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MotoGP: Fernandez On Pole Position At Mandalika

Mathilde Gasnier
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MotoGP: Fernandez On Pole Position At Mandalika

Raul Fernandez claimed pole position during MotoGP qualifying Saturday at Pertamina Mandalika Circuit, in Indonesia. Riding his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26 on the 2.67-mile (4.30 km) track, Fernandez turned a 1:28.852 to top the 22-rider field.

Marco Bezzecchi was the best of the rest with a 1:28.961 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26, and Fabio Di Giannantonio claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 1:29.048 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Row-two qualifiers included Lenovo Ducati’s Marc Marquez (1:29.118), Aprilia Racing’s Jorge Martin (1:29.152) and Gresini Ducati’s Fermin Aldeguer (1:29.232).

 

motogp QualifyingResults

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Fernandez clinches maiden MotoGP pole, Marc Marquez and Martin off front row. A fascinating qualifying unfolds in Indonesia as Bezzecchi and Di Giannantonio join the SuperFile Trackhouse star on the front row. 

For the first time in MotoGP, Raul Fernandez (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) will launch from pole position as a tantalising qualifying scrap unfolds at the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia. It’s an Aprilia 1-2 at the spearhead of the grid thanks to Marco Bezzecchi’s (Aprilia Racing) efforts, the Italian 0.109s adrift of Fernandez’s 1:28.852, and denying Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) and Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) a front row start on Lombok was a rather rapid birthday boy on Saturday morning – Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) the rider to join Fernandez and Bezzecchi on the front row.

 

Q1: ALDEGUER & OGURA JUMP TO Q2 IN DRAMA-FILLED QUALI OPENER

Straight out of the qualifying crate, 2025 Indonesian GP winner Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) set his best lap of the weekend to top the early running in the opening 15-minute time attack stint, before his time was beaten by Ai Ogura (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team). A 1:29.729 saw the Japanese rider rise above Aldeguer by 0.016s before Aldeguer returned to P1 by 0.090s, as Ogura then crashed in the closing stages at Turn 12 to see his session end prematurely. And sitting in P2, would Ogura keep his Q2 promotion place?

It was a session of attrition in Q1. Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR), who crashed on his first flying lap at Turn 1, and Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) crashed at Turn 2 within a second of each other. Elsewhere, Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) hit the deck at Turn 1, and Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) was also a crasher at the opening corner too.

All of this did mean Ogura kept his top two place, with Aldeguer sailing through too. A quick shoutout too for Toprak Razgatlioglu (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP). Less than an hour after dislocating his right shoulder in FP2, the Turk qualified less than a second off Aldeguer’s top time in Q1. Chapeau.

 

 

 

Q2: FERNANDEZ FLIES TO POLE AS MM93 & JM89 MISS OUT ON FRONT ROW

At the end of the first flyers in the battle for pole, Marc Marquez led Bezzecchi by 0.025s as the title chasers set 1:29.2s, but the pace was about to turn up a notch or two. Di Giannantonio briefly climbed to P2 before Bezzecchi fired home a 1:28.961 to sail to provisional pole, with Fernandez slotting into second place – 0.211s away from the Italian.

The first two time attack efforts from Martin didn’t go as planned. The title race leader sat P7, 0.814s adrift of his teammate. And heading out for the final six minutes of qualifying in Indonesia, Martin was shadowed by Marc Marquez. In other words, the top two in 2026’s title race thriller were together, and having been given the message that he was being followed by the #93, Martin couldn’t shake off the seven-time MotoGP World Champion from his tailpipes.

Just ahead of duo on track was Fernandez, and it was the Practice pacesetter who set a 1:28.852 to go P1. Martin and Marc Marquez both improved, the Ducati star slightly quicker, with the championship top two sat P4 and P5 in the session with three minutes to go as Di Giannantonio leapt back onto the front row.

Bezzecchi was then setting the timing screens alight, but his lap was halted after Aldeguer crashed at Turn 16. That brought out the yellow flags, but there was enough time left on the clock for Bez to have another bite at the cherry.

An improvement didn’t come on his latest attempt, though. Had the life from that soft rear Michelin disappeared? What had gone was Marc Marquez’s pole and front row chances. Despite a session-best first split, the time went away in the second split, and with that, Q2 drew to a close.

Fernandez will launch from his first MotoGP pole position in the Tissot Sprint and Grand Prix in Indonesia, with Bezzecchi and Di Giannantonio joining the Trackhouse star on the front row.

A blockbuster Row 2 sees Marc Marquez launch from P4, Martin fires away from P5, and 2025 winner Aldeguer go from P6. Ogura recovered from his Q1 crash to qualify in P7 to sit ahead of Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) on the grid, the top nine split by half a second, while Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), and Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) make up P10, P11, and P12 on the grid.

 

 

 

COMING UP: WE GO SPRINTING IN INDONESIA

That’s an intriguing grid, isn’t it? The top two in the title race off the front row, with the stakes incredibly high going into this afternoon. Don’t miss it. 15:00 local time. 

MotoGP qualifying results from Indonesia!

MotoGP: Bezzecchi Is Best In Saturday Practice In Indonesia

Mathilde Gasnier
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0
MotoGP: Bezzecchi Is Best In Saturday Practice In Indonesia

Marco Bezzecchi led MotoGP World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning at Pertamina Mandalika Circuit, in Indonesia. Riding his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26 on spec Michelin tires, the Italian rider turned a lap time of 1:29.560 to lead the 22-rider field.

Raul Fernandez was the best of the rest with a 1:29.734 on his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.

Marc Marquez was third at 1:29.871 on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Fabio Di Giannantonio finished the session fourth with a 1:29.919 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Bezzecchi’s teammate, Jorge Martin got fifth with a lap time of 1:29.948. 

 

motogp fp2

Moto2: Alonso Tops Final Practice At Mandalika

Mathilde Gasnier
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0
Moto2: Alonso Tops Final Practice At Mandalika

David Alonso was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning at Pertamina Mandalika Circuit, in Indonesia. Riding his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team Kalex on the 2.67-mile (4.30 km) track, the Colombian rider recorded a 1:32.187 to lead the field of 28 riders.

