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Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: Quiles On Pole At Le Mans

David Swarts
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Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: Quiles On Pole At Le Mans
RBR Qual

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Red Bull:

Pole man Quiles and Salmela the ones to beat after Rookies Le Mans Qualifying
 
 

A hot afternoon, already a packed crowd and 25 teenagers determined to get their KTMs set up for the second round of the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies at Le Mans. It was Finland’s Rico Salmela who spent the most time on top of the timing screens but Màximo Quiles stole the show by 0.028 seconds to take pole for Spain.

Cup points leader and Jerez Race 2 winner Álvaro Carpe was 3rd quickest but the 16-year-old Spaniard will start Saturday’s race from P9 on the grid thanks to a penalty for exiting the pit lane past a red light.

That promotes Malaysian 16-year-old Hakim Danish to the front row with Jerez Race 1 winner Marco Morelli heading up Row 2 as the Argentine 16-year-old looks to better his second place in the points chase.

Màximo on pole by a fraction

“That was good,” enthused the 16-year-old. “I changed the bike between FP2 and Quali. In FP2 I had a lot of chatter in the chicane, corners 9 and 10 when I went in on the brakes. So I talked with the suspension guy and they fixed it, it was better.”

“I knew I needed to improve it for the Quali because you have the new tyre and with much more grip that puts more pressure on the suspension and it will be the same in the race. Then I felt really good on the bike.”

“At the beginning of Quali, I was on my own because I didn’t want to get stuck in the group. I preferred to find the rhythm that I want to run in the race. Then luckily I caught the group at the right time, had some good laps, the slipstream and a reference and I did a 44.2. Still not perfect because in the last corner, I had to brake, I lost like .2 of a second there.”

“But I am really happy, we know I have pace for tomorrow and I will really push. I will try to break away, I will find my rhythm and be strong, we’ll see.”

Rico will do better

“That was OK, it was better than Jerez, Quali was a struggle there,” commented the 16-year-old with his usual grin, referring to his P9 in Spain.

“All day I had a good feeling with the bike, I could do P1 in FP1 and 2. Now, in the Quali I was feeling good, I couldn’t do a perfect lap but it put me second, I’m happy and tomorrow we’ll see, I’ll try to do a better race and improve the position from last year.” He was robbed of a win in both races.

“I wanted to run alone, there was a lot of slowing down in the group, I kept catching them in the wrong places. I didn’t want to do too many slow sectors otherwise you get penalised so I was a bit stuck in the group and I had to pass many riders on my fast lap but still it was OK.”

“The bike is good, more or less right, I had some moments with the front but I’m not sure if I will change anything or not, I will think about it.”

Álvaro in good shape

“I am happy with P3, that’s good. I had problems in FP1 and 2. But my KTM improved so much through the sessions and in the end, I am happy with the time, the place and the bike, it’s really good.”

“I have a penalty for the first race, dropping 6 places on the grid. But I am feeling OK because I am sure I am going to be in the race.”

“I’m looking forward to tomorrow, a lot more confident than last year because then I qualified way back.”

Hakim expecting a hot race

“I feel good with the bike, I finished P4, that’s good and I think I can do a good job in the race. I think it’s going to be a hot day tomorrow and I am confident in this bike in hot conditions.”

“I feel that I have the pace, I tried running alone and I can do that and go faster without anyone around so I think that will help in the race.”

“I am happy with the bike but I think we can still improve it so I’m going to talk to the guys and see if we should try something in the race.”

Marco loves the track and is ready to race

“I’m happy with that, very happy. The day was all good really. In FP2 I tried to get confidence, but it wasn’t quite there. Then in Quali with the new tyre, I pushed and I found the confidence and the limit.”

“I rode alone, this is good for the race, I know what I can do and I had a good pace and rhythm by myself.”

“I think that tomorrow with more adrenaline and pushing harder on race day I can go a little bit faster.”

“We’ll see because for sure it’s going to be a big group, the times are close. Maybe Rico can break, I don’t know, I will try to run with whoever is at the front, I like the bike and I love the track so let’s go.”

Ruche Moodley will be in the hunt

“I think I am well prepared for the race,” commented the South African 17-year-old who was 6th fastest but lines up in the middle of Row 2 thanks to Carpe’s penalty. “That’s the important thing. I don’t think it matters if you are on the front row or not because it’s a long race and I’m confident that I have the pace to run at the front.”

“I like this track a lot and last year I started further back so it really doesn’t matter. I’m happy with the bike, it’s really working well.”
 
  

Broadcast
 

This weekend’s Rookies Cup races can be seen live on www.redbull.tv and on TV stations around the world.

Race 1 is at 17:00 CEST on Saturday and Race 2 is on Sunday at 08:45, the show starts 10 minutes before the race.

MotoE: Garzo Grabs Pole Position At Le Mans

David Swarts
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MotoE: Garzo Grabs Pole Position At Le Mans

Garzo takes maiden MotoE™ pole in Le Mans

A new lap record and in uncharacteristic hot conditions? The stage is set for Round 2!

Friday, 10 May 2024

Under sunny skies in France, Hector Garzo (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™) has finally clinched his first pole position in the FiM Enel MotoE™ World Championship, having been one of the fastest in the field since this debut but missing that last stat. He did it in style too, with a new lap record of 1:39.995 making him the only rider to break into the 1:39s, but the chasing pack certainly weren’t far behind. Sophomore sensation Nicholas Spinelli (Tech3 E-Racing) tails the pole sitter by just 0.031 of a second for his second front row start of the season, and completing the front row in third is season opener polesitter Eric Granado (LCR E-Team).

In an extremely close Q2 session that saw the top seven riders split by just 0.312 of a second, Garzo managed to just keep his rivals at bay with that first-ever 1:39 MotoE™ lap of the Le Mans circuit. With Garzo on a run of four consecutive second place finishes stretching from the last round of 2023 to the first round of 2024, he has the best possible start to bring that streak to an end and take his first victory since Germany last season.

Behind, reigning World Champion and 2024 championship leader Mattia Casadei (LCR E-Team) managed to do a fine job of completing the qualifying recovery, by progressing through from Q1 and then taking 4th in Q2. He starts alongside Oscar Gutierrez (Axxis-MSI) who managed to improve his career-best qualifying one place to 5th and all at a venue he’s never been to before.

