AFM: Jason Nelson Captures the AFM Number 1 Plate

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

AFM: Jason Nelson Captures the AFM Number 1 Plate

Entering the last round at Thunderhill Raceway in Willows, CA, Jason Nelson (#333) held a points advantage over Ryan Shu (#2) setting up a scenario where Shu needed to win and Nelson needed to place 6th or lower for Shu to capture the title.

Nelson was riding strong through Saturday and had pace to finish on the podium, maintaining the points lead and capturing the coveted Formula Pacific title and the race club’s number 1 plate.

However, as we know, race Gods love to run what if scenarios to test the mettle of those chasing championships and this Sunday would be no diVerent. Nelson had entered a race which ran in the morning to get some laps and ensure the bike was ready for Formula Pacific. He got a decent and as the group made their way around turn 3, Shu was in 2nd and Nelson was in 3rd. At the top of turn 5, there was some jostling and Nelson fearing he would hit Shu put a little more pressure on the front brake lever and lost the front end and tumbled oV track. Although the speeds were relatively low, the damage to the bike was beyond repair for the upcoming Formula Pacific round.

Capture d’écran 2026 10 01 à 00.30.06 — Jason Nelson (333) leading Ryan Shu (2) through turn 14 at the recently repaved Thunderhill Raceway, Willows, CA. Photo Oxymoron Photography

Luckily, Nelson had been talking with his team and what spares should be on board the van and one of the spares was an older 1000cc bike. Immediately rims were removed, tires mounted and placed on warmers while going through the bike and finishing oV safety wire. Fortune would have it that Nelson was entered in another race prior to FP and allowed him to shake the bike down and ensure it was ready for racing. The pace was a bit oV from the A bike and strategies were discussed in how to manage the 14 lap race.

Formula Pacific gridded up Mat Cunha (12x) on pole, Jason Nelson (333), Ryan Shu (2), and Eugene McMahel (DNS) finishing out the front row. On the 2nd row and potential spoilers to Nelson’s championship round were Stephen Rue (14) and Greg Olson (11). As the light went dark the order coming out of T1 was Cunha, Shu, Nelson, Olsen, and Rue. As they finished the first lap, Cunha and Shu started stretching the gaps to the group of Nelson, Olson and Rue. Exiting T2 Olson made a strong outside pass and maintained that lead going into T3. That pass moved Nelson out and carrying a wide line through T3 allowed Rue to pull up on Nelson’s back wheel.

Capture d’écran 2026 10 01 à 00.37.08 — Jason Nelson (333) on his B bike chasing Stephen Rue (14) on to the front straight and beating him to the line for the final podium spot by .0016 of a second. Photo by Oxymoron Photography

Olson would stretch the gap and solidify his role as spoiler with Rue now applying pressure on Nelson. Several laps later, Rue went deep on the brakes into T1 and passed Nelson andadded his name to the spoiler list. Olson had stretched the gap to about 1 second when Olson started falling back towards the chasing pair and several laps later, Rue would make the pass Olson and Nelson would follow which seemed to ignite a second wind in Olson and he and Nelson would pass and repass for the next lap allowing Rue to stretch out a 1+ second gap. Nelson made a pass and was leading entering T14 when Olson release the brakes and made a run for an outside pass. Nelson would maintain the lead onto the front straight and surprising everyone, put his head down and went after Rue who was in 3rd place with 2 laps to go.

Capture d’écran 2026 10 01 à 00.38.41 — Formula Pacific Podium from L-R, Ryan Shu 2nd place, Mat Cunha 1st place, Jason Nelson 3rd place, AFM announcer Kyle Norman presenting the 2027 #1 placard to Jason Nelson. Photo by Oxymoron Photography.

On the last lap, Nelson would pull up on Rue several times with Rue answering every challenge. Exiting the last turn, Nelson got a strong drive and with the draft, went by Rue and led across the line for last podium spot. 3rd place was taken by .0016 at the line and the Championship and number 1 plate secured with room to spare.

Congratulations to Mat Cunha and Ryan Shu who did everything he had to in an attempt for the title.

Capture d’écran 2026 10 01 à 00.35.12 — Jason Nelson crowned AFM’s 2026 Formula Pacific Champion and 2027 Number 1 plate holder. Photo by Eric Kondo.

Jason Nelson would like to thank CT Racing/Pirelli tires, Daredevil Motorsports, PCP Motorsports, Eric Kondo Racing, Maui Racing, Carter’s at the Track, AFM, Family and Friends for all the support in making the number 1 plate possible.

Eric Kondo Racing is proud to have Jason under our canopies over the years and be a part of this memorable run to the #1 plate. EKR would also like to thank, CT Racing Pirelli- Metzler tires, RTM, Bay Area Riders Forum, MotionPro, Rich Oliver’s Mystery School, Fuzimoto, and many others for their support.

RACEMoto Ontario: Final Round Results From Shannonville

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

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RACEMoto Ontario: Final Round Results From Shannonville

McKay’s Shannonville year end big money regional success.

Fresh from success at the final event of the SOAR (Southern Ontario Associates of Racing) Regional Series at Grand Bend in Western Ontario, Pro Superbike National front runner (2nd overall) David McKay attended the final event of the RACEMoto Eastern Ontario Regional Championship at Shannonville Motorsport Park with one goal – earning the big cheque for success at the event, provided by Economy Lube plus Tire.

