WorldSBK: Bulega Best In Free Practice Two At Catalunya (Updated)

David Swarts

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March 22, 2024

WorldSBK: Bulega Best In Free Practice Two At Catalunya (Updated)

Rookie sensation Nicolo Bulega posted the best lap time during World Superbike Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, the reigning Supersport World Champion turned a lap time of 1:40.907 to lead the field of 23 riders.

American Garrett Gerloff finished the session 16th with a best lap time of 1:42.413 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.

WSBK FP2

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Bulega and Bautista set to battle it out in Catalunya

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Rookie sensation Nicolo Bulega continues to amaze with the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati leading the way from his teammate Alvaro Bautista.

Toprak Razgatlioglu set the fastest time in FP1 and was third fastest on the combined times just ahead of his teammate Michael van der Mark.

The busiest rider on track was Andrea Locatelli with 41 laps with his teammate Jonathan Rea also focusing on race simulations.

In near perfect conditions at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati riders, Nicolo Bulega and Alvaro Bautista, led the way in WorldSBK. It was the rookie sensation Bulega who set the pace on the opening day with Bautista two tenths of a second adrift. Ducati has won seven races in a row in Catalunya and will be aiming to continue that form in tomorrow’s 20 lap race.

During practice teams focused on understanding tyre consumption in the afternoon. With new development options available from Pirelli the aim for riders and engineers was to understand the best solutions available to them. The Pata Prometeon Yamaha team split their resources with Jonathan Rea and Andrea Locatelli using different tyre combinations. Both completed race simulations to end the day fifth and sixth fastest.

Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was third fastest on the combined times. Having been competitive at the recent two day Supported Test the Turkish rider is confident of fighting at the front throughout this weekend.

Championship leader Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) had issues in the morning that limited his running. The 33 year old completed 27 laps and ended the day 14th fastest.

P1 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“It was a good first day because my feeling with the bike was good. I tried both SCX tyres and I’m still not very sure of the decision for the race. We have to check some data and try to understand which can work better for the race. My race pace was also fast in the afternoon but we need to try and improve because our rivals will try something to catch me.”

P2 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“In the morning the bike felt similar to other times that I have ridden it this season. I am trying to give my best feedback to the engineers and explain what I feel on the bike. The bike felt much better in the afternoon and it helped me to ride as I wanted to. I’m really happy and now it’s time to keep going in this direction. We have another day tomorrow and hopefully we can improve my feeling step by step. In the afternoon I tried the SCX and the new development tyre and I didn’t feel a really big difference in the performance level. The drop is not really big. Until now I couldn’t ride the bike as I wanted to. I’m happy for Nicolo because it shows that the bike is working well. His performance is a good reference.”

P3 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team

“I focused on the long run in the afternoon. It looks like the Ducati is very strong but we know that at this track the Ducati is always very strong. I tried my best today but we are still working with the bike to help with grip. We did a long run,13 laps, and the times were mainly 1m41 and then 42’s. The rear grip improved for us and is better than before now. I hope we are fighting with Ducati but it looks like Ducati’s pace is very strong. But maybe the race is different. In general I’m happy but we need to improve the bike grip.”

WorldSBK Combined Results after FP2

1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’40.907s

2. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.247s

3. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.292s

4. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.338

5. Jonathan Rea (Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +0.493s

6. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +0.566s

Huertas aims for the win from pole position

Adrian Huertas claimed his second consecutive Superpole in the Supersport class. A mid-session red flag, caused by a technical problem for Bahattin Sofuoglu (MV Agusta Reparto Corse), led to a delay but once the action resumed the Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team rider asserted his dominance to take pole position by 0.274s.

Can Oncu (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) and Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) complete the front row of the grid.

The Catalunya Round also marks the first round of World Championship action for QJMotor. The experienced rider Raffaele de Rosa (QJMOTOR Factory Racing) spearheads their entry.

P1 | Adrian Huertas | Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team

“Today was a really good day. This morning we had some issues but the team worked hard and we were able to solve everything and we improved a lot. The most important thing is that we can manage the tyre a lot and this is really important for tomorrow. I’m happy to get pole position for my home round but the races are more important. We are going for the win.”

WorldSSP Tissot Superpole Results

1. Adrian Huertas | Ducati | 1’44.197s

2. Can Oncu | Kawasaki | +0.274s

3. Stefano Manzi | Yamaha | +0.333s

Historic first pole position for Kove

History was made in the Supersport 300 class as Kove claimed the first World Championship pole position for a Chinese manufacturer. It was a new Superpole lap record from Julio Garcia Gonzalez (KOVE Racing Team) with the 17-year-old claiming his first Superpole success.

Tomorrow’s opening race of the season will see three different manufacturers on the front row with Daniel Mogeda (Team#109 Retro Traffic Kawasaki) and Matteo Vannucci (Pata Yamaha AG Motorsport Italia) joining Garcia in the top three.

