the front (230mm/9.1 inches) and rear (220mm/8.6 inches) from the standard Ténéré 700. The fully adjustable KYB suspension package provides control and comfort in demanding off-road conditions as well as absorbing bumps and potholes on the road. At the front, high-grade aluminum triple clamps and upside-down forks with preload, compression and rebound adjustment offer optimised rigidity and feel. The forks now feature larger 46mm diameter inner tubes, up from 43mm, but the total weight of the front fork assembly remains the same. With Kashima coating, friction and abrasion have been minimised, and revised spring and damping specifications improve shock absorption and tire contact with the ground, resulting in greater rider comfort and confidence. In extreme riding situations, suspension bottoming is also reduced.
The fully adjustable linked-type KYB Monocross rear suspension has also been upgraded. It now provides improved performance in demanding off-road conditions thanks to the increased shock stroke (+5mm to 106mm), and a specifically designed linkage contribute to more progressive suspension. The aluminum shock body is lightweight and ensures heat dissipation, while the piggyback reservoir offers extra oil capacity to ensure the damper performs well under all conditions. With the suspension enhancements, more than half-an-inch of ground clearance is added from the standard Ténéré 700, bringing total clearance to 255mm/10-inches.
For best performance both on- and off-road, spoked aluminum wheels (21-inch front, 18-inch rear) run the Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires with 50/50 on-road and off-road behavior, providing high levels of grip on both dry and wet roads, strong agility and good stability at higher speeds, traction in off-road situations and reduced road noise.
A 16-step adjustable steering damper provides a wide range of feel and feedback to the rider, with the option to dial up damping for more support in off-road riding. The impact of riding in ruts, bouncing over potholes or experiencing strong side winds is transmitted to the handlebars more gently, resulting in better rider comfort and confidence, and reduced fatigue on long adventure trips.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
STAY CONNECTED
A premium 6.3-inch full-color TFT display is vertically positioned to offer the best visibility for the rider whether sitting or standing. The display offers three theme options – STREET, EXPLORER and RAID – focusing on specific information to suit different riding styles and environments. Ergonomic handlebar switches enable the rider to easily and effortlessly use the controls and make adjustments to the bike on the go.
Key information is displayed in all themes, including speed, engine rpm, fuel level, average fuel consumption, gearshift indicator, coolant temperature, ambient temperature, odometer, trip meter and time. With analog elements, the STREET theme is the closest to the classic Ténéré look. The EXPLORER theme is crafted for off-road riding with all the essential information accessible at a single glance in a refined and modern dynamic digital style. The RAID theme includes two large trip meters in a roadbook-inspired design.
The 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid connects to mobile devices over Bluetooth, allowing riders to make calls, listen to messages and emails, and enjoy music. The free Yamaha MyRide app enables the bike to sync with iOS or Andriod devices. It enables phone controls and Google-powered turn-by-turn navigation on the TFT display, tracks and stores every route covered, and enables users to create their own story and add pictures which can be shared on social media. MyRide also allows users to review all riding statistics including total distance, elevation, top speed, average speed, acceleration and lean angle to compare with fellow riders.
2026 Tenere 700 World Raid. Photo courtesy Yamaha
TOP FEATURES
Large-capacity dual fuel tanks with centralized weight distribution
Six-axis IMU with Lean-sensitive Traction Control, Slide Control, and ABS
Fully adjustable 46mm KYB® forks and high-spec KYB rear suspension
Ride-by-wire Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T®) System with two power modes
Cruise Control and selectable Speed Limiter
Long-distance rider comfort and weather protection features
New adjustable steering damper for improved comfort and reduced fatigue
Large 6.3-inch full-color vertical TFT display with Raid theming
New four-beam rectangular LED headlight unit offers excellent illumination
The 2026 Ténéré 700 World Raid comes in Redline White and Midnight Black colorways and are branded with premium emblems and decals. It will be available from U.S. dealers in May starting at $12,999 MSRP. It will join Yamaha’s Adventure Touring lineup alongside the standard Ténéré 700, which returns for 2026 unchanged, available in Team Yamaha Blue and Tech Titanium in March for the same starting price of $10,999 MSRP.