Senna Agius was the best of the rest with a 1:32.317 on his LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex.

Alex Escrig was third-fastest with a 1:32.325 on his KLINT Racing Team Forward.

Agius’ teammate, Manuel Gonzalez got fourth with a time of 1:32.381 and Izan Guevara, riding his BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Boscoscuro, was fifth with a lap time of 1:32.489.

American Joe Roberts finished Saturday morning’s practice session 12th with a best time of 1:32.849 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

moto2 fp2

Moto3: Quiles Heads Saturday Practice In Indonesia

Mathilde Gasnier
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0
Moto3: Quiles Heads Saturday Practice In Indonesia

Maximo Quiles led Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning, at Pertamina Mandalika Circuit, in Indonesia. Quiles used his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM to lap the 2.67-mile (4.30 km) track in 1:36.690, which led the field of 26 riders. 

David Almansa was second-best with a time of 1:36.842 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM.

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Brian Uriarte, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 1:37.003. 

Rico Salmela, piloting his Red Bull KTM Tech3 machine, finished the session fourth with a time of 1:37.315. 

Matteo Bertello got fifth on his LEVEL UP – MTA KTM with a lap time of 1:37.324. 

 

moto3 fp2

WorldSSP: Oncu Tops Superpole Qualifying In Portugal

Mathilde Gasnier
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0
WorldSSP: Oncu Tops Superpole Qualifying In Portugal

Can Oncu topped FIM Supersport World Championship Superpole qualifying Friday afternoon at Circuito Estoril, in Portugal. Riding his Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing YZF-R9 on Pirelli control tires, the Turkish rider lapped the 2.60-mile (4.18 km) course in 1:39.011 to top the field of 34 riders and earn pole position.

Lucas Mahias was the best of the rest with a 1:39.057 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R9, and Tom Booth-Amos earned the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:39.110 on his PTR Triumph Factory Racing Street Triple 765 RS.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise of France was 17th with a 1:39.570 on his Eastroc Evan Bros ZXMOTO 820RR.

 

WSSP SUPERPOLE

 

 

More, from a press release issued by WSBK:

Oncu takes fifth 2026 pole ahead of Mahias and Booth-Amos, Arenas to set off from P9 on Saturday. Current Championship runner-up Valentin Debise (EASTROC ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) stumbled early with a crash and fell to a P17 qualification. 

The FIM Supersport World Championship set the grid on Friday for what will be a critical Race 1 for all three of the class’s title pictures. As wind picked up over the second half of the session, Can Oncu stuck the landing atop the timesheets for the fifth time this season, followed by a resurgent Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) in P2 and Tom Booth-Amos (PTR Triumph Factory Racing), who led a trio of Triumph machines on the timesheets with his second front row appearance in 2026. Albert Arenas’s (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) Championship hopes look good as his main rival, Debise, will start from down on the sixth row with titles on the line on Saturday.

 

ONCU TAKES YAMAHA’S SEVENTH POLE OF THE SEASON

Oncu continue his phenomenal Friday form in 2026 with a circuit-record-setting 1’39.011s time. He will look for a maiden win at the Portuguese venue on Saturday. French rider Mahias took his fifth front-row appearance this season with a 1’39.057s time, just under five hundredths behind the Turk. The #94 sits in P12 in the Championship and will try to break back into the top ten this weekend in Portugal. Booth-Amos took third place at Estoril after landing P9 qualifications in the last two rounds. He clocked in just shy of a tenth of the #61 on pole for his first front row finish since his dominant home round at Donington Park.

 

image
Lucas Mahias (94) at Estoril. Photo courtesy WSBK.

 

BAYLISS AND VOSTATEK TO THE SECOND ROW

Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) looks to be returning to form after missing Magny-Cours with injury, with his best result of P13 at Cremona as he returned to fitness. At Estoril, he closed Friday in P4 just under half a tenth behind his British teammate. Hot on his tail, Czech rider Ondrej Vostatek (Compos Racing Team) continues to put the pieces together, building on his season-best Superpole result with a P5 at Estoril after a P7 last round. Filippo Farioli (VFT Racing Yamaha) continued his terrific recent run of form, snagging P6 for his second-best result this season.

 

A STRONG FIRST IMPRESSION FROM FERNANDEZ

Wildcard rider Eric Fernandez (Cerba Yamaha Racing Team) announced himself to the paddock with an impressive P7 in his maiden Superpole event. Four hundredths behind the Spaniard, Dominique Aegerter (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) kept the ball rolling at Estoril as the Swiss rider took P8 for his best Superpole result of 2026 so far. Championship leader Albert Arenas fell to the third row in P9. With Debise’s poorer result back in P17, however, it was still a strong result for the Spaniard’s title hopes. Rounding out the top ten, Jeremy Alcoba (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) finished two hundredths off the #75 and will look to move up on Saturday as he races for a 2027 seat. Back in P17, Valentin Debise saw gravel early in the session at Turn 12, which cost him the better part of the session as his team scrambled to repair the bike. He later returned, but he will start from the sixth row on Saturday. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) perhaps struggled even more than the Frenchman, tumbling to P20, and he will have some heavy lifting in Race 1 if he wants to fortify his 36-point Riders’ Championship lead over Oncu.

 

The top six from the WorldSSP Tissot Superpole session: full results here!

  1. Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) 1’39.011
  2. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) +0.046s
  3. Tom Booth-Amos (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) +0.099s
  4. Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) +0.148s
  5. Ondrej Vostatek (Compos Racing Team) +0.186s
  6. Filippo Farioli (VFT Racing Yamaha) +0.238s

Subscribe to stream Live and OnDemand as WorldSSP gets rolling for Race 1 on Saturday, October 10th at 14:00 with the WorldSBK VideoPass! Now just €9.99!

AFT: Estenson Racing Ends American Flat Track Program

Mathilde Gasnier
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0
AFT: Estenson Racing Ends American Flat Track Program

After a decade in American Flat Track, Estenson Racing’s time in the series is coming to a close.