In the closing stages of Q1 there was some luckless drama for session-topper Kevin Zannoni (Openbank Aspar Team) who was the innocent party in a crash for Alessio Finello (Felo Gresini MotoE). Finello, who lost the front through Le Mans’ fast Turn 1, unfortunately collided with Zannoni’s machine as he went through the chicane. With no time to prepare a spare bike, Zannoni’s well-earned Q2 place was rendered almost immaterial as he was unable to take part in the session. Zannoni will line up 10th for tomorrow’s races. Teammate and 2019 World Cup Winner Matteo Ferrari’s (Felo Gresini Team) difficult start to the season continues with the Italian qualifying 14th after an issue midway through Q1 slowed his progress.

Practice and qualifying complete, there’s just one more thing to do for MotoE™ and that’s race! We’ll see you for Race 1 tomorrow at 12:15 UTC+2 and Race 2 at 16:10 UTC+2!

 

MotoE Q2

Moto2: Garcia Quickest, Roberts P5 Friday Afternoon In France

David Swarts
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Moto2: Garcia Quickest, Roberts P5 Friday Afternoon In France

Sergio Garcia was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Practice One Friday afternoon on the Bugatti Circuit, in Le Mans, France. Riding his MT Helmets – MSI Boscoscuro on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard covered the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) racetrack in 1:35.473. That time was good enough to lead the field of 28 riders and break the All-Time Lap Record of 1:35.556 set by Alonso Lopez Friday morning.

Lopez was second-best in the afternoon with a 1:35.549 on his Folladore SpeedUp Boscoscuro, just ahead of his teammate Fermin Aldeguer and his 1:35.765.

Manuel Gonzalez was the top non-Boscoscuro rider with a 1:35.780 on his QJMOTOR Gresini Kalex.

American Joe Roberts, the World Championship point leader coming into the event, was fifth in Practice One with a lap of 1:35.783 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

Moto2 PR

Moto3: Alonso Lowers His Lap Record At Le Mans

David Swarts
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Moto3: Alonso Lowers His Lap Record At Le Mans

David Alonso led Moto3 World Championship Practice One Friday afternoon on the Bugatti Circuit, in Le Mans, France. On board his Pirelli-equipped Gaviota Aspar Team CFMOTO, Alonso navigated the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) track in 1:40.470, which broke the All-Time Lap Record of 1:40.792 he set just hours earlier. The record coming into the weekend was 1:41.399.

 

Moto3 PR

 

 

Moto2: Lopez P1, Roberts P3 Friday Morning At Le Mans

David Swarts
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Moto2: Lopez P1, Roberts P3 Friday Morning At Le Mans

Alonso Lopez topped Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Friday morning at the Bugatti Circuit, in Le Mans, France. On board his Pirelli-shod Folladore SpeedUp Boscoscuro, the Spaniard covered the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) course in 1:35.556, which was not only good enough to lead the field of 28 riders but it was also good enough to eclipse the All-Time Lap Record of 1:35.791 set by Sam Lowes in 2023.

Lopez’s teammate Fermin Aldeguer was second-best with a 1:35.711, which was also under the old lap record.

American Joe Roberts, the current Moto2 World Championship point leader, was third in the session with a 1:35.940 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

Moto2 FP

Moto3: Alonso Breaks Record In Opening Practice At Le Mans

David Swarts
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Moto3: Alonso Breaks Record In Opening Practice At Le Mans

David Alonso was fastest in Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Friday morning on the Bugatti Circuit, in Le Mans, France. Riding his Gaviota Aspar Team CFMOTO on Pirelli control tires, the young Colombian lapped the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) racetrack in 1:40.792, which led the 26-rider field and smashed Jaume Masia’s All-Time Lap Record of 1:41.399 from 2020.

 

Moto3 FP

Waters Sets New Lap Record At Roebling Road

David Swarts
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Waters Sets New Lap Record At Roebling Road

Pirelli and Jason Waters Set New Motorcycle Track Record at Roebling Road Raceway

Waters Sets New Lap Record of 1:09.897 Aboard BMW S 1000 RR, Equipped with Pirelli DIABLO Superbike Slick Tires

ATLANTA — Pirelli congratulates Jason Waters on setting the new absolute motorcycle track record at Roebling Road Raceway in Bloomingdale, Georgia, during the WERA motorcycle road racing regional round on Saturday, May 4. Waters’ new lap record of 1:09.897 was set aboard a BMW S 1000 RR equipped with Pirelli DIABLO Superbike slick tires.

“It was an exceptional day at Roebling Road Raceway,” said Waters. “Breaking the lap record was beyond my expectations. Pirelli’s dedication to delivering top-tier performance from their DIABLO Superbike slicks was evident throughout the race, and I’m grateful for their support.”

Waters set the new lap record during the A Superstock class race and relied on the performance of Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike 125/70 R17 SC1 front and DIABLO Superbike 200/65 R17 SC0 rear tires.

“Jason’s accomplishment represents a new standard of excellence,” said Oscar Solis, Senior Racing Manager, Pirelli. “Setting track records requires precision and skill, particularly at a circuit like Roebling Road Raceway. We commend Jason on his achievement and are proud to have played a part in his success. This underscores Pirelli’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance in motorcycle racing.”

This record-breaking performance is a testament to Pirelli’s ongoing pursuit of excellence in motorcycle racing. As we look ahead, Pirelli remains dedicated to supporting riders like Waters as they continue to raise the bar in motorcycle road racing across the globe.

DIABLO™ is a registered trademark of Pirelli Tyre S.p.A

North West 200: Cooper, Irwin, Todd Win

David Swarts
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0
North West 200: Cooper, Irwin, Todd Win

GLENN IRWIN EQUALS SUPERBIKE VICTORY RECORD AT OPENING NIGHT OF ACTION AT BRIGGS EQUIPMENT 2024 NORTH WEST 200

 

Thursday night at the Briggs Equipment North West 200 saw record breaking performances and fantastic racing as Glenn Irwin, Richard Cooper and Davey Todd took the honours in the Briggs Equipment Superbike, Fraser Homes Supersport and Amici Ristorante Superstock races respectively.