The weekend was presented as a reunion for competitors active during the fifty years of competition at the facility, originally called Nelson International Raceway, following a debut event on a barely finished seven turn course on Canadian Thanksgiving (Oct. 10), 1976.

Saturday night featured a cookout and live stream interview event, and classic machines and famous racers were on track both days.

2026 RACEMoto Reg Final Rd 5 Nelson 50th Vintage Parade Yamaha 0W01 SBKs Steve Crevier foreground David Percivla in rear by CF Sept 27 — Vintage Superbike demonstration at Shannonville Motorsport Park’s Nelson International 50th Anniversary Celebration features six-time Canadian Pro SBK number one Steve Crevier (foreground) and David Percival (background), both on Yamaha FZR750RR 0W01s – Percival’s is the Michel Mercier 1900 title winning machine. Photo by Colin Fraser.

2026 Nelson 50th Celebration SMP Steve Nelson and Grand Marshall JimAllen by RobO Brien Sept 26 — At the Nelson International 50th Anniversary Celebration event on Saturday night at Shannonville Motorsport Park, features: Steve Nelson, the son of track builder, John Nelson, himself a former Pro competitor, and Grand Marshall Jim Allen, the two-time Canadian National number one and winner of the first race at Nelson in October, 1976. Photo by Rob O-Brien.

A regular podium finisher on the Bridgestone CSKB National tour with his AYVA/Snow City Cycle Honda CBR1000RR-R Sp, McKay was running on the National series spec Bridgestone rubber in an event that allowed for open tire choice. His main opposition was Eli Daccache and th Pirelli backed Milwaukee Yamaha YZF-R1, already confirmed as the Eastern Regional Champ, his incredible tenth consecutive RACEMoto success.

Amazingly, both hit trouble early during Friday testing: McKay fell in turn one in the morning and his CBR vaulted a tire barrier but amazingly subered little damage. In the afternoon,

Daccache also crashed, but his incident did significant damage – a broken airbox allowed foreign material into the Yamaha’s engine, so a late night rebuilt with fellow racers, one from Yamaha Canada, ensued.

Also attracting attention and setting the early pace (1:08 second flat lap times) was Francis Martin, the three-time Canadian Superbike National Champ out of retirement (and about to enter the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame) to race a Coors Light livered first-generation Suzuki GSX-R1000, as raced at the same venue by the same rider 25 years ago.

Original builder Scott Miller of Fast Company fame bought the bike back recently, and only the addition of 17-inch wheels and current Bridgestone slicks diberentiated the Gixxer from SMP’s grid in the fall of 2002, the last ever National for the old rules open SBKs. So – a true reunion of racer, team, builder and bike?

In Saturday’s Heat Race, McKay and Daccache battled early, before McKay pulled away for a four second victory, even though Daccache was aided by trabic. Martin was with the leaders early, showing prodigious speed on the long back straight, but gradually faded into the clutches of rookie racer Carter Matson (Suz) and Matt Van Der Horst (BMW). Martin wound up fourth.

In cool and very windy conditions for Sunday’s 14 lap Feature race, McKay got the best lauch and soon pulled clear of the pack with Daccache is close company. But this time Daccache couldn’t keep up the pace, winding up seven seconds back for second place. Meanwhile, the fight for third was again a good one, with Matson holding ob Martin’s historic entry; Matson wound up solidly in the money in 3rd, 26 second back, with Martin a close fourth. Van De Horst netted fifth, while the top Supersport entry was the Blackstock Suzuki of Matt Simpson in sixth.

2026 RACEMoto Reg Rd 5 Final Pro SBK Start No 1 Yam Eli Daccache No 82 Hon David McKay No 16 Suz Francis Martin No 88 Suz Carter Matson by Rob O Brien Sept 27 — First Turn action at Shannonville Motorsport Park in the $ 10,000 (Canadian funds) Economy Lube plus Tire Pro Superbike final race in the 2026 RACEMoto Eastern Canada Regional Championships, with No 1 Yamaha of Eli Daccache, eventual victor No 82 Honda David McKay, No 16 historic Suzuki Francis Martin and the No 88 Suzuki of Carter Matson. Photo by Rob O’Brien.

“Fast Farmer” Ernest Berhard was seventh on his Farnham brewing Yamaha YZF-R1, pulling clear of Marco Sousa (Suz) and occasional racer Drew Weber (Yam) late in the race.

“It is really nice to finish things ob this way,’ explained McKay on the Podium, holding his big cheque for $ 2,500 courtesy of Economy Lube plus Tire. “To win at Grand Bend last weekend and then dive into the unknown a little bit at Shannonville, well it’s always great when things go – sort of – according to plan!”

In terms of lap times on a cool track, victor McKay got down to an impressive 1:05.4 pace, Daccache also at the same zone – but earlier in the race. Matson and Martin were next up, in the low 1:07 range.

In support race action, Daccache ran away with the Sprint Cup, 22 seconds clear of Matson with Simpson third from the BMW of Chris Fehr. Pro 600 Supersport belonged to Yamaha mounted Drew Weber over the Honda of Eric Quintin, Martin Perreault third on a Kawasaki.

OPP Racing Pro Supersport National contender Matt Simpson continued his recent winning ways in Heavyweight on his Blackstock Suzuki GSX-R750, ahead of Marco Sousa’s similar machine and the Honda CBR600RR of Marissa Kasnya. The Middleweight round went to the modern Suzuki twin of Justin Marshall, all of .3 of a second ahead of runner up Hans Van Sleuwen on a classic Suzuki SV650 v-twin. Rising Mini star Stefan Tanasic, headed to Spain to race an Ohvale 190 for Team Canada in November, scored third on a Snow City Kawasaki.