YAMAHA GENUINE ACCESSORIES
Genuine Yamaha accessories make it easy to personalize the Ténéré 700 World Raid for any specific usage and preference. While several 2025 and 2026 Ténéré 700 accessories are compatible, model-specific accessories for the 2026 World Raid will also be available, such as a front guard, skid plate, radiator guard, side grip pads, lowering kit, panel guard and fog light bracket.
DAYTONA BEACH, FL –On The Box Racing (OTB Racing) is proud to officially announce its five-rider team for the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season, marking a significant expansion for the team across three premier classes: Mission AFT SuperTwins, KICKER AFT Singles, and AFT AdventureTrackers.
The 2026 program represents the largest and most comprehensive effort in the team’s existence and reflects the continued support and investment from our sponsors.
Competing in AFT’s premier division, the Mission AFT SuperTwins, OTB Racing will field Declan Bender and Brandon Price. Price sat out a majority of the season in 2025 due to injury, where OTB picked up Bender for the remaining eleven races of the season. Bender finished 10th overall in 2025 with one podium finish, four top five finishes, and nine top 10 finishes. Price finished 13th overall, with only competing in five of the seventeen races last year, two of which were podium finishes.
“I am so excited to be back with OTB racing for this season,” says Bender. “After how we finished 2025, I can’t wait to get back in the saddle and continue where we left off. The team and I have been putting in a lot of work this off-season, and are very confident in where we believe we should be, so now we just have to turn it into reality!”
Price also chimed in on his gratitude. “I’m grateful to Wayne for the opportunity to race a full season at the top level once again with OTB Racing. I’m really comfortable on the Yamaha MT-07’s and I’m looking forward to working with Mike Luczak and Wyatt Neal. I’ve been putting in the work this offseason to run up front more consistently and contend for wins.”
Brandon Price (92). Photo courtesy AFT.
For the first time, OTB also has brought on a KICKER AFT Singles rider, Bradon Pfanders. Last year, Bradon finished 6th overall in the standings with one podium and eleven top ten finishes.
Pfanders is super excited for the opportunity to ride for the OTB racing team in 2026.“It’s a fresh start for me, after riding another brand for most of my career and having this opportunity to ride Yamahas I was a little skeptical at first, but maybe it’s the piece of the puzzle that’s been missing to be where I know I should be. I am confident with myself and all the people in my corner we can consistently be fighting at the front all season long.”
Brandon Pfanders (83). Photo courtesy AFT.
Wrapping up the team’s line up is the two riders who will be competing in the AFT AdventureTrackers series, Austin Luczak and Will Harris. Both Luczak and Harris competed in the class last year. Luczak ran all four races of the series, finishing 6th overall and grabbing a third place finish as well as three tops fives.
Team Owner, Wayne Sody is looking forward to the new challenges. “2026 is our year. We have researched and developed new technologies which will take us to the top. Crew chief, Mike Luczak has prepared our bikes for the last two years with absolute perfection and we are so excited to have the best equipment for our riders this season. I am thrilled to have OTB represented in three classes and see what is in store for us this season. We need to show our sponsors that their dedication to the team is well deserved and will bring home the consistent podium finishes that we strive for!”
OTB has also added some new faces to the pit. Mike Luczak returns as crew chief along with Wyatt Neal as Brandon Price’s mechanic and Meg Neal as team manager. Rich Pfanders will be wrenching for Declan Bender, and Ryan Wells will wrench and coach the young gun, Bradon Pfanders.
Thank you to our sponsors who make this all possible – Memphis Shades, Corbin, Sody Concrete, Glen’s Auto, Luczak Racing, Rausch Racing, Vortex Brewing Company, Fredericktown Yamaha, Lisa Niner, Black Hills Powersports, Vinson Construction, Motion Pro, Vortex, Arai, ODI, RP Exhausts, and Upstate Coatings.
Next Up
The 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season will kick off with the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA doubleheader at the DAYTONA Flat Track during Daytona’s Bike Week festivities. The twin short track races will take place at the “World Center of Racing” on Thursday, March 5 and Friday, March 6.
For those that can’t catch the live action at the track, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive American Flat Track. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2026. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/aft or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.
FS1
FOX Sports will provide in-depth coverage of the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA doubleheader featuring rider features and thrilling onboard cameras. Stay tuned for an upcoming announcement regarding premiere airdates on FS1 and re-airs on FS2. The full listing of American Flat Track’s television premieres will be posted to the AFT website at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports.
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