Founded on Tim Estenson’s passion for flat track, the team earned its first AFT Singles championship with Kolby Carlile in 2017, followed by Dallas Daniels’ back-to-back Singles titles in 2020 and 2021. Estenson Racing closes this chapter with back-to-back championships in both Singles and SuperTwins, earned by Tom Drane and Dallas Daniels in 2025 and 2026.

The championships are part of our legacy. So are the people who made them possible—from the riders who represented Estenson Racing to the crew whose expertise and dedication defined our program.

“Flat track brought me back to racing and gave us ten years I’ll always be grateful for. I’m proud of the people who built this team and what we accomplished together. While this chapter is ending, Estenson Racing’s story isn’t over.” — Tim Estenson

To Yamaha Motor USA, Monster Energy, and all our partners: thank you for your trust and support.

To Dallas and Tom: thank you for an extraordinary chapter. We wish you continued success.

It’s been an honor to be part of American Flat Track. To every rider, crew member, and fan who shared this journey: thank you. We’ll carry the friendships and memories with us.

The next chapter of Estenson Racing is already taking shape. We look forward to sharing it with you soon.

Estenson Racing

WorldSBK: Bulega Heads Friday Practice At Estoril

Mathilde Gasnier
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0
WorldSBK: Bulega Heads Friday Practice At Estoril

Nicolò Bulega led FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Circuito Estoril, in Portugal. Riding his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Italian rider covered the 2.60-mile (4.18 km) track in 1:35.432 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Alberto Surra was second-best with a 1:35.498 on his Motocorsa Racing Ducati Panigale V4R. 

Bulega’s teammate, Iker Lecuona, was third with a 1:35.516.

Home hero, Miguel Oliveira got fourth with a time of 1:35.816 ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR and his teammate Danilo Petrucci was 16th with a lap time of 1:36.488. 

American Garrett Gerloff was 10th with a time of 1:36.150 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR. 

 

WSBK FP2

 

 

More, from a press release issued by WSBK:

FRIDAY REPORT: Bulega narrowly beats Surra and Lecuona, Oliveira impresses with P4 on home soil. Bulega topped both sessions on Friday at Estoril ahead of rookie Surra and teammate Lecuona, while home hero Oliveira claimed P4. 

Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was the fastest rider on Friday at the Circuito Estoril in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship as he beat rookie Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) and teammate Iker Lecuona on the opening day of action at the Tissot Estoril Round. Also catching the eye was home hero Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) as the #88 finished the day in fourth place, raising hopes he can make a rostrum return this weekend.

 

BULEGA ON TOP, SURRA CONTINUES TO IMPRESS

After topping Free Practice 1, Bulega made it a Friday clean sweep as he took honours in Free Practice 2 as well. The #11 posted a 1’35.432s as he immediately found gains compared to the morning session, with all but two riders improving in FP2. The #11 was just 0.066s ahead of rookie Surra. The #67 left it until the last few minutes to set his best time of the day as he posted a 1’35.498s to claim second, ahead of Lecuona. The #7 took third with a 1’35.516s with less than a tenth separating the top three. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) finished Friday in sixth place after posting a 1’35.863s, while his teammate, Alvaro Bautista, was in ninth place; despite three positions separating the pair, the #19 was only a tenth slower than Montella. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) was 12th with Loris Baz (MGM Optical Express Racing) in 15th and Tommy Bridewell (Superbike Advocates) in 20th; the #46 had a crash in FP1 at Turn 7.

 

 

 

OLIVEIRA TAKES FOURTH FOR BMW

Home hero Oliveira will look to be back in the top five, or even podium contention at a circuit just half-an-hour drive from his hometown. The #88, who had Turn 7 named after him ahead of the round, finished in fourth place after posting a 1’35.816s. Teammate Danilo Petrucci was down the order in 16th place, although it was so tight on Friday that just a small gain for ‘Petrux’, or any other rider, will haul him up the order.

 

image
Miguel Oliveira (88) at Estoril. Photo courtesy WSBK.

 

BASSANI LEADS ALEX LOWES AT BIMOTA

Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) finished as the lead Bimota rider after surging up the order in the latter stages of the 45-minute session, setting a 1’35.844s to finish in fifth. He was just a few hundredths ahead of teammate Alex Lowes in seventh after the #22 set a 1’35.873s to finish two places down on ‘El Bocia’.

 

DIXON IN THE TOP TEN

Jake Dixon (Honda HRC) headed to Estoril after his first top six WorldSBK finish, and the #96 appears to be knocking on the door of more top ten possibilities in Portugal. He finished the day in eighth on the combined classification after posting a 1’35.964s. His teammate, Somkiat Chantra, was 13th but two tenths separated the two Honda riders.

 

 

 

VIERGE LEADS YAMAHA CHARGE

Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) was the lead Yamaha rider in 10th on Friday after posting a 1’36.364s, although the #97 was one of only two riders to not improve their lap time in FP2 with his time coming in the morning session. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha) was under two tenths behind his teammate but finished three places lower, while he was a tenth clear of rookie Stefano Manzi (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in 18th. Manzi’s teammate, Remy Gardner, was directly behind the #62 and suffered a late crash in FP2 at Turn 9. His best time was a 1’36.646s. Mattia Rato (Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) was 21st after he had a big crash at Turn 7, while teammate Twan Smits rounded out the WorldSBK field; like Vierge, he did not improve his time in FP2 compared to FP1.

 

GERLOFF JUST MISSES OUT ON THE TOP 10

Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) had a dramatic start to his weekend when he crashed at Turn 7 in the latter stages of Free Practice 1. The #31 finished the day in 11th place after posting a 1’36.150s, missing out on a spot in the top ten by just three thousandths of a second.

 

The top six from Friday’s WorldSBK action, full results here:

  1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’35.432s
  2. Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) +0.066s
  3. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.084s
  4. Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.384s
  5. Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.412s
  6. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.431s

Don’t miss any moment from Saturday’s WorldSBK action at Estoril starting at 10:40 Local Time (UTC+1) using the WorldSBK VideoPass – now only €9.99!

