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MotoAmerica: Who Is Riding What In Supersport, 2026

Michael Gougis
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MotoAmerica: Who Is Riding What In Supersport, 2026

Supersport is often a scrum at the front, and 2026 promises to be even more competitive at the sharp end of the MotoAmerica field. With talent coming into the class from above, sideways and below, and the top two finishers in the Championship in 2025 moving up to Superbike, there are unknowns and knowns and questions that will only be fully answered at the end of the 2026 season.

 

Josh Herrin (1) on the Warhorse HSBK Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike at The Ridge in 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Dropping down from Superbike is former class Champion Josh Herrin. He’ll be on familiar machinery. Herrin dominated the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship on a Warhorse HSBK Ducati Panigale V2. He rode the team’s Panigale V4 R racebikes in Superbike for three years to multiple race wins and the 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship. And he won the Daytona 200 three straight times on a Warhorse Panigale V2.

Josh Herrin will race the Desnuda Tequila Rahal Ducati Moto Panigale V2 in 2026. Photo courtesy Rahal Ducati.

 

Herrin signed for Rahal Ducati Moto for Supersport for 2026 and will rider the team’s Panigale V2 racebikes, with new sponsor Desnuda Tequila. The team nearly took the Supersport title last season, with PJ Jacobsen winning three times and taking 15 podiums. So the bike, the team and the rider are all known quantities, and expectations are high.

 

Darryn Binder (15) on a Gresini Moto2 racebike at Circuit of The Americas, 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

One of the out-of-the-blue signings in the class is the kinda, sorta lateral move of Darryn Binder to the Warhorse HSBK Panigale V2 raced by Cameron Petersen in 2025. Petersen is off to Superbike for 2026, replaced by Binder in the next-to-highest class in the United States after three seasons in the intermediate Moto2 class. Binder has a wealth of experience, having raced in Moto3 and then jumping straight into MotoGP, where he spent a year on a Yamaha YZR-M1 prior to moving to Moto2. But that experience hasn’t translated into results. After 11 seasons of Grand Prix competition and 188 races, Binder has one race win and six podiums, all in Moto3. The Warhorse team is well versed in preparing Panigale V2 machines, the unknown is how well Binder will adapt to a motorcycle that is very different from a Moto2 Grand Prix racebike. The famous quote from John Kocinski may apply here. When asked the difference between the 500cc, four-cylinder, two-stroke Grand Prix racebikes he raced and the Superbikes he raced, Kocinski said that after riding the 500s, everything else just felt slow. How fast Binder will prove to be on a slower motorcycle remains to be seen.

 

Alessandro Di Mario (27) in Supersport practice on the Warhorse HSBK Ducati Panigale V2 at The Ridge, 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Moving up to Supersport with Rahal Ducati Moto is Alessandro Di Mario. A double Championship winner in MotoAmerica in 2025, Di Mario successfully defended his Twins Cup title and added the Talent Cup Championship to his resume. He also rode the Warhorse Panigale V2 in practice at the MotoAmerica round at The Ridge last year, and with no prior experience on a Supersport machine, was 12th in his first session and 10th in final qualifying. At times in 2025, Di Mario looked like he was in a different class than the rest of the field. At The Ridge, Di Mario was nearly two seconds faster than anyone else in Twins Cup qualifying. Whether that speed will transfer to the Supersport class is one of the most interesting questions leading into the 2026 season.

 

Blake Davis (22) at The Ridge, 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Another big question coming into 2026 will be the speed of the Yamaha YZF-R9. Mathew Scholtz took the Strack Racing YZF-R9 to the Supersport Championship in its first year of competition, and ripped off five straight wins to end the season. Scholtz is back in Superbike for 2026, where he has won in the past, so his skills at the Supersport level never were in doubt. But there was much muttering in the paddock over the 2025 Supersport rules, inherited from the Supersport World Championship, that allowed the R9 to run with a longer swingarm from one of Yamaha’s other CP3-powered machines. For 2026, the R9 must race with the stock swingarm, according to a competition bulletin issued by MotoAmerica.

Even though Scholtz is going racing with Strack in Superbike next year, Blake Davis, a multi-time winner with the team last year on the R9, is expected to be back for 2026. BPR Racing will once again field R9s for multi-time AMA Pro Racing National Champion Josh Hayes, as well as AFM overall Champion Brenden Ketelsen, who has extensive experience at the club level.

 

Josh Hayes (4) at The Ridge, 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Brenden Ketelsen, 2025 AFM Overall Champion, with AFM announcer Kyle Norman. Photo by oxymoronphotography.com.

 

Other riders returning to the Supersport grid in 2026 include Wristin Grigg on the second Warhorse machine; Tyler Scott, a multi-time podium finisher in 2025, on the M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750; Kayla Yaakov on a Rahal Ducati Moto Panigale V2, and Altus Racing’s Jaret Nassaney, Torin Collins and Maximiliano Gerardo on the team’s Yamaha YZF-R9s (as well as new member Austin Martinez on a Suzuki GSX-R750).

With this level of riding talent and potent machinery, Supersport promises to be a class to watch in MotoAmerica in 2026. And just to kick it off properly, for the first time in the MotoAmerica era, the Daytona 200 will be a points-paying round of the Supersport Championship. That means the teams that sat out the race in prior years are likely to be there, and Rahal has already made it clear that Jacobsen will be on a Supersport bike for the race, meaning four additional Panigale V2 racebikes on the grid for the historic race. This promises to start the season off properly …

MotoGP: Results of the Shakedown Day 1

Mathilde Gasnier
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MotoGP: Results of the Shakedown Day 1

Rookies on track and the sweet smell of a new season in the air: MotoGP is BACK. 

The first laps of a new record-breaking season are in the bag as Day 1 of the Shakedown concludes in Sepang. The Shakedown is for factory test riders and rookies – as well as manufacturers with free testing in concession Rank D – so not everyone was out on track or will be. But it signals our return after a looooong winter without the most exciting sport on Earth.

Diogo Moreira at Sepang (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.

The big news can be split two ways – one, the debut of two exciting new rookies: Toprak Razgatlioglu, who moves over from WorldSBK as a three-time Champion, and reigning Moto2™ Champion Diogo Moreira. Turkish rider Razgatlioglu slots in alongside Jack Miller at Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP, and Brazilian rider Moreira at Pro Honda LCR, teammate to Johann Zarco.

When it got down to the lap times for the rookies, it was Razgatlioglu who was fastest and completed the opening day of 2026 in fourth with a best of 1’59.647. This was despite a couple of gremlins in the opening hour. There was also a mechanical issue for Moreira but the Brazilian was able to put that behind him and finish his day in eighth with a 2’00.894. For context, Razgatlioglu’s time would have been good enough for P1 on the same day in 2025 and whilst Moreira continues his adaptation, day two will surely see both take another step.

Aleix Espargaro (41) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna

On top of the timesheets, however, it was Honda. Aleix Espargaro put the marque top with a lap time only six tenths off Joan Mir’s qualifying time from the 2025 Malaysian GP and that locked up the top spot from midday on. Honda only fielded the #41 on Day 1 in terms of test riders, with their other representation from Moreira, the rookie. The factory has now moved up into concession Rank C so their options aren’t as numerous as this time last season.