A late session yellow flag cost the riders an opportunity to set fastest times in the closing minutes with reigning World Champion Jeffrey Buis (Freudenberg KTM-PALIGO Racing) unable to improve on the 11th fastest time.More on worldsbk.com

P1 | Julio Garcia Gonzalez | KOVE Racing Team

“I’m really happy because this is my first pole position and the first pole position for Kove. This is a new bike but I am really enjoying working with the team. The new Superpole schedule is strange because the day goes really fast. We only have one Free Practice session now but I quite like it! Tomorrow, I believe that a win is possible. I’ll push hard for it!”

WorldSSP300 Tissot Superpole Results

1. Julio Garcia Gonzalez | KOVE | 1’55.313s

2. Daniel Mogeda | Kawasaki | +0.044s

3. Matteo Vannucci | Yamaha | +0.093s

WorldSBK resumes its action on Saturday with FP3 starting at 9:00 (Local Time), followed by Tissot Superpole at 11:00 and Race 1 at 14:00. Meanwhile, WorldSSP continues with a Warm Up at 9:50, followed by Race 1 at 15:15. WorldSSP300 also returns, beginning with a Warm Up at 9:30 and Race 1 at 12:45.

Moto3: Alonso Aces Practice One At Algarve International Circuit

David Swarts

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March 22, 2024

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Moto3: Alonso Aces Practice One At Algarve International Circuit

Colombian David Alonso set the standard during FIM Moto3 World Championship Practice One (P1) Friday afternoon at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar machine, Alonso covered the undulating 2.85-mile (4.59 km) course in 1:47.202, which not only led the field but was also under Deniz Oncu’s Race Lap Record of 1:47.563.

No results were recorded during Friday morning’s Moto3 Free Practice (FP) due to the session being red flagged for poor track conditions.

Moto3 P1

MotoE: Casadei Tops Second Practice In Portugal

David Swarts

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March 22, 2024

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MotoE: Casadei Tops Second Practice In Portugal

Italian Mattia Casadei topped FIM MotoE World Championship Practice Two (P2) Friday at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his LCR E-Team Ducati electric racebike, Casadei lapped the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) road course in 1:47.389 to lead the field of 18 riders.

MotoE P2

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Fastest In FP1 At Algarve International Circuit

David Swarts

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March 22, 2024

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MotoGP: Marc Marquez Fastest In FP1 At Algarve International Circuit

Six-time MotoGP World Champion Marc Marquez was fastest during MotoGP Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Algarve International Circuit, in Portugal. Riding his Gresini Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP23, Marquez covered the 2.85-mile (4.54 km) course in 1:40.484 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Maverick Vinales was the best of the rest with a 1:40.649 on his factory Aprilia RS-GP, and Brad Binder was third in the session with a time of 1:40.689 on his Red Bull KTM Factory Racing RC16.

MotoGP FP1

World Supersport: Montella Heads Free Practice At Catalunya

David Swarts

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March 22, 2024

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World Supersport: Montella Heads Free Practice At Catalunya

Italian Yari Montella led FIM Supersport World Championship Free Practice (FP) Friday morning at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati Panigale V2, Montella lapped the 2.89-mile (4.66 km) track in 1:44.884 to lead the field of 34 riders.

Former MotoAmerica regular Valentin Debise finished the session 25th with a time of 1:47.145 on his Evan Bros. Yamaha.

WSS FP

WorldSBK: Razgatlioglu Reigns In FP1 At Catalunya

David Swarts

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March 22, 2024

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WorldSBK: Razgatlioglu Reigns In FP1 At Catalunya

Turkish rider Toprak Razgatlioglu reigned during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his ROKiT BMW M 1000 RR on the 2.89-mile (4.66 km) track, Razgatlioglu recorded a best lap time of 1:41.199 to lead the field of 23 competitors.

American Garrett Gerloff was 10th in FP1 with a time of 1:41.845 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.

The top 20 riders in FP1 were separated by just 1.551 seconds.

WSBK FP1

Laguna Seca And Monterey County Settle Lawsuit With Highway 68 Coalition

David Swarts

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March 22, 2024

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Laguna Seca And Monterey County Settle Lawsuit With Highway 68 Coalition

County of Monterey and Friends of Laguna Seca Celebrate Positive Settlement for Laguna Seca Recreation Area

Favorable agreement allows Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) to continue its 2024 season and operations as planned.
FLS will begin crucial assessments, including a previously planned sound impact assessment, to make necessary improvements.
Agreement establishes Friends of Laguna Seca’s stewardship of the facility for 50 years.

Monterey, Calif. (March 22, 2024) – The County of Monterey Department of Public Works, Facilities, and Parks and Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) are pleased to announce the execution of a comprehensive settlement that ends the Laguna Seca Raceway lawsuit, Highway 68 Coalition vs. County of Monterey.

“We view this as a very favorable resolution for the County and its long-term partner at Laguna Seca, the nonprofit organization Friends of Laguna Seca,” stated Nick Pasculli, County Communications Director. “The future of the track and the amazing recreation area, which is a premier County Park, is bright. Laguna Seca is loved by local, national, and global car enthusiasts and also by the tens of thousands of people who enjoy the beauty of the recreation area.”