The Lightweight division was well represented with a big field, and former MiniGP star Benjamin Hardwick made his second MotoRACE start of the year with continued success, again winning on his KTM Supermoto from Tanasic’s Ninja. Continuing a theme, Jager Stockill (three-time MiniGP World racer) was third on a Super Sonic Road Race School Yamaha R3.

In Amateur Superbike, J.S. Lefebvre (Kaw) won by inches from Glenn Brown, Parker Sabine-Craig third. Sarah Wilken got a good start in the Joe Rocket Amateur 600 Supersport final on a Honda CBR600RR and then held ob the pack to win by two seconds from Julien Montpetit (Kaw) and Nolan Eadie (Yam). In the Novice class, Kyle Fenn (Hon) won from Jason Jones (Kaw) and Robert Graham (Yam).

MotoMINI Canadian Nationals: Molnar & Tanasic Clinch Titles

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

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MotoMINI Canadian Nationals: Molnar & Tanasic Clinch Titles

Molnar and Tanasic Clinch Titles; Lead Team Canada to Spain.

The final two races of the 2026 FIM MotoMINI National Series took place on the infield Go Kart track at Shannonville Motorsport Park during the celebration event for the 50th Anniversary of the original Nelson International Raceway. In the popular 160 division for spec Ohvale GP-Os, Martina Cardenas, age 11, of Maple Ridge, British Columbia continued her recent strong form, earning a pair of victories.

However, her arch-rival, fellow west coast racer (and 11-years-old) Tommy Molnar went 2/3, good enough to clinch the overall crown. Molnar was feeling ill from travel and planned to skip the final race, having clinched the Title in the opener, but instead waged a war for second with American Xander Hilligas. At the finish, the pair wound up nine seconds behind Cardenas, with Hilligas just .2 seconds ahead for second after 13 laps.

“Things mostly went according to plan,” explained Molnar from the Podium after getting his National number one plate from CMA President Todd Sharpless. “I wasn’t sure about the second race and my conditioning, but once we got racing, that was my focus.”

In practice, Cardenas had set the pace at 50.6 from Hilligas and Will Brown, as Molnar struggled with his health, only fourth best after several wins at this course earlier this season.

Then in Q1, Cardenas got down to a strong 49.2 and then was even better in the final Q3 at 48.6, earning Pole for both races, having diced with Molnar early in the session.

Overcoming his discomfort, Molnar netted second on the grid at 50.1, followed by Hilligas at 50.29 and Tammer Chehade with a best of 50.50, good for fourth.

After struggling with her starts until the most recent National round at Lombardy, Cardenas was charging at Shannonville, getting into an early lead and pulling away from under-the- weather Molnar in race one.Molnar netted second, guaranteeing his title, but barely held od Hilligas; the duo 16 seconds behind the still-pushing winner. Cardenas set the fastest lap at 48.6, Hilligas showing his form with a lap at 49.4 early in the action, while Molnar set a best of 50.3. In a busy, dicing pack, eventual fifth place finisher Chehade was actually fourth best in terms of best lap times at 50.2.

In 160cc race two, Cardenas got clear early and set a slightly less aggressive pace than in the opener, while Hilligas and Molnar diced for second. The duo wound up nine seconds back, an improvement from the opener, with Hilligas snatching second place, Molnar opting not to retire early due to his health, as he had suggested prerace.

Cardenas was the only racer in the 40 second range in part two, with a best of 48.39, while Hilligas was second best (49.25) and Molnar close at 49.4. In the final standings, Molnar earned the title with a total of 226 points after ten races, Cardenas working up to place second overall at 203 points. Will Brown capitalized on his early season pace to net third in the Championship standings with a 132 total, Hilligas pushing through late in the year for fourth at 111 points.

2026 MotoMINI FIM Canadian Nationals Rd 5 Shannonville Ohvale 160 Pdoium Xander Hilligas double winner Martina Cardenas newChamp Tommy Molnar by Rob O Brien Sept 26 — Podium for the final 2026 MotoMINI FIM Canadian National GP-0 class at Shannonville Motorsport Park, with (L to R) runner-up American Xander Hilligas, race winner Martina Cardenas and new class Champ Tommy Molnar. Cardenas and Molnar will represent Team Canada at Valencia on Ohvale 160s at the World Championships November 23-26. Photo by Rob O-Brien/Super Sonic Road Race School.

In the Ohvale 190 division for the 12-inch wheeled GP-2 machines, Jager Stockill has typically set the pace, looking to lead Team Canada’s first foray in the 190 class. So far, Stockill has twice travelled to Spain in November to race in the 160 division. This season, 13-year-old Stockill has often faced od against Stefan Tanasic, age 15, including in Regional racing on larger machinery. Both have battled through injury in 2026.

On Friday at Shannonville, Stockill got down to a best lap of 47.1, Tanasic close behind with a tour of 47.6. For Q1 and Q2, Stockill stayed on the point, fastest in each session (46.94/46.06) from Tanasic (47.1) and Eric Sergi at a 49 second flat tour.