 

Dani Pedrosa (26) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna

KTM, on the tails of their team presentations for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Red Bull KTM Tech3, were second and third with Pol Espargaro, half a second off the top, and MotoGP Hall of Famer Dani Pedrosa another half a second in arrears. Mika Kallio was also out on track to put in a few laps, further down the timesheets.

With Razgatlioglu leading the way for Yamaha, their test riders were right behind in the reigning WorldSBK Champion’s slipstream. Just 0.111s split the Turkish star and the test team, spearheaded today by Augusto Fernandez. A key rider in the development of Yamaha’s V4 engine from the very start, he set Yamaha’s fastest top speed of the day too at 327.3kp/h – just over 8kp/h down on the fastest on day one, Honda. They were the only Yamaha riders out on track, we’ll have to wait further for our first glimpse of Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and his teammate Alex Rins, as well as Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP).

 

Michele Pirro (51) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna

 

At Ducati, test rider Michele Pirro was out on track and he was the last rider in the 1:59s – but the headline was some new aero spotted down in pitlane. Take a look below! As the reigning champions and often the trend and pacesetters in pre-season, the new look will raise plenty of interest…

 

Lorenzo Savadori (32) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

At Aprilia, Lorenzo Savadori settled into his long stint at Sepang. The Italian is present at the Shakedown and will follow that up at the Sepang Test as he rides alongside Marco Bezzecchi, standing in for Jorge Martin. He was putting all the Aprilias through their paces, including the Trackhouse MotoGP Team machinery, and was lapping around the 2 minute mark.

So, what’s the biggest news of the day? The Ducati aero? Moreira bringing Brazil back to MotoGP? Razgatlioglu becoming the first Turkish rider in MotoGP? Or this report about Quartararo fielded by motorsport.com? Have a read… silly season is hotting up already, one day in. See you on Friday for more from Sepang! 

 

MotoGP: Red Bull KTM & Tech3 Unveil New Livery for 2026

Mathilde Gasnier
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MotoGP: Red Bull KTM & Tech3 Unveil New Livery for 2026

Orange, blue, speed and go: Red Bull KTM officially pushes its teams and riders into play for 2026 with the official unveiling of the livery and partners for the MotoGP™ season ahead.

Watch the 2026 Red Bull KTM launch video HERE.

2026 represents the tenth year of elite level world championship Grand Prix racing for Red Bull KTM. The line-up of Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, and Enea Bastianini and Maverick Viñales for Red Bull KTM Tech3, heads into the fierce heat of MotoGP™ competition this term with the latest (and last) iteration of the KTM RC16 within the guidelines of the current technical rulebook.

 

Enea Bastianini (23) and Maverick Viñales (12). Photo courtesy KTM Tech3.

 

Red Bull KTM will aim high for 2026, and have re-touched arguably the most distinctive race livery on the MotoGP™ grid for the new assault on the timing screens. Numbers will define the campaign: the milliseconds on the track, the hours of work by dedicated team staff, the days of planning by factory engineers, and the weeks of strategy to get ahead of the game both for 2026 and with a view to the next generation of MotoGP™ racing machinery.

Digits and data.

4: Pedro Acosta’s 2025 world championship ranking in the Spaniard’s second year in the premier class. Pedro equalled Red Bull KTM’s highest standing, achieved by current teammate Brad Binder in 2023 (and Pol Espargaro tied on final points for P4 in 2020).

6: Rounds of the 2026 MotoGP™ calendar that count as home events for the Red Bull KTM quartet in a season of 22 Grands Prix, 22 Saturday Sprints, 18 countries and nine months of racing.

7: Days until the first official pre-season test takes place at the Sepang International Circuit, followed by the 2026 MotoGP™ launch in Kuala Lumpur on February 7, the second test from 21-22 February at the Buriram International Circuit in Thailand and then the Thai Grand Prix at the same venue from 27 February-1 March.

14: Podium Grand Prix trophies and Sprint medals gathered by Red Bull KTM in 2025.

17: Top five Grand Prix finishes logged by the current Red Bull KTM line-up in 2025.

24: Combined seasons of experience for the Red Bull KTM crew as 2026 begins (2 for Acosta, 6 for Binder, 5 for Bastianini and 11 for Viñales)

366.1: Kmph – the MotoGP™ top speed record posted by the KTM RC16 with Brad Binder in 2023 and matched by Pol Espargaro in 2024 at the Italian Grand Prix. Will the number remain through 2026?

3,600,000: A record attendance by fans at the circuits in 2025 – an increase of 21% over 2024 – and evidence that MotoGP™ is on the move.

 

Enea Bastianini (23). Photo courtesy KTM.

 

Enea Bastianini, Red Bull KTM Tech3: “It was so important to reflect on 2025 because it was a complicated year, but it was also good in a way because I’ve learned a lot. 2026 will be different since I will know both bike and team better, and I think I will be much stronger. I’m motivated to be back on track because I want to fight again for something important. This year I think the factory will be very strong. I saw a lot of potential, especially during the test in Valencia last year. I think we are Ready to Race, ready to fight.”

 

Maverick Viñales (12). Photo courtesy KTM.

 

Maverick Viñales, Red Bull KTM Tech3: “Last year was a great experience for me: I needed to understand many things in a very short period of time, but after two races I started to understand the bike and how it works, so I was able to be competitive very quickly. Then we had the crash in Sachsenring. There were two or three ways to recover, but we needed to discover which one was the best for my shoulder, for my type of injury, and the guys in the Red Bull APC helped me to follow a way to recover quicker. Now, I feel that I have a big responsibility to make this project a winning one. This is something really nice because I always feel I am at my best when I have this type of pressure and responsibility. So, I’m ready to ‘eat’! I have a lot of energy for this year.”

 

 

 

Pedro Acosta (37) and Brad Binder (33). Photo courtesy KTM

 

Pedro Acosta, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing: “In the second half of 2025 we were starting to make good races, good results, even when we were not having our best days. We were able to manage to be in this top five constantly. All-in-all it was really good to be able to fight for 3rd place in the Championship. Thanks to the team and to KTM, for this. We go for more this year and to start in the right way from Sepang next week.”

 

Brad Binder, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing: “It’s been a great off-season. I took a couple weeks off and got a lot of riding done, a lot of cycling. I’m looking forward to a fresh start again this season and hopefully we can get back to the performances I know I’m capable of. MotoGP is tough: if you look at the lap times and there’s almost nothing in it, but the way every single rider does it is always different. Some on the brakes, some on throttle, some completely different riding styles. Last year I felt like I was thinking the whole time on the motorbike, instead of letting just my natural ability take over and that’s one thing that I want to change for this season. Just really enjoy riding the bike a bit more. I’m quite confident that I can make a good step up.”

 

 

Aki Ajo, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager: “Last year was somehow quite special for us after a challenging start. We had steady improvement during the season. I really feel that we made a big step generally for all the communication and for simplifying many aspects. Things were coming and results were coming by understanding and by daily improvement. You just focus for small daily steps because it’s not easy to do big steps in short time, short term. We know the potential of the bike, the riders, the teams and the group. This means we can be excited about the potential for 2026 but we will keep patience in the work and focus.”