After a day of qualifying in sunshine the sky clouded over for the opening Superbike encounter which produced a stunning start to finish battle between Glen Irwin on the PBM Hager Ducati and Davey Todd’s Milwaukee BMW. The pair were separated by just a few inches throughout the four laps despite Irwin setting a new outright lap record at 125.799mph on the second lap.

Trailing Todd on to the coast road on the final lap, Irwin snatched the lead at Juniper chicane to claim victory by 2.545 seconds and equal the record of nine NW200 Superbike race wins held by Michael Rutter and the late Joey Dunlop.

“That is the hardest I have ever had to ride to win around here,” Irwin told Todd as they embraced in the winner’s enclosure. “It was a fun race but it wasn’t that much fun when I was riding behind Davey. He is riding so good but he was on the limit on some of the scary parts of the track. To win we had to go to his level. Where he’s strong he’s really strong and I had to work hard to win that.”

 

Glenn Irwin celebrates with his Hager PBM Ducati team. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.
Glenn Irwin celebrates with his Hager PBM Ducati team. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.

 

Todd was philosophical about losing such a close battle.

“I made a bit of a silly judgement at the end but the bike is an absolute weapon.” he admitted. “I thought I had it worked out as I felt I knew where Glenn was strong and I could have got him at Juniper on the last lap but I made the wrong decision, going to the outside instead of the inside. I’ve just got to try a little harder next time.”

Irwin was delighted to equal the North West 200 Superbike record with nine consecutive victories in the class.

“It’s an amazing achievement to win nine races in a row and although some people ride harder than me here, I can find a way to win.” he said. “And no one else [has] the mindset I have.”

Local favourite, Michael Dunlop claimed the final rostrum spot on what would be an evening of three third place finishes for the Ballymoney man.

“The bike arrived so late and I’ve a few issues from the Cookstown crash, so to finish third isn’t bad,” Michael Dunlop said as he trailed in 14.241 seconds behind Todd on his MD Racing Honda. “I lost the tow at the beginning and that was that. I needed to go with them straightaway as I knew Glenn and Davey would be running a hot pace. Dean and Pete were making a few moves on me but there were no surprises and when it’s two riders you know well and are used to battling with, you know what you’re working with.”

Richard Cooper had vowed to win four races at this year’s NW200 before the racing began and the Nottingham rider started as he intends to go on with victory in the Fraser Homes Supersport race on the BPE Russell Racing Yamaha ahead of Peter Hickman (Trooper Beer Triumph) and Michael Dunlop (MD Racing Triumph). But the race was marked by a crash at York corner on the opening lap when Adam McLean ran out of brakes and crashed, taking out Davey Todd.

 

Richard Cooper. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.
Richard Cooper. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.

 

Avoiding the melee, Cooper led Dunlop by 1.2 seconds at the end of lap one with Hickman a further 0.5 sec behind. Cooper’s lead extended to 1.9 seconds on lap two with Hickman still less than a second back on the Ballymoney rider. Cooper continued to open the gap on his pursuers over the final two circuits, taking the chequered flag by 6.537 seconds, but it was Hickman who claimed the runner-up spot after passing Dunlop at Metropole on the final lap.

“I made a bit of a poor start which worked in my favour as it allowed me to watch the drama unfold in front of me at York Corner,” Cooper said as he savoured the victor’s champagne. “Davey looked like he was going to nail the apex but he got wiped out by Adam who came in hot. I nipped through and you take these things when they come your way. I had no pit boards so had no idea how big the lead was but there’s more in the tank if needed.”

Hickman, who arrived at Portrush battered and bruised after three big crashes at last weekend’s Oulton Park BSB meeting, was delighted to pip Dunlop for the runner-up slot.

“It always takes me a while to get going on the Supersport bike, but once I did, I was able to close in on Michael,” he said. “I didn’t want to show my hand too early and passing him at Metropole on the final lap was always the plan. He was really strong out of the Magherabuoy chicane though so it made it that little bit harder but I managed to get it done.”

“I knew Pete was there as I could hear him, so I knew he’d have a bit of a lunge,” a disappointed Dunlop admitted. “He kept it tight at the chicane and braked late so it wasn’t rocket science to realise there was no room for me. We’ve had a few challenges with the bike, but it was pretty equal with Pete’s.”

A determined Davey Todd brushed off his aches and pains to take his place in pole position for the start of the Amici Ristorante Superstock race. Gritting his teeth he led the four lapper from start to finish, winning from Honda Racing’s Dean Harrison with Michael Dunlop once again completing the rostrum.

 

Davey Todd. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.
Davey Todd. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.

 

“To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I was going to ride after the Supersport crash,” Todd explained. “I’m a little bit sore but I didn’t come here to sit on the sidelines so I said to the team ‘I’ll go out and give it a go and see how I feel’. The team have done an awesome job and I’m so happy where I am right now. It’s nice to get a big bike win at last and it means a lot especially after the crash. A lot was going through my mind sitting by the track, wondering if I was going to be able to ride again this weekend. We managed to do that but I’ll be sore tomorrow!”

“I was sitting half a second behind Davey and felt quite comfortable so was ready to have a go on the last lap, but the bike got quite unsettled on the way into Mather’s Cross so I had to run straight on,” Yorkshireman Harrison explained as he trailed in second, 6.971 seconds behind Todd. “I wasn’t sure if anyone was close behind as I had no pit boards, so I re-joined as quick as I could and got going again. The bike was working really well and to get that close to Davey, who’s riding the Superstock bike regularly, is very pleasing. I wanted to get a podium for the team and everyone’s working so hard.”

Dunlop finished 1.9 seconds further back on his MD Racing Honda.

“With three thirds it’s been a steady day,” the Ballymoney man said. “The injury I’m carrying isn’t a practical one, but I’m not here to cry about it and it’s not an excuse, but it’s stopping me getting the most from either myself or the bike. We kept chipping away though and we’ve constantly made strides forward and the main thing today was staying out of trouble. The last thing I wanted was to get caught up in something I didn’t want to!”

Race fans will have another opportunity to meet their North West 200 road racing heroes on Friday at the Causeway Coast and Glens Council’s Meet the Riders event in Coleraine town centre at 2pm.