The settlement clarifies the long-term plans of FLS to conduct a previously planned sound impact assessment at the racetrack and carry out appropriate sound mitigation measures, all as part of being a good neighbor to the surrounding community.’

“FLS is pleased that the litigation was dealt with quickly and we’re looking forward to our next steps toward Laguna Seca’s long-term success for the benefit of the community of Monterey County and the entire racing world,” said Friends of Laguna Seca President Ross Merrill. “We know these improvements will take time, but we are committed to ensuring the success of Laguna Seca for decades to come.”

The County and Friends of Laguna Seca want to especially thank the loyal fans of the racetrack and the public who voiced their overwhelming support for the County in this lawsuit.

“I grew up watching races at Laguna Seca and have raced there since the late 1970s,” said Bruce Canepa, Vice President, Friends of Laguna Seca. “I have a lifetime passion for this facility and want to see it be preserved for future generations. With Friends of Laguna Seca, we’ve built a team of individuals who share the same passion, paired with business acumen, to make Laguna Seca the place we’ve always hoped it could be.”

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca has a rich history of hosting world-class racing events, and non-profit initiatives benefiting the community and driving prosperity for the region.

MotoE: Zaccone Leads Opening Practice In Portugal

David Swarts

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March 22, 2024

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MotoE: Zaccone Leads Opening Practice In Portugal

Italian Alessandro Zaccone led the opening FIM MotoE World Championship practice at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his Tech3 E-racing Ducati electric racebike, Zaccone lapped the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) circuit in 2:01.198 to lead the field of 18 riders.

MotoE P1

MotoAmerica: Gillim Defending Stock 1000 Crown On Honda

David Swarts

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March 21, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Gillim Defending Stock 1000 Crown On Honda

Real Steel Motorsports, with the support of Southern Honda Powersports and American Honda, are excited to announce that Hayden Gillim will return to defend his number-one plate in the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship on the Steel Commander/Comstock Energy/Southern Honda Powersports/American Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.

With a pedigree in racing that is second to none, Honda will expand its presence in the MotoAmerica paddock in 2024, with factory and dealer support of Gillim as he works to restake his claim to the Stock 1000 title. With Honda’s support and Gillim’s proven racecraft and dogged determination on the track, 2024 promises to be both exciting and rewarding as Gillim takes full advantage of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP’s potential.

Gillim stood tall in 2023, winning two coveted MotoAmerica championships—Steel Commander Stock 1000 and Mission King Of The Baggers. Returning this year, Gillim intends to go back-to-back in both series. “I’m very excited about this season,” Gillim said. “It’s been a long road to get where we are with this program. I feel with the backing from Comstock Energy, Steel Commander, Southern Powersports Honda, and American Honda, it’s going to be a great year. Learning the Honda and getting the most out of it, for me, will be a lot of fun, and it’s a great opportunity to back up the championship from last year.”

“The Southern Honda Powersports team is honored and excited to be supporting Hayden in this year’s Stock 1000 Championship run,” said David Carmody, General Manager of Southern Honda Powersports. “Working with a proven rider with Hayden’s talent and speed will be the perfect fit for featuring the Fireblade in the MotoAmerica series. We’re confident that he’ll be up front, fighting for the wins and the Championship aboard our CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.”

Brandon Wilson, Manager of Racing and Experiential Marketing at American Honda said, “All of us at American Honda are excited for the upcoming MotoAmerica season. Hayden’s talent, combined with the amazing CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, will certainly give Honda fans something to cheer about. A big thank you to Southern Honda Powersports for their efforts, and best of luck for a successful 2024 season.”

“The entire Steel Commander Corp. family is buzzing with enthusiasm as we back Hayden in his quest for the Stock 1000 Championship,” stated Shawn Fisher, President and CEO of Steel Commander. “With his exceptional skillset and our cutting-edge Fireblade, we’re poised for success with Honda on the MotoAmerica circuit. We’re fully confident in Hayden’s ability to showcase the speed and precision of our CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, and we’ll be cheering him on every step of the way. We also look forward to working with Comstock Energy, Southern Powersports, and American Honda in a combined effort to take home the Stock 1000 Championship.”

Also joining the team as sponsors for 2024 are Vesrah, Maxima Racing Oils, Orient Express, GB Racing, K-Tech, Dunlop, Moto Liberty, RS Taichi, and Arai.

MotoGP: Riders Assess Their Chances In Portuguese Grand Prix

David Swarts

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March 21, 2024

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MotoGP: Riders Assess Their Chances In Portuguese Grand Prix

“This track is insane!”: Thursday talking points from Portugal

Thursday, 21 March 2024

After a showstopping start in Qatar, we’re already back on track this weekend for the Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal, with the stunning Autodromo Internacional do Algarve playing host.

The week started with news that Fermin Aldeguer would be moving up to MotoGP™ next season with Ducati, so the current Beta Tools SpeedUp rider joined the second press-conference line-up on Thursday.