 

Nicolas Goyon, Red Bull KTM Tech3 Team Manager: “2025 was emotional. We had some huge highs and unfortunately some down moments in the season, but it’s part of this sport. We started this collaboration with KTM in 2019 and I have to say that since then the factory has been helping us more and more. 2025 was the season where we’ve received more support than ever. Both teams were evolving at the same level. Now, we’re really looking forward to work with our new management, I really feel we’re prepared for this new season, this new era. So overall, I’m excited about this new challenge.”

 

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director: “We have four fantastic riders in our group and each one has something very special. Last year, I feel we couldn’t really make the package ready for everybody to show their best potential. So that was the highest target we had over the last weeks: to make sure everyone gets what he needs to perform. We have belief, and many strengths and we stick together as a team. This makes me very confident that we have all the right people on board, and the bike improved quite a lot over the last weeks and months. I feel we are ready to race. 2026 will be a busy year: on one side everybody wants to look to ‘27 and think about that. But I just don’t want to forget ‘26 is around the corner. We want to make this year our year, and use all the chances we have. It’s time to go for it in ‘26.”

 

From left to right with Enea Bastianini, Pedro Acosta, Brad Binder and Maverick Viñales. Photo courtesy KTM.

Shocker Racing Fielding 3-Rider Team At Daytona & Road America

Mathilde Gasnier
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Shocker Racing Fielding 3-Rider Team At Daytona & Road America

TSR Goes MotoAmerica Racing

With support from our partners TLC The Living Community and ICAFe Companies Team Shocker Racing is set to field a three-rider Twins Cup line up consisting of Maxim Gulinsky, Charles Burton IV, and Ethan Song on Trickdaddy Performance prepared Aprilia RS660s for the Daytona and Road America Rounds.

For more information about the team visit us at: https://teamshockerracing.com/

MotoAmerica: Cam Beaubier Testing With Ducati In Portugal

John Ulrich
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MotoAmerica: Cam Beaubier Testing With Ducati In Portugal

Cameron Beaubier is on track this week at Portimão, Portugal, taking part in a key test session alongside the Ducati Corse test team.

The American rider is working closely with the factory squad as part of FLO4LAW Warhorse Ducati Factory Racing, gaining valuable time aboard a 2026 Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike. 

 

Cameron Beaubier with a 2026 factory Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike during testing at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.

Despite challenging conditions, Beaubier expressed his excitement about the opportunity: “The weather hasn’t been the best here in Portugal but it’s really cool to be here with Ducati Corse. We got our first laps in on wet tires today.”

 

Cameron Beaubier ready to go on track at Portimão. Photo by Alex Photo.

 

Cameron Beaubier testing at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.
Cameron Beaubier on track at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.
Cameron Beaubier and the Ducati crew at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.
Cameron Beaubier testing at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.
2026 factory Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike. Photo by Alex Photo.

MotoAmerica: OrangeCat Reveals 2026 BMW Superbike Livery

Mathilde Gasnier
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MotoAmerica: OrangeCat Reveals 2026 BMW Superbike Livery

BMW Motorrad Motorsport and OrangeCat Racing officially presented the brand-new livery for their upcoming Superbike campaign, showcasing the fresh look of the OrangeCat BMW M 1000 RR.

Almería became the center of attention this week as the OrangeCat Racing team hit the track for an important test session, giving fans an early glimpse of what’s to come in 2026.

 

BMW Motorrad Motorsport and Orangecat group shot. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport

BMW’s First AMA Superbike Win Was 50 Years Ago At Daytona

Mathilde Gasnier
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BMW’s First AMA Superbike Win Was 50 Years Ago At Daytona

BMW’s Daytona 50th Anniversary Celebration – Echo of The Shot Heard Round The World.

As many of us grapple with the effects of a major winter storm event, there is some good news. Less than six weeks before we kick off the 50th anniversary celebration for BMW’s “Shot Heard Round the World” season! Preparations are now racing forward on many fronts as we get ready for The Big Event.

Steve McLaughlin (83) leads Reg Pridmore (163) and Gary Fisher (24) at Daytona in 1976. Photo courtesy RPM Ventures NC

Some other key update items include:

• All three of the R90S racers from 1976 are prepared and ready to be transported to Daytona to be together, on the banking again, for the first time in 50 years!

• The sponsorship program continues to come together. OrangeCat Racing in Chicago and Tytler’s Cycles in Wisconsin are both enthusiastic participants now!

• Todd Trumbore in Pennsylvania has taken delivery of 300 t-shirts for the event. They are $20 each and will be available trackside. Todd is also working on the commemorative pins.

• We finalized the menu for the celebrity dinner on March 7th. Shortly we will be asking for selections from a menu that includes beef, chicken, fish, or vegetarian options.

• This week’s big question? What kind of gasoline do we need for the trio of R90S racers when we put them on the track. A quick call to Udo Gietl confirmed that we’re good with the 98-octane Sunoco fuel we can get at the DIS pumps.

 

The three Butler & Smith R90S BMW Superbikes lined up for tech at Daytona in 1976, including Gary Fisher’s #24, Steve McLaughlin’s #83, and Reg Pridmore’s # 163. Photo courtesy BMA MOA.

 

Next up items include:

• Back in New Hampshire, Reg Pridmore’s #163 is ready to take a trip from Don Krumholz’s shop for some dyno testing.

• In Munich, Steve McLaughlin’s #83 is being prepared for the trip to Daytona … then on to Goodwood for the Festival of Speed in July.

 

1976 isn’t coming back, of course. For 2026, it will be history in the making. If any questions come up, please let us know at [email protected]

Registration is now open at: https://bmwmoaf.regfox.com/50th-anniversary-daytona-event

 

 

2025 AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards Announced

Mathilde Gasnier
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2025 AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards Announced

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association enjoyed another outstanding year of racing and recreational riding, with several individuals and groups standing out as worthy of the 2025 AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards.

These awards recognize excellent individuals and groups that helped maintain a thriving competitive and recreational environment in 2025, including championship-winning racers and diligent organizers.

“We are so grateful to all of the racers, riders and organizers that made 2025 another successful year for the AMA’s racing and recreational riding pursuits,” AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier said. “Several of those went above and beyond in their efforts, and we are delighted to recognize them with AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards.”

AMA members participated in the selection process of certain racing categories — including the Athlete of the Year awards — while AMA staff selected the recipients of the organizational and volunteer awards.

The AMA Athlete of the Year Award winners include Steward Baylor Jr. (National Championship), Bodie Paige (Grand Championship) and Syler Padusnak (ATV).

The AMA Veteran/Senior Racer of the Year went to Adam Beldyga, while Kannon Zabojnik earned AMA Youth Racer of the Year honors. Additionally, Rachel Gutish earned the AMA Female Racer of the Year award.

The AMA also recognized several organizations for their efforts over the previous year. BCMX was named the AMA Motocross Organizer of the Year, J Day Offroad earned the AMA Off-Road Organizer of the Year, Pioneer Motorcycle Club was awarded the AMA Track Organizer of the Year and Racer Productions received the AMA ATV Organizer of the Year.

On the recreational side of things, P&D Promotions earned the AMA Recreational Road Riding Organizer of the Year and Roaring Horse LLC secured the AMA Recreational Off-Road Organizer of the Year.