The race action will resume on Saturday morning after roads close at 9am followed by a six-race programme that begins at 10 am with the Milltown Service Station Supertwins race over four laps followed by the Anchor Bar Superbike race (6 laps), Tides Restaurant Supersport race (6 laps), CP Hire Superstock race (6 laps), John M Paterson Supertwins Race (4 laps) and the Merrow Hotel and Spa Superbike race (6 laps).

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Says Jerez Podium Was “First Step”

David Swarts
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MotoGP: Marc Marquez Says Jerez Podium Was “First Step”

“At Le Mans, the party starts on Wednesday!”

Thursday, 09 May 2024

After a rip-roaring Spanish GP, it’s time for another and this time at classic Le Mans. First, the podcast welcomed Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team rider and 2023 French GP winner Marco Bezzecchi to the show to talk a little about his roots and life as the inimitable Bez.

The first press conference for the riders then got in gear, with Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) joined by now-closest challenger Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and fellow Jerez protagonist Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™).

Then, rookie Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) was joined by the home heroes for press conference two as Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) and Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) gear up for the French GP.

Here are some photos and quotes from the opening day… although as the title suggests, the party very much already started!

 

Jorge Martin. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jorge Martin. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

JORGE MARTIN

How are you feeling heading into Le Mans?

“I feel good, I would have liked to share the podium in Jerez with Marc and Pecco but I couldn’t. I was confident at that point in the race but then I crashed and it is what it is. The most important thing is that we have the speed and that at every track we are fast, so I really confident that we will do the same here. Every track is different but I always feel fast, so I am relaxed and happy.”

 

Francesco Pecco Bagnaia. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

PECCO BAGNAIA

How confident are you to fight at the front in France?

“One of my strongest points as a rider is that I don’t care if I am losing time the day before or if I crash because I know if everything goes well I can fight back and fight for a win. Last year every weekend I was more or less like this on the Friday where we struggled, but then we were able to fight for the top positions in the race. Le Mans is always a good weekend for me, I love the track and love looking at the grandstands and every corner with loads of fans. The only bad thing is the last two times at Le Mans I’ve been unable to finish the race, one being my fault and the other from contact but the potential was always high and we can fight at the front.”

 

Marc Marquez. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Marc Marquez. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

MARC MARQUEZ

Why was the Jerez podium so special?

“It was special to see how far we had come from a very difficult moment, as it was a long time since we got a podium in dry conditions and to fight with the winner of the race and be able to have the pace. It was something which felt really good because it had been a really long time since I felt fast in the race on Sunday. It is the first step, we will have some problems in the future at some circuits but it was a pleasure to fight with two guys who were at a high level last year and were title contenders.”

Has Davide Tardozzi bought you new leathers as he promised?

“No, of course haha. We know Davide well and how hot it was in the race. All the times that I was fighting with Andrea Dovizioso, we had a good relationship and he knew that if I was there I would try. This time I was also a part of the Ducati brand but as I said on Sunday it was a pleasure to fight with the World Champion until the last lap.”

 

Pedro Acosta. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Pedro Acosta. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

PEDRO ACOSTA

How are you looking forward to riding a MotoGP™ bike in Le Mans at Tech3’s home race?

“It has always been a track that I’ve enjoyed but the last three years that I have raced here I have been fast but then I crashed so let’s hope I can finish the race for the first time in three years. It is my second home GP in a row so I am super happy to see the fans and to share it with the whole team!”

 

Fabio Quartararo. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Fabio Quartararo. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

FABIO QUARTARARO

How much of an extra boost does racing in front of your home crowd give you, and what are your expectations?

“It is always special to be here and unique, it is one of the only tracks where the party starts on Wednesday – you can hear the fans revving their bikes! We will try some things from the test, it is not a massive difference but we will have some items from the test but it is difficult to give our expectations.”

What new items will you try?

“We will have a new chassis, and we were meant to have a swingarm that we planned to use but we will not try it here as we will test it at Mugello after the Grand Prix.”

 

Johann Zarco. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Johann Zarco. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

JOHANN ZARCO

How are you enjoying the challenge, and what is a realistic goal for you this weekend?

“It is a nice experience to live and because I knew the challenge was going to be tough. In the moment you can get frustrated but later you understand that the work is done and you tried your best. I did not expect to have so much support from the crowd yesterday and this morning and I am hoping that will give me a little boost this weekend. A realistic goal is to get a few points, around 10th position which would be a good result and I would be glad to take that here. It would give a new push for my team and Honda, we don’t have anything to try at the moment because we had a test in Jerez where we could see if things were working or not so we have kept it simple to use the best of what we have at the moment.”

 

French fans along the front straightaway Thursday at Le Mans. Photo courtesy Dorna.
French fans along the front straightaway Thursday at Le Mans. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

 
French GP fans go all-in on Thursday

It has to been seen and heard to be believed. The seeing, at least, we can help with thanks to a few stunning postcards from the pitlane walk and special Canal+ live event held on the main straight on Thursday evening. The hearing can be enjoyed on the event broadcast or across social media, including MotoGP™’s instagram story!

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: Broc Glover Named Grand Marshal

David Swarts
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AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: Broc Glover Named Grand Marshal

Broc Glover Named Grand Marshal of 2024 Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days presented by Yamaha

Six-time AMA Motocross National champion to headline AMA’s centennial celebration

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — This year’s Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days presented by Yamaha will double as the AMA’s centennial celebration, running July 26-28 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, and who better to ring in the festivities than the “Golden Boy” of the golden years of professional motocross?

As Yamaha will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the fabled YZ250 at VMD, six-time AMA motocross national champion, Yamaha legend, and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Broc Glover will serve as the event’s Grand Marshal, engraining himself in a three-day long celebration of all things vintage motorcycling.

“I am really looking forward to this year’s AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days at Mid-Ohio,” Glover said. “Sadly, I’ve never been to VMD, but it’s been on my bucket list for years. I hear it’s quite an event, but this year seems like it will be even more spectacular, with the AMA’s 100th and Yamaha’s 50th for the YZ being celebrated. It is a tremendous honor to be named Grand Marshal for such a special event. I look forward to taking in the sights and sounds that vintage motorcycling offers, and spending time with some of the most loyal enthusiasts in the world.”

A native of San Diego, Glover’s motorcycling journey began when he was only nine years old, and experienced a major upshift when he began racing at age 13. Although financial hardship hindered his early racing efforts, Glover was clearly a standout competitor, and made the jump to the pro ranks when he was just 16.