Once the podcast had welcomed Enea Bastianini, the first press conference saw reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) joined by Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), aka the current top three in the Championship.

Then, after news earlier this week that Fermin Aldeguer would be moving up to MotoGP™ next season with Ducati, the current Beta Tools SpeedUp rider joined the second press-conference, alongside Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), rookie Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) and Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing).

Here are some photos and quotes from the opening day on the Algarve.

PECCO BAGNAIA

How much confidence do you bring into this weekend?

Francesco Bagnaia. Photo courtesy Dorna.

“First of all, I want to say I love this track, it is one of my favourites with a lot of up and downhill sections. It is a mix of Mugello and Sachsenring and I love to ride here. Last year was a perfect start to the season like it was in Qatar, so I am quite confident as I think with the 2024 bike we can be more competitive in some areas of the track, so I am looking forward to starting the weekend.”.

BRAD BINDER

How high are expectations after round one?

“Obviously, it went well in Qatar it was fantastic to start the season with two podiums. Coming here is really exciting for me as it where last year that we started to find our bearings and if we have a look at what we ran here last year and where we finished the season it was two worlds apart so I am really keen to go out for FP1 to see where our base is and see how everything works. This track is insane, it is so up and down and flowing in some places, and stop and go in others, and it is something that you need a different bike for. I think our bike will be strong here as Jack showed last year and I think this year we stand a chance of being even stronger.”

JORGE MARTIN

You said in Qatar you weren’t 100% with the GP24, how do you see your potential here?

“Well, let’s see. It is difficult to say now but for sure it’s a track I enjoy, last year I was strong, I had some issues in the race but I think the pace was really good to battle. Let’s see I feel I am in a good condition so let’s see if I can feel better with the bike, but I think I am finding the way.”

MARC MARQUEZ

What do you expect this weekend?

“Of course, the approach for the weekend is the exact same as Qatar and obviously we will have a new factor which is we will head to a circuit straight into a race weekend. This changes our planning as straight away in FP1 you need to have a lap time and be fast and that was the most difficult thing in Malaysia and Qatar, that first day I was struggling a bit so let’s see if here in Portimao I can start in the top 10 positions straight away to jump into Q2. That is the main target but let’s see where we are in a completely different race track.”

On Acosta’s overtake:

“As I said last year and I reconfirm that he will be one of the guys in the future for MotoGP and the present because as he showed in Qatar he has enough talent and before the race, I already said that you are fast with any type of bike and he was super fast on those laps. I am sure he will learn to manage tyres and he will be much better in the next races.”

And his save earlier in the Qatar GP

“I already said it was a good one, you really need to believe in the bike to do that. That one was a good one, he has a really good riding style and when they jump from Moto2 they have super good corner speed. When I followed Pedro for the two laps during the race he was super fast in the fast corners and made the difference.”

PEDRO ACOSTA

How much are you looking forward to riding a MotoGP bike around Portimao?

“For sure I want it to be a nice weekend, Portimao is one of my favourite circuits on the calendar, with Australia. Like Marc said it is going to be difficult as it’s the first track that we’ve come to with a MotoGP bike without testing, so this will be tricky. We will have all the support from the Factory Team and all the engineers for this so let’s try and make a consistent weekend.”

How did it feel to overtake Marc?

“It was a super nice race because the first lap was tricky for me after the moment with Jack at the start. The feeling of the bike was amazing, as since Moto3™ I have not had this feeling with the front tyre to brake at the last moment and go down the inside. The overtake was nice but he managed the whole race better so we don’t have to think too much about the overtake.”

On that Qatar GP save:

“I’ve seen many races on the TV and I’ve seen many of Marc’s saves like this. It was a good save but also it is normal in FP1 with all of the sand that is always in Qatar. Like I said it is a track I know more or less the grip and the tyres. Now we come to a track with different asphalt and also different tyre compounds compared to Qatar. We need to start from zero with our feet on the ground and just not think too much about the Qatar race as it was unreal.”

MIGUEL OLIVEIRA

What’s possible this weekend?

“It is a different situation as I know to come from an average result like in Qatar to come here and say I am ready to challenge for the victory is maybe too ambitious but I know what I am capable of doing. Nowadays the grid in MotoGP™ is very particular, you can be from 12th to first in a split second. Everything is possible and I don’t want to create any limitations or too much expectations. I am still adapting to the bike but I feel I am making steps in the right direction and hopefully this weekend straight away on Friday we can show we have the speed for the top 10. Then obviously the complexity of Qualifying well and doing the race, we need to overcome those challenges of terms of results on Saturday and Sunday.”

FERMIN ALDEGUER

How special is it to know you’ll be racing Pedro, Marc, and Miguel in MotoGP™ next year?

“I am really happy to announce my jump to MotoGP™ in 2025 but now it is time to stay focused in the Moto2™ class. In Qatar, I felt pressure from people saying I am the favourite rider but I have to manage this pressure. My season will start here in Portimao with a good feeling, but I am very happy to be going to MotoGP with Ducati.”