Rhode Island Trials was named the AMA Club of the Year while Mikey Waynes earned the AMA Media Award. Raycin Kyler was awarded the AMA Sportsman of the Year.

The AMA also recognized 14-year-old Charlie Walter as the AMA Volunteer of the Year. Despite being unable to race due to injury, Walter was a constant presence at District 6 and 7 events and stepped up in a variety of roles as a volunteer.

MotoAmerica: Nathan Gouker Will Compete In Talent Cup

Mathilde Gasnier
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MotoAmerica: Nathan Gouker Will Compete In Talent Cup

Nathan Gouker, Age 14, Secures MotoAmerica Ride Through Collective Support of Industry Partners.

Lexington, NC — American motorcycle racer Nathan Gouker will compete in the 2026 MotoAmerica Talent Cup Championship following the formation of a collaborative program made possible through the combined support of multiple teams, partners, and sponsors.

Gouker will race under the Quarterley Racing banner while competing within the Wrench Motorcycles structure, joining the paddock as a teammate to MotoAmerica Superbike rider Cameron Petersen. The program represents a unique cooperative effort, bringing together experienced leadership, technical resources, and sponsor backing to provide Nathan with the opportunity to continue racing at the national level.

The effort is led by Bob Robbins and Dale Quarterley, whose guidance and commitment were instrumental in assembling the program. Wrench Motorcycles, owned by Jamin Mathis, will provide full logistical support throughout the season, including transportation of the motorcycle and equipment to each MotoAmerica round.

The race motorcycle and spares package have been made available with the support of North American Warhorse. Additional technical and performance support comes from Fast by Ferracci, further strengthening the program’s foundation.

 

Nathan Gouker (19). Photo by Benaisa Photography

 

Nathan’s return to the MotoAmerica grid is also supported by longtime partners CP Motorsports, KYT Americas, VO2 Leathers, Cornerspin, 64 Degree Racing, and Essex Moto, all of whom continue their commitment to his development following a strong 2025 international season.

“This program only exists because so many people stepped up to help,” said Gouker. “I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who believed in me and worked together to make this season possible. I’m proud to represent Warhorse, Ducati NA, MotoAmerica, Quarterley Racing’s Bob Robbins and Dale Quarterley, Wrench Motorcycles, and all of the partners supporting me, and I’m committed to making the most of this opportunity back on American soil.”

At just 14 years old, Gouker enters the 2026 season as one of the youngest competitors on the MotoAmerica grid. His program reflects not only on-track potential, but also the strength of relationships and trust built across the racing community.

With the combined backing of teams, sponsors, and mentors, Nathan Gouker looks ahead to the 2026 MotoAmerica season focused on development, performance, and representing his supporters with professionalism both on and off track.

SMX: Tickets On Sale for Playoffs and Final

Mathilde Gasnier
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SMX: Tickets On Sale for Playoffs and Final

Pre-sale kicks off today with public on-sale starting next Tuesday, February 3.

ELLENTON, Fla. (January 27, 2026) – Tickets are officially on sale for the 2026 SMX World ChampionshipTM Playoffs and Final. As previously announced by the SMX LeagueTM , Playoff 1 will take place on Saturday, September 12 at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. Playoff 2 will take place on Saturday, September 19 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California and the SMX World Championship Final will take place on Saturday, September 26 at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri. 

 

 

SMX Priority Members can purchase tickets starting today, January 27 with public on-sale availability beginning Tuesday, February 3 at SuperMotocross.com.

 
Last year’s postseason run saw two of the sport’s brightest stars cement their place in the history books as Japanese athlete Jo Shimoda won his very first 250cc World Championship while era-defining Jett Lawrence successfully defended his 450cc World Championship and became the first athlete to win three back-to-back SMX World Championship titles in the premier class.   

 
Columbus sits at the heart of the Midwest, a region long known for its passionate motorsports fan base and deep grassroots racing culture. Ohio has produced generations of riders and racing fans, making Historic Crew Stadium a natural fit for the SMX World Championship Playoffs. Every square foot of the venue’s expansive floor space will be utilized to create a unique SMX track layout that will include a large contingent of sand; an elevated start and use of an existing stage built into the stands.    

 

Historic Crew Stadium Track Map. Photo courtesy SMX

 

Southern California is a staple in the Supercross and Motocross racing history books, making the area highly desirable for racing when the opportunity is presented. The 2026 regular season began in California a mere three weeks ago and for the first time in its history will also include a postseason round late in the year. Situated in the greater Los Angeles area, Dignity Health Sports Park brings the Playoffs to a market with a long-standing connection to the sport and a strong motorsports and media presence. Sand will be integrated into the track design to create a more natural terrain environment.

 

Dignity Health Sports Park Track Map. Photo courtesy SMX

 

The Monster Energy SMX World Championship will culminate in a special Final at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri, which has already drawn rave reviews as one of the most picturesque and jaw-dropping venues in North America. Set within a stunning natural amphitheater, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena presents a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience that promises to create unforgettable memories by combining the natural beauty of the Ozarks with the striking architecture that seamlessly integrates into the surrounding environment. The SMX World Championship Final will offer world-class racing alongside a premier stay at Big Cedar Lodge, the Official Accommodations partner, featuring championship-level golf, exceptional restaurants and an immersive outdoor experience across its iconic resort. The natural terrain at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena will provide the most Motocross-inspired track design of this year’s postseason with natural elevation, rough sections, and one-of-a-kind viewing options close to the track that fans have come to expect.  

 

Thunder Ridge Nature Arena Track Map. Photo courtesy SMX

 

A variety of travel packages will be available to fans for the SMX World Championship Final. Please visit SuperMotocross.com for more details. Fans can purchase hotel and camping accommodations that include many ticketing and VIP experience options.  

 
Fans can expect a two-day experience in Columbus, Ohio and Ridgedale, Missouri as these rounds will offer a Friday Fan Zone and a Saturday FanFest experience. Friday’s Fan Zone will feature access to the pre-race press conference, free practice sessions, and the SMX Insiders Live show. Further details and a complete programming schedule will be released later in the year. Playoff 2 in Carson, California will be a one day event and will include access to all the race teams, athletes, and experiential activities in a one-day Saturday FanFest experience format.  

 
The SMX World Championship Playoffs and Final will feature the best athletes in the world as the top 20 in combined Supercross and Pro Motocross points are automatically seeded into the playoff rounds. Athletes will be competing for the sport’s ultimate World Championship title, and the prestige that comes from overcoming adversity through a 28-round, dual-discipline (indoor and outdoor) season, plus two SMX Playoffs and a Final.  

 
The entire SMX World Championship series is now on sale, including 17 Rounds of Monster Energy Supercross, 11 Rounds of the Pro Motocross Championship, and the post-season Playoffs and Final. To purchase tickets and stay up to date on the latest news and highlights, visit SuperMotocross.com, SupercrossLIVE.com or ProMotocross.com.