After his promising rookie campaign, Glover signed a professional contract with Yamaha in 1977 and remained with the brand for the rest of his illustrious racing career. In his first three seasons with the marque, Glover raced to a trio of AMA 125cc Motocross National Championships and became the first racer to win three consecutive titles in the class. During that run, Glover also notched a win at the 125cc U.S. Grand Prix at the old Mid-Ohio Moto Park venue in Lexington, Ohio…just a few miles from Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, where VMD takes place each year.

Glover moved to the 500cc class in 1981 and didn’t skip a beat, winning three more titles in 1981, 1983 and 1985. Glover retired in 1989 and finished his career with a stunning 50 AMA National Motocross wins.

“Broc Glover is a champion in every sense of the word, both on and off the racetrack,” AMA Editorial Director Mitch Boehm said, “but especially so in terms of his long affiliation with Yamaha, which will celebrate its legendary YZ250 model at VMD. And so we are super excited to welcome him as Grand Marshal for this year’s VMD celebration. With Yamaha as presenting sponsor, and the YZ250’s 50th and the AMA’s 100th both being celebrated, this year’s VMD is definitely going to be one for the ages.”

At VMD, Glover will be on hand to sign autographs, speak to enthusiasts at the AMA Soundstage, participate in the Lap for History on the track at Mid-Ohio each day, and much more. Yamaha will also be on-site with historic bikes and demo rides, while Glover will be joined by several other racing champions that rode for the historic marque.

Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days presented by Yamaha is fast approaching and is primed to be yet another very special event. With North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet, bike shows, AMA Hall of Fame exhibits, vendor displays and racing in several disciplines, there’s something for everyone at VMD.

To purchase tickets and stay up to date on the latest VMD information, visit https://vintagemotorcycledays.com/. Make sure to sign up for the VMD Newsletter and follow our Facebook and Instagram pages.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: Quiles On Pole At Le Mans

Màximo Quiles (28). Photo courtesy Red Bull.
Màximo Quiles (28). Photo courtesy Red Bull.
RBR Qual

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Red Bull:

Pole man Quiles and Salmela the ones to beat after Rookies Le Mans Qualifying
 
 

A hot afternoon, already a packed crowd and 25 teenagers determined to get their KTMs set up for the second round of the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies at Le Mans. It was Finland’s Rico Salmela who spent the most time on top of the timing screens but Màximo Quiles stole the show by 0.028 seconds to take pole for Spain.

Cup points leader and Jerez Race 2 winner Álvaro Carpe was 3rd quickest but the 16-year-old Spaniard will start Saturday’s race from P9 on the grid thanks to a penalty for exiting the pit lane past a red light.

That promotes Malaysian 16-year-old Hakim Danish to the front row with Jerez Race 1 winner Marco Morelli heading up Row 2 as the Argentine 16-year-old looks to better his second place in the points chase.

Màximo on pole by a fraction

“That was good,” enthused the 16-year-old. “I changed the bike between FP2 and Quali. In FP2 I had a lot of chatter in the chicane, corners 9 and 10 when I went in on the brakes. So I talked with the suspension guy and they fixed it, it was better.”

“I knew I needed to improve it for the Quali because you have the new tyre and with much more grip that puts more pressure on the suspension and it will be the same in the race. Then I felt really good on the bike.”

“At the beginning of Quali, I was on my own because I didn’t want to get stuck in the group. I preferred to find the rhythm that I want to run in the race. Then luckily I caught the group at the right time, had some good laps, the slipstream and a reference and I did a 44.2. Still not perfect because in the last corner, I had to brake, I lost like .2 of a second there.”

“But I am really happy, we know I have pace for tomorrow and I will really push. I will try to break away, I will find my rhythm and be strong, we’ll see.”

Rico will do better

“That was OK, it was better than Jerez, Quali was a struggle there,” commented the 16-year-old with his usual grin, referring to his P9 in Spain.

“All day I had a good feeling with the bike, I could do P1 in FP1 and 2. Now, in the Quali I was feeling good, I couldn’t do a perfect lap but it put me second, I’m happy and tomorrow we’ll see, I’ll try to do a better race and improve the position from last year.” He was robbed of a win in both races.

“I wanted to run alone, there was a lot of slowing down in the group, I kept catching them in the wrong places. I didn’t want to do too many slow sectors otherwise you get penalised so I was a bit stuck in the group and I had to pass many riders on my fast lap but still it was OK.”

“The bike is good, more or less right, I had some moments with the front but I’m not sure if I will change anything or not, I will think about it.”

Álvaro in good shape

“I am happy with P3, that’s good. I had problems in FP1 and 2. But my KTM improved so much through the sessions and in the end, I am happy with the time, the place and the bike, it’s really good.”

“I have a penalty for the first race, dropping 6 places on the grid. But I am feeling OK because I am sure I am going to be in the race.”

“I’m looking forward to tomorrow, a lot more confident than last year because then I qualified way back.”

Hakim expecting a hot race

“I feel good with the bike, I finished P4, that’s good and I think I can do a good job in the race. I think it’s going to be a hot day tomorrow and I am confident in this bike in hot conditions.”

“I feel that I have the pace, I tried running alone and I can do that and go faster without anyone around so I think that will help in the race.”

“I am happy with the bike but I think we can still improve it so I’m going to talk to the guys and see if we should try something in the race.”

Marco loves the track and is ready to race

“I’m happy with that, very happy. The day was all good really. In FP2 I tried to get confidence, but it wasn’t quite there. Then in Quali with the new tyre, I pushed and I found the confidence and the limit.”

“I rode alone, this is good for the race, I know what I can do and I had a good pace and rhythm by myself.”

“I think that tomorrow with more adrenaline and pushing harder on race day I can go a little bit faster.”

“We’ll see because for sure it’s going to be a big group, the times are close. Maybe Rico can break, I don’t know, I will try to run with whoever is at the front, I like the bike and I love the track so let’s go.”

Ruche Moodley will be in the hunt

“I think I am well prepared for the race,” commented the South African 17-year-old who was 6th fastest but lines up in the middle of Row 2 thanks to Carpe’s penalty. “That’s the important thing. I don’t think it matters if you are on the front row or not because it’s a long race and I’m confident that I have the pace to run at the front.”