WorldSBK: Bulega Best In Free Practice Two At Catalunya (Updated)

March 22, 2024

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Ducati.

Rookie sensation Nicolo Bulega posted the best lap time during World Superbike Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, the reigning Supersport World Champion turned a lap time of 1:40.907 to lead the field of 23 riders.

American Garrett Gerloff finished the session 16th with a best lap time of 1:42.413 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.

WSBK FP2

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Bulega and Bautista set to battle it out in Catalunya

Rookie sensation Nicolo Bulega continues to amaze with the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati leading the way from his teammate Alvaro Bautista.

Toprak Razgatlioglu set the fastest time in FP1 and was third fastest on the combined times just ahead of his teammate Michael van der Mark.

The busiest rider on track was Andrea Locatelli with 41 laps with his teammate Jonathan Rea also focusing on race simulations.

In near perfect conditions at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati riders, Nicolo Bulega and Alvaro Bautista, led the way in WorldSBK. It was the rookie sensation Bulega who set the pace on the opening day with Bautista two tenths of a second adrift. Ducati has won seven races in a row in Catalunya and will be aiming to continue that form in tomorrow’s 20 lap race.

During practice teams focused on understanding tyre consumption in the afternoon. With new development options available from Pirelli the aim for riders and engineers was to understand the best solutions available to them. The Pata Prometeon Yamaha team split their resources with Jonathan Rea and Andrea Locatelli using different tyre combinations. Both completed race simulations to end the day fifth and sixth fastest.

Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was third fastest on the combined times. Having been competitive at the recent two day Supported Test the Turkish rider is confident of fighting at the front throughout this weekend.

Championship leader Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) had issues in the morning that limited his running. The 33 year old completed 27 laps and ended the day 14th fastest.

P1 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“It was a good first day because my feeling with the bike was good. I tried both SCX tyres and I’m still not very sure of the decision for the race. We have to check some data and try to understand which can work better for the race. My race pace was also fast in the afternoon but we need to try and improve because our rivals will try something to catch me.”

P2 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“In the morning the bike felt similar to other times that I have ridden it this season. I am trying to give my best feedback to the engineers and explain what I feel on the bike. The bike felt much better in the afternoon and it helped me to ride as I wanted to. I’m really happy and now it’s time to keep going in this direction. We have another day tomorrow and hopefully we can improve my feeling step by step. In the afternoon I tried the SCX and the new development tyre and I didn’t feel a really big difference in the performance level. The drop is not really big. Until now I couldn’t ride the bike as I wanted to. I’m happy for Nicolo because it shows that the bike is working well. His performance is a good reference.”

P3 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team

“I focused on the long run in the afternoon. It looks like the Ducati is very strong but we know that at this track the Ducati is always very strong. I tried my best today but we are still working with the bike to help with grip. We did a long run,13 laps, and the times were mainly 1m41 and then 42’s. The rear grip improved for us and is better than before now. I hope we are fighting with Ducati but it looks like Ducati’s pace is very strong. But maybe the race is different. In general I’m happy but we need to improve the bike grip.”

WorldSBK Combined Results after FP2

1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’40.907s

2. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.247s

3. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.292s

4. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.338

5. Jonathan Rea (Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +0.493s

6. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +0.566s

Huertas aims for the win from pole position

Adrian Huertas claimed his second consecutive Superpole in the Supersport class. A mid-session red flag, caused by a technical problem for Bahattin Sofuoglu (MV Agusta Reparto Corse), led to a delay but once the action resumed the Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team rider asserted his dominance to take pole position by 0.274s.

Can Oncu (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) and Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) complete the front row of the grid.

The Catalunya Round also marks the first round of World Championship action for QJMotor. The experienced rider Raffaele de Rosa (QJMOTOR Factory Racing) spearheads their entry.

P1 | Adrian Huertas | Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team

“Today was a really good day. This morning we had some issues but the team worked hard and we were able to solve everything and we improved a lot. The most important thing is that we can manage the tyre a lot and this is really important for tomorrow. I’m happy to get pole position for my home round but the races are more important. We are going for the win.”

WorldSSP Tissot Superpole Results

1. Adrian Huertas | Ducati | 1’44.197s

2. Can Oncu | Kawasaki | +0.274s

3. Stefano Manzi | Yamaha | +0.333s

Historic first pole position for Kove

History was made in the Supersport 300 class as Kove claimed the first World Championship pole position for a Chinese manufacturer. It was a new Superpole lap record from Julio Garcia Gonzalez (KOVE Racing Team) with the 17-year-old claiming his first Superpole success.

Tomorrow’s opening race of the season will see three different manufacturers on the front row with Daniel Mogeda (Team#109 Retro Traffic Kawasaki) and Matteo Vannucci (Pata Yamaha AG Motorsport Italia) joining Garcia in the top three.

