Nicolo Bulega was quickest during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 2 Friday afternoon at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Italian covered the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) track in 1:29.101 to lead the field of 21 riders.
Alex Lowes was the best of the rest with a 1:29.354 on his Bimota by Kawasaki KB998 Rimini and his teammate Axel Bassani was third-fastest with a 1:29.468.
American Garrett Gerloff was 9th with a time of 1:29.699 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.
Danilo Petrucci was 11th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a lap time of 1:29.834.
The #11 cemented his place at the top of the standings in Free Practice 2, although it was his FP1 time that was the fastest of the day.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) continued to top the times in the Australian Round for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The #11 finished in P1 in both FP1 and FP2 at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit as he laid down a gauntlet to the rest of the field, finishing half-a-second clear of Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) in second and Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in third.
BULEGA LEADS, BALDASSARRI IMPRESSES: A strong day one of 2026 for ‘Bulegas’
Like in FP1, Bulega started his session with a long run and put in some consistent lap times, culminating with a 1’29.131s to cement his place in P1. He improved in the second half of the session to a 1’29.101s, securing P1 in both sessions. During FP2, ‘Bulegas’ was being followed by new teammate Iker Lecuona as the #7 builds onto the Ducati Panigale V4R, with the Spanish rider finishing eighth overall, half-a-second down on his teammate. Sam Lowes had a disrupted FP2 after he fell in the first sector of the lap with around 20 minutes to go, although the #14 was still able to take second overall after setting a 1’29.382s in FP1. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) put in a late lap to claim fifth on the combined times as he set a 1’20.482s, exactly 0.002s ahead of Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) in sixth as ‘Balda’ continues to shine on his return. Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Racing Performance) finished in 13th, directly ahead of rookie Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing), who was one of several crashers at the Turn 4 Miller Hairpin.
Alex Lowes (22) during FP2 at Philip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna.
BIMOTA IN THE MIX: Second and fourth for Alex Lowes and Bassani
Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was the first rider to improve their lap time compared to FP1 when he set a 1’29.354s, giving him a provisional P1 in FP2, and second overall, before Bulega demoted the #22. However, the Bimota rider did lose the last couple of minutes of FP2 after a Turn 4 lowside, although he was able to re-mount his bike. Teammate Axel Bassani confirmed Bimota’s pace as he finished a tenth behind Alex Lowes in FP2 with a 1’29.468s, and fourth overall.
IN THE TOP TEN AGAIN: Gerloff keeps the ZX-10RR in the top positions
American star Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) continued his strong visit to Australia as he secured a spot in the top ten. He finished ninth in the combined times after setting a 1’29.692s in FP1 and a 1’29.699s in FP2, with the #31 showing off his consistent pace throughout the day.
ADAPTATION ONGOING: Oliveira 10th, Petrucci 12th for BMW
Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was the lead BMW rider on Friday as he finished in tenth place. The Portuguese rider set a 1’29.746s as he finished inside the top ten, with his time set in FP1. Danilo Petrucci was two places behind after setting a 1’29.834s as the pair continue adapting to the M1000RR.
YAMAHA HOPING FOR GAINS: Vierge leads the blue charge in 11th
Yamaha have endured a difficult start to the season, with Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) narrowly missing out on a top ten result. He finished 11th as the lead rider for the Japanese manufacturer after posting a 1’29.806s. Teammate Andrea Locatelli was struggling with the bumps over the course of the two-day Official Test, and ‘Loka’ finished Friday down in 15th place after posting a 1’30.060s. Stefano Manzi (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was more than a tenth clear of teammate Remy Gardner in 18th and 19th respectively, with the latter heading into his home round still recovering from a broken arm and dislocated shoulder he sustained in training late last year. Bahattin Sofuoglu (Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) was 20th after he crashed at Turn 4 during FP2, with the #54 setting a 1’30.786s to beat teammate Mattia Rato; the Italian rounding out the WorldSBK field.
DIFFICULT DAY AT HONDA: Vickers 16th, Nagashima 17th
Honda have had a tricky start to the season, with new Honda HRC recruits Jake Dixon and Somkiat Chantra both missing from the grid due to respective injuries. There are still two CBR1000RR-R SP machines on the grid in the form of wildcard Ryan Vickers (Honda HRC) and Tetsuta Nagashima (Honda HRC), who finished in 16th and 17th respectively.
The top six from Friday’s WorldSBK action, full results here:
1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’28.858s
2. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.496s
3. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.524s
4. Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.610s
5. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.624s
6. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) +0.626s
Tissot Superpole and the first race of 2026 await on Saturday! Catch all the action from 10:00 Local Time (UTC+11) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!
Jaume Masia topped FIM Supersport World Championship Superpole qualifying Friday at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Orelac Racing Verdnatura Ducati Panigale V2 on Pirelli control tires, Masia lapped the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) course in 1:32.115 to top the field of 28 riders and earn pole position.
Oli Bayliss was the best of the rest with a 1:32.287 on his PTR Triumph Street Triple 765 RS, and Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise earned the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:32.439 on his ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bross 820RR.
Four manufacturers in the top four as the WorldSSP season shoots out of the gate.
The 2026 FIM Supersport World Championship campaign is officially a go! The Australian Round saw the WorldSSP field throw down in this season’s first Tissot Superpole session, with Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) coming out on top to claim the season’s first pole position. The result is his second career pole in WorldSSP and has punched his ticket on Saturday to start from P1. Behind him, the front row will be comprised of to be tailed in P2 by home hero Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) and Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) in P3.
MASIA ON POLE TO START 2026: The Spanish sophomore will lead the pack in Race 1
Jaume Masia nailed the Superpole session after a dominant week of testing on the timesheets. The2023 Moto3 Champion makes it two career poles in WorldSSP as he continues to improve his case for title contender with a 1’32.115s lap. Oli Bayliss set the table for home weekend glory in his Tissot Superpole session. The Aussie rider set hot lap after hot lap to sit P1 early, doing enough to land P2 with his final time of 1’32.287s and his first WorldSSP front-row start. Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) started ZXMOTO’s WorldSSP story on a stunning note, his 1’32.439s time taking the new Chinese manufacturer to P3 to round out the front row.
Valentin Debise (53) during the Superpole in Australia. Photo courtesy Dorna
BOOTH-AMOS’S TIME HOLDS ON: Despite seeing the chequered flag from the medical centre, his time sees him to a P5 placement
Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) looked a step faster than what he had shown earlier in the week during testing, battling for the front row on the timesheet, but will have to settle for leading the second row from P4 with his time of 1’32.450 seeing him a third of a second off of P1 pace. Tom Booth-Amos was running as the latter of a Triumph one-two at the session’s midpoint until a Turn 11 highside crash caused a red flag and sent him to the medical centre to end his session. As faster times piled up, the Englishman and his 1’32.554s time fell to P5. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) hovered around P8 throughout the session, until he returned to the boxes with eight minutes left to make a final adjustment for one last stint. Those changes helped him to a 1’32.617s for an improved P6.
NO PROBLEMS ADAPTING: Arenas goes third-row in first-ever WorldSSP Superpole
Albert Arenas (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) looks to have found a step on Friday as he converted his Free Practice P5 into a Tissot Superpole P7. His 1’32.673s time will see him start his first WorldSSP race from the third row. Matteo Ferrari (WRP Racing) was the top finisher of the field’s inbound former MotoE riders. He took P8 on the back of his impressive 1’32.710s time. Ondrej Vostatek again showed his affinity for the Australian circuit as he and his Ducati Panigale V2 clocked a 1’32.819s time to earn P9. Mattia Casadei (D34G WorldSSP Racing Team) was the third rider to crash on the high-speed Turn 11 with just a minute to go. The Italian’s 1’32.827s time held on, however, to take P10.
TRICKY TURN 11: Three riders took a tumble on the fast corner
Oliver Konig’s (Compos Racing Team) tough day at the office on Friday continued after a tech issue that caused a red flag in Free Practice. In the Superpole session, he suffered a high-side crash on Turn 11, which sent him to the medical centre, where he was later ruled fit to continue. Roberto Garcia (GMT94 Yamaha) had a Turn 5 crash with 17 minutes left in the session, walking away unharmed.
The top six from the WorldSSP Tissot Superpole session: Full results here!
1. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) 1’32.115s
2. Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) +0.172s
Nicolo Bulega was quickest during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 1 Friday morning at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Pirelli-shod Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4R on the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) track, the Italian recorded a 1:28.858 to lead the field of 21 riders.
Sam Lowes was the best of the rest with a 1:29.382 on his ELF Marc VDS Ducati Panigale V4R.
Axel Bassani was third-fastest with a 1:29.547 on his Bimota by Kawasaki KB998 Rimini.
American Garrett Gerloff finished the opening session 7th with a 1:29.692 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.
Danilo Petrucci was 12th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a lap time of 1:29.892.
The #11 started the weekend exactly as he’d have envisaged by leading the timesheets in the 45-minute FP1 session.
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship kicked off at the iconic Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit with Free Practice 1 for the Australian Round, with Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) leading the way by 0.524s. ‘Bulegas’ put in a long run at the start of the session where he set his best time right at the end of the stint, firing a warning shot to his competitors about how strong he would be in Australia, with Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) and Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) his closest rivals.
Bulega started the weekend as he ended the Official Test, as the only rider in the 1’28s and putting in an impressive stint. He was finding pace with each lap that he completed during a long first stint of 11 representative lap times, with a 1’28.858s set on the penultimate lap of the run. That turned out to be his best lap time was he finished half-a-second clear of Sam Lowes in second, while the #14 was more than a tenth clear of Bassani in third as ‘El Bocia’ once again showed his pace after a strong test.
Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was another who was quick in the test and that carried on during FP1 as the #5 posted a 1’29.561s to claimed fourth place. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was fifth after lapping half-a-tenth down on Montella, and was 0.757s away from Bulega’s pacesetting time. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) looks to be in contention for a strong result on his WorldSBK return as he claimed sixth in the opening 45-minute session of the year.
Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) set a 1’29.962s as he finished in the top seven on his new ZX-10RR machine, beating Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) by 0.018s as the Spaniard secured a top-ten spot. Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) finished in ninth, 0.888s slower than Bulega, as Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) rounded out the top ten as he beat former teammate Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) by 0.050s; Vierge was the lead Yamaha rider.
Jaume Masia was quickest during FIM Supersport World Championship Free practice Friday morning at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Orelac Racing Verdnatura Ducati Panigale V2 on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard covered the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) road course in 1:32.120, topping the field of 28 riders.
Home hero, Oli Bayliss was the best of the rest with a 1:32.352 on his PTR Triumph Factory Racing Street Triple 765 RS.
Philip Oettl was third with a lap time of 1:32.370 on his Feel Racing Ducati Panigale V2.
Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was 6th with a 1:32.523 on his ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bross 820RR.
Vortex Racing and EK Chain will continue their support of MotoAmerica in 2026, returning as Official Sponsors of North America’s premier motorcycle road racing championship.
Their continued sponsorship of the MotoAmerica series reinforces a shared commitment to competition, reliability, and development at the highest level of American road racing.
Vortex Racing, a long-time manufacturer of high-performance motorcycle components, and EK Chain, a global leader in drive-chain technology, bring decades of racing experience, acquired from the highest levels of competition, to the MotoAmerica Championship. Products from both companies, including sprockets, rearsets, clip-ons, and chains, are used broadly throughout the MotoAmerica paddock on every race weekend, in an unmatched test environment where durability and performance are critical.
The 2026 season marks another step in the ongoing relationship between MotoAmerica, Vortex Racing, and EK Chain reflecting the brands’ continued investment in American road racing and their support of teams and riders competing at the national level.
“MotoAmerica continues to be the most demanding and meaningful proving ground for our products, and we are proud to support a championship that consistently pushes teams, riders, and manufacturers to perform at the highest level,”said Steve Malone, VP of Operations at Vortex Racing and EK Chain.“We remain fully committed to the paddock, the people, and the competition that make this series what it is, and we are grateful to be part of a championship that continues to strengthen professional motorcycle road racing in the United States.”
MotoAmerica emphasized the value of long-term partners with a deep understanding of racing and its demands.
“Racing in MotoAmerica often separates champions from competitors by hundredths of a second,”said Lance Bryson, Director of Sponsorship for MotoAmerica. “Consistency in performance is non-negotiable, which is why companies like Vortex Racing and EK Chain are fixtures in our paddock with top performing teams. Their continued support reflects our commitment to strengthen the championship and push the level of our competition.”
The 2026 MotoAmerica Championship will feature competition in seven classes and at 10 rounds across the United States, continuing the series’ role as the top level of professional motorcycle road racing in North America.
For more information about Vortex Racing and EK Chain, visit www.vortexracing.com
The 2026 WorldSBK entry list is boosted with the arrival of Superbike Advocates Racing; the Australian-owned team will fully commit to the championship as of Round 2, taking to the tracks with rider Tommy Bridewell and the Ducati Panigale V4R.
In a late development, Superbike Advocates Racing announces its full-time entry to the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship. Ready to field expert rider Tommy Bridewell and a 2026 spec Ducati Panigale V4R, this new-entry team will contest all eleven European championship rounds starting with the Portuguese round at Portimão (27-29 March) and will be the first Australian-owned team ever to do so.
Operating from its UK base, the squad originally intended to compete in British Superbike this season but has taken the bold step of accelerating its plans and will now debut in WorldSBK in 2026, a move originally envisaged for 2027. An ambitious project that is perfectly suited to a highly motivated and experienced rider like Bridewell.
Tommy is no stranger to Ducati; the British rider having secured the 2023 British Superbike Championship with the Panigale V4. A standout performance from bike and rider brought a total of 8 race wins and 10 additional podiums. Bridewell also powered his Ducati to top three in the 2019, 2021 and 2022 BSB seasons and scored WorldSBK points in 2019 while competing as a wildcard. Despite his extensive racing experience, Tommy essentially takes on the 2026 WorldSBK campaign as a rookie, a challenge the Brit relishes.
“It’s an opportunity I’ve never been given before” admits Bridewell. “We were testing at Portimão and when the bikes arrived – full WorldSBK spec – I made a jokey comment to the team to the effect of ‘wouldn’t it be nice to leave them like that and not have to remove all the electronics.’ I think this gave the team food for thought and before I knew it the entry was submitted and we were approved to compete in WorldSBK. A lastminute switch but I couldn’t be more excited.”
“I want to say a huge thankyou to the team for the opportunity” continues an enthusiastic Tommy. “I think it’s all coming together and we’re in for an exciting year. Sure, I’ve got a lot to learn – I’ve been racing for many years and am going into the season as prepared as I’ve ever been, but I feel a bit like a rookie! I’m really looking forward to it though. I just couldn’t turn down this chance, and I really hope the BSB fans can get to some of the races and support me and the other British riders. Let’s see how we do.”
Former BSB Champion Tommy Bridewell confirms full-time Ducati WorldSBK ride. Photo courtesy WorldSBK
It is also a rookie season for Superbike Advocates Racing, a project launched by Australian Lee Khouri. Wellknown in the automotive world as the founder of Supercar Advocates and an avid Ducati collector, Lee’s passion for the prestigious Italian brand left no doubt as to the machinery the team would field on track. Having cut its teeth in Australian Superbike with Glenn Allerton – and finishing the 2025 season a notable fifth overall – the team is excited to make the jump to the world championship.
“To officially step onto the WorldSBK grid in 2026 is an incredibly proud moment – not just for our team, but for Australia”, comments Team Owner, Lee Khouri. “Superbike Advocates Racing will be the first Australianowned team in the history of the Superbike World Championship, and that’s something that means a great deal to me personally. This project started with pure passion – passion for Ducati, for racing, and for building something that could compete at the highest level. What began in Australian Superbike has evolved into a world championship campaign much sooner than we originally planned, and that reflects the belief we have in the people around us.”
Structurally, the team can count on the expertise of several key figures, not least Alan Jackson, who takes the helm as team manager. The former TT winner has managed teams competing across BSB, Endurance and road racing and offers the kind of support and insight that only a former racer can. Mick Shanley comes aboard as technical director, bringing a wealth of experience from his many years of operation in WorldSBK and MotoGP. Together, Alan and Mick have hand-picked a group of expert technicians ready to support Bridewell during his rookie WorldSBK season.
“WorldSBK is one of the most competitive championships in global motorsport. We’re not entering to make up the numbers – we’re here to build, to learn quickly, and to fight”, Khouri concludes. “With Tommy’s experience, the Ducati Panigale V4R, and the strength of our technical structure, we believe we can establish ourselves as a serious and professional operation from day one. To represent Australia and the United Kingdom on the world stage in this way is something I’m extremely proud of. This is just the beginning.”
The stage is set and Superbike Advocates Racing is ready to perform – stay tuned as the team sets its sights on WorldSBK success!
After all the testing and all the talking, it’s time to go racing in 2026 as WorldSBK ushers in a new season.
126 days will have passed since the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship’s last race when Race 1 gets underway on Saturday at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. More than a hundred days of looking back on 2025, finding out where to improve, how to make steps, a few (not very dry) days of testing mixed in there as well, but it’s time to find out who has the answers to the questions last season posed. There are new bikes and new line-ups as a new era begins with the 2026 Australian Round.
Nicolo Bulega (11) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
CHASING BULEGA: Who can catch the #11?
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) completed a hat-trick in Australia last year and, if testing is anything to go by, he’s the favourite this year. He finished the test as the only rider in the 1’28s and six tenths clear of his rivals but, as riders like to say: “testing is testing and racing is racing”. Things can change quickly and there’s no shortage of competitors looking to take the fight to ‘Bulegas’. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) was his closest challenger at the test and goes in search of a first WorldSBK victory, while there was a shock name at the front: Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven). Could ‘Balda’ stun the field and take a podium on his WorldSBK return? Elsewhere, Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was quick during the test and he was fast in the round in 2025 too, so he’ll be searching for a maiden rostrum too. Elsewhere, Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) and teammate Alex Lowes were fast too, with ‘El Bocia’ showing rapid improvement across each session. And let’s not forget the #22 is a three-time winner at Phillip Island… could he make that four and claim Bimota’s first win in 26 years? Elsewhere, Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) showed flashes of speed during the test, often in the top-ten, and will be looking for more of that.
Miguel Oliveira (88) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
MAKING PROGRESS: BMW’s new recruits look for more ‘Down Under’
A wet winter hasn’t helped either Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) or teammate Danilo Petrucci adapt any quicker to the BMW M1000RR machine, although the two dry days at Phillip Island will have made a big difference. Both riders made progress throughout the test and will hope to continue that as they close the gap to the top positions. Oliveira’s best MotoGP result at Phillip Island is 12th, on two occasions, although he won in both Moto3 and Moto2 there. Petrucci has two WorldSBK rostrums at the Australian venue, from 2024 and 2025.
Alvaro Bautista (19) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
NEW CHAPTERS BEGIN: Who will shine for their new squads?
Plenty of new eras begin in earnest at the weekend. Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) will mark his first race in blue and he comes into it after being the lead Yamaha rider throughout the Official Test. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) will be searching for podiums as he races for an Independent outfit for the first time – and he’s a serial winner at Phillip Island, with eight wins to his name there. His replacement at the factory Ducati team, Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), has only completed one round at Phillip Island in his WorldSBK career, when he took two P6 finishes in 2023. He’ll be hoping for a podium-challenging Ducati debut, if not a rostrum itself.