“I like this track a lot and last year I started further back so it really doesn’t matter. I’m happy with the bike, it’s really working well.”
 
  

Broadcast
 

This weekend’s Rookies Cup races can be seen live on www.redbull.tv and on TV stations around the world.

Race 1 is at 17:00 CEST on Saturday and Race 2 is on Sunday at 08:45, the show starts 10 minutes before the race.

MotoE: Garzo Grabs Pole Position At Le Mans

Hector Garzo (4). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Hector Garzo (4). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Garzo takes maiden MotoE™ pole in Le Mans

A new lap record and in uncharacteristic hot conditions? The stage is set for Round 2!

Friday, 10 May 2024

Under sunny skies in France, Hector Garzo (Dynavolt Intact GP MotoE™) has finally clinched his first pole position in the FiM Enel MotoE™ World Championship, having been one of the fastest in the field since this debut but missing that last stat. He did it in style too, with a new lap record of 1:39.995 making him the only rider to break into the 1:39s, but the chasing pack certainly weren’t far behind. Sophomore sensation Nicholas Spinelli (Tech3 E-Racing) tails the pole sitter by just 0.031 of a second for his second front row start of the season, and completing the front row in third is season opener polesitter Eric Granado (LCR E-Team).

In an extremely close Q2 session that saw the top seven riders split by just 0.312 of a second, Garzo managed to just keep his rivals at bay with that first-ever 1:39 MotoE™ lap of the Le Mans circuit. With Garzo on a run of four consecutive second place finishes stretching from the last round of 2023 to the first round of 2024, he has the best possible start to bring that streak to an end and take his first victory since Germany last season.

Behind, reigning World Champion and 2024 championship leader Mattia Casadei (LCR E-Team) managed to do a fine job of completing the qualifying recovery, by progressing through from Q1 and then taking 4th in Q2. He starts alongside Oscar Gutierrez (Axxis-MSI) who managed to improve his career-best qualifying one place to 5th and all at a venue he’s never been to before.

In the closing stages of Q1 there was some luckless drama for session-topper Kevin Zannoni (Openbank Aspar Team) who was the innocent party in a crash for Alessio Finello (Felo Gresini MotoE). Finello, who lost the front through Le Mans’ fast Turn 1, unfortunately collided with Zannoni’s machine as he went through the chicane. With no time to prepare a spare bike, Zannoni’s well-earned Q2 place was rendered almost immaterial as he was unable to take part in the session. Zannoni will line up 10th for tomorrow’s races. Teammate and 2019 World Cup Winner Matteo Ferrari’s (Felo Gresini Team) difficult start to the season continues with the Italian qualifying 14th after an issue midway through Q1 slowed his progress.

Practice and qualifying complete, there’s just one more thing to do for MotoE™ and that’s race! We’ll see you for Race 1 tomorrow at 12:15 UTC+2 and Race 2 at 16:10 UTC+2!

 

MotoE Q2

Moto2: Garcia Quickest, Roberts P5 Friday Afternoon In France

Sergio Garcia (3). Photo courtesy MT Helmets - MSI.
Sergio Garcia (3). Photo courtesy MT Helmets - MSI.

Sergio Garcia was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Practice One Friday afternoon on the Bugatti Circuit, in Le Mans, France. Riding his MT Helmets – MSI Boscoscuro on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard covered the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) racetrack in 1:35.473. That time was good enough to lead the field of 28 riders and break the All-Time Lap Record of 1:35.556 set by Alonso Lopez Friday morning.

Lopez was second-best in the afternoon with a 1:35.549 on his Folladore SpeedUp Boscoscuro, just ahead of his teammate Fermin Aldeguer and his 1:35.765.

Manuel Gonzalez was the top non-Boscoscuro rider with a 1:35.780 on his QJMOTOR Gresini Kalex.

American Joe Roberts, the World Championship point leader coming into the event, was fifth in Practice One with a lap of 1:35.783 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

Moto2 PR

Moto3: Alonso Lowers His Lap Record At Le Mans

David Alonso (80). Photo by Michael Gougis.
David Alonso (80), as seen at COTA earlier this season. Photo by Michael Gougis.

David Alonso led Moto3 World Championship Practice One Friday afternoon on the Bugatti Circuit, in Le Mans, France. On board his Pirelli-equipped Gaviota Aspar Team CFMOTO, Alonso navigated the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) track in 1:40.470, which broke the All-Time Lap Record of 1:40.792 he set just hours earlier. The record coming into the weekend was 1:41.399.

 

Moto3 PR

 

 

Moto2: Lopez P1, Roberts P3 Friday Morning At Le Mans

Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Alonso Lopez topped Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Friday morning at the Bugatti Circuit, in Le Mans, France. On board his Pirelli-shod Folladore SpeedUp Boscoscuro, the Spaniard covered the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) course in 1:35.556, which was not only good enough to lead the field of 28 riders but it was also good enough to eclipse the All-Time Lap Record of 1:35.791 set by Sam Lowes in 2023.

Lopez’s teammate Fermin Aldeguer was second-best with a 1:35.711, which was also under the old lap record.

American Joe Roberts, the current Moto2 World Championship point leader, was third in the session with a 1:35.940 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

Moto2 FP

Moto3: Alonso Breaks Record In Opening Practice At Le Mans

David Alonso (80). Photo courtesy Dorna.
David Alonso (80). Photo courtesy Dorna.

David Alonso was fastest in Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Friday morning on the Bugatti Circuit, in Le Mans, France. Riding his Gaviota Aspar Team CFMOTO on Pirelli control tires, the young Colombian lapped the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) racetrack in 1:40.792, which led the 26-rider field and smashed Jaume Masia’s All-Time Lap Record of 1:41.399 from 2020.

 

Moto3 FP

Waters Sets New Lap Record At Roebling Road

Jason Waters (92) set a new lap record of 1:09.897 at Roebling Road Raceway. Photo by Motorsport Photo LLC, courtesy Pirelli.
Jason Waters (92) set a new lap record of 1:09.897 at Roebling Road Raceway. Photo by Motorsport Photo LLC, courtesy Pirelli.