A late session yellow flag cost the riders an opportunity to set fastest times in the closing minutes with reigning World Champion Jeffrey Buis (Freudenberg KTM-PALIGO Racing) unable to improve on the 11th fastest time.More on worldsbk.com

P1 | Julio Garcia Gonzalez | KOVE Racing Team

“I’m really happy because this is my first pole position and the first pole position for Kove. This is a new bike but I am really enjoying working with the team. The new Superpole schedule is strange because the day goes really fast. We only have one Free Practice session now but I quite like it! Tomorrow, I believe that a win is possible. I’ll push hard for it!”

WorldSSP300 Tissot Superpole Results

1. Julio Garcia Gonzalez | KOVE | 1’55.313s

2. Daniel Mogeda | Kawasaki | +0.044s

3. Matteo Vannucci | Yamaha | +0.093s

WorldSBK resumes its action on Saturday with FP3 starting at 9:00 (Local Time), followed by Tissot Superpole at 11:00 and Race 1 at 14:00. Meanwhile, WorldSSP continues with a Warm Up at 9:50, followed by Race 1 at 15:15. WorldSSP300 also returns, beginning with a Warm Up at 9:30 and Race 1 at 12:45.

Moto3: Alonso Aces Practice One At Algarve International Circuit

March 22, 2024

David Alonso (80), as seen in Qatar. Photo courtesy Aspar Team.

Colombian David Alonso set the standard during FIM Moto3 World Championship Practice One (P1) Friday afternoon at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar machine, Alonso covered the undulating 2.85-mile (4.59 km) course in 1:47.202, which not only led the field but was also under Deniz Oncu’s Race Lap Record of 1:47.563.

No results were recorded during Friday morning’s Moto3 Free Practice (FP) due to the session being red flagged for poor track conditions.

Moto3 P1

MotoE: Casadei Tops Second Practice In Portugal

March 22, 2024

Mattia Casadei (right) and Lucio Cecchinello (left). Photo courtesy LCR E-Team.

Italian Mattia Casadei topped FIM MotoE World Championship Practice Two (P2) Friday at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his LCR E-Team Ducati electric racebike, Casadei lapped the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) road course in 1:47.389 to lead the field of 18 riders.

MotoE P2

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Fastest In FP1 At Algarve International Circuit

March 22, 2024

Marc Marquez (93). Photo courtesy Gresini Racing.

Six-time MotoGP World Champion Marc Marquez was fastest during MotoGP Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Algarve International Circuit, in Portugal. Riding his Gresini Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP23, Marquez covered the 2.85-mile (4.54 km) course in 1:40.484 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Maverick Vinales was the best of the rest with a 1:40.649 on his factory Aprilia RS-GP, and Brad Binder was third in the session with a time of 1:40.689 on his Red Bull KTM Factory Racing RC16.

MotoGP FP1

World Supersport: Montella Heads Free Practice At Catalunya

March 22, 2024

Yari Montella (55). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Italian Yari Montella led FIM Supersport World Championship Free Practice (FP) Friday morning at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati Panigale V2, Montella lapped the 2.89-mile (4.66 km) track in 1:44.884 to lead the field of 34 riders.

Former MotoAmerica regular Valentin Debise finished the session 25th with a time of 1:47.145 on his Evan Bros. Yamaha.

WSS FP

WorldSBK: Razgatlioglu Reigns In FP1 At Catalunya

March 22, 2024

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Turkish rider Toprak Razgatlioglu reigned during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his ROKiT BMW M 1000 RR on the 2.89-mile (4.66 km) track, Razgatlioglu recorded a best lap time of 1:41.199 to lead the field of 23 competitors.

American Garrett Gerloff was 10th in FP1 with a time of 1:41.845 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.

The top 20 riders in FP1 were separated by just 1.551 seconds.

WSBK FP1

Laguna Seca And Monterey County Settle Lawsuit With Highway 68 Coalition

March 22, 2024

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Photo courtesy WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. — WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, as seen in 2021. Photo courtesy WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

County of Monterey and Friends of Laguna Seca Celebrate Positive Settlement for Laguna Seca Recreation Area

Favorable agreement allows Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) to continue its 2024 season and operations as planned.
FLS will begin crucial assessments, including a previously planned sound impact assessment, to make necessary improvements.
Agreement establishes Friends of Laguna Seca’s stewardship of the facility for 50 years.

Monterey, Calif. (March 22, 2024) – The County of Monterey Department of Public Works, Facilities, and Parks and Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) are pleased to announce the execution of a comprehensive settlement that ends the Laguna Seca Raceway lawsuit, Highway 68 Coalition vs. County of Monterey.

“We view this as a very favorable resolution for the County and its long-term partner at Laguna Seca, the nonprofit organization Friends of Laguna Seca,” stated Nick Pasculli, County Communications Director. “The future of the track and the amazing recreation area, which is a premier County Park, is bright. Laguna Seca is loved by local, national, and global car enthusiasts and also by the tens of thousands of people who enjoy the beauty of the recreation area.”