Andrea Locatelli (55) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
WANTING TO FIND GAINS AFTER THE TEST: ‘Loka’ struggling, Gardner wants more on home soil
Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha) usually goes well at Phillip Island but was struggling with the bumps on the track throughout the test, leaving him languishing down the order. ‘Loka’ will be hoping to find a solution to this at a track he’s been so consistent at, with only one result outside the top seven; and that was a retirement when he crashed fighting for victory. Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) seemingly has no luck when it comes to his home round, even if he does have plenty of pace. He heads into 2026 on the back of a broken arm and dislocated shoulder sustained in training in November and will be hoping to climb the order when racing gets underway. His rookie teammate, Stefano Manzi, has shown speed in abundance since jumping onto the Yamaha R1. His debut weekend awaits and the #62 will be hoping for a good start. Elsewhere, Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Racing Performance) finished the test in P13 but will want to be inside the top ten as he prepares for a first full campaign on the Panigale V4R. Rookie Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) was close to ‘Taz’ as he looks for a strong start to his maiden season, as is Mattia Rato (Motoxracing WorldSBK Team). His teammate, Bahattin Sofuoglu, is preparing for a second year after a solid rookie 2025 season, and will be aiming to move closer and closer to those top ten positions.
Jake Dixon (96) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
HONDA’S DIFFICULT START: No Chantra, no Dixon
It was already established that Somkiat Chantra (Honda HRC) would miss Australia after getting injured in a training crash in Malaysia, which left him requiring surgery. It was announced ahead of the round that he would be replaced by Tetsuta Nagashima. Sadly for Honda HRC, they will also be without fellow rookie Jake Dixon. The #96 crashed on Tuesday morning at Turn 11 during the test, which left him with a left wrist fracture and elbow contusion, ruling him out of the Australian Round. They do keep two CBR1000RR-R SP machines on the grid, however, with Ryan Vickers (Honda HRC) making a wildcard appearance for the Japanese brand.
WSSP: Masia looks to take the field by storm in Australia after a dominant showing in Official Testing!
The WorldSSP season opener is just around the corner. Read more below to get fully up to date on what to watch out for at Phillip Island!
The moment we’ve all been waiting for is nearly here as the Official Test has concluded and the FIM Supersport World Championship field now lies in wait for their all-out assault on 2026 at lights out on Friday, February 20th. The 2026 preseason has been very limited due to poor weather at the European tests at Jerez and Portimao, but the sun shone down on World Supersport as they enjoyed two days of unmitigated testing earlier this week. The time for testing has passed; however, this weekend, points will be on the line for the first time in 2026.
Jaume Masia (5) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
MASIA RED-HOT IN TESTING: The Spanish sophomore kept the hammer down in testing. Can he do the same on the weekend?
Four of the last five WorldSSP winners here have ridden Ducati V2 bikes, and from the looks of his pace at the Official Test, Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) is looking to make Phillip Island his own. Last season, he landed a P6 before crashing out of Race 2, but it would be hard to argue that Masia is not coming into the weekend looking to win at least one of the races. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team), unlike most of the grid, partook extensively in the tests at Portimao and Jerez, laying down important laps as he has become one of the fastest riders of the preseason. Matteo Ferrari (WRP Racing) and Alessandro Zaccone (Ecosantagata Althea Racing Team) have hit the ground running after joining from MotoE. Ferrari will look to replicate his Day 2 FP1 P9 pace on the weekend, while Zaccone will hope to replicate his P11 earned on the Day 1 combined timesheets. Josh Whatley (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) turned heads as he finished FP1 in the top positions before finishing P8 on Day 1. The Englishman will hope to end the day at the business end of the order after showing such promising results in testing.
Leonardo Taccini (Ecosantagata Althea Racing Team) and Mattia Casadei (D34G WorldSSP Racing Team) have posted healthy results around the top ten throughout testing, and on their day with the Ducati Panigale V2 platform’s affinity at Philip Island, they could easily snatch away a top-five result. Simon Jespersen (EAB Racing Team) showed strong results in the second half of 2025, even landing a P2 result at Balaton Park Race 2. He has been hovering around P15 in the testing timesheets so far Down Under, but the Dane has plenty of potential to shoot up the order. Borja Jimenez (WRP Racing) and Riccardo Rossi (Renzi Corse) will look to take points away from their first round in WorldSSP.
Can Oncu (61) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
ONCU LOOKS TO LEAD THE WAY: The Turk hopes to set the tone early
Title favourite Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) joined up with his former rival Stefano Manzi’s team and has every intention to get back on the horse this weekend after a slower pair of testing days than expected, finishing Day 1 in fourth, however, dropped to 19th on Day 2’s timesheets. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) and new teammate Roberto Garcia approaches the weekend with optimism as Mahias posted times around top-eight pace and Garcia set one time to earn P6 on the opening Day of testing. Aldi Mahendra (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) is back on track after missing the second half of his rookie WorldSSP season with injuries to both forearms ruling him out after Balaton. 2020 Moto3 Champion Albert Arenas joined his garage this offseason and has shown promising pace in testing. Italian sophomore Filippo Farioli (VFT Racing) suffered a tech issue on Day 1; however, recovered to participate on both days. Farioli, Xavi Cardelus (Cerba Yamaha Racing Team) and Yuki Okamoto (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) will look to set a base of points from this first round in 2026 atop their Yamaha R9s.
Oli Bayliss (32) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
BAYLISS LOOKS TO MAKE A SPLASH AT HOME: Triumph’s riders hope for a strong start
Australian rider Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) is looking poised for a home hero performance as he finished both testing days in P2, on top of already having a strong track record here at his home track. His teammate, Tom Booth-Amos, ended 2025 on a down note after a strong start, including a Race 2 win here; the #69 will hope to get the ball rolling in the same vein in 2026. Ondrej Vostatek (Compos Racing Team) impressed at the pair of testing days after an off-pace 2025 season. If Vostatek can capitalise and start his season strong, anything is possible. Oliver Konig (Compos Racing Team) is back in the WorldSBK paddock after two WorldSBK seasons in 2022 and 2023. He will look to start hot in his first round in WorldSSP.
Valentin Debise (53) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
DEBISE AND ZXMOTO ENJOY A STRONG START: Debise lands P10 and P12 in testing
Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) joined a new team just in time for their new chapter with inbound Chinese manufacturer ZXMOTO as they set sail on their WorldSSP journey in 2026. The Frenchman looked comfortable on both days, lading top 12 across both days. Veteran rider Federico Caricasulo (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) didn’t look quite as fast, but if he can bring his experience to bear, ZXMOTO could enjoy a very strong start in WorldSSP.
Dominique Aegerter (77) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
KAWASAKI STILL GETTING UP TO SPEED: Alcoba and Aegerter struggled at times in testing
Dominique Aegerter (Kawaski WorldSSP Team) is one of the most exciting riders joining the field in 2026. He won back-to-back World titles in WorldSSP in 2021 and 2022, as well as winning Race 2 here in his second title campaign. While he and his teammate, Jeremy Alcoba, were still working out the kinks atop their Kawasaki ZX-6R 636 bikes, they had each shown podium pace in the category.
Jacopo Cretaro (73) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
MV AGUSTA RIDERS WORK TO FIND FOOTING: Cretaro and Giombini both suffered crashes in the test
Jacopo Cretaro (Flembbo by Racing Development) and Andrea Giombini (Motozoo by Madforce Dubai) are set to start their first full seasons as WorldSSP permanent riders in 2026. Each has appeared in the category before; this will be their first season riding an MV Agusta F3 800 RR. At the test, both were still getting the hang of their bikes, with Cretaro on Day 1 the only one of the two to land in the top 15 times.
Act now and book your ticket to live, OnDemand and behind-the-scenes WorldSBK content, including the WorldSSP season debut with the WorldSBK VideoPass!
DAYTONA BEACH, FL – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is thrilled to announce a special Quarters for Kids Campaign that will fund $27,000 in bike learning programs through All Kids Bike. During the 2026 Progressive AFT Season, $0.25 from every race ticket will help fund new All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride programs.
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, All Kids Bike provides schools with everything they need to teach kids how to ride a bike – from balancing to pedaling – as part of their Kindergarten PE class. The comprehensive, ready-to-teach program is currently teaching over 180,000 students across the US how to ride this school year.
“As huge fans of Progressive American Flat Track racing, we truly believe that inspiring the next generation of racers starts by empowering children to ride at the youngest age possible,” said All Kids Bike Executive Director Lisa Weyer. “The amazing part of this Quarters for Kids campaign is that it enables AFT fans to help fund the future of the sport. Even if you attend just one race this season, you’ll help 3,000 Kindergarteners discover the confidence and joy of riding a bike.”
Twenty-five cents from every ticket this season will help fund the $9,000 All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program in three (3) new schools. Because each program remains in a school for 10 years, this single season can ultimately help approximately 3,000 children learn to ride a bike. If the program falls short of its $27,000 goal, a donation from Tim Estenson will offset the difference to ensure all programs are fully funded, proving that Progressive AFT racing teams truly believe in the power of the All Kids Bike Program.
Don’t miss the start of the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season. The series kicks off the year with the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA I & II at Daytona International Speedway on Thursday, March 5 and Friday, March 6.
The All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program launched in 2018 with a simple mission: to give every child in America the opportunity to learn how to ride a bike in school. The ready-to-teach program includes teacher training and certification, a complete 8-lesson curriculum with lesson plans, games and activities, a fleet of 24 Strider balance-to-pedal bikes, pedal conversion kits, fully adjustable student helmets, an instructor bike with pedal conversion kit and helmet, two rolling storage racks, and access to a resource portal with live support for the life of the program, everything needed to teach kids how to ride a bike! Supported by the Strider Education Foundation, All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Programs are active in over 1,800 schools across all 50 states, teaching more than 180,000 kids to ride each year and over 1 million kids throughout the 10-year lifespan of the programs already in place. For more information, please visitwww.allkidsbike.org.