Pirelli and Jason Waters Set New Motorcycle Track Record at Roebling Road Raceway

Waters Sets New Lap Record of 1:09.897 Aboard BMW S 1000 RR, Equipped with Pirelli DIABLO Superbike Slick Tires

ATLANTA — Pirelli congratulates Jason Waters on setting the new absolute motorcycle track record at Roebling Road Raceway in Bloomingdale, Georgia, during the WERA motorcycle road racing regional round on Saturday, May 4. Waters’ new lap record of 1:09.897 was set aboard a BMW S 1000 RR equipped with Pirelli DIABLO Superbike slick tires.

“It was an exceptional day at Roebling Road Raceway,” said Waters. “Breaking the lap record was beyond my expectations. Pirelli’s dedication to delivering top-tier performance from their DIABLO Superbike slicks was evident throughout the race, and I’m grateful for their support.”

Waters set the new lap record during the A Superstock class race and relied on the performance of Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike 125/70 R17 SC1 front and DIABLO Superbike 200/65 R17 SC0 rear tires.

“Jason’s accomplishment represents a new standard of excellence,” said Oscar Solis, Senior Racing Manager, Pirelli. “Setting track records requires precision and skill, particularly at a circuit like Roebling Road Raceway. We commend Jason on his achievement and are proud to have played a part in his success. This underscores Pirelli’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance in motorcycle racing.”

This record-breaking performance is a testament to Pirelli’s ongoing pursuit of excellence in motorcycle racing. As we look ahead, Pirelli remains dedicated to supporting riders like Waters as they continue to raise the bar in motorcycle road racing across the globe.

DIABLO™ is a registered trademark of Pirelli Tyre S.p.A

North West 200: Cooper, Irwin, Todd Win

Glenn Irwin (1) defeated Davey Todd (74) to win Thursday's Superbike race at the North West 200. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.
Glenn Irwin (1) defeated Davey Todd (74) to win Thursday's Superbike race at the North West 200. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.

GLENN IRWIN EQUALS SUPERBIKE VICTORY RECORD AT OPENING NIGHT OF ACTION AT BRIGGS EQUIPMENT 2024 NORTH WEST 200

 

Thursday night at the Briggs Equipment North West 200 saw record breaking performances and fantastic racing as Glenn Irwin, Richard Cooper and Davey Todd took the honours in the Briggs Equipment Superbike, Fraser Homes Supersport and Amici Ristorante Superstock races respectively.

After a day of qualifying in sunshine the sky clouded over for the opening Superbike encounter which produced a stunning start to finish battle between Glen Irwin on the PBM Hager Ducati and Davey Todd’s Milwaukee BMW. The pair were separated by just a few inches throughout the four laps despite Irwin setting a new outright lap record at 125.799mph on the second lap.

Trailing Todd on to the coast road on the final lap, Irwin snatched the lead at Juniper chicane to claim victory by 2.545 seconds and equal the record of nine NW200 Superbike race wins held by Michael Rutter and the late Joey Dunlop.

“That is the hardest I have ever had to ride to win around here,” Irwin told Todd as they embraced in the winner’s enclosure. “It was a fun race but it wasn’t that much fun when I was riding behind Davey. He is riding so good but he was on the limit on some of the scary parts of the track. To win we had to go to his level. Where he’s strong he’s really strong and I had to work hard to win that.”

 

Glenn Irwin celebrates with his Hager PBM Ducati team. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.
Glenn Irwin celebrates with his Hager PBM Ducati team. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.

 

Todd was philosophical about losing such a close battle.

“I made a bit of a silly judgement at the end but the bike is an absolute weapon.” he admitted. “I thought I had it worked out as I felt I knew where Glenn was strong and I could have got him at Juniper on the last lap but I made the wrong decision, going to the outside instead of the inside. I’ve just got to try a little harder next time.”

Irwin was delighted to equal the North West 200 Superbike record with nine consecutive victories in the class.

“It’s an amazing achievement to win nine races in a row and although some people ride harder than me here, I can find a way to win.” he said. “And no one else [has] the mindset I have.”

Local favourite, Michael Dunlop claimed the final rostrum spot on what would be an evening of three third place finishes for the Ballymoney man.

“The bike arrived so late and I’ve a few issues from the Cookstown crash, so to finish third isn’t bad,” Michael Dunlop said as he trailed in 14.241 seconds behind Todd on his MD Racing Honda. “I lost the tow at the beginning and that was that. I needed to go with them straightaway as I knew Glenn and Davey would be running a hot pace. Dean and Pete were making a few moves on me but there were no surprises and when it’s two riders you know well and are used to battling with, you know what you’re working with.”

Richard Cooper had vowed to win four races at this year’s NW200 before the racing began and the Nottingham rider started as he intends to go on with victory in the Fraser Homes Supersport race on the BPE Russell Racing Yamaha ahead of Peter Hickman (Trooper Beer Triumph) and Michael Dunlop (MD Racing Triumph). But the race was marked by a crash at York corner on the opening lap when Adam McLean ran out of brakes and crashed, taking out Davey Todd.

 

Richard Cooper. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.
Richard Cooper. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.

 

Avoiding the melee, Cooper led Dunlop by 1.2 seconds at the end of lap one with Hickman a further 0.5 sec behind. Cooper’s lead extended to 1.9 seconds on lap two with Hickman still less than a second back on the Ballymoney rider. Cooper continued to open the gap on his pursuers over the final two circuits, taking the chequered flag by 6.537 seconds, but it was Hickman who claimed the runner-up spot after passing Dunlop at Metropole on the final lap.

“I made a bit of a poor start which worked in my favour as it allowed me to watch the drama unfold in front of me at York Corner,” Cooper said as he savoured the victor’s champagne. “Davey looked like he was going to nail the apex but he got wiped out by Adam who came in hot. I nipped through and you take these things when they come your way. I had no pit boards so had no idea how big the lead was but there’s more in the tank if needed.”

Hickman, who arrived at Portrush battered and bruised after three big crashes at last weekend’s Oulton Park BSB meeting, was delighted to pip Dunlop for the runner-up slot.

“It always takes me a while to get going on the Supersport bike, but once I did, I was able to close in on Michael,” he said. “I didn’t want to show my hand too early and passing him at Metropole on the final lap was always the plan. He was really strong out of the Magherabuoy chicane though so it made it that little bit harder but I managed to get it done.”