The settlement clarifies the long-term plans of FLS to conduct a previously planned sound impact assessment at the racetrack and carry out appropriate sound mitigation measures, all as part of being a good neighbor to the surrounding community.’

“FLS is pleased that the litigation was dealt with quickly and we’re looking forward to our next steps toward Laguna Seca’s long-term success for the benefit of the community of Monterey County and the entire racing world,” said Friends of Laguna Seca President Ross Merrill. “We know these improvements will take time, but we are committed to ensuring the success of Laguna Seca for decades to come.”

The County and Friends of Laguna Seca want to especially thank the loyal fans of the racetrack and the public who voiced their overwhelming support for the County in this lawsuit.

“I grew up watching races at Laguna Seca and have raced there since the late 1970s,” said Bruce Canepa, Vice President, Friends of Laguna Seca. “I have a lifetime passion for this facility and want to see it be preserved for future generations. With Friends of Laguna Seca, we’ve built a team of individuals who share the same passion, paired with business acumen, to make Laguna Seca the place we’ve always hoped it could be.”

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca has a rich history of hosting world-class racing events, and non-profit initiatives benefiting the community and driving prosperity for the region.

MotoE: Zaccone Leads Opening Practice In Portugal

March 22, 2024

2024-ME-Zaccone-Portimao-Test-013 — Alessandro Zaconne (61). Photo courtesy Tech3 E-racing.

Italian Alessandro Zaccone led the opening FIM MotoE World Championship practice at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his Tech3 E-racing Ducati electric racebike, Zaccone lapped the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) circuit in 2:01.198 to lead the field of 18 riders.

MotoE P1

MotoAmerica: Gillim Defending Stock 1000 Crown On Honda

March 21, 2024

Hayden Gillim during pre-season testing on a Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. Photo courtesy Real Steel Motorsports.

Real Steel Motorsports, with the support of Southern Honda Powersports and American Honda, are excited to announce that Hayden Gillim will return to defend his number-one plate in the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship on the Steel Commander/Comstock Energy/Southern Honda Powersports/American Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.

With a pedigree in racing that is second to none, Honda will expand its presence in the MotoAmerica paddock in 2024, with factory and dealer support of Gillim as he works to restake his claim to the Stock 1000 title. With Honda’s support and Gillim’s proven racecraft and dogged determination on the track, 2024 promises to be both exciting and rewarding as Gillim takes full advantage of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP’s potential.

Gillim stood tall in 2023, winning two coveted MotoAmerica championships—Steel Commander Stock 1000 and Mission King Of The Baggers. Returning this year, Gillim intends to go back-to-back in both series. “I’m very excited about this season,” Gillim said. “It’s been a long road to get where we are with this program. I feel with the backing from Comstock Energy, Steel Commander, Southern Powersports Honda, and American Honda, it’s going to be a great year. Learning the Honda and getting the most out of it, for me, will be a lot of fun, and it’s a great opportunity to back up the championship from last year.”

“The Southern Honda Powersports team is honored and excited to be supporting Hayden in this year’s Stock 1000 Championship run,” said David Carmody, General Manager of Southern Honda Powersports. “Working with a proven rider with Hayden’s talent and speed will be the perfect fit for featuring the Fireblade in the MotoAmerica series. We’re confident that he’ll be up front, fighting for the wins and the Championship aboard our CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.”

Brandon Wilson, Manager of Racing and Experiential Marketing at American Honda said, “All of us at American Honda are excited for the upcoming MotoAmerica season. Hayden’s talent, combined with the amazing CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, will certainly give Honda fans something to cheer about. A big thank you to Southern Honda Powersports for their efforts, and best of luck for a successful 2024 season.”

“The entire Steel Commander Corp. family is buzzing with enthusiasm as we back Hayden in his quest for the Stock 1000 Championship,” stated Shawn Fisher, President and CEO of Steel Commander. “With his exceptional skillset and our cutting-edge Fireblade, we’re poised for success with Honda on the MotoAmerica circuit. We’re fully confident in Hayden’s ability to showcase the speed and precision of our CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, and we’ll be cheering him on every step of the way. We also look forward to working with Comstock Energy, Southern Powersports, and American Honda in a combined effort to take home the Stock 1000 Championship.”

Also joining the team as sponsors for 2024 are Vesrah, Maxima Racing Oils, Orient Express, GB Racing, K-Tech, Dunlop, Moto Liberty, RS Taichi, and Arai.

MotoGP: Riders Assess Their Chances In Portuguese Grand Prix

March 21, 2024

(From left) Brad Binder, Francesco Bagnaia, and Jorge Martin at the MotoGP pre-event press conference in Portugal. Photo courtesy Dorna.

“This track is insane!”: Thursday talking points from Portugal

Thursday, 21 March 2024

After a showstopping start in Qatar, we’re already back on track this weekend for the Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal, with the stunning Autodromo Internacional do Algarve playing host.

The week started with news that Fermin Aldeguer would be moving up to MotoGP™ next season with Ducati, so the current Beta Tools SpeedUp rider joined the second press-conference line-up on Thursday.