About Quarters for Kids
Quarters for Kids is a simple, powerful fundraising initiative proving that small change can make a big difference. By allocating just $0.25 per ticket or registration, participating events can collectively generate significant funding to support multiple All Kids Bike programs, impacting hundreds of kindergarten students each year. Because each program remains in a school for up to 10 years, the long-term impact can extend to thousands of children learning to ride a bike, creating lasting benefits for students, schools, and communities – showing that every ticket truly makes a difference.
About AMA Pro Racing
AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing organization in North America, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines from its headquarters in Daytona Beach, Fla. Learn more at www.amaproracing.com.
About Progressive American Flat Track
Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest‑running championships in the history of motorsports.
MV Agusta reaffirms its commitment to uncompromising performance, innovation, and rider-centric design by delivering the complete electronic package as standard equipment across its entire 2026 motorcycle lineup. From three- to four-cylinder models and across all segments, every MV Agusta leaves the factory fully equipped—with no additional components, no software unlocks, and no activation fees required.
A CLEAR POSITION IN A CHANGING MARKET
While market trends show premium competitors increasingly monetizing electronics through optional electronic features and packages, MV Agusta remains aligned with a more rider-focused philosophy. By including the full electronics suite as OE, the brand ensures transparency, value, and a consistent ownership experience across its lineup.
Photo courtesy MV Agusta
RIDING EXPERIENCE: PREMIUM PERFORMANCE, NO COMPROMISES
The 2026 lineup reflects MV Agusta’s belief that advanced electronics are not optional extras, but an integral part of the modern riding experience. Riders benefit from a comprehensive suite of performance-enhancing systems, all factory-fitted as Original Equipment (OE) and seamlessly integrated into the motorcycle.
This approach reinforces MV Agusta’s premium positioning while delivering outstanding value. The manufacturer’s MSRP already includes the complete electronics package, no hidden costs, no post-purchase upgrades, and no compromises.
Every model is equipped as standard with:
6-axis IMU
ABS with Cornering function
3 riding modes + 1 CUSTOM
Quick Shift (up & down)
Traction Control (Off + 8 levels)
Front Lift Control
Engine Brake Control
Adjustable Engine Response
Gas Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
Max Torque Engine (Low / Medium / High)
RPM Limiter
Cruise Control
The Custom riding mode allows riders to upload a personalized engine map directly from their smartphone, defining engine and chassis behavior (including suspension settings on models equipped with electronic suspensions). The Custom map can be named, modified, and fine-tuned even during riding.
This approach ensures that every MV Agusta offers a refined, adaptable, and fully customizable riding experience, tailored to different riding styles, road conditions, and performance demands, right from the first ride.
In addition, the inclusion of cruise control as standard equipment reinforces MV Agusta’s focus on everyday usability, delivering effortless comfort during rides.
Photo courtesy MV Agusta
ADVANCED RIDER INTERACTION & CONNECTIVITY
MV Agusta’s electronic strategy extends beyond performance, delivering a fully connected rider ecosystem focused on usability, interaction, and data intelligence.
Standard features across the lineup include:
7 / 5.5-inch TFT display
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
MV Ride App
GPS Tracking Device & Anti-theft system
Notably, MV Agusta is the only manufacturer in its competitive set to offer an anti-theft system as standard equipment, further underlining its focus on rider peace of mind.
Photo courtesy MV Agusta
MV RIDE APP & GPS TRACKING DEVICE
The MV Ride App and the latest generation GPS System work together using a single hardware module that combines GPS tracking, anti-theft, navigation support, and trip recording. The GPS module is functional for: anti-theft system, real-time tracking, geofencing, emergency sms, trip recording and remote diagnostics. The MV Ride App represents a new level of connectivity between rider and motorcycle, enabling full personalization of the riding experience and fostering interaction within the MV Agusta community through shared routes and riding experiences.
Complete control of the riding experience
At the core of the MV Ride App is full control over the motorcycle’s electronic settings. Riders can customize engine, safety, and chassis behaviour directly from their smartphone, creating a riding experience tailored to individual preferences and riding conditions. The app allows riders to create and save up to ten personalized Custom Riding Maps, each with dedicated engine and chassis parameters. One custom map at a time can be uploaded to the motorcycle and activated via the Custom Riding Mode, with naming and management handled directly through the app. On models equipped with electronic suspension, settings can also be adjusted digitally. Settings can be fine-tuned even while riding, ensuring maximum adaptability in real-world conditions. In addition, the app provides real-time access to key vehicle information, including system status and essential operational data.
Smart navigation, on and off the road
The MV Ride App includes an advanced navigation system designed specifically for motorcycling. Routes are planned directly on the smartphone, while turn-by-turn navigation instructions are displayed on the motorcycle’s TFT dashboard. Audio guidance is also available via compatible headset systems. Maps can be downloaded for offline use, allowing navigation without mobile data. Riders can customize routes to avoid highways or ferries and benefit from optimized routing for fast Enduro riding, including off-road sections where permitted.
Trip logbook and data analysis
Every ride is automatically recorded via the integrated GPS system, creating a detailed Trip Logbook accessible through the app. Riders can review comprehensive ride data, including lean angle, throttle opening, average and maximum speed, total riding time and distance and gear position. Photos taken during a ride are automatically geo-tagged, allowing riders to build a complete visual record of their journey. Trips can also be shared with other MV Ride users or exported to external devices.
Integrated anti-theft system
MV Agusta is the only manufacturer in its competitive segment to offer an integrated anti-theft system as standard equipment. When activated, the system sends SMS alerts with GPS coordinates, updated every ten minutes. Geofencing functionality notifies the rider if the motorcycle moves outside a predefined area, providing additional peace of mind.
Emergency support and connected safety
The MV Ride App also includes an Emergency SMS function, allowing riders to store an emergency contact directly in the app. In the event of a detected crash, based on predefined speed thresholds, the system automatically alerts the selected contact with the rider’s location.
Firmware updates
Through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the MV Ride App supports over-the-air firmware updates, allowing motorcycle software to be updated easily and conveniently via smartphone, without visiting a dealership.
N.B. Anti-theft, emergency SMS, locate your bike and geofencing services are included free of charge for the first year. From the second year, these connected services are available via subscription at €89 per year (IT), managed directly through the app.
Photo courtesy MV Agusta
THE MV AGUSTA PROMISE
MV Agusta delivers more than technology—it delivers confidence, control, and character. Every model embodies the brand’s core belief: a premium motorcycle should be complete the moment it leaves the factory. No unlocks. No subscriptions. Just pure MV Agusta performance.
Luca Martin, CEO – MV Agusta Motor S.p.A.: “Every strategic decision at MV Agusta is driven by a customer-centric mindset. This commitment is what allows us to deliver the full experience as standard, with a transparent pricing philosophy and no hidden costs—exactly as our customers expect from a premium brand.”
MotoGP to roar into the city streets of Adelaide from 2027
MotoGP has confirmed that the Australian Grand Prix will move to the Adelaide Street Circuit from 2027, marking a first-of-its-kind event for the sport
MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, the South Australian Government and the City of Adelaide announced that the Australian Grand Prix will be hosted on a city centre circuit in Adelaide from 2027.
The six‑year agreement begins next season and will see MotoGP race at the Adelaide Street Circuit until 2032 inclusive. This landmark event will be the first MotoGP Grand Prix to be held in a city‑centre location – with the uncompromised safety standards required in the modern era of the sport.
The circuit layout was unveiled in Adelaide on Thursday 19 February in front of national media by MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta and Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas.
It was confirmed that the inaugural Australian GP in Adelaide will be held across three days in November 2027. The circuit will be approximately 4.195 km long with 18 corners winding through the city streets, enabling riders to reach speeds of more than 340 km/h.
The track design follows the blueprint of the famous Adelaide Street Circuit that hosted Formula 1 events between 1985 and 1995, with the significant adjustments required to ensure rider safety remains the number‑one priority.
The city’s layout, culture and passion for major events make Adelaide the perfect home for a premium, festival‑style urban Grand Prix – providing a unique opportunity to elevate the fan experience to a new level.
MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer, Carlos Ezpeleta, said: “Bringing MotoGP to Adelaide marks a major milestone in the evolution of our championship. This city has a world‑class reputation for hosting major sporting events, and the opportunity to design a purpose‑built circuit in the city streets is something truly unique in our sport.
“From the very beginning, together with the FIM, we made sure that safety remained uncompromised – every element of the Adelaide Street Circuit has been engineered to meet the highest standards of modern MotoGP, ensuring riders can race at full intensity with complete confidence.
“Adelaide’s commitment to major events makes it the perfect home for MotoGP’s next chapter in Australia. We’re incredibly excited to showcase a new style of racing here and to create a true celebration of our sport that brings fans even closer to the action.
“This partnership represents bold ambition from both MotoGP and Australia – and we couldn’t be prouder to begin this journey together.”
The Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas, added: “This is a major coup for South Australia and yet more evidence our state has real momentum. “We are now competing with the rest of the nation for the world’s best events – and winning. Hosting the world’s first MotoGP race on a street circuit will give Adelaide a truly unique offering that is sure to attract visitors from interstate and overseas.
“This is about so much more than a world‑class motorsport event – it’s about generating economic activity for our state, supporting jobs, and putting South Australia on the global stage.
“We back major events that deliver a strong economic return, and MotoGP does exactly that. MotoGP is growing globally at record pace – and Adelaide will now be a key part of that growth story.”
More information regarding the event will be released in due course.
Nicolo Bulega (11) during Free Practice 2 at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Nicolo Bulega was quickest during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 2 Friday afternoon at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Italian covered the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) track in 1:29.101 to lead the field of 21 riders.
Alex Lowes was the best of the rest with a 1:29.354 on his Bimota by Kawasaki KB998 Rimini and his teammate Axel Bassani was third-fastest with a 1:29.468.
American Garrett Gerloff was 9th with a time of 1:29.699 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.
Danilo Petrucci was 11th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a lap time of 1:29.834.