The first race odered another Stockill demonstration, the sometime Supermoto racer blasting away to win by almost 18 seconds from Tanasic, this pair pulling clear of the rest of the field by a full lap. Sergi held od ever-improving Cohen Byberg for third overall, with fastest lap going to Stockill at 45.99, a new class and overall lap record.

In the second 190 race, Stockill eventually ran away for a second time after a couple of close calls and again set a new lap record (45.81) while pulling ten seconds clear of an improved Tanasic. This time, the top four stayed on the lead lap, Sergi again holding od the charging Byberg for third.

2026 MotoMINI FIM Canadian Nats Rd5 Shannonville Ohvale 190 GP2 class No 68 Jager Stockill double victor by Rob O Brien Sept 26 — Double race winner in the Ohvale 190 spec class in MotoMINI FIM Canadian National action at Shannonville, Jager Stockill set the pace on the bigger, 12-inch-wheeled machines. Stockill wound up runner up in the GP-2 category and will now head to Spain in November as part of Team Canada for the third straight year. Photo by Rob O-Brien/Super Sonic Road Race School.

Intriguingly, the Hard Charger Award, sponsored by Sergi’s grandfather Bob, went to Byberg, who had also show well at the previous event at Lombardy.

In the final standings, Tanasic earned the number one plate with 210 total points, Stockill next up with 200 overall. Soon headed to Europe for a Red Bull Rookies tryout, Sergi was third at 168 points while Byberg netted 136 in his first full season racing.

Team Canada will join the rest of the top Ohvale Racers in the World at the Go Kart track at Circuito Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain, November 23-26, in support of the final MotoGP event of the season and the end of the 1,000cc/Michelin tire World Championship era.

MotoGP: Preview of The Motul Grand Prix Of Japan

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

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MotoGP: Preview of The Motul Grand Prix Of Japan

HOT HEADLINES: the title fight hots up as Motegi kickstarts the final stint.

12 points cover the top two going to the Japan, a new title contender has emerged and a home-hero is in form: a blockbuster tour of Asia and Oceania starts now.

Our Euro summer is over and the final stint of the season begins for one of MotoGP’s greatest title races. Having entered Austria level-pegging, it’s Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) who starts the lap of Asia and Oceania in the driving seat with a 12-point lead over reigning World Champion Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team). 42 points cover the top three, however – only just more than a weekend’s worth of points – whilst there’s a star rider in fourth who’s in great form and closing in. Five GPs in six weeks, bring it on.

THE TOP TWO: Martin vs Marc Marquez

Stealing a march last time out with a Sprint win and P2 on Sunday, Martin hits Japan in a very different reality to last year. Then, he had a weekend to forget, crashing into teammate Marco Bezzecchi in the Sprint and sustaining a collarbone fracture. Now he arrives as Championship leader and the 2023 Japanese GP winner will be fighting for a second Grand Prix win of 2026. As for Marc Marquez, he returns to the place where the greatest sporting comeback was completed last year, bringing the #93 a seventh title after all the injuries before. This year, he’s in a different position; only five Sunday podiums in 2026 but all are wins, although he’s notched up six Sprint victories. Consistency vs speed, two great Champions going head-to-head.

CHASING: Bezzecchi and Acosta remain in touch with reason to believe

Third overall, Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) remains in contention, 42 points behind Martin. It was the flyaways and onwards last year that propelled the #72 to a bronze medal and his form over the next six weeks will be pivotal to his title aspirations. Scoring the second-highest number of points from Motegi onwards in 2025, he’s still in the game. Then there’s Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) emerging as a late threat; five straight top five finishes, of which the last three were rostrums and the last a maiden victory, The Shark enters the overseas tour with bite. 72 points is a big deficit but like Bezzecchi, he was dynamite at the same point last year and was the third-highest point-scorer from Japan onwards. His first close call with victory in MotoGP was at Motegi in his rookie year. Can he go back-to-back? As he says himself, he has nothing to lose in the title fight – and everything to gain.

Pedro Acosta (37) leading Jorge Martin (89) and Marco Bezzecchi (72) in Austria. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

HE’S COMING HOME: Ogura a contender at Motegi

A solid return in Austria with two P4s mean Ai Ogura (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) is in-form ahead of his home GP. Unable to race on Sunday in 2025, the #79 is keen to redeem with the weight – and wait – of a nation expecting big things after 2025’s disappointment and 2026’s big achievements. Just up ahead of the home star, Fabio Di Giannantonio’s (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) just four points behind Acosta but no top five in the last four GPs means he needs a big points haul in the final seven. He’s in it, but he’ll want to start having a bigger say in those podium battles.

Ai Ogura (79) at Brno. Photo courtesy MotoGP.

MOTEGI FORM: top 10s, a double winner and more

Raul Fernandez (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) and Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) were both top ten finishers in Japan last year whilst P9 overall is Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), Motegi’s double winner in 2025. He’s playing down chances of a repeat performance in 2026 but you can never discount the double World Champion. Tenth overall, Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) hopes he can hit form again as we head into an intense part of the season.

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu (07) and Alex Rins (42) at Aragon. Photo courtesy Pramac Yamaha.