 

For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:

MotoAmerica: Who Is Riding What In Supersport, 2026

Start of Supersport Race One at New Jersey Motorsports Park in 2025, with Mathew Scholtz (1) leading teammate Blake Davis (22), PJ Jacobsen (15), Cameron Petersen (45), Tyler Scott (70), Jake Lewis (85), Kayla Yaakov (19) and the rest of the Supersport field. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Supersport is often a scrum at the front, and 2026 promises to be even more competitive at the sharp end of the MotoAmerica field. With talent coming into the class from above, sideways and below, and the top two finishers in the Championship in 2025 moving up to Superbike, there are unknowns and knowns and questions that will only be fully answered at the end of the 2026 season.

 

Josh Herrin (1) on the Warhorse HSBK Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike at The Ridge in 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Dropping down from Superbike is former class Champion Josh Herrin. He’ll be on familiar machinery. Herrin dominated the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship on a Warhorse HSBK Ducati Panigale V2. He rode the team’s Panigale V4 R racebikes in Superbike for three years to multiple race wins and the 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship. And he won the Daytona 200 three straight times on a Warhorse Panigale V2.

Josh Herrin will race the Desnuda Tequila Rahal Ducati Moto Panigale V2 in 2026. Photo courtesy Rahal Ducati.

 

Herrin signed for Rahal Ducati Moto for Supersport for 2026 and will rider the team’s Panigale V2 racebikes, with new sponsor Desnuda Tequila. The team nearly took the Supersport title last season, with PJ Jacobsen winning three times and taking 15 podiums. So the bike, the team and the rider are all known quantities, and expectations are high.

 

Darryn Binder (15) on a Gresini Moto2 racebike at Circuit of The Americas, 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

One of the out-of-the-blue signings in the class is the kinda, sorta lateral move of Darryn Binder to the Warhorse HSBK Panigale V2 raced by Cameron Petersen in 2025. Petersen is off to Superbike for 2026, replaced by Binder in the next-to-highest class in the United States after three seasons in the intermediate Moto2 class. Binder has a wealth of experience, having raced in Moto3 and then jumping straight into MotoGP, where he spent a year on a Yamaha YZR-M1 prior to moving to Moto2. But that experience hasn’t translated into results. After 11 seasons of Grand Prix competition and 188 races, Binder has one race win and six podiums, all in Moto3. The Warhorse team is well versed in preparing Panigale V2 machines, the unknown is how well Binder will adapt to a motorcycle that is very different from a Moto2 Grand Prix racebike. The famous quote from John Kocinski may apply here. When asked the difference between the 500cc, four-cylinder, two-stroke Grand Prix racebikes he raced and the Superbikes he raced, Kocinski said that after riding the 500s, everything else just felt slow. How fast Binder will prove to be on a slower motorcycle remains to be seen.

 

Alessandro Di Mario (27) in Supersport practice on the Warhorse HSBK Ducati Panigale V2 at The Ridge, 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Moving up to Supersport with Rahal Ducati Moto is Alessandro Di Mario. A double Championship winner in MotoAmerica in 2025, Di Mario successfully defended his Twins Cup title and added the Talent Cup Championship to his resume. He also rode the Warhorse Panigale V2 in practice at the MotoAmerica round at The Ridge last year, and with no prior experience on a Supersport machine, was 12th in his first session and 10th in final qualifying. At times in 2025, Di Mario looked like he was in a different class than the rest of the field. At The Ridge, Di Mario was nearly two seconds faster than anyone else in Twins Cup qualifying. Whether that speed will transfer to the Supersport class is one of the most interesting questions leading into the 2026 season.

 

Blake Davis (22) at The Ridge, 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Another big question coming into 2026 will be the speed of the Yamaha YZF-R9. Mathew Scholtz took the Strack Racing YZF-R9 to the Supersport Championship in its first year of competition, and ripped off five straight wins to end the season. Scholtz is back in Superbike for 2026, where he has won in the past, so his skills at the Supersport level never were in doubt. But there was much muttering in the paddock over the 2025 Supersport rules, inherited from the Supersport World Championship, that allowed the R9 to run with a longer swingarm from one of Yamaha’s other CP3-powered machines. For 2026, the R9 must race with the stock swingarm, according to a competition bulletin issued by MotoAmerica.

Even though Scholtz is going racing with Strack in Superbike next year, Blake Davis, a multi-time winner with the team last year on the R9, is expected to be back for 2026. BPR Racing will once again field R9s for multi-time AMA Pro Racing National Champion Josh Hayes, as well as AFM overall Champion Brenden Ketelsen, who has extensive experience at the club level.

 

Josh Hayes (4) at The Ridge, 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Brenden Ketelsen, 2025 AFM Overall Champion, with AFM announcer Kyle Norman. Photo by oxymoronphotography.com.

 

Other riders returning to the Supersport grid in 2026 include Wristin Grigg on the second Warhorse machine; Tyler Scott, a multi-time podium finisher in 2025, on the M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750; Kayla Yaakov on a Rahal Ducati Moto Panigale V2, and Altus Racing’s Jaret Nassaney, Torin Collins and Maximiliano Gerardo on the team’s Yamaha YZF-R9s (as well as new member Austin Martinez on a Suzuki GSX-R750).

With this level of riding talent and potent machinery, Supersport promises to be a class to watch in MotoAmerica in 2026. And just to kick it off properly, for the first time in the MotoAmerica era, the Daytona 200 will be a points-paying round of the Supersport Championship. That means the teams that sat out the race in prior years are likely to be there, and Rahal has already made it clear that Jacobsen will be on a Supersport bike for the race, meaning four additional Panigale V2 racebikes on the grid for the historic race. This promises to start the season off properly …

MotoGP: Results of the Shakedown Day 1

Toprak Razgatlioglu (07) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Rookies on track and the sweet smell of a new season in the air: MotoGP is BACK. 

The first laps of a new record-breaking season are in the bag as Day 1 of the Shakedown concludes in Sepang. The Shakedown is for factory test riders and rookies – as well as manufacturers with free testing in concession Rank D – so not everyone was out on track or will be. But it signals our return after a looooong winter without the most exciting sport on Earth.

Diogo Moreira at Sepang (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.

The big news can be split two ways – one, the debut of two exciting new rookies: Toprak Razgatlioglu, who moves over from WorldSBK as a three-time Champion, and reigning Moto2™ Champion Diogo Moreira. Turkish rider Razgatlioglu slots in alongside Jack Miller at Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP, and Brazilian rider Moreira at Pro Honda LCR, teammate to Johann Zarco.

When it got down to the lap times for the rookies, it was Razgatlioglu who was fastest and completed the opening day of 2026 in fourth with a best of 1’59.647. This was despite a couple of gremlins in the opening hour. There was also a mechanical issue for Moreira but the Brazilian was able to put that behind him and finish his day in eighth with a 2’00.894. For context, Razgatlioglu’s time would have been good enough for P1 on the same day in 2025 and whilst Moreira continues his adaptation, day two will surely see both take another step.

Aleix Espargaro (41) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna

On top of the timesheets, however, it was Honda. Aleix Espargaro put the marque top with a lap time only six tenths off Joan Mir’s qualifying time from the 2025 Malaysian GP and that locked up the top spot from midday on. Honda only fielded the #41 on Day 1 in terms of test riders, with their other representation from Moreira, the rookie. The factory has now moved up into concession Rank C so their options aren’t as numerous as this time last season.