The #11 cemented his place at the top of the standings in Free Practice 2, although it was his FP1 time that was the fastest of the day.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) continued to top the times in the Australian Round for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The #11 finished in P1 in both FP1 and FP2 at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit as he laid down a gauntlet to the rest of the field, finishing half-a-second clear of Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) in second and Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in third.
BULEGA LEADS, BALDASSARRI IMPRESSES: A strong day one of 2026 for ‘Bulegas’
Like in FP1, Bulega started his session with a long run and put in some consistent lap times, culminating with a 1’29.131s to cement his place in P1. He improved in the second half of the session to a 1’29.101s, securing P1 in both sessions. During FP2, ‘Bulegas’ was being followed by new teammate Iker Lecuona as the #7 builds onto the Ducati Panigale V4R, with the Spanish rider finishing eighth overall, half-a-second down on his teammate. Sam Lowes had a disrupted FP2 after he fell in the first sector of the lap with around 20 minutes to go, although the #14 was still able to take second overall after setting a 1’29.382s in FP1. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) put in a late lap to claim fifth on the combined times as he set a 1’20.482s, exactly 0.002s ahead of Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) in sixth as ‘Balda’ continues to shine on his return. Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Racing Performance) finished in 13th, directly ahead of rookie Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing), who was one of several crashers at the Turn 4 Miller Hairpin.
Alex Lowes (22) during FP2 at Philip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna.
BIMOTA IN THE MIX: Second and fourth for Alex Lowes and Bassani
Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was the first rider to improve their lap time compared to FP1 when he set a 1’29.354s, giving him a provisional P1 in FP2, and second overall, before Bulega demoted the #22. However, the Bimota rider did lose the last couple of minutes of FP2 after a Turn 4 lowside, although he was able to re-mount his bike. Teammate Axel Bassani confirmed Bimota’s pace as he finished a tenth behind Alex Lowes in FP2 with a 1’29.468s, and fourth overall.
IN THE TOP TEN AGAIN: Gerloff keeps the ZX-10RR in the top positions
American star Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) continued his strong visit to Australia as he secured a spot in the top ten. He finished ninth in the combined times after setting a 1’29.692s in FP1 and a 1’29.699s in FP2, with the #31 showing off his consistent pace throughout the day.
ADAPTATION ONGOING: Oliveira 10th, Petrucci 12th for BMW
Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was the lead BMW rider on Friday as he finished in tenth place. The Portuguese rider set a 1’29.746s as he finished inside the top ten, with his time set in FP1. Danilo Petrucci was two places behind after setting a 1’29.834s as the pair continue adapting to the M1000RR.
YAMAHA HOPING FOR GAINS: Vierge leads the blue charge in 11th
Yamaha have endured a difficult start to the season, with Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) narrowly missing out on a top ten result. He finished 11th as the lead rider for the Japanese manufacturer after posting a 1’29.806s. Teammate Andrea Locatelli was struggling with the bumps over the course of the two-day Official Test, and ‘Loka’ finished Friday down in 15th place after posting a 1’30.060s. Stefano Manzi (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was more than a tenth clear of teammate Remy Gardner in 18th and 19th respectively, with the latter heading into his home round still recovering from a broken arm and dislocated shoulder he sustained in training late last year. Bahattin Sofuoglu (Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) was 20th after he crashed at Turn 4 during FP2, with the #54 setting a 1’30.786s to beat teammate Mattia Rato; the Italian rounding out the WorldSBK field.
DIFFICULT DAY AT HONDA: Vickers 16th, Nagashima 17th
Honda have had a tricky start to the season, with new Honda HRC recruits Jake Dixon and Somkiat Chantra both missing from the grid due to respective injuries. There are still two CBR1000RR-R SP machines on the grid in the form of wildcard Ryan Vickers (Honda HRC) and Tetsuta Nagashima (Honda HRC), who finished in 16th and 17th respectively.
The top six from Friday’s WorldSBK action, full results here:
1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’28.858s
2. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.496s
3. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.524s
4. Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.610s
5. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.624s
6. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) +0.626s
Tissot Superpole and the first race of 2026 await on Saturday! Catch all the action from 10:00 Local Time (UTC+11) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!
Jaume Masia (5) during the Superpole at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Jaume Masia topped FIM Supersport World Championship Superpole qualifying Friday at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Orelac Racing Verdnatura Ducati Panigale V2 on Pirelli control tires, Masia lapped the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) course in 1:32.115 to top the field of 28 riders and earn pole position.
Oli Bayliss was the best of the rest with a 1:32.287 on his PTR Triumph Street Triple 765 RS, and Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise earned the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:32.439 on his ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bross 820RR.
Four manufacturers in the top four as the WorldSSP season shoots out of the gate.
The 2026 FIM Supersport World Championship campaign is officially a go! The Australian Round saw the WorldSSP field throw down in this season’s first Tissot Superpole session, with Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) coming out on top to claim the season’s first pole position. The result is his second career pole in WorldSSP and has punched his ticket on Saturday to start from P1. Behind him, the front row will be comprised of to be tailed in P2 by home hero Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) and Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) in P3.
MASIA ON POLE TO START 2026: The Spanish sophomore will lead the pack in Race 1
Jaume Masia nailed the Superpole session after a dominant week of testing on the timesheets. The2023 Moto3 Champion makes it two career poles in WorldSSP as he continues to improve his case for title contender with a 1’32.115s lap. Oli Bayliss set the table for home weekend glory in his Tissot Superpole session. The Aussie rider set hot lap after hot lap to sit P1 early, doing enough to land P2 with his final time of 1’32.287s and his first WorldSSP front-row start. Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) started ZXMOTO’s WorldSSP story on a stunning note, his 1’32.439s time taking the new Chinese manufacturer to P3 to round out the front row.
Valentin Debise (53) during the Superpole in Australia. Photo courtesy Dorna
BOOTH-AMOS’S TIME HOLDS ON: Despite seeing the chequered flag from the medical centre, his time sees him to a P5 placement
Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) looked a step faster than what he had shown earlier in the week during testing, battling for the front row on the timesheet, but will have to settle for leading the second row from P4 with his time of 1’32.450 seeing him a third of a second off of P1 pace. Tom Booth-Amos was running as the latter of a Triumph one-two at the session’s midpoint until a Turn 11 highside crash caused a red flag and sent him to the medical centre to end his session. As faster times piled up, the Englishman and his 1’32.554s time fell to P5. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) hovered around P8 throughout the session, until he returned to the boxes with eight minutes left to make a final adjustment for one last stint. Those changes helped him to a 1’32.617s for an improved P6.
NO PROBLEMS ADAPTING: Arenas goes third-row in first-ever WorldSSP Superpole
Albert Arenas (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) looks to have found a step on Friday as he converted his Free Practice P5 into a Tissot Superpole P7. His 1’32.673s time will see him start his first WorldSSP race from the third row. Matteo Ferrari (WRP Racing) was the top finisher of the field’s inbound former MotoE riders. He took P8 on the back of his impressive 1’32.710s time. Ondrej Vostatek again showed his affinity for the Australian circuit as he and his Ducati Panigale V2 clocked a 1’32.819s time to earn P9. Mattia Casadei (D34G WorldSSP Racing Team) was the third rider to crash on the high-speed Turn 11 with just a minute to go. The Italian’s 1’32.827s time held on, however, to take P10.
TRICKY TURN 11: Three riders took a tumble on the fast corner
Oliver Konig’s (Compos Racing Team) tough day at the office on Friday continued after a tech issue that caused a red flag in Free Practice. In the Superpole session, he suffered a high-side crash on Turn 11, which sent him to the medical centre, where he was later ruled fit to continue. Roberto Garcia (GMT94 Yamaha) had a Turn 5 crash with 17 minutes left in the session, walking away unharmed.
The top six from the WorldSSP Tissot Superpole session: Full results here!
1. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) 1’32.115s
2. Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) +0.172s
Nicolo Bulega (11) during Free Practice 1 at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Nicolo Bulega was quickest during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 1 Friday morning at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Pirelli-shod Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4R on the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) track, the Italian recorded a 1:28.858 to lead the field of 21 riders.
Sam Lowes was the best of the rest with a 1:29.382 on his ELF Marc VDS Ducati Panigale V4R.
Axel Bassani was third-fastest with a 1:29.547 on his Bimota by Kawasaki KB998 Rimini.
American Garrett Gerloff finished the opening session 7th with a 1:29.692 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.
Danilo Petrucci was 12th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a lap time of 1:29.892.
The #11 started the weekend exactly as he’d have envisaged by leading the timesheets in the 45-minute FP1 session.
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship kicked off at the iconic Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit with Free Practice 1 for the Australian Round, with Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) leading the way by 0.524s. ‘Bulegas’ put in a long run at the start of the session where he set his best time right at the end of the stint, firing a warning shot to his competitors about how strong he would be in Australia, with Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) and Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) his closest rivals.
Bulega started the weekend as he ended the Official Test, as the only rider in the 1’28s and putting in an impressive stint. He was finding pace with each lap that he completed during a long first stint of 11 representative lap times, with a 1’28.858s set on the penultimate lap of the run. That turned out to be his best lap time was he finished half-a-second clear of Sam Lowes in second, while the #14 was more than a tenth clear of Bassani in third as ‘El Bocia’ once again showed his pace after a strong test.
Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was another who was quick in the test and that carried on during FP1 as the #5 posted a 1’29.561s to claimed fourth place. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was fifth after lapping half-a-tenth down on Montella, and was 0.757s away from Bulega’s pacesetting time. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) looks to be in contention for a strong result on his WorldSBK return as he claimed sixth in the opening 45-minute session of the year.
Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) set a 1’29.962s as he finished in the top seven on his new ZX-10RR machine, beating Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) by 0.018s as the Spaniard secured a top-ten spot. Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) finished in ninth, 0.888s slower than Bulega, as Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) rounded out the top ten as he beat former teammate Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) by 0.050s; Vierge was the lead Yamaha rider.