JAPANESE MANUFACTURERS: a weekend at home for Honda and Yamaha

Honda and Yamaha’s home GP brings optimism; Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) is Honda’s leading light on the way in, Diogo Moreira (Pro Honda LCR) chases a top ten return after a tougher couple and Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) searches for a second double top ten in a row. The home fans have extra to cheer for with Takaaki Nakagamiwildcarding and although Honda were on the podium at home in 2026 courtesy of Joan Mir(Honda HRC Castrol), the Spaniard’s out with illness in 2026, replaced by Somkiat Chantra. In Yamaha, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) had a far more positive Austrian GP than the results show; teammate Alex Rins and Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP duo Jack Miller and Toprak Razgatlioglu all seek points returns as we return to Japan.

Enea Bastianini (23) and Brad Binder (33) at Balaton Park. Photo courtesy Tech3.

KEEP AN EYE ON: Binder in form with a pack of contenders

Brad Binder’s (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) P6 at the Red Bull Ring is a good springboard into the final sting of his MotoGP run, whilst hoping for a repeat of 2025’s double Motegi top five is Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) after a tougher spell. Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) was a Motegi Sprint podium finisher in 2024, meanwhile, and we wait to see who’ll be sharing the box with him after a tentative return to action for Maverick Viñales at the Austria tyre test. Is he race ready? We’ll find out soon.

Alarms set, let action commence: Japan is when we go green for what promises to be the start of one of the most memorable run-ins ever, with Lombok waiting just around the corner too. Don’t miss it!

Yamaha R3 World Cup: Bettencourt Battles Into the Top 10

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

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Yamaha R3 World Cup: Bettencourt Battles Into the Top 10

Nathan Bettencourt has been on a steep but impressive learning curve all season. The Italian round at Cremona proved to be no different. Unlike the previous rounds, Bettencourt was familiar with the track since the season kicked off in April with a weekend of testing.

That experience paid dividends early. During free practice, Nathan secured P10, and felt the pace was there for Superpole, but from the opening sessions, the tightly packed grid left no room for error. He was caught up with a large group and was never able to set a flyer and ended with a frustrating P16.

In race 1, Bettencourt had a solid start, worked his way through the pack, and crossed the line in P8, only .9 seconds off of the leader.

Bettencourt clocked the 3rd fastest lap time in race 1, which secured his front row start for race 2, his second of the season.

With a clear track ahead, Bettencourt got a decent launch, but by lap 2 was shuffled back to P11, then lost the lead group and dropped to P14. With a few laps left, the pack bunched up and Bettencourt made some calculated and precise passes, putting him in P5 with 3 corners to go on the last lap. In spectacular FIM Yamaha R3 bLU cRU World Cup fashion, it all came down to the last corner, when the dust settled, Bettencourt crossed the line in P9 1.2 behind the leader.

Nathan Bettencourt: “Overall, I’m happy to be up there with the leaders, but now I want to take the next step and get onto the podium. Our final round is in Estoril and I’m ready to give it my all for the last two races.”

Yamaha R3 RACE 1

YAMAHA R3 RACE 2

WorldSPB: American Correa Battles to Top-10 at Cremona

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

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WorldSPB: American Correa Battles to Top-10 at Cremona

Julian Correa battles through chaos at Cremona to secure top-10 finish and showcase blistering pace in World Sportbike.

CREMONA, ITALY – American rising star Julian Correa delivered a weekend of grit, raw speed, and absolute resilience at the Cremona Circuit during the latest round of the 2026 FIM Sportbike World Championship. Riding for Pons Motorsport Italika Racing, Correa secured a hard-fought 10th place in Race 1 before turning a chaotic Race 2 into a masterclass of determination, recovering from an early crash to log the 5th fastest lap of the race.

In Saturday’s Race 1, Correa demonstrated his race craft in a fiercely competitive pack. Navigating the tight and technical Cremona Circuit, the young Floridian hit his marks consistently, battling in a heavily contested group to cross the line in a solid 10th place. The result added valuable World Championship points to his campaign and set a strong foundation for Sunday.

Sunday’s Race 2, however, put Correa’s tenacity to the ultimate test. After a promising start, an early-race incident sent him down into the gravel. While many riders would have called it a day, Correa quickly picked up his Kawasaki, remounted, and rejoined the field. With the leaders out of reach, he put his head down and unleashed staggering pace. Pushing the bike to its absolute limits, Correa carved his way to the checkered flag and recorded the 5th fastest lap time of the entire race—proving definitively that he had the speed to run at the very front of the world stage.

“Cremona was a rollercoaster, but we showed what we’re truly capable of,” said Correa. “Race 1 was a solid battle to grab 10th, but Race 2 was where we really proved our pace. Going down is never the plan, but getting back on that bike and laying down the 5th fastest lap of the race shows the speed is there. My Pons Motorsport Italika Racing crew gave me a great bike all weekend. We’re taking the positives, the data, and that undeniable pace into the final round. I’m hungrier than ever.”

Fans can follow Julian’s journey and see exclusive behind-the-scenes action from the Cremona weekend on his official Instagram: @jujucorrea40.

WSPB RACE 1

wspb race 2

ASRA Announces Dunlop Unlimited Superbike Shootout at Daytona

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

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ASRA Announces Dunlop Unlimited Superbike Shootout at Daytona

Full Daytona weekend to be live streamed on the official ASRA Racing YouTube page

NEW FREEDOM, Pa. — The American Superbike Racing Association (ASRA) today announced the inaugural Dunlop Unlimited Superbike Shootout, to be held during the series’ season-ending Race of Champions weekend at Daytona International Speedway, October 15–18, 2026. The entire Daytona event will be live streamed on the official ASRA Racing YouTube page.