 

Dani Pedrosa (26) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna

KTM, on the tails of their team presentations for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Red Bull KTM Tech3, were second and third with Pol Espargaro, half a second off the top, and MotoGP Hall of Famer Dani Pedrosa another half a second in arrears. Mika Kallio was also out on track to put in a few laps, further down the timesheets.

With Razgatlioglu leading the way for Yamaha, their test riders were right behind in the reigning WorldSBK Champion’s slipstream. Just 0.111s split the Turkish star and the test team, spearheaded today by Augusto Fernandez. A key rider in the development of Yamaha’s V4 engine from the very start, he set Yamaha’s fastest top speed of the day too at 327.3kp/h – just over 8kp/h down on the fastest on day one, Honda. They were the only Yamaha riders out on track, we’ll have to wait further for our first glimpse of Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and his teammate Alex Rins, as well as Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP).

 

Michele Pirro (51) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna

 

At Ducati, test rider Michele Pirro was out on track and he was the last rider in the 1:59s – but the headline was some new aero spotted down in pitlane. Take a look below! As the reigning champions and often the trend and pacesetters in pre-season, the new look will raise plenty of interest…

 

Lorenzo Savadori (32) at Sepang. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

At Aprilia, Lorenzo Savadori settled into his long stint at Sepang. The Italian is present at the Shakedown and will follow that up at the Sepang Test as he rides alongside Marco Bezzecchi, standing in for Jorge Martin. He was putting all the Aprilias through their paces, including the Trackhouse MotoGP Team machinery, and was lapping around the 2 minute mark.

So, what’s the biggest news of the day? The Ducati aero? Moreira bringing Brazil back to MotoGP? Razgatlioglu becoming the first Turkish rider in MotoGP? Or this report about Quartararo fielded by motorsport.com? Have a read… silly season is hotting up already, one day in. See you on Friday for more from Sepang! 

 

MotoGP: Red Bull KTM & Tech3 Unveil New Livery for 2026

Pedro Acosta (37), Brad Binder (33), Enea Bastianini (23) and Maverick Viñales (12). Photo courtesy KTM

Orange, blue, speed and go: Red Bull KTM officially pushes its teams and riders into play for 2026 with the official unveiling of the livery and partners for the MotoGP™ season ahead.

Watch the 2026 Red Bull KTM launch video HERE.

2026 represents the tenth year of elite level world championship Grand Prix racing for Red Bull KTM. The line-up of Pedro Acosta and Brad Binder for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, and Enea Bastianini and Maverick Viñales for Red Bull KTM Tech3, heads into the fierce heat of MotoGP™ competition this term with the latest (and last) iteration of the KTM RC16 within the guidelines of the current technical rulebook.

 

Enea Bastianini (23) and Maverick Viñales (12). Photo courtesy KTM Tech3.

 

Red Bull KTM will aim high for 2026, and have re-touched arguably the most distinctive race livery on the MotoGP™ grid for the new assault on the timing screens. Numbers will define the campaign: the milliseconds on the track, the hours of work by dedicated team staff, the days of planning by factory engineers, and the weeks of strategy to get ahead of the game both for 2026 and with a view to the next generation of MotoGP™ racing machinery.

Digits and data.

4: Pedro Acosta’s 2025 world championship ranking in the Spaniard’s second year in the premier class. Pedro equalled Red Bull KTM’s highest standing, achieved by current teammate Brad Binder in 2023 (and Pol Espargaro tied on final points for P4 in 2020).

6: Rounds of the 2026 MotoGP™ calendar that count as home events for the Red Bull KTM quartet in a season of 22 Grands Prix, 22 Saturday Sprints, 18 countries and nine months of racing.

7: Days until the first official pre-season test takes place at the Sepang International Circuit, followed by the 2026 MotoGP™ launch in Kuala Lumpur on February 7, the second test from 21-22 February at the Buriram International Circuit in Thailand and then the Thai Grand Prix at the same venue from 27 February-1 March.

14: Podium Grand Prix trophies and Sprint medals gathered by Red Bull KTM in 2025.

17: Top five Grand Prix finishes logged by the current Red Bull KTM line-up in 2025.

24: Combined seasons of experience for the Red Bull KTM crew as 2026 begins (2 for Acosta, 6 for Binder, 5 for Bastianini and 11 for Viñales)

366.1: Kmph – the MotoGP™ top speed record posted by the KTM RC16 with Brad Binder in 2023 and matched by Pol Espargaro in 2024 at the Italian Grand Prix. Will the number remain through 2026?

3,600,000: A record attendance by fans at the circuits in 2025 – an increase of 21% over 2024 – and evidence that MotoGP™ is on the move.

 

Enea Bastianini (23). Photo courtesy KTM.

 

Enea Bastianini, Red Bull KTM Tech3: “It was so important to reflect on 2025 because it was a complicated year, but it was also good in a way because I’ve learned a lot. 2026 will be different since I will know both bike and team better, and I think I will be much stronger. I’m motivated to be back on track because I want to fight again for something important. This year I think the factory will be very strong. I saw a lot of potential, especially during the test in Valencia last year. I think we are Ready to Race, ready to fight.”

 

Maverick Viñales (12). Photo courtesy KTM.

 

Maverick Viñales, Red Bull KTM Tech3: “Last year was a great experience for me: I needed to understand many things in a very short period of time, but after two races I started to understand the bike and how it works, so I was able to be competitive very quickly. Then we had the crash in Sachsenring. There were two or three ways to recover, but we needed to discover which one was the best for my shoulder, for my type of injury, and the guys in the Red Bull APC helped me to follow a way to recover quicker. Now, I feel that I have a big responsibility to make this project a winning one. This is something really nice because I always feel I am at my best when I have this type of pressure and responsibility. So, I’m ready to ‘eat’! I have a lot of energy for this year.”

 

 

 

Pedro Acosta (37) and Brad Binder (33). Photo courtesy KTM

 

Pedro Acosta, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing: “In the second half of 2025 we were starting to make good races, good results, even when we were not having our best days. We were able to manage to be in this top five constantly. All-in-all it was really good to be able to fight for 3rd place in the Championship. Thanks to the team and to KTM, for this. We go for more this year and to start in the right way from Sepang next week.”

 

Brad Binder, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing: “It’s been a great off-season. I took a couple weeks off and got a lot of riding done, a lot of cycling. I’m looking forward to a fresh start again this season and hopefully we can get back to the performances I know I’m capable of. MotoGP is tough: if you look at the lap times and there’s almost nothing in it, but the way every single rider does it is always different. Some on the brakes, some on throttle, some completely different riding styles. Last year I felt like I was thinking the whole time on the motorbike, instead of letting just my natural ability take over and that’s one thing that I want to change for this season. Just really enjoy riding the bike a bit more. I’m quite confident that I can make a good step up.”

 

 

Aki Ajo, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager: “Last year was somehow quite special for us after a challenging start. We had steady improvement during the season. I really feel that we made a big step generally for all the communication and for simplifying many aspects. Things were coming and results were coming by understanding and by daily improvement. You just focus for small daily steps because it’s not easy to do big steps in short time, short term. We know the potential of the bike, the riders, the teams and the group. This means we can be excited about the potential for 2026 but we will keep patience in the work and focus.”