Once the podcast had welcomed Enea Bastianini, the first press conference saw reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) joined by Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), aka the current top three in the Championship.

Then, after news earlier this week that Fermin Aldeguer would be moving up to MotoGP™ next season with Ducati, the current Beta Tools SpeedUp rider joined the second press-conference, alongside Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), rookie Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) and Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing).

Here are some photos and quotes from the opening day on the Algarve.

PECCO BAGNAIA

How much confidence do you bring into this weekend?

“First of all, I want to say I love this track, it is one of my favourites with a lot of up and downhill sections. It is a mix of Mugello and Sachsenring and I love to ride here. Last year was a perfect start to the season like it was in Qatar, so I am quite confident as I think with the 2024 bike we can be more competitive in some areas of the track, so I am looking forward to starting the weekend.”.

BRAD BINDER

How high are expectations after round one?

“Obviously, it went well in Qatar it was fantastic to start the season with two podiums. Coming here is really exciting for me as it where last year that we started to find our bearings and if we have a look at what we ran here last year and where we finished the season it was two worlds apart so I am really keen to go out for FP1 to see where our base is and see how everything works. This track is insane, it is so up and down and flowing in some places, and stop and go in others, and it is something that you need a different bike for. I think our bike will be strong here as Jack showed last year and I think this year we stand a chance of being even stronger.”

JORGE MARTIN

You said in Qatar you weren’t 100% with the GP24, how do you see your potential here?

“Well, let’s see. It is difficult to say now but for sure it’s a track I enjoy, last year I was strong, I had some issues in the race but I think the pace was really good to battle. Let’s see I feel I am in a good condition so let’s see if I can feel better with the bike, but I think I am finding the way.”

MARC MARQUEZ

What do you expect this weekend?

“Of course, the approach for the weekend is the exact same as Qatar and obviously we will have a new factor which is we will head to a circuit straight into a race weekend. This changes our planning as straight away in FP1 you need to have a lap time and be fast and that was the most difficult thing in Malaysia and Qatar, that first day I was struggling a bit so let’s see if here in Portimao I can start in the top 10 positions straight away to jump into Q2. That is the main target but let’s see where we are in a completely different race track.”

On Acosta’s overtake:

“As I said last year and I reconfirm that he will be one of the guys in the future for MotoGP and the present because as he showed in Qatar he has enough talent and before the race, I already said that you are fast with any type of bike and he was super fast on those laps. I am sure he will learn to manage tyres and he will be much better in the next races.”

And his save earlier in the Qatar GP

“I already said it was a good one, you really need to believe in the bike to do that. That one was a good one, he has a really good riding style and when they jump from Moto2 they have super good corner speed. When I followed Pedro for the two laps during the race he was super fast in the fast corners and made the difference.”

PEDRO ACOSTA

How much are you looking forward to riding a MotoGP bike around Portimao?

“For sure I want it to be a nice weekend, Portimao is one of my favourite circuits on the calendar, with Australia. Like Marc said it is going to be difficult as it’s the first track that we’ve come to with a MotoGP bike without testing, so this will be tricky. We will have all the support from the Factory Team and all the engineers for this so let’s try and make a consistent weekend.”

How did it feel to overtake Marc?

“It was a super nice race because the first lap was tricky for me after the moment with Jack at the start. The feeling of the bike was amazing, as since Moto3™ I have not had this feeling with the front tyre to brake at the last moment and go down the inside. The overtake was nice but he managed the whole race better so we don’t have to think too much about the overtake.”

On that Qatar GP save:

“I’ve seen many races on the TV and I’ve seen many of Marc’s saves like this. It was a good save but also it is normal in FP1 with all of the sand that is always in Qatar. Like I said it is a track I know more or less the grip and the tyres. Now we come to a track with different asphalt and also different tyre compounds compared to Qatar. We need to start from zero with our feet on the ground and just not think too much about the Qatar race as it was unreal.”

MIGUEL OLIVEIRA

What’s possible this weekend?

“It is a different situation as I know to come from an average result like in Qatar to come here and say I am ready to challenge for the victory is maybe too ambitious but I know what I am capable of doing. Nowadays the grid in MotoGP™ is very particular, you can be from 12th to first in a split second. Everything is possible and I don’t want to create any limitations or too much expectations. I am still adapting to the bike but I feel I am making steps in the right direction and hopefully this weekend straight away on Friday we can show we have the speed for the top 10. Then obviously the complexity of Qualifying well and doing the race, we need to overcome those challenges of terms of results on Saturday and Sunday.”

FERMIN ALDEGUER

How special is it to know you’ll be racing Pedro, Marc, and Miguel in MotoGP™ next year?

“I am really happy to announce my jump to MotoGP™ in 2025 but now it is time to stay focused in the Moto2™ class. In Qatar, I felt pressure from people saying I am the favourite rider but I have to manage this pressure. My season will start here in Portimao with a good feeling, but I am very happy to be going to MotoGP with Ducati.”

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