The shootout will be contested as one race, with Amateur and Expert riders on track together. Results and prize money will be scored separately by division. The combined $5,000 cash purse, sponsored by Dunlop Motorcycle Tires, will pay through fifth place in each division as follows:

Expert — $3,000

1st: $1,200

2nd: $750

3rd: $500

4th: $300

5th: $250

Amateur — $2,000

1st: $800

2nd: $500

3rd: $300

4th: $250

5th: $150

To collect prize money, a rider must have started at least one official ASRA points-paying race during the 2026 season. The rule is intended to reward riders who support the series throughout the year.

“Daytona is the right place for a high-stakes Unlimited Superbike shootout,” said ASRA Partner Scott Gilbert. “Putting Amateur and Expert riders in the same race, with real money on the line in both divisions, should produce a great show. We’re grateful to Dunlop for making that possible.”

Dunlop, already a key partner of ASRA, added its support to the special event. “Our riders compete hard all season,” said Chad Geer, Dunlop Motorcycle representative. “A dedicated Daytona shootout that pays both Amateur and Expert is a strong way to recognize that commitment.”

If the Daytona event delivers the field and the racing ASRA expects, the organization will look at expanding the format in 2027. Early discussions include a short series of Unlimited Superbike Shootouts at selected ASRA rounds, culminating again at Daytona, with a season-long points fund and similar Amateur/Expert payouts. Final 2027 plans will depend on rider response, sponsor support, and results from this year’s inaugural race.

The Dunlop Unlimited Superbike Shootout will run as part of ASRA’s October weekend on the 3.51-mile Daytona road course. Practice, qualifying, and all races, including the shootout, will be live streamed on the official ASRA Racing YouTube page.

For registration, rules, weekend information, and the live stream link, visit asraracing.com.

CVMA: $178,500 Purse for 7-Round 2026/27 Winter Series

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

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CVMA: $178,500 Purse for 7-Round 2026/27 Winter Series

Desert Center, CA — With more than $25,000 up for grabs each race weekend, the Chuckwalla Valley Motorcycle Association (CVMA) is raising the stakes for its upcoming seven-round championship season. The organization confirmed today that it will award $178,500 in total cash payouts throughout the series, giving competitors in all classes a serious opportunity to earn as they race.

The Shootout (10 laps)

1st: $3,000 | 2nd: $2,000 | 3rd: $1,500 | 4th: $1,000 | 5th: $750

Supersport Middleweight Shootout (10 laps)

1st: $2,000 | 2nd: $1,500 | 3rd: $1,000 | 4th: $750 | 5th: $500

Lightweight Twins Shootout (8 Laps)

1st: $1,000 | 2nd: $750 | 3rd: $500 | 4th: $250 | 5th: $150

Ultra Lightweight Shootout (8 laps)

1st: $1,000 | 2nd: $750 | 3rd: $500 | 4th: $250 | 5th: $150

Get ready to rev up your engines and hit the track because Support Moto Racing is spicing things up with the electrifying Racer Rewards program! Each race weekend, we’re putting $1,000 right back into the hands of our competitors by awarding $100 to 10 amazing racers. This is your chance to shine, as we recognize talent and grit throughout the paddock—it’s not just about where you finish, but how you race!

Returning with a bang, Apex Assassins is stepping up as the official sponsor of the Formula Open class and cranking up the excitement! With thrilling payouts of $200 for first place, $125 for second, and $75 for third in each of the two heart-pounding Formula Open races every weekend, this is your moment to dominate the track!

But that’s not all—Ryder Gear is back and moving its support to the Amateur Formula Open, gearing up to reward those fierce competitors with payouts of $150 for first, $100 for second, and $50 for third in each of the two intense races. Show us what you’ve got!

The action continues with Racer’s Edge Performance/Dunlop supporting Supersport Middleweight and offering fantastic payouts: $150 for first, $100 for second, and $50 for third in every race. Get ready to unleash that competitive spirit because every lap counts!

And don’t forget about 2Fast Track Days, returning for a second thrilling season as the sponsor of Amateur SuperSport Open! With $150 for first, $100 for second, and $50 for third in two races each weekend, it’s time to show everyone just how fast you can go!

After a year away, Bridgestone and Pro J’s Cycles are back as sponsors of Formula Twins! They’ll award $150 for first, $100 for second, and $50 for third in each race, adding even more incentive to compete!

Honu Marshals, a female-owned business, is supporting women in racing by sponsoring payouts for both Femmewalla and Femmewalla Ultra Lightweight. Honu has also generously lowered the minimum number of race starters required to qualify for payouts to just four. CT Racing/Pirelli is back to sponsor Formula Middleweight for another season with payouts of $150 for first, $100 for second, and $50 for third each day.

Finally, the California Superbike School is back to champion our Top Rookie Expert award! They’re not just handing out accolades; they’re offering a coveted spot in their Code R.A.C.E School to the first-year expert who racks up the most points in the overall CVMA championship. This is your opportunity to level up your skills!

So gear up, racers! This season is packed with adrenaline, reward, and opportunity. Let’s make unforgettable memories on the track!

The New Racer School

Ever dreamed of grid positions and knee-down action? Your journey starts here! Held on the Friday preceding each of our seven race weekends, the CVMA New Racer School (NRS) is your ultimate fast track to getting licensed and onto the circuit. Best of all, getting started is easier than you think—you don’t even need a fully built race bike! Bring your everyday street bike with standard track-day prep, and you’re ready to roll. Step into an amazingly supportive community, gain confidence, and unlock the thrill of competitive racing with the CVMA family.