Jaume Masia (5) during the Free Practice session at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
Jaume Masia was quickest during FIM Supersport World Championship Free practice Friday morning at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Orelac Racing Verdnatura Ducati Panigale V2 on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard covered the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) road course in 1:32.120, topping the field of 28 riders.
Home hero, Oli Bayliss was the best of the rest with a 1:32.352 on his PTR Triumph Factory Racing Street Triple 765 RS.
Philip Oettl was third with a lap time of 1:32.370 on his Feel Racing Ducati Panigale V2.
Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was 6th with a 1:32.523 on his ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bross 820RR.
Richie Escalante (54) in 2025. Photo by Brian J. Nelson and courtesy of Team Hammer.
Vortex Racing and EK Chain will continue their support of MotoAmerica in 2026, returning as Official Sponsors of North America’s premier motorcycle road racing championship.
Their continued sponsorship of the MotoAmerica series reinforces a shared commitment to competition, reliability, and development at the highest level of American road racing.
Vortex Racing, a long-time manufacturer of high-performance motorcycle components, and EK Chain, a global leader in drive-chain technology, bring decades of racing experience, acquired from the highest levels of competition, to the MotoAmerica Championship. Products from both companies, including sprockets, rearsets, clip-ons, and chains, are used broadly throughout the MotoAmerica paddock on every race weekend, in an unmatched test environment where durability and performance are critical.
The 2026 season marks another step in the ongoing relationship between MotoAmerica, Vortex Racing, and EK Chain reflecting the brands’ continued investment in American road racing and their support of teams and riders competing at the national level.
“MotoAmerica continues to be the most demanding and meaningful proving ground for our products, and we are proud to support a championship that consistently pushes teams, riders, and manufacturers to perform at the highest level,”said Steve Malone, VP of Operations at Vortex Racing and EK Chain.“We remain fully committed to the paddock, the people, and the competition that make this series what it is, and we are grateful to be part of a championship that continues to strengthen professional motorcycle road racing in the United States.”
MotoAmerica emphasized the value of long-term partners with a deep understanding of racing and its demands.
“Racing in MotoAmerica often separates champions from competitors by hundredths of a second,”said Lance Bryson, Director of Sponsorship for MotoAmerica. “Consistency in performance is non-negotiable, which is why companies like Vortex Racing and EK Chain are fixtures in our paddock with top performing teams. Their continued support reflects our commitment to strengthen the championship and push the level of our competition.”
The 2026 MotoAmerica Championship will feature competition in seven classes and at 10 rounds across the United States, continuing the series’ role as the top level of professional motorcycle road racing in North America.
For more information about Vortex Racing and EK Chain, visit www.vortexracing.com
Tommy Bridewell - Superbike Advocates Racing (46). Photo courtesy Superbike Advocates Racing
The 2026 WorldSBK entry list is boosted with the arrival of Superbike Advocates Racing; the Australian-owned team will fully commit to the championship as of Round 2, taking to the tracks with rider Tommy Bridewell and the Ducati Panigale V4R.
In a late development, Superbike Advocates Racing announces its full-time entry to the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship. Ready to field expert rider Tommy Bridewell and a 2026 spec Ducati Panigale V4R, this new-entry team will contest all eleven European championship rounds starting with the Portuguese round at Portimão (27-29 March) and will be the first Australian-owned team ever to do so.
Operating from its UK base, the squad originally intended to compete in British Superbike this season but has taken the bold step of accelerating its plans and will now debut in WorldSBK in 2026, a move originally envisaged for 2027. An ambitious project that is perfectly suited to a highly motivated and experienced rider like Bridewell.
Tommy is no stranger to Ducati; the British rider having secured the 2023 British Superbike Championship with the Panigale V4. A standout performance from bike and rider brought a total of 8 race wins and 10 additional podiums. Bridewell also powered his Ducati to top three in the 2019, 2021 and 2022 BSB seasons and scored WorldSBK points in 2019 while competing as a wildcard. Despite his extensive racing experience, Tommy essentially takes on the 2026 WorldSBK campaign as a rookie, a challenge the Brit relishes.
“It’s an opportunity I’ve never been given before” admits Bridewell. “We were testing at Portimão and when the bikes arrived – full WorldSBK spec – I made a jokey comment to the team to the effect of ‘wouldn’t it be nice to leave them like that and not have to remove all the electronics.’ I think this gave the team food for thought and before I knew it the entry was submitted and we were approved to compete in WorldSBK. A lastminute switch but I couldn’t be more excited.”
“I want to say a huge thankyou to the team for the opportunity” continues an enthusiastic Tommy. “I think it’s all coming together and we’re in for an exciting year. Sure, I’ve got a lot to learn – I’ve been racing for many years and am going into the season as prepared as I’ve ever been, but I feel a bit like a rookie! I’m really looking forward to it though. I just couldn’t turn down this chance, and I really hope the BSB fans can get to some of the races and support me and the other British riders. Let’s see how we do.”
Former BSB Champion Tommy Bridewell confirms full-time Ducati WorldSBK ride. Photo courtesy WorldSBK
It is also a rookie season for Superbike Advocates Racing, a project launched by Australian Lee Khouri. Wellknown in the automotive world as the founder of Supercar Advocates and an avid Ducati collector, Lee’s passion for the prestigious Italian brand left no doubt as to the machinery the team would field on track. Having cut its teeth in Australian Superbike with Glenn Allerton – and finishing the 2025 season a notable fifth overall – the team is excited to make the jump to the world championship.
“To officially step onto the WorldSBK grid in 2026 is an incredibly proud moment – not just for our team, but for Australia”, comments Team Owner, Lee Khouri. “Superbike Advocates Racing will be the first Australianowned team in the history of the Superbike World Championship, and that’s something that means a great deal to me personally. This project started with pure passion – passion for Ducati, for racing, and for building something that could compete at the highest level. What began in Australian Superbike has evolved into a world championship campaign much sooner than we originally planned, and that reflects the belief we have in the people around us.”
Structurally, the team can count on the expertise of several key figures, not least Alan Jackson, who takes the helm as team manager. The former TT winner has managed teams competing across BSB, Endurance and road racing and offers the kind of support and insight that only a former racer can. Mick Shanley comes aboard as technical director, bringing a wealth of experience from his many years of operation in WorldSBK and MotoGP. Together, Alan and Mick have hand-picked a group of expert technicians ready to support Bridewell during his rookie WorldSBK season.
“WorldSBK is one of the most competitive championships in global motorsport. We’re not entering to make up the numbers – we’re here to build, to learn quickly, and to fight”, Khouri concludes. “With Tommy’s experience, the Ducati Panigale V4R, and the strength of our technical structure, we believe we can establish ourselves as a serious and professional operation from day one. To represent Australia and the United Kingdom on the world stage in this way is something I’m extremely proud of. This is just the beginning.”
The stage is set and Superbike Advocates Racing is ready to perform – stay tuned as the team sets its sights on WorldSBK success!
Nicolo Bulega (11) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
After all the testing and all the talking, it’s time to go racing in 2026 as WorldSBK ushers in a new season.
126 days will have passed since the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship’s last race when Race 1 gets underway on Saturday at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. More than a hundred days of looking back on 2025, finding out where to improve, how to make steps, a few (not very dry) days of testing mixed in there as well, but it’s time to find out who has the answers to the questions last season posed. There are new bikes and new line-ups as a new era begins with the 2026 Australian Round.
Nicolo Bulega (11) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
CHASING BULEGA: Who can catch the #11?
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) completed a hat-trick in Australia last year and, if testing is anything to go by, he’s the favourite this year. He finished the test as the only rider in the 1’28s and six tenths clear of his rivals but, as riders like to say: “testing is testing and racing is racing”. Things can change quickly and there’s no shortage of competitors looking to take the fight to ‘Bulegas’. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) was his closest challenger at the test and goes in search of a first WorldSBK victory, while there was a shock name at the front: Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven). Could ‘Balda’ stun the field and take a podium on his WorldSBK return? Elsewhere, Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was quick during the test and he was fast in the round in 2025 too, so he’ll be searching for a maiden rostrum too. Elsewhere, Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) and teammate Alex Lowes were fast too, with ‘El Bocia’ showing rapid improvement across each session. And let’s not forget the #22 is a three-time winner at Phillip Island… could he make that four and claim Bimota’s first win in 26 years? Elsewhere, Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) showed flashes of speed during the test, often in the top-ten, and will be looking for more of that.
Miguel Oliveira (88) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
MAKING PROGRESS: BMW’s new recruits look for more ‘Down Under’
A wet winter hasn’t helped either Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) or teammate Danilo Petrucci adapt any quicker to the BMW M1000RR machine, although the two dry days at Phillip Island will have made a big difference. Both riders made progress throughout the test and will hope to continue that as they close the gap to the top positions. Oliveira’s best MotoGP result at Phillip Island is 12th, on two occasions, although he won in both Moto3 and Moto2 there. Petrucci has two WorldSBK rostrums at the Australian venue, from 2024 and 2025.
Alvaro Bautista (19) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
NEW CHAPTERS BEGIN: Who will shine for their new squads?
Plenty of new eras begin in earnest at the weekend. Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) will mark his first race in blue and he comes into it after being the lead Yamaha rider throughout the Official Test. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) will be searching for podiums as he races for an Independent outfit for the first time – and he’s a serial winner at Phillip Island, with eight wins to his name there. His replacement at the factory Ducati team, Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), has only completed one round at Phillip Island in his WorldSBK career, when he took two P6 finishes in 2023. He’ll be hoping for a podium-challenging Ducati debut, if not a rostrum itself.