 

Nicolas Goyon, Red Bull KTM Tech3 Team Manager: “2025 was emotional. We had some huge highs and unfortunately some down moments in the season, but it’s part of this sport. We started this collaboration with KTM in 2019 and I have to say that since then the factory has been helping us more and more. 2025 was the season where we’ve received more support than ever. Both teams were evolving at the same level. Now, we’re really looking forward to work with our new management, I really feel we’re prepared for this new season, this new era. So overall, I’m excited about this new challenge.”

 

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director: “We have four fantastic riders in our group and each one has something very special. Last year, I feel we couldn’t really make the package ready for everybody to show their best potential. So that was the highest target we had over the last weeks: to make sure everyone gets what he needs to perform. We have belief, and many strengths and we stick together as a team. This makes me very confident that we have all the right people on board, and the bike improved quite a lot over the last weeks and months. I feel we are ready to race. 2026 will be a busy year: on one side everybody wants to look to ‘27 and think about that. But I just don’t want to forget ‘26 is around the corner. We want to make this year our year, and use all the chances we have. It’s time to go for it in ‘26.”

 

From left to right with Enea Bastianini, Pedro Acosta, Brad Binder and Maverick Viñales. Photo courtesy KTM.

Shocker Racing Fielding 3-Rider Team At Daytona & Road America

Rider Maxim Gulinsky racing during an ASRA round at Blackhawk Farms. Photo courtesy Chris LaBuguen

TSR Goes MotoAmerica Racing

With support from our partners TLC The Living Community and ICAFe Companies Team Shocker Racing is set to field a three-rider Twins Cup line up consisting of Maxim Gulinsky, Charles Burton IV, and Ethan Song on Trickdaddy Performance prepared Aprilia RS660s for the Daytona and Road America Rounds.

For more information about the team visit us at: https://teamshockerracing.com/

MotoAmerica: Cam Beaubier Testing With Ducati In Portugal

Cameron Beaubier on a 2026 factory Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.

Cameron Beaubier is on track this week at Portimão, Portugal, taking part in a key test session alongside the Ducati Corse test team.

The American rider is working closely with the factory squad as part of FLO4LAW Warhorse Ducati Factory Racing, gaining valuable time aboard a 2026 Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike. 

 

Cameron Beaubier with a 2026 factory Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike during testing at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.

Despite challenging conditions, Beaubier expressed his excitement about the opportunity: “The weather hasn’t been the best here in Portugal but it’s really cool to be here with Ducati Corse. We got our first laps in on wet tires today.”

 

Cameron Beaubier ready to go on track at Portimão. Photo by Alex Photo.

 

Cameron Beaubier testing at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.
Cameron Beaubier on track at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.
Cameron Beaubier and the Ducati crew at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.
Cameron Beaubier testing at Portimao. Photo by Alex Photo.
2026 factory Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike. Photo by Alex Photo.

MotoAmerica: OrangeCat Reveals 2026 BMW Superbike Livery

OrangeCat Racing just dropped the 2026 Superbike look on the BMW M 1000 RR. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.

BMW Motorrad Motorsport and OrangeCat Racing officially presented the brand-new livery for their upcoming Superbike campaign, showcasing the fresh look of the OrangeCat BMW M 1000 RR.

Almería became the center of attention this week as the OrangeCat Racing team hit the track for an important test session, giving fans an early glimpse of what’s to come in 2026.

 

BMW Motorrad Motorsport and Orangecat group shot. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport

BMW’s First AMA Superbike Win Was 50 Years Ago At Daytona

Gary Fisher (24, R.I.P.) leads his Butler & Smith BMW R90S teammates Reg Pridmore (163) and Steve McLaughlin (83) during an AMA Superbike race in 1976. McLaughlin, Pridmore, and all three bikes will be at Daytona for the 50th anniversary of BMW winning the first AMA Superbike race. Photo by John Ulrich copyright 2026.

BMW’s Daytona 50th Anniversary Celebration – Echo of The Shot Heard Round The World.

As many of us grapple with the effects of a major winter storm event, there is some good news. Less than six weeks before we kick off the 50th anniversary celebration for BMW’s “Shot Heard Round the World” season! Preparations are now racing forward on many fronts as we get ready for The Big Event.

Steve McLaughlin (83) leads Reg Pridmore (163) and Gary Fisher (24) at Daytona in 1976. Photo courtesy RPM Ventures NC

Some other key update items include:

• All three of the R90S racers from 1976 are prepared and ready to be transported to Daytona to be together, on the banking again, for the first time in 50 years!

• The sponsorship program continues to come together. OrangeCat Racing in Chicago and Tytler’s Cycles in Wisconsin are both enthusiastic participants now!

• Todd Trumbore in Pennsylvania has taken delivery of 300 t-shirts for the event. They are $20 each and will be available trackside. Todd is also working on the commemorative pins.

• We finalized the menu for the celebrity dinner on March 7th. Shortly we will be asking for selections from a menu that includes beef, chicken, fish, or vegetarian options.

• This week’s big question? What kind of gasoline do we need for the trio of R90S racers when we put them on the track. A quick call to Udo Gietl confirmed that we’re good with the 98-octane Sunoco fuel we can get at the DIS pumps.

 

The three Butler & Smith R90S BMW Superbikes lined up for tech at Daytona in 1976, including Gary Fisher’s #24, Steve McLaughlin’s #83, and Reg Pridmore’s # 163. Photo courtesy BMA MOA.

 

Next up items include:

• Back in New Hampshire, Reg Pridmore’s #163 is ready to take a trip from Don Krumholz’s shop for some dyno testing.

• In Munich, Steve McLaughlin’s #83 is being prepared for the trip to Daytona … then on to Goodwood for the Festival of Speed in July.

 

1976 isn’t coming back, of course. For 2026, it will be history in the making. If any questions come up, please let us know at [email protected]

Registration is now open at: https://bmwmoaf.regfox.com/50th-anniversary-daytona-event

 

 

2025 AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards Announced

2025 AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards Announced. Photo by Mariah Lacy

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association enjoyed another outstanding year of racing and recreational riding, with several individuals and groups standing out as worthy of the 2025 AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards.

These awards recognize excellent individuals and groups that helped maintain a thriving competitive and recreational environment in 2025, including championship-winning racers and diligent organizers.

“We are so grateful to all of the racers, riders and organizers that made 2025 another successful year for the AMA’s racing and recreational riding pursuits,” AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier said. “Several of those went above and beyond in their efforts, and we are delighted to recognize them with AMA Racing, Organizer and Volunteer Awards.”

AMA members participated in the selection process of certain racing categories — including the Athlete of the Year awards — while AMA staff selected the recipients of the organizational and volunteer awards.

The AMA Athlete of the Year Award winners include Steward Baylor Jr. (National Championship), Bodie Paige (Grand Championship) and Syler Padusnak (ATV).

The AMA Veteran/Senior Racer of the Year went to Adam Beldyga, while Kannon Zabojnik earned AMA Youth Racer of the Year honors. Additionally, Rachel Gutish earned the AMA Female Racer of the Year award.

The AMA also recognized several organizations for their efforts over the previous year. BCMX was named the AMA Motocross Organizer of the Year, J Day Offroad earned the AMA Off-Road Organizer of the Year, Pioneer Motorcycle Club was awarded the AMA Track Organizer of the Year and Racer Productions received the AMA ATV Organizer of the Year.