WorldWCR Names CFMOTO Exclusive Supplier for 2027

Mathilde Gasnier
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WorldWCR Names CFMOTO Exclusive Supplier for 2027

The three-cylinder CFMOTO 675SR-R will bring increased performance and a fresh sporting challenge under a three-year agreement covering 2027, 2028 and 2029. 

The FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship (WorldWCR) will begin a new chapter in 2027, with CFMOTO becoming the series’ exclusive motorcycle supplier for the next three seasons. 
 

Powered by a 675cc three-cylinder engine, the 675SR-R combines proven racing DNA with around 15 hp more than the current platform. The move represents an important step in WorldWCR’s sporting development: the additional power and different engine characteristics will challenge competitors to broaden their skills and raise their level, while promising even more exciting racing for fans. 
 

WorldWCR will retain its one-make format, with all riders competing on identical machinery and rider talent remaining central to the competition. 
 

The change of machinery will coincide with the arrival of Michelin as WorldWCR’s single tyre supplier from 2027 onwards. 
 

The partnership also strengthens WorldWCR’s ties with China, supporting the Championship’s ambition to reach more fans and explore new destinations in the seasons ahead. 
 

 

Samantha Liu, General Manager of CFMOTO Motorsports Management  Center: “Becoming the official motorcycle supplier for the 2027–2029 WorldWCR seasons marks an important new chapter in CFMOTO’s global motorsport journey. It also reflects our long-term commitment to the development of motorcycle racing. We look forward to working closely with WorldWCR and all our partners to further advance women’s motorcycle racing and to bring greater global attention to the speed, passion and potential of female riders.” 
 

 

Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director: “Since WorldWCR began, our ambition has been to create more opportunities and build strong competition. Continuing to raise the bar for the riders is a key part of that. The CFMOTO 675SR-R gives our riders a more powerful motorcycle to master and a new challenge to help them develop, while retaining the equal technical conditions that make their ability count. We are pleased to welcome CFMOTO for the next three seasons and look forward to working together to develop WorldWCR on track and extend its international reach.”

WorldSSP: Oncu Quickest In Opening Practice In Portugal

Mathilde Gasnier
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0
WorldSSP: Oncu Quickest In Opening Practice In Portugal

Can Oncu was quickest during FIM Supersport World Championship Free practice Friday morning at Circuito Estoril, in Portugal. Riding his Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing YZF-R9 on Pirelli control tires, the Turkish rider covered the 2.60-mile (4.18 km) road course in 1:39.084, topping the field of 34 riders.

Lucas Mahias was the best of the rest with a 1:38.418 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R9.

Philipp Oettl was third with a lap time of 1:39.526 on his Feel Racing Team Ducati Panigale V2.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was 8th with a 1:39.656 on his Eastroc Evan Bros ZXMOTO 820RR.

 

WSSP FREE PRACTICE

WorldSBK: Bulega Tops Opening Practice At Estoril

Mathilde Gasnier
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0
WorldSBK: Bulega Tops Opening Practice At Estoril

Nicolo Bulega was quickest during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 1 (FP1) Friday morning at Circuito Estoril, in Portugal. Riding his Pirelli-shod Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4R on the 2.60-mile (4.18 km) track, the Italian recorded a 1:35.546 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Alberto Surra was the best of the rest with a 1:35.598 on his Motocorsa Racing Ducati Panigale V4R.

Bulega’s teammate, Iker Lecuona was third-fastest with a 1:35.925.

Alex Lowes crossed the finish line fourth on his bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team KB998 Rimini with a lap time of 1:36.084.

Xavi Vierge got fifth with a time of 1:36.147 on his Pata Maxus Yamaha YZF-R1.

American Garrett Gerloff finished the opening session in 11th with a 1:36.519 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR. 

 

WSBK FP1

 

 

More, from a press release issued by WSBK:

Bulega pips Surra in WorldSBK FP1 at Estoril by 0.052s, Lecuona completes top three. The 2026 Champion started off his weekend with top spot ahead of rookie Surra, while Lecuona dropped to third late on in FP1. 

Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) started his penultimate MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship round by taking first place in Free Practice 1 at the Tissot Estoril Round. The Italian rider was just half-a-tenth clear of upcoming star Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) at the Circuito Estoril as the #67 claimed second place, while Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was usurped by the rookie late on in WorldSBK’s opening session at Estoril.

 

 

 

Almost two weeks on from being crowned Champion, Bulega started his penultimate round in WorldSBK on top of the timesheets. The #11, running gold patches on his leathers to mark his success, set a 1’35.546s, to lead Free Practice 1 ahead of rookie Surra. The #67 heads to Estoril with a 2027 contract in his pocket with his current team, and off the back of a podium at Cremona, and started his weekend with second place. Lecuona, fresh from his maiden treble last time out, was third and 0.379s off his teammate.

 

 

 

Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) ensured Bimota started the weekend strongly as he was fourth, although he had been third until Surra’s late lap. The #22’s best time was a 1’36.084s. Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) also improved late on in the 45-minute session to claim fifth with a 1’36.147s, demoting Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team). Despite the #19 ending up in sixth, it’s his best FP1 placing of the season; beating his previous best of P7.

 

 

 

Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) moved up the order in the closing stages of FP1 to finish in seventh, although it was tight between Bautista, Sam Lowes and Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven). Just 0.006s separated Bautista and the #14, while there was only 0.005s between Sam Lowes and ‘Balda’. The Italian’s best time was a 1’36.286s as he finished in eighth, with Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) completing the top nine ahead of home hero Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team).

 

 

 

The top six from WorldSBK FP1, full results here:

  1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’35.546s
  2. Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) +0.052s
  3. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.379s
  4. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.538s
  5. Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) +0.601s
  6. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.729s

Don’t miss any action from FP2 at 15:00 Local Time (UTC+1) using the WorldSBK VideoPass – now only €9.99!