Andrea Locatelli (55) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
WANTING TO FIND GAINS AFTER THE TEST: ‘Loka’ struggling, Gardner wants more on home soil
Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha) usually goes well at Phillip Island but was struggling with the bumps on the track throughout the test, leaving him languishing down the order. ‘Loka’ will be hoping to find a solution to this at a track he’s been so consistent at, with only one result outside the top seven; and that was a retirement when he crashed fighting for victory. Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) seemingly has no luck when it comes to his home round, even if he does have plenty of pace. He heads into 2026 on the back of a broken arm and dislocated shoulder sustained in training in November and will be hoping to climb the order when racing gets underway. His rookie teammate, Stefano Manzi, has shown speed in abundance since jumping onto the Yamaha R1. His debut weekend awaits and the #62 will be hoping for a good start. Elsewhere, Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Racing Performance) finished the test in P13 but will want to be inside the top ten as he prepares for a first full campaign on the Panigale V4R. Rookie Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) was close to ‘Taz’ as he looks for a strong start to his maiden season, as is Mattia Rato (Motoxracing WorldSBK Team). His teammate, Bahattin Sofuoglu, is preparing for a second year after a solid rookie 2025 season, and will be aiming to move closer and closer to those top ten positions.
Jake Dixon (96) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
HONDA’S DIFFICULT START: No Chantra, no Dixon
It was already established that Somkiat Chantra (Honda HRC) would miss Australia after getting injured in a training crash in Malaysia, which left him requiring surgery. It was announced ahead of the round that he would be replaced by Tetsuta Nagashima. Sadly for Honda HRC, they will also be without fellow rookie Jake Dixon. The #96 crashed on Tuesday morning at Turn 11 during the test, which left him with a left wrist fracture and elbow contusion, ruling him out of the Australian Round. They do keep two CBR1000RR-R SP machines on the grid, however, with Ryan Vickers (Honda HRC) making a wildcard appearance for the Japanese brand.
WSSP: Masia looks to take the field by storm in Australia after a dominant showing in Official Testing!
The WorldSSP season opener is just around the corner. Read more below to get fully up to date on what to watch out for at Phillip Island!
The moment we’ve all been waiting for is nearly here as the Official Test has concluded and the FIM Supersport World Championship field now lies in wait for their all-out assault on 2026 at lights out on Friday, February 20th. The 2026 preseason has been very limited due to poor weather at the European tests at Jerez and Portimao, but the sun shone down on World Supersport as they enjoyed two days of unmitigated testing earlier this week. The time for testing has passed; however, this weekend, points will be on the line for the first time in 2026.
Jaume Masia (5) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
MASIA RED-HOT IN TESTING: The Spanish sophomore kept the hammer down in testing. Can he do the same on the weekend?
Four of the last five WorldSSP winners here have ridden Ducati V2 bikes, and from the looks of his pace at the Official Test, Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) is looking to make Phillip Island his own. Last season, he landed a P6 before crashing out of Race 2, but it would be hard to argue that Masia is not coming into the weekend looking to win at least one of the races. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team), unlike most of the grid, partook extensively in the tests at Portimao and Jerez, laying down important laps as he has become one of the fastest riders of the preseason. Matteo Ferrari (WRP Racing) and Alessandro Zaccone (Ecosantagata Althea Racing Team) have hit the ground running after joining from MotoE. Ferrari will look to replicate his Day 2 FP1 P9 pace on the weekend, while Zaccone will hope to replicate his P11 earned on the Day 1 combined timesheets. Josh Whatley (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) turned heads as he finished FP1 in the top positions before finishing P8 on Day 1. The Englishman will hope to end the day at the business end of the order after showing such promising results in testing.
Leonardo Taccini (Ecosantagata Althea Racing Team) and Mattia Casadei (D34G WorldSSP Racing Team) have posted healthy results around the top ten throughout testing, and on their day with the Ducati Panigale V2 platform’s affinity at Philip Island, they could easily snatch away a top-five result. Simon Jespersen (EAB Racing Team) showed strong results in the second half of 2025, even landing a P2 result at Balaton Park Race 2. He has been hovering around P15 in the testing timesheets so far Down Under, but the Dane has plenty of potential to shoot up the order. Borja Jimenez (WRP Racing) and Riccardo Rossi (Renzi Corse) will look to take points away from their first round in WorldSSP.
Can Oncu (61) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
ONCU LOOKS TO LEAD THE WAY: The Turk hopes to set the tone early
Title favourite Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) joined up with his former rival Stefano Manzi’s team and has every intention to get back on the horse this weekend after a slower pair of testing days than expected, finishing Day 1 in fourth, however, dropped to 19th on Day 2’s timesheets. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) and new teammate Roberto Garcia approaches the weekend with optimism as Mahias posted times around top-eight pace and Garcia set one time to earn P6 on the opening Day of testing. Aldi Mahendra (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) is back on track after missing the second half of his rookie WorldSSP season with injuries to both forearms ruling him out after Balaton. 2020 Moto3 Champion Albert Arenas joined his garage this offseason and has shown promising pace in testing. Italian sophomore Filippo Farioli (VFT Racing) suffered a tech issue on Day 1; however, recovered to participate on both days. Farioli, Xavi Cardelus (Cerba Yamaha Racing Team) and Yuki Okamoto (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) will look to set a base of points from this first round in 2026 atop their Yamaha R9s.
Oli Bayliss (32) at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna
BAYLISS LOOKS TO MAKE A SPLASH AT HOME: Triumph’s riders hope for a strong start
Australian rider Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) is looking poised for a home hero performance as he finished both testing days in P2, on top of already having a strong track record here at his home track. His teammate, Tom Booth-Amos, ended 2025 on a down note after a strong start, including a Race 2 win here; the #69 will hope to get the ball rolling in the same vein in 2026. Ondrej Vostatek (Compos Racing Team) impressed at the pair of testing days after an off-pace 2025 season. If Vostatek can capitalise and start his season strong, anything is possible. Oliver Konig (Compos Racing Team) is back in the WorldSBK paddock after two WorldSBK seasons in 2022 and 2023. He will look to start hot in his first round in WorldSSP.
Valentin Debise (53) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
DEBISE AND ZXMOTO ENJOY A STRONG START: Debise lands P10 and P12 in testing
Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) joined a new team just in time for their new chapter with inbound Chinese manufacturer ZXMOTO as they set sail on their WorldSSP journey in 2026. The Frenchman looked comfortable on both days, lading top 12 across both days. Veteran rider Federico Caricasulo (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) didn’t look quite as fast, but if he can bring his experience to bear, ZXMOTO could enjoy a very strong start in WorldSSP.
Dominique Aegerter (77) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
KAWASAKI STILL GETTING UP TO SPEED: Alcoba and Aegerter struggled at times in testing
Dominique Aegerter (Kawaski WorldSSP Team) is one of the most exciting riders joining the field in 2026. He won back-to-back World titles in WorldSSP in 2021 and 2022, as well as winning Race 2 here in his second title campaign. While he and his teammate, Jeremy Alcoba, were still working out the kinks atop their Kawasaki ZX-6R 636 bikes, they had each shown podium pace in the category.
Jacopo Cretaro (73) during the Phillip Island test. Photo courtesy Dorna
MV AGUSTA RIDERS WORK TO FIND FOOTING: Cretaro and Giombini both suffered crashes in the test
Jacopo Cretaro (Flembbo by Racing Development) and Andrea Giombini (Motozoo by Madforce Dubai) are set to start their first full seasons as WorldSSP permanent riders in 2026. Each has appeared in the category before; this will be their first season riding an MV Agusta F3 800 RR. At the test, both were still getting the hang of their bikes, with Cretaro on Day 1 the only one of the two to land in the top 15 times.
Act now and book your ticket to live, OnDemand and behind-the-scenes WorldSBK content, including the WorldSSP season debut with the WorldSBK VideoPass!
American Flat Track, All Kids Bike partner on Quarters for Kids campaign to fund $27,000 in learn-to-ride bike programs. Photo courtesy AFT.
DAYTONA BEACH, FL – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is thrilled to announce a special Quarters for Kids Campaign that will fund $27,000 in bike learning programs through All Kids Bike. During the 2026 Progressive AFT Season, $0.25 from every race ticket will help fund new All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride programs.
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, All Kids Bike provides schools with everything they need to teach kids how to ride a bike – from balancing to pedaling – as part of their Kindergarten PE class. The comprehensive, ready-to-teach program is currently teaching over 180,000 students across the US how to ride this school year.
“As huge fans of Progressive American Flat Track racing, we truly believe that inspiring the next generation of racers starts by empowering children to ride at the youngest age possible,” said All Kids Bike Executive Director Lisa Weyer. “The amazing part of this Quarters for Kids campaign is that it enables AFT fans to help fund the future of the sport. Even if you attend just one race this season, you’ll help 3,000 Kindergarteners discover the confidence and joy of riding a bike.”
Twenty-five cents from every ticket this season will help fund the $9,000 All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program in three (3) new schools. Because each program remains in a school for 10 years, this single season can ultimately help approximately 3,000 children learn to ride a bike. If the program falls short of its $27,000 goal, a donation from Tim Estenson will offset the difference to ensure all programs are fully funded, proving that Progressive AFT racing teams truly believe in the power of the All Kids Bike Program.
Don’t miss the start of the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season. The series kicks off the year with the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA I & II at Daytona International Speedway on Thursday, March 5 and Friday, March 6.
The All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program launched in 2018 with a simple mission: to give every child in America the opportunity to learn how to ride a bike in school. The ready-to-teach program includes teacher training and certification, a complete 8-lesson curriculum with lesson plans, games and activities, a fleet of 24 Strider balance-to-pedal bikes, pedal conversion kits, fully adjustable student helmets, an instructor bike with pedal conversion kit and helmet, two rolling storage racks, and access to a resource portal with live support for the life of the program, everything needed to teach kids how to ride a bike! Supported by the Strider Education Foundation, All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Programs are active in over 1,800 schools across all 50 states, teaching more than 180,000 kids to ride each year and over 1 million kids throughout the 10-year lifespan of the programs already in place. For more information, please visitwww.allkidsbike.org.