Safety always comes first when you’re pushing the limits. That’s why Alpinestars continues as the official provider of top-tier leathers, boots, and cutting-edge Tech-Air airvests, ensuring our instructors ride with state-of-the-art impact protection.

Head protection is powered by 6D Helmets, returning as the official helmet sponsor of the NRS. Featuring revolutionary Omni-Directional Suspension™ (ODS) technology, 6D helmets deliver unparalleled energy management to reduce impact forces, letting you focus on your lines with absolute peace of mind.

Precision and control are in your hands thanks to Five Gloves. Continuing their strong support of the NRS, Five Gloves supplies world-class protective gear designed specifically for maximum feel, durability, and safety on track.

Putting power to the pavement, Dunlop Tires and Racers Edge Performance return as the official tire team of the NRS. Delivering unbeatable grip and relentless performance under the desert sun, Dunlop gives both students and instructors the ultimate traction needed to carve up Chuckwalla Valley Raceway.

Enhanced Live Coverage

CVMA’s partnership with 951 Live will continue throughout the 2026–27 Winter Series, bringing professional multi-camera race coverage to fans around the world.

In addition to continuing the live broadcasts, racers and viewers can look forward to several exciting enhancements to this season’s coverage. More details will be announced as the opening round approaches.

Companies interested in advertising during CVMA’s live broadcasts can contact Justin Murphy by text at 951-333-8244.

About CVMA:

The Chuckwalla Valley Motorcycle Association (CVMA) hosts the premier winter motorcycle road racing series in North America. With a racer-first focus and a mission of constant improvement, CVMA provides safe, competitive, and fun racing for riders of all levels.

NHRA: Gadson Wins Suzuki Final at Rockingham

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

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NHRA: Gadson Wins Suzuki Final at Rockingham

Gadson earned his third Pro Stock Motorcycle victory of the season and extended his Countdown to the Championship lead.

Brea, CA – A week after Richard Gadson and Gaige Herrera each faced disappointing early-round losses, the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines team came back with a vengeance by sending both riders to the final round in Pro Stock Motorcycle, with Gadson capturing his third win of the season aboard his Suzuki Gen 3 Hayabusa and extending his lead in the Countdown to the Championship at the NHRA Nationals at The Rock at Rockingham Dragway in Rockingham, NC, on Sunday.

Race Highlights

Richard Gadson qualified fifth, won his third race of the season and extended his lead in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs
Gaige Herrera qualified second, advanced to the final round of eliminations and jumped to second in the Countdown standings

Just a few days after the completion of racing at the rain-delayed NHRA race in Martin, Michigan, the second round of the Countdown to the Championship kicked off at the track affectionately known as “The Rock,” the fourth new facility this season and second in a row to make its debut on the NHRA national event circuit.

Richard Gadson qualified fifth with a 6.683-second/202.41 mph pass on Saturday, posting his quickest career run since joining the Vance & Hines team in 2024 and his first in the 6.60s.

In round one, Gadson defeated Geno Scali (6.927 seconds/196.08 mph) with a 6.742 second/ 200.71 mph run, then advanced with a 6.797-second/200.09 mph pass when Ryan Oehler fouled in round two.

Gadson survived a wild ride in the semi-final round when his Hayabusa moved sharply out of the racing groove and drifted toward the outside track wall en route to a 6.790-second/198.85 mph victory over Chase Van Sant (6.825 seconds/198.06 mph).

Facing Gaige Herrera in a final round for the third time this season, Gadson cruised to a 6.790-second/198.85 mph victory when his teammate uncharacteristically fouled on the starting line, handing the reigning world champion his third win this season and seventh of his career.

The victory, combined with early round losses by rivals John Hall and Matt and Angie Smith, extended Gadson’s lead in the Countdown to the Championship standings to 64 points over Herrera, who jumped four spots up the order to second, a difference of just over three rounds of competition.

“I stole this one. It was robbery. I would have liked to be closer to Gaige’s performance today, but to be honest, I feel like we’ve been racing against the timing system these last two races, and it could have been anybody’s race. I just happened to do a better job today of getting four green lights,” Gadson said. “I went up there in the final with the mindset of trying to cut a killer light, but (crew chief) Eddie Krawiec told me, ‘Just cut a regular light. Just be green.’ So that’s what I did, and it worked this time,” Gadson said.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to tracks that use our regular timing system for the final four races in the Countdown, so I can go back to my normal process on the starting line rather than trying to slow myself down,” he said. “Three rounds is nothing for Gaige to make up, so comfort is definitely not what I feel, but I’m happy to have a little bit of a cushion. I’m going to keep my hand on the throttle, my foot on their necks and hold on for dear life.”

Seeking redemption from an engine failure that ended his race in round one last week, Gaige Herrera qualified second on Saturday with a 6.680-second/202.07 mph run, his quickest qualifying performance of the season.

Herrera kicked off Sunday’s elimination rounds with back-to-back passes in the 6.60s, running 6.683 seconds at 201.97 mph, the low elapsed time of the round, over Lance Bonham (foul) in round one. He went low ET again in round two, dodging a perfect .000 reaction time from Clayton Howey (6.822 seconds/196.59 mph) with a 6.699-second/201.25 mph run to advance to the semi-final round.