MotoGP: Fernandez On Pole Position At Mandalika

IMG 2996
Raul Fernandez (25) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy Trackhouse.

Raul Fernandez claimed pole position during MotoGP qualifying Saturday at Pertamina Mandalika Circuit, in Indonesia. Riding his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26 on the 2.67-mile (4.30 km) track, Fernandez turned a 1:28.852 to top the 22-rider field.

Marco Bezzecchi was the best of the rest with a 1:28.961 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26, and Fabio Di Giannantonio claimed the third and final spot on the front row with a 1:29.048 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Row-two qualifiers included Lenovo Ducati’s Marc Marquez (1:29.118), Aprilia Racing’s Jorge Martin (1:29.152) and Gresini Ducati’s Fermin Aldeguer (1:29.232).

 

motogp QualifyingResults

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Fernandez clinches maiden MotoGP pole, Marc Marquez and Martin off front row. A fascinating qualifying unfolds in Indonesia as Bezzecchi and Di Giannantonio join the SuperFile Trackhouse star on the front row. 

For the first time in MotoGP, Raul Fernandez (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) will launch from pole position as a tantalising qualifying scrap unfolds at the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia. It’s an Aprilia 1-2 at the spearhead of the grid thanks to Marco Bezzecchi’s (Aprilia Racing) efforts, the Italian 0.109s adrift of Fernandez’s 1:28.852, and denying Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) and Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) a front row start on Lombok was a rather rapid birthday boy on Saturday morning – Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) the rider to join Fernandez and Bezzecchi on the front row.

 

Q1: ALDEGUER & OGURA JUMP TO Q2 IN DRAMA-FILLED QUALI OPENER

Straight out of the qualifying crate, 2025 Indonesian GP winner Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) set his best lap of the weekend to top the early running in the opening 15-minute time attack stint, before his time was beaten by Ai Ogura (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team). A 1:29.729 saw the Japanese rider rise above Aldeguer by 0.016s before Aldeguer returned to P1 by 0.090s, as Ogura then crashed in the closing stages at Turn 12 to see his session end prematurely. And sitting in P2, would Ogura keep his Q2 promotion place?

It was a session of attrition in Q1. Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR), who crashed on his first flying lap at Turn 1, and Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) crashed at Turn 2 within a second of each other. Elsewhere, Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) hit the deck at Turn 1, and Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) was also a crasher at the opening corner too.

All of this did mean Ogura kept his top two place, with Aldeguer sailing through too. A quick shoutout too for Toprak Razgatlioglu (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP). Less than an hour after dislocating his right shoulder in FP2, the Turk qualified less than a second off Aldeguer’s top time in Q1. Chapeau.

 

 

 

Q2: FERNANDEZ FLIES TO POLE AS MM93 & JM89 MISS OUT ON FRONT ROW

At the end of the first flyers in the battle for pole, Marc Marquez led Bezzecchi by 0.025s as the title chasers set 1:29.2s, but the pace was about to turn up a notch or two. Di Giannantonio briefly climbed to P2 before Bezzecchi fired home a 1:28.961 to sail to provisional pole, with Fernandez slotting into second place – 0.211s away from the Italian.

The first two time attack efforts from Martin didn’t go as planned. The title race leader sat P7, 0.814s adrift of his teammate. And heading out for the final six minutes of qualifying in Indonesia, Martin was shadowed by Marc Marquez. In other words, the top two in 2026’s title race thriller were together, and having been given the message that he was being followed by the #93, Martin couldn’t shake off the seven-time MotoGP World Champion from his tailpipes.

Just ahead of duo on track was Fernandez, and it was the Practice pacesetter who set a 1:28.852 to go P1. Martin and Marc Marquez both improved, the Ducati star slightly quicker, with the championship top two sat P4 and P5 in the session with three minutes to go as Di Giannantonio leapt back onto the front row.

Bezzecchi was then setting the timing screens alight, but his lap was halted after Aldeguer crashed at Turn 16. That brought out the yellow flags, but there was enough time left on the clock for Bez to have another bite at the cherry.

An improvement didn’t come on his latest attempt, though. Had the life from that soft rear Michelin disappeared? What had gone was Marc Marquez’s pole and front row chances. Despite a session-best first split, the time went away in the second split, and with that, Q2 drew to a close.

Fernandez will launch from his first MotoGP pole position in the Tissot Sprint and Grand Prix in Indonesia, with Bezzecchi and Di Giannantonio joining the Trackhouse star on the front row.

A blockbuster Row 2 sees Marc Marquez launch from P4, Martin fires away from P5, and 2025 winner Aldeguer go from P6. Ogura recovered from his Q1 crash to qualify in P7 to sit ahead of Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) on the grid, the top nine split by half a second, while Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), and Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) make up P10, P11, and P12 on the grid.

 

 

 

COMING UP: WE GO SPRINTING IN INDONESIA

That’s an intriguing grid, isn’t it? The top two in the title race off the front row, with the stakes incredibly high going into this afternoon. Don’t miss it. 15:00 local time. 

MotoGP qualifying results from Indonesia!

MotoGP: Bezzecchi Is Best In Saturday Practice In Indonesia

apriliaracing indonesiangp17 2026 friday 03
Marco Bezzecchi (72) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy Aprilia.

Marco Bezzecchi led MotoGP World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning at Pertamina Mandalika Circuit, in Indonesia. Riding his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26 on spec Michelin tires, the Italian rider turned a lap time of 1:29.560 to lead the 22-rider field.

Raul Fernandez was the best of the rest with a 1:29.734 on his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.

Marc Marquez was third at 1:29.871 on his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Fabio Di Giannantonio finished the session fourth with a 1:29.919 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Bezzecchi’s teammate, Jorge Martin got fifth with a lap time of 1:29.948. 

 

motogp fp2

Moto2: Alonso Tops Final Practice At Mandalika

IMG 2995
David Alonso (80) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy Aspar Team.

David Alonso was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning at Pertamina Mandalika Circuit, in Indonesia. Riding his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team Kalex on the 2.67-mile (4.30 km) track, the Colombian rider recorded a 1:32.187 to lead the field of 28 riders.