About Quarters for Kids
Quarters for Kids is a simple, powerful fundraising initiative proving that small change can make a big difference. By allocating just $0.25 per ticket or registration, participating events can collectively generate significant funding to support multiple All Kids Bike programs, impacting hundreds of kindergarten students each year. Because each program remains in a school for up to 10 years, the long-term impact can extend to thousands of children learning to ride a bike, creating lasting benefits for students, schools, and communities – showing that every ticket truly makes a difference.
About AMA Pro Racing
AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing organization in North America, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines from its headquarters in Daytona Beach, Fla. Learn more at www.amaproracing.com.
About Progressive American Flat Track
Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest‑running championships in the history of motorsports.
MV Agusta reaffirms its commitment to uncompromising performance, innovation, and rider-centric design by delivering the complete electronic package as standard equipment across its entire 2026 motorcycle lineup. From three- to four-cylinder models and across all segments, every MV Agusta leaves the factory fully equipped—with no additional components, no software unlocks, and no activation fees required.
A CLEAR POSITION IN A CHANGING MARKET
While market trends show premium competitors increasingly monetizing electronics through optional electronic features and packages, MV Agusta remains aligned with a more rider-focused philosophy. By including the full electronics suite as OE, the brand ensures transparency, value, and a consistent ownership experience across its lineup.
Photo courtesy MV Agusta
RIDING EXPERIENCE: PREMIUM PERFORMANCE, NO COMPROMISES
The 2026 lineup reflects MV Agusta’s belief that advanced electronics are not optional extras, but an integral part of the modern riding experience. Riders benefit from a comprehensive suite of performance-enhancing systems, all factory-fitted as Original Equipment (OE) and seamlessly integrated into the motorcycle.
This approach reinforces MV Agusta’s premium positioning while delivering outstanding value. The manufacturer’s MSRP already includes the complete electronics package, no hidden costs, no post-purchase upgrades, and no compromises.
Every model is equipped as standard with:
6-axis IMU
ABS with Cornering function
3 riding modes + 1 CUSTOM
Quick Shift (up & down)
Traction Control (Off + 8 levels)
Front Lift Control
Engine Brake Control
Adjustable Engine Response
Gas Sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
Max Torque Engine (Low / Medium / High)
RPM Limiter
Cruise Control
The Custom riding mode allows riders to upload a personalized engine map directly from their smartphone, defining engine and chassis behavior (including suspension settings on models equipped with electronic suspensions). The Custom map can be named, modified, and fine-tuned even during riding.
This approach ensures that every MV Agusta offers a refined, adaptable, and fully customizable riding experience, tailored to different riding styles, road conditions, and performance demands, right from the first ride.
In addition, the inclusion of cruise control as standard equipment reinforces MV Agusta’s focus on everyday usability, delivering effortless comfort during rides.
Photo courtesy MV Agusta
ADVANCED RIDER INTERACTION & CONNECTIVITY
MV Agusta’s electronic strategy extends beyond performance, delivering a fully connected rider ecosystem focused on usability, interaction, and data intelligence.
Standard features across the lineup include:
7 / 5.5-inch TFT display
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
MV Ride App
GPS Tracking Device & Anti-theft system
Notably, MV Agusta is the only manufacturer in its competitive set to offer an anti-theft system as standard equipment, further underlining its focus on rider peace of mind.
Photo courtesy MV Agusta
MV RIDE APP & GPS TRACKING DEVICE
The MV Ride App and the latest generation GPS System work together using a single hardware module that combines GPS tracking, anti-theft, navigation support, and trip recording. The GPS module is functional for: anti-theft system, real-time tracking, geofencing, emergency sms, trip recording and remote diagnostics. The MV Ride App represents a new level of connectivity between rider and motorcycle, enabling full personalization of the riding experience and fostering interaction within the MV Agusta community through shared routes and riding experiences.
Complete control of the riding experience
At the core of the MV Ride App is full control over the motorcycle’s electronic settings. Riders can customize engine, safety, and chassis behaviour directly from their smartphone, creating a riding experience tailored to individual preferences and riding conditions. The app allows riders to create and save up to ten personalized Custom Riding Maps, each with dedicated engine and chassis parameters. One custom map at a time can be uploaded to the motorcycle and activated via the Custom Riding Mode, with naming and management handled directly through the app. On models equipped with electronic suspension, settings can also be adjusted digitally. Settings can be fine-tuned even while riding, ensuring maximum adaptability in real-world conditions. In addition, the app provides real-time access to key vehicle information, including system status and essential operational data.
Smart navigation, on and off the road
The MV Ride App includes an advanced navigation system designed specifically for motorcycling. Routes are planned directly on the smartphone, while turn-by-turn navigation instructions are displayed on the motorcycle’s TFT dashboard. Audio guidance is also available via compatible headset systems. Maps can be downloaded for offline use, allowing navigation without mobile data. Riders can customize routes to avoid highways or ferries and benefit from optimized routing for fast Enduro riding, including off-road sections where permitted.
Trip logbook and data analysis
Every ride is automatically recorded via the integrated GPS system, creating a detailed Trip Logbook accessible through the app. Riders can review comprehensive ride data, including lean angle, throttle opening, average and maximum speed, total riding time and distance and gear position. Photos taken during a ride are automatically geo-tagged, allowing riders to build a complete visual record of their journey. Trips can also be shared with other MV Ride users or exported to external devices.
Integrated anti-theft system
MV Agusta is the only manufacturer in its competitive segment to offer an integrated anti-theft system as standard equipment. When activated, the system sends SMS alerts with GPS coordinates, updated every ten minutes. Geofencing functionality notifies the rider if the motorcycle moves outside a predefined area, providing additional peace of mind.
Emergency support and connected safety
The MV Ride App also includes an Emergency SMS function, allowing riders to store an emergency contact directly in the app. In the event of a detected crash, based on predefined speed thresholds, the system automatically alerts the selected contact with the rider’s location.
Firmware updates
Through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the MV Ride App supports over-the-air firmware updates, allowing motorcycle software to be updated easily and conveniently via smartphone, without visiting a dealership.
N.B. Anti-theft, emergency SMS, locate your bike and geofencing services are included free of charge for the first year. From the second year, these connected services are available via subscription at €89 per year (IT), managed directly through the app.
Photo courtesy MV Agusta
THE MV AGUSTA PROMISE
MV Agusta delivers more than technology—it delivers confidence, control, and character. Every model embodies the brand’s core belief: a premium motorcycle should be complete the moment it leaves the factory. No unlocks. No subscriptions. Just pure MV Agusta performance.
Luca Martin, CEO – MV Agusta Motor S.p.A.: “Every strategic decision at MV Agusta is driven by a customer-centric mindset. This commitment is what allows us to deliver the full experience as standard, with a transparent pricing philosophy and no hidden costs—exactly as our customers expect from a premium brand.”
MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group announced that the Australian Grand Prix will be hosted on a city center street circuit in Adelaide from 2027.
MotoGP to roar into the city streets of Adelaide from 2027
MotoGP has confirmed that the Australian Grand Prix will move to the Adelaide Street Circuit from 2027, marking a first-of-its-kind event for the sport
MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, the South Australian Government and the City of Adelaide announced that the Australian Grand Prix will be hosted on a city centre circuit in Adelaide from 2027.
The six‑year agreement begins next season and will see MotoGP race at the Adelaide Street Circuit until 2032 inclusive. This landmark event will be the first MotoGP Grand Prix to be held in a city‑centre location – with the uncompromised safety standards required in the modern era of the sport.
The circuit layout was unveiled in Adelaide on Thursday 19 February in front of national media by MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta and Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas.
It was confirmed that the inaugural Australian GP in Adelaide will be held across three days in November 2027. The circuit will be approximately 4.195 km long with 18 corners winding through the city streets, enabling riders to reach speeds of more than 340 km/h.
The track design follows the blueprint of the famous Adelaide Street Circuit that hosted Formula 1 events between 1985 and 1995, with the significant adjustments required to ensure rider safety remains the number‑one priority.
The city’s layout, culture and passion for major events make Adelaide the perfect home for a premium, festival‑style urban Grand Prix – providing a unique opportunity to elevate the fan experience to a new level.
MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer, Carlos Ezpeleta, said: “Bringing MotoGP to Adelaide marks a major milestone in the evolution of our championship. This city has a world‑class reputation for hosting major sporting events, and the opportunity to design a purpose‑built circuit in the city streets is something truly unique in our sport.
“From the very beginning, together with the FIM, we made sure that safety remained uncompromised – every element of the Adelaide Street Circuit has been engineered to meet the highest standards of modern MotoGP, ensuring riders can race at full intensity with complete confidence.
“Adelaide’s commitment to major events makes it the perfect home for MotoGP’s next chapter in Australia. We’re incredibly excited to showcase a new style of racing here and to create a true celebration of our sport that brings fans even closer to the action.
“This partnership represents bold ambition from both MotoGP and Australia – and we couldn’t be prouder to begin this journey together.”
The Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas, added: “This is a major coup for South Australia and yet more evidence our state has real momentum. “We are now competing with the rest of the nation for the world’s best events – and winning. Hosting the world’s first MotoGP race on a street circuit will give Adelaide a truly unique offering that is sure to attract visitors from interstate and overseas.
“This is about so much more than a world‑class motorsport event – it’s about generating economic activity for our state, supporting jobs, and putting South Australia on the global stage.
“We back major events that deliver a strong economic return, and MotoGP does exactly that. MotoGP is growing globally at record pace – and Adelaide will now be a key part of that growth story.”
More information regarding the event will be released in due course.
A “press release” is promotional text issued by a rider, team, company or organization to inform
the public about an event, product, or service from the issuer’s own point of view, and if deemed
to have news value, may be placed on roadracingworld.com as a service to our readers.
A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. When a post is labeled with the words “press release”, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors.
Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode
Improves website's visuals
This mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode
Helps to focus on specific content
This mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode
Reduces distractions and improve focus
This mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
This mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
April 7, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