Slowing up a bit in the semis, Herrera’s 6.714-second/201.16 mph run was still quick enough to fend off Joey Gladstone (6.791 seconds/197.89 mph) and set up a final-round matchup against Gadson, which Gaige lost when he left the starting line too early.

Nonetheless, Herrera’s charge resulted in a four-place jump up the Countdown standings, leapfrogging him into second place, 64 points behind Gadson, and putting him firmly back into contention to win a third world championship.

Gaige Herrera made his fifth final-round appearance of the season at The Rock. Photo courtesy Suzuki.

“My Hayabusa was running great this weekend. Andrew really had the tuneup unlocked. I just gave it away there in the final, but at least the team got the win.” Herrera said. “I feel good about moving up the standings and we’ve still got four races to go. St. Louis is a track that’s been really good for me, so I’ve got to do whatever I can next weekend to get some points and try to catch up to Richard.”

For the second race in a row, RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki crew chief Andrew Hines said the Rockingham track’s short-rollout timing system, similar to the one used at Martin, required riders and crew chiefs to scramble to adjust starting line procedures to prevent red-light fouls.

“We probably learned more about clutch tuning this weekend than we ever have, trying to adjust for the timing system to keep the guys on the green side of the light and still produce the good 60-foot times we need to generate quick elapsed times. With the track conditions and weather here, we probably could have set some 60-foot records, but we had to slow the bikes’ reaction from when the clutch lever is released until it starts to move, in order to keep the guys green, which gives up some elapsed time,” Hines said. “Gaige’s bike was dialed in after the third round of qualifying yesterday, and we didn’t make any more changes today. In the final round the track got better, the bike reacted faster, he reacted faster and he ended up on the wrong side of the tree.”

“I feel like it’s going to be a battle between Richard and Gaige for the rest of the season, with an intermix of other riders from the Smith Racing camp,” he continued. “We’re happy where we’re sitting now, we’ve just got to keep performing at a high level and try to keep anyone else from putting two bikes in the final round like we did today.”

With four races remaining in the Countdown to the Championship, Gadson and Herrera sit first and second in the championship standings, with 2,286 and 2,222 points, respectively.

The RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines team returns to action Oct. 2-4 for round three of the Countdown to the Championship at the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, IL.

For the latest Suzuki team news, race reports, and information visit SuzukiCycles.com/Racing/Drag-Racing

About Suzuki:

Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.

About Vance & Hines Motorsports:

Vance & Hines Motorsports is a powerhouse in the world of motorcycle racing, boasting a rich legacy of success. With a focus on innovation, performance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries, the team continues to redefine excellence in the NHRA and MotoAmerica. For more information, visit www.vanceandhinesmotorsports.com.

AHRMA: Open Two-Stroke Prize Money at Barber Vintage Festival

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 30, 2026

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AHRMA: Open Two-Stroke Prize Money at Barber Vintage Festival

Knoxville, TN – Come experience the sights, sounds, and smells of two-stroke road racing motorcycles at the 21^st annual Barber Vintage Festival on Oct 10^th and 11^th.

Rising Sun Cycles, MojoYamaha and three anonymous AHRMA racers are sponsoring the event and awarding a total of $4,100 for the top finishers in the Open Two-Stroke race on Saturday, October 10.

The first, second, and third place finishers in each of the following tiers within the race will be awarded prize money: 125cc, 250cc, and 250cc+.

Bridgestone Tires will award a certificate for one set of tires to the overall winner on Saturday. Bridgestone Tires has been supporting AHRMA’s 125cc, 250cc and 500cc+ two-stroke classes for many years.

“Come see real thoroughbred GP machines race elbow to elbow competing for the top spot on the podium, it’s sure to be exciting. So, dust off those GP bikes and come race!” said Ralph Staropoli, who organized the race purse.

Any two-stroke motorcycle regardless of displacement, number of cylinders, frame type, cooling type, or date of manufacture is eligible for AHRMA’s Open Two-Stroke class.

A current competition license from a known organization is required. All competitors are required to practice on Thursday or Friday and meet the qualifying requirements.

Learn more and register for the event here AHRMA.org. Racers and their friends and family can purchase gate and paddock passes here.

About Rising Sun Cycles:

Rising Sun Cycles have been importers of new and used Yamaha and Honda Grand Prix road-racing motorcycles and replacement parts and accessories since 1997. They possess a rock-solid reputation of providing fast shipping, support, and satisfaction and pride themselves on giving their customers the best service available, the best parts and accessories, and a staff that understands all aspects of our business.

About Mojo Yamaha:

Mojo Yamaha is a motorcycle racing team focused on classic Yamahas. The team runs monster Formula One racers based on the Yamaha FJ1100 engine pushed out to nearly 1300cc by Larry Cook Racing, as well as the legendary 2-stroke, the Yamaha TZ750. All bikes are housed in frames produced by the renown builder Denis Curtis at CMR Racing. Josh Hayes and Mojo Yamaha won Race 4 of the International Challenge the Phillip Island Classic in 2019.

About Bridgestone:

Bridgestone Tires offers tires for all types of motorcycles including road and off road racing.

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With nearly 3,000 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.

AFM: Jason Nelson Captures the AFM Number 1 Plate

September 30, 2026

Capture d’écran 2026 10 01 à 00.28.45 — Jason Nelson 2026 AFM Formula Pacific Champion and 2027 Number 1 plate holder. Photo by Oxymoron Photography