Senna Agius was the best of the rest with a 1:32.317 on his LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex.

Alex Escrig was third-fastest with a 1:32.325 on his KLINT Racing Team Forward.

Agius’ teammate, Manuel Gonzalez got fourth with a time of 1:32.381 and Izan Guevara, riding his BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Boscoscuro, was fifth with a lap time of 1:32.489.

American Joe Roberts finished Saturday morning’s practice session 12th with a best time of 1:32.849 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

moto2 fp2

Moto3: Quiles Heads Saturday Practice In Indonesia

IMG 2994
Maximo Quiles (28) at Mandalika. Photo courtesy Aspar Team.

Maximo Quiles led Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Saturday morning, at Pertamina Mandalika Circuit, in Indonesia. Quiles used his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM to lap the 2.67-mile (4.30 km) track in 1:36.690, which led the field of 26 riders. 

David Almansa was second-best with a time of 1:36.842 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP KTM.

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Brian Uriarte, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 1:37.003. 

Rico Salmela, piloting his Red Bull KTM Tech3 machine, finished the session fourth with a time of 1:37.315. 

Matteo Bertello got fifth on his LEVEL UP – MTA KTM with a lap time of 1:37.324. 

 

moto3 fp2

WorldSSP: Oncu Tops Superpole Qualifying In Portugal

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Can Oncu (61) at Estoril. Photo courtesy WSBK.

Can Oncu topped FIM Supersport World Championship Superpole qualifying Friday afternoon at Circuito Estoril, in Portugal. Riding his Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing YZF-R9 on Pirelli control tires, the Turkish rider lapped the 2.60-mile (4.18 km) course in 1:39.011 to top the field of 34 riders and earn pole position.

Lucas Mahias was the best of the rest with a 1:39.057 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R9, and Tom Booth-Amos earned the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:39.110 on his PTR Triumph Factory Racing Street Triple 765 RS.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise of France was 17th with a 1:39.570 on his Eastroc Evan Bros ZXMOTO 820RR.

 

WSSP SUPERPOLE

 

 

More, from a press release issued by WSBK:

Oncu takes fifth 2026 pole ahead of Mahias and Booth-Amos, Arenas to set off from P9 on Saturday. Current Championship runner-up Valentin Debise (EASTROC ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) stumbled early with a crash and fell to a P17 qualification. 

The FIM Supersport World Championship set the grid on Friday for what will be a critical Race 1 for all three of the class’s title pictures. As wind picked up over the second half of the session, Can Oncu stuck the landing atop the timesheets for the fifth time this season, followed by a resurgent Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) in P2 and Tom Booth-Amos (PTR Triumph Factory Racing), who led a trio of Triumph machines on the timesheets with his second front row appearance in 2026. Albert Arenas’s (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) Championship hopes look good as his main rival, Debise, will start from down on the sixth row with titles on the line on Saturday.

 

ONCU TAKES YAMAHA’S SEVENTH POLE OF THE SEASON

Oncu continue his phenomenal Friday form in 2026 with a circuit-record-setting 1’39.011s time. He will look for a maiden win at the Portuguese venue on Saturday. French rider Mahias took his fifth front-row appearance this season with a 1’39.057s time, just under five hundredths behind the Turk. The #94 sits in P12 in the Championship and will try to break back into the top ten this weekend in Portugal. Booth-Amos took third place at Estoril after landing P9 qualifications in the last two rounds. He clocked in just shy of a tenth of the #61 on pole for his first front row finish since his dominant home round at Donington Park.

 

image
Lucas Mahias (94) at Estoril. Photo courtesy WSBK.

 

BAYLISS AND VOSTATEK TO THE SECOND ROW

Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) looks to be returning to form after missing Magny-Cours with injury, with his best result of P13 at Cremona as he returned to fitness. At Estoril, he closed Friday in P4 just under half a tenth behind his British teammate. Hot on his tail, Czech rider Ondrej Vostatek (Compos Racing Team) continues to put the pieces together, building on his season-best Superpole result with a P5 at Estoril after a P7 last round. Filippo Farioli (VFT Racing Yamaha) continued his terrific recent run of form, snagging P6 for his second-best result this season.

 

A STRONG FIRST IMPRESSION FROM FERNANDEZ

Wildcard rider Eric Fernandez (Cerba Yamaha Racing Team) announced himself to the paddock with an impressive P7 in his maiden Superpole event. Four hundredths behind the Spaniard, Dominique Aegerter (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) kept the ball rolling at Estoril as the Swiss rider took P8 for his best Superpole result of 2026 so far. Championship leader Albert Arenas fell to the third row in P9. With Debise’s poorer result back in P17, however, it was still a strong result for the Spaniard’s title hopes. Rounding out the top ten, Jeremy Alcoba (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) finished two hundredths off the #75 and will look to move up on Saturday as he races for a 2027 seat. Back in P17, Valentin Debise saw gravel early in the session at Turn 12, which cost him the better part of the session as his team scrambled to repair the bike. He later returned, but he will start from the sixth row on Saturday. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) perhaps struggled even more than the Frenchman, tumbling to P20, and he will have some heavy lifting in Race 1 if he wants to fortify his 36-point Riders’ Championship lead over Oncu.

 

The top six from the WorldSSP Tissot Superpole session: full results here!

  1. Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) 1’39.011
  2. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) +0.046s
  3. Tom Booth-Amos (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) +0.099s
  4. Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) +0.148s
  5. Ondrej Vostatek (Compos Racing Team) +0.186s
  6. Filippo Farioli (VFT Racing Yamaha) +0.238s

Subscribe to stream Live and OnDemand as WorldSSP gets rolling for Race 1 on Saturday, October 10th at 14:00 with the WorldSBK VideoPass! Now just €9.99!

AFT: Estenson Racing Ends American Flat Track Program

Dallas Daniels (32) at the American Flat Track season finale at the Lake Ozark Short Track. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor USA.
Dallas Daniels (32) at the American Flat Track season finale at the Lake Ozark Short Track. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor USA.