On the recreational side of things, P&D Promotions earned the AMA Recreational Road Riding Organizer of the Year and Roaring Horse LLC secured the AMA Recreational Off-Road Organizer of the Year.

Rhode Island Trials was named the AMA Club of the Year while Mikey Waynes earned the AMA Media Award. Raycin Kyler was awarded the AMA Sportsman of the Year.

The AMA also recognized 14-year-old Charlie Walter as the AMA Volunteer of the Year. Despite being unable to race due to injury, Walter was a constant presence at District 6 and 7 events and stepped up in a variety of roles as a volunteer.

MotoAmerica: Nathan Gouker Will Compete In Talent Cup

Nathan Gouker (19). Photo by Benaisa Photography

Nathan Gouker, Age 14, Secures MotoAmerica Ride Through Collective Support of Industry Partners.

Lexington, NC — American motorcycle racer Nathan Gouker will compete in the 2026 MotoAmerica Talent Cup Championship following the formation of a collaborative program made possible through the combined support of multiple teams, partners, and sponsors.

Gouker will race under the Quarterley Racing banner while competing within the Wrench Motorcycles structure, joining the paddock as a teammate to MotoAmerica Superbike rider Cameron Petersen. The program represents a unique cooperative effort, bringing together experienced leadership, technical resources, and sponsor backing to provide Nathan with the opportunity to continue racing at the national level.

The effort is led by Bob Robbins and Dale Quarterley, whose guidance and commitment were instrumental in assembling the program. Wrench Motorcycles, owned by Jamin Mathis, will provide full logistical support throughout the season, including transportation of the motorcycle and equipment to each MotoAmerica round.

The race motorcycle and spares package have been made available with the support of North American Warhorse. Additional technical and performance support comes from Fast by Ferracci, further strengthening the program’s foundation.

 

Nathan Gouker (19). Photo by Benaisa Photography

 

Nathan’s return to the MotoAmerica grid is also supported by longtime partners CP Motorsports, KYT Americas, VO2 Leathers, Cornerspin, 64 Degree Racing, and Essex Moto, all of whom continue their commitment to his development following a strong 2025 international season.

“This program only exists because so many people stepped up to help,” said Gouker. “I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who believed in me and worked together to make this season possible. I’m proud to represent Warhorse, Ducati NA, MotoAmerica, Quarterley Racing’s Bob Robbins and Dale Quarterley, Wrench Motorcycles, and all of the partners supporting me, and I’m committed to making the most of this opportunity back on American soil.”

At just 14 years old, Gouker enters the 2026 season as one of the youngest competitors on the MotoAmerica grid. His program reflects not only on-track potential, but also the strength of relationships and trust built across the racing community.

With the combined backing of teams, sponsors, and mentors, Nathan Gouker looks ahead to the 2026 MotoAmerica season focused on development, performance, and representing his supporters with professionalism both on and off track.

SMX: Tickets On Sale for Playoffs and Final

Ken Roczen (94) and Eli Tomac (3) in San Diego. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc

Pre-sale kicks off today with public on-sale starting next Tuesday, February 3.

ELLENTON, Fla. (January 27, 2026) – Tickets are officially on sale for the 2026 SMX World ChampionshipTM Playoffs and Final. As previously announced by the SMX LeagueTM , Playoff 1 will take place on Saturday, September 12 at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. Playoff 2 will take place on Saturday, September 19 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California and the SMX World Championship Final will take place on Saturday, September 26 at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri. 

 

 

SMX Priority Members can purchase tickets starting today, January 27 with public on-sale availability beginning Tuesday, February 3 at SuperMotocross.com.

 
Last year’s postseason run saw two of the sport’s brightest stars cement their place in the history books as Japanese athlete Jo Shimoda won his very first 250cc World Championship while era-defining Jett Lawrence successfully defended his 450cc World Championship and became the first athlete to win three back-to-back SMX World Championship titles in the premier class.   

 
Columbus sits at the heart of the Midwest, a region long known for its passionate motorsports fan base and deep grassroots racing culture. Ohio has produced generations of riders and racing fans, making Historic Crew Stadium a natural fit for the SMX World Championship Playoffs. Every square foot of the venue’s expansive floor space will be utilized to create a unique SMX track layout that will include a large contingent of sand; an elevated start and use of an existing stage built into the stands.    

 

Historic Crew Stadium Track Map. Photo courtesy SMX

 

Southern California is a staple in the Supercross and Motocross racing history books, making the area highly desirable for racing when the opportunity is presented. The 2026 regular season began in California a mere three weeks ago and for the first time in its history will also include a postseason round late in the year. Situated in the greater Los Angeles area, Dignity Health Sports Park brings the Playoffs to a market with a long-standing connection to the sport and a strong motorsports and media presence. Sand will be integrated into the track design to create a more natural terrain environment.

 

Dignity Health Sports Park Track Map. Photo courtesy SMX

 

The Monster Energy SMX World Championship will culminate in a special Final at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri, which has already drawn rave reviews as one of the most picturesque and jaw-dropping venues in North America. Set within a stunning natural amphitheater, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena presents a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience that promises to create unforgettable memories by combining the natural beauty of the Ozarks with the striking architecture that seamlessly integrates into the surrounding environment. The SMX World Championship Final will offer world-class racing alongside a premier stay at Big Cedar Lodge, the Official Accommodations partner, featuring championship-level golf, exceptional restaurants and an immersive outdoor experience across its iconic resort. The natural terrain at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena will provide the most Motocross-inspired track design of this year’s postseason with natural elevation, rough sections, and one-of-a-kind viewing options close to the track that fans have come to expect.  

 

Thunder Ridge Nature Arena Track Map. Photo courtesy SMX

 

A variety of travel packages will be available to fans for the SMX World Championship Final. Please visit SuperMotocross.com for more details. Fans can purchase hotel and camping accommodations that include many ticketing and VIP experience options.  

 
Fans can expect a two-day experience in Columbus, Ohio and Ridgedale, Missouri as these rounds will offer a Friday Fan Zone and a Saturday FanFest experience. Friday’s Fan Zone will feature access to the pre-race press conference, free practice sessions, and the SMX Insiders Live show. Further details and a complete programming schedule will be released later in the year. Playoff 2 in Carson, California will be a one day event and will include access to all the race teams, athletes, and experiential activities in a one-day Saturday FanFest experience format.  

 
The SMX World Championship Playoffs and Final will feature the best athletes in the world as the top 20 in combined Supercross and Pro Motocross points are automatically seeded into the playoff rounds. Athletes will be competing for the sport’s ultimate World Championship title, and the prestige that comes from overcoming adversity through a 28-round, dual-discipline (indoor and outdoor) season, plus two SMX Playoffs and a Final.  

 
The entire SMX World Championship series is now on sale, including 17 Rounds of Monster Energy Supercross, 11 Rounds of the Pro Motocross Championship, and the post-season Playoffs and Final. To purchase tickets and stay up to date on the latest news and highlights, visit SuperMotocross.com, SupercrossLIVE.com or ProMotocross.com.

 

For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
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