After a decade in American Flat Track, Estenson Racing’s time in the series is coming to a close.

Founded on Tim Estenson’s passion for flat track, the team earned its first AFT Singles championship with Kolby Carlile in 2017, followed by Dallas Daniels’ back-to-back Singles titles in 2020 and 2021. Estenson Racing closes this chapter with back-to-back championships in both Singles and SuperTwins, earned by Tom Drane and Dallas Daniels in 2025 and 2026.

The championships are part of our legacy. So are the people who made them possible—from the riders who represented Estenson Racing to the crew whose expertise and dedication defined our program.

“Flat track brought me back to racing and gave us ten years I’ll always be grateful for. I’m proud of the people who built this team and what we accomplished together. While this chapter is ending, Estenson Racing’s story isn’t over.” — Tim Estenson

To Yamaha Motor USA, Monster Energy, and all our partners: thank you for your trust and support.

To Dallas and Tom: thank you for an extraordinary chapter. We wish you continued success.

It’s been an honor to be part of American Flat Track. To every rider, crew member, and fan who shared this journey: thank you. We’ll carry the friendships and memories with us.

The next chapter of Estenson Racing is already taking shape. We look forward to sharing it with you soon.

Estenson Racing

WorldSBK: Bulega Heads Friday Practice At Estoril

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Nicolo Bulega (11) at Estoril. Photo courtesy WSBK.

Nicolò Bulega led FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Circuito Estoril, in Portugal. Riding his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Italian rider covered the 2.60-mile (4.18 km) track in 1:35.432 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Alberto Surra was second-best with a 1:35.498 on his Motocorsa Racing Ducati Panigale V4R. 

Bulega’s teammate, Iker Lecuona, was third with a 1:35.516.

Home hero, Miguel Oliveira got fourth with a time of 1:35.816 ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR and his teammate Danilo Petrucci was 16th with a lap time of 1:36.488. 

American Garrett Gerloff was 10th with a time of 1:36.150 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR. 

 

WSBK FP2

 

 

More, from a press release issued by WSBK:

FRIDAY REPORT: Bulega narrowly beats Surra and Lecuona, Oliveira impresses with P4 on home soil. Bulega topped both sessions on Friday at Estoril ahead of rookie Surra and teammate Lecuona, while home hero Oliveira claimed P4. 

Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was the fastest rider on Friday at the Circuito Estoril in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship as he beat rookie Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) and teammate Iker Lecuona on the opening day of action at the Tissot Estoril Round. Also catching the eye was home hero Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) as the #88 finished the day in fourth place, raising hopes he can make a rostrum return this weekend.

 

BULEGA ON TOP, SURRA CONTINUES TO IMPRESS

After topping Free Practice 1, Bulega made it a Friday clean sweep as he took honours in Free Practice 2 as well. The #11 posted a 1’35.432s as he immediately found gains compared to the morning session, with all but two riders improving in FP2. The #11 was just 0.066s ahead of rookie Surra. The #67 left it until the last few minutes to set his best time of the day as he posted a 1’35.498s to claim second, ahead of Lecuona. The #7 took third with a 1’35.516s with less than a tenth separating the top three. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) finished Friday in sixth place after posting a 1’35.863s, while his teammate, Alvaro Bautista, was in ninth place; despite three positions separating the pair, the #19 was only a tenth slower than Montella. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) was 12th with Loris Baz (MGM Optical Express Racing) in 15th and Tommy Bridewell (Superbike Advocates) in 20th; the #46 had a crash in FP1 at Turn 7.

 

 

 

OLIVEIRA TAKES FOURTH FOR BMW

Home hero Oliveira will look to be back in the top five, or even podium contention at a circuit just half-an-hour drive from his hometown. The #88, who had Turn 7 named after him ahead of the round, finished in fourth place after posting a 1’35.816s. Teammate Danilo Petrucci was down the order in 16th place, although it was so tight on Friday that just a small gain for ‘Petrux’, or any other rider, will haul him up the order.

 

image
Miguel Oliveira (88) at Estoril. Photo courtesy WSBK.

 

BASSANI LEADS ALEX LOWES AT BIMOTA

Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) finished as the lead Bimota rider after surging up the order in the latter stages of the 45-minute session, setting a 1’35.844s to finish in fifth. He was just a few hundredths ahead of teammate Alex Lowes in seventh after the #22 set a 1’35.873s to finish two places down on ‘El Bocia’.

 

DIXON IN THE TOP TEN

Jake Dixon (Honda HRC) headed to Estoril after his first top six WorldSBK finish, and the #96 appears to be knocking on the door of more top ten possibilities in Portugal. He finished the day in eighth on the combined classification after posting a 1’35.964s. His teammate, Somkiat Chantra, was 13th but two tenths separated the two Honda riders.

 

 

 

VIERGE LEADS YAMAHA CHARGE

Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) was the lead Yamaha rider in 10th on Friday after posting a 1’36.364s, although the #97 was one of only two riders to not improve their lap time in FP2 with his time coming in the morning session. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha) was under two tenths behind his teammate but finished three places lower, while he was a tenth clear of rookie Stefano Manzi (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in 18th. Manzi’s teammate, Remy Gardner, was directly behind the #62 and suffered a late crash in FP2 at Turn 9. His best time was a 1’36.646s. Mattia Rato (Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) was 21st after he had a big crash at Turn 7, while teammate Twan Smits rounded out the WorldSBK field; like Vierge, he did not improve his time in FP2 compared to FP1.

 

GERLOFF JUST MISSES OUT ON THE TOP 10

Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) had a dramatic start to his weekend when he crashed at Turn 7 in the latter stages of Free Practice 1. The #31 finished the day in 11th place after posting a 1’36.150s, missing out on a spot in the top ten by just three thousandths of a second.

 

The top six from Friday’s WorldSBK action, full results here:

  1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’35.432s
  2. Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) +0.066s
  3. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.084s
  4. Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.384s
  5. Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.412s
  6. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.431s

Don’t miss any moment from Saturday’s WorldSBK action at Estoril starting at 10:40 Local Time (UTC+1) using the WorldSBK VideoPass – now only €9.99!

WorldWCR Names CFMOTO Exclusive Supplier for 2027

image
WorldWCR welcomes CFMOTO as exclusive motorcycle supplier from 2027. Photo courtesy WSBK.

The three-cylinder CFMOTO 675SR-R will bring increased performance and a fresh sporting challenge under a three-year agreement covering 2027, 2028 and 2029. 

The FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship (WorldWCR) will begin a new chapter in 2027, with CFMOTO becoming the series’ exclusive motorcycle supplier for the next three seasons. 
 

Powered by a 675cc three-cylinder engine, the 675SR-R combines proven racing DNA with around 15 hp more than the current platform. The move represents an important step in WorldWCR’s sporting development: the additional power and different engine characteristics will challenge competitors to broaden their skills and raise their level, while promising even more exciting racing for fans. 
 

WorldWCR will retain its one-make format, with all riders competing on identical machinery and rider talent remaining central to the competition. 
 

The change of machinery will coincide with the arrival of Michelin as WorldWCR’s single tyre supplier from 2027 onwards. 
 

The partnership also strengthens WorldWCR’s ties with China, supporting the Championship’s ambition to reach more fans and explore new destinations in the seasons ahead. 
 

 

Samantha Liu, General Manager of CFMOTO Motorsports Management  Center: “Becoming the official motorcycle supplier for the 2027–2029 WorldWCR seasons marks an important new chapter in CFMOTO’s global motorsport journey. It also reflects our long-term commitment to the development of motorcycle racing. We look forward to working closely with WorldWCR and all our partners to further advance women’s motorcycle racing and to bring greater global attention to the speed, passion and potential of female riders.” 
 

 

Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director: “Since WorldWCR began, our ambition has been to create more opportunities and build strong competition. Continuing to raise the bar for the riders is a key part of that. The CFMOTO 675SR-R gives our riders a more powerful motorcycle to master and a new challenge to help them develop, while retaining the equal technical conditions that make their ability count. We are pleased to welcome CFMOTO for the next three seasons and look forward to working together to develop WorldWCR on track and extend its international reach.”

WorldSSP: Oncu Quickest In Opening Practice In Portugal

IMG 7836
Can Oncu (61) at Misano. Photo courtesy WSBK.

Can Oncu was quickest during FIM Supersport World Championship Free practice Friday morning at Circuito Estoril, in Portugal. Riding his Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing YZF-R9 on Pirelli control tires, the Turkish rider covered the 2.60-mile (4.18 km) road course in 1:39.084, topping the field of 34 riders.

Lucas Mahias was the best of the rest with a 1:38.418 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R9.

Philipp Oettl was third with a lap time of 1:39.526 on his Feel Racing Team Ducati Panigale V2.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was 8th with a 1:39.656 on his Eastroc Evan Bros ZXMOTO 820RR.

 

WSSP FREE PRACTICE

WorldSBK: Bulega Tops Opening Practice At Estoril

image
Nicolo Bulega (11) at Estoril. Photo courtesy WSBK.

Nicolo Bulega was quickest during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 1 (FP1) Friday morning at Circuito Estoril, in Portugal. Riding his Pirelli-shod Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4R on the 2.60-mile (4.18 km) track, the Italian recorded a 1:35.546 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Alberto Surra was the best of the rest with a 1:35.598 on his Motocorsa Racing Ducati Panigale V4R.

Bulega’s teammate, Iker Lecuona was third-fastest with a 1:35.925.

Alex Lowes crossed the finish line fourth on his bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team KB998 Rimini with a lap time of 1:36.084.

Xavi Vierge got fifth with a time of 1:36.147 on his Pata Maxus Yamaha YZF-R1.

American Garrett Gerloff finished the opening session in 11th with a 1:36.519 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR. 

 

WSBK FP1

 

 

More, from a press release issued by WSBK:

Bulega pips Surra in WorldSBK FP1 at Estoril by 0.052s, Lecuona completes top three. The 2026 Champion started off his weekend with top spot ahead of rookie Surra, while Lecuona dropped to third late on in FP1. 

Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) started his penultimate MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship round by taking first place in Free Practice 1 at the Tissot Estoril Round. The Italian rider was just half-a-tenth clear of upcoming star Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) at the Circuito Estoril as the #67 claimed second place, while Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was usurped by the rookie late on in WorldSBK’s opening session at Estoril.

 

 

 

Almost two weeks on from being crowned Champion, Bulega started his penultimate round in WorldSBK on top of the timesheets. The #11, running gold patches on his leathers to mark his success, set a 1’35.546s, to lead Free Practice 1 ahead of rookie Surra. The #67 heads to Estoril with a 2027 contract in his pocket with his current team, and off the back of a podium at Cremona, and started his weekend with second place. Lecuona, fresh from his maiden treble last time out, was third and 0.379s off his teammate.

 

 

 

Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) ensured Bimota started the weekend strongly as he was fourth, although he had been third until Surra’s late lap. The #22’s best time was a 1’36.084s. Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) also improved late on in the 45-minute session to claim fifth with a 1’36.147s, demoting Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team). Despite the #19 ending up in sixth, it’s his best FP1 placing of the season; beating his previous best of P7.

 

 

 

Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) moved up the order in the closing stages of FP1 to finish in seventh, although it was tight between Bautista, Sam Lowes and Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven). Just 0.006s separated Bautista and the #14, while there was only 0.005s between Sam Lowes and ‘Balda’. The Italian’s best time was a 1’36.286s as he finished in eighth, with Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) completing the top nine ahead of home hero Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team).

 

 

 

The top six from WorldSBK FP1, full results here:

  1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’35.546s
  2. Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) +0.052s
  3. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.379s
  4. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.538s
  5. Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) +0.601s
  6. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.729s

Don’t miss any action from FP2 at 15:00 Local Time (UTC+1) using the WorldSBK VideoPass – now only €9.99!

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