“I knew Pete was there as I could hear him, so I knew he’d have a bit of a lunge,” a disappointed Dunlop admitted. “He kept it tight at the chicane and braked late so it wasn’t rocket science to realise there was no room for me. We’ve had a few challenges with the bike, but it was pretty equal with Pete’s.”

A determined Davey Todd brushed off his aches and pains to take his place in pole position for the start of the Amici Ristorante Superstock race. Gritting his teeth he led the four lapper from start to finish, winning from Honda Racing’s Dean Harrison with Michael Dunlop once again completing the rostrum.

 

Davey Todd. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.
Davey Todd. Photo courtesy NW200 Press Office.

 

“To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I was going to ride after the Supersport crash,” Todd explained. “I’m a little bit sore but I didn’t come here to sit on the sidelines so I said to the team ‘I’ll go out and give it a go and see how I feel’. The team have done an awesome job and I’m so happy where I am right now. It’s nice to get a big bike win at last and it means a lot especially after the crash. A lot was going through my mind sitting by the track, wondering if I was going to be able to ride again this weekend. We managed to do that but I’ll be sore tomorrow!”

“I was sitting half a second behind Davey and felt quite comfortable so was ready to have a go on the last lap, but the bike got quite unsettled on the way into Mather’s Cross so I had to run straight on,” Yorkshireman Harrison explained as he trailed in second, 6.971 seconds behind Todd. “I wasn’t sure if anyone was close behind as I had no pit boards, so I re-joined as quick as I could and got going again. The bike was working really well and to get that close to Davey, who’s riding the Superstock bike regularly, is very pleasing. I wanted to get a podium for the team and everyone’s working so hard.”

Dunlop finished 1.9 seconds further back on his MD Racing Honda.

“With three thirds it’s been a steady day,” the Ballymoney man said. “The injury I’m carrying isn’t a practical one, but I’m not here to cry about it and it’s not an excuse, but it’s stopping me getting the most from either myself or the bike. We kept chipping away though and we’ve constantly made strides forward and the main thing today was staying out of trouble. The last thing I wanted was to get caught up in something I didn’t want to!”

Race fans will have another opportunity to meet their North West 200 road racing heroes on Friday at the Causeway Coast and Glens Council’s Meet the Riders event in Coleraine town centre at 2pm.

The race action will resume on Saturday morning after roads close at 9am followed by a six-race programme that begins at 10 am with the Milltown Service Station Supertwins race over four laps followed by the Anchor Bar Superbike race (6 laps), Tides Restaurant Supersport race (6 laps), CP Hire Superstock race (6 laps), John M Paterson Supertwins Race (4 laps) and the Merrow Hotel and Spa Superbike race (6 laps).

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Says Jerez Podium Was “First Step”

Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia (left), Jorge Martin (center), and Marc Marquez (right) at the MotoGP pre-race press conference at Le Mans. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Francesco "Pecco" Bagnaia (left), Jorge Martin (center), and Marc Marquez (right) at the MotoGP pre-race press conference at Le Mans. Photo courtesy Dorna.

“At Le Mans, the party starts on Wednesday!”

Thursday, 09 May 2024

After a rip-roaring Spanish GP, it’s time for another and this time at classic Le Mans. First, the podcast welcomed Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team rider and 2023 French GP winner Marco Bezzecchi to the show to talk a little about his roots and life as the inimitable Bez.

The first press conference for the riders then got in gear, with Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) joined by now-closest challenger Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and fellow Jerez protagonist Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™).

Then, rookie Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) was joined by the home heroes for press conference two as Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) and Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) gear up for the French GP.

Here are some photos and quotes from the opening day… although as the title suggests, the party very much already started!

 

Jorge Martin. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jorge Martin. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

JORGE MARTIN

How are you feeling heading into Le Mans?

“I feel good, I would have liked to share the podium in Jerez with Marc and Pecco but I couldn’t. I was confident at that point in the race but then I crashed and it is what it is. The most important thing is that we have the speed and that at every track we are fast, so I really confident that we will do the same here. Every track is different but I always feel fast, so I am relaxed and happy.”

 

Francesco Pecco Bagnaia. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

PECCO BAGNAIA

How confident are you to fight at the front in France?

“One of my strongest points as a rider is that I don’t care if I am losing time the day before or if I crash because I know if everything goes well I can fight back and fight for a win. Last year every weekend I was more or less like this on the Friday where we struggled, but then we were able to fight for the top positions in the race. Le Mans is always a good weekend for me, I love the track and love looking at the grandstands and every corner with loads of fans. The only bad thing is the last two times at Le Mans I’ve been unable to finish the race, one being my fault and the other from contact but the potential was always high and we can fight at the front.”

 

Marc Marquez. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Marc Marquez. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

MARC MARQUEZ

Why was the Jerez podium so special?

“It was special to see how far we had come from a very difficult moment, as it was a long time since we got a podium in dry conditions and to fight with the winner of the race and be able to have the pace. It was something which felt really good because it had been a really long time since I felt fast in the race on Sunday. It is the first step, we will have some problems in the future at some circuits but it was a pleasure to fight with two guys who were at a high level last year and were title contenders.”

Has Davide Tardozzi bought you new leathers as he promised?

“No, of course haha. We know Davide well and how hot it was in the race. All the times that I was fighting with Andrea Dovizioso, we had a good relationship and he knew that if I was there I would try. This time I was also a part of the Ducati brand but as I said on Sunday it was a pleasure to fight with the World Champion until the last lap.”

 

Pedro Acosta. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Pedro Acosta. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

PEDRO ACOSTA

How are you looking forward to riding a MotoGP™ bike in Le Mans at Tech3’s home race?

“It has always been a track that I’ve enjoyed but the last three years that I have raced here I have been fast but then I crashed so let’s hope I can finish the race for the first time in three years. It is my second home GP in a row so I am super happy to see the fans and to share it with the whole team!”

 

Fabio Quartararo. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Fabio Quartararo. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

FABIO QUARTARARO

How much of an extra boost does racing in front of your home crowd give you, and what are your expectations?

“It is always special to be here and unique, it is one of the only tracks where the party starts on Wednesday – you can hear the fans revving their bikes! We will try some things from the test, it is not a massive difference but we will have some items from the test but it is difficult to give our expectations.”

What new items will you try?

“We will have a new chassis, and we were meant to have a swingarm that we planned to use but we will not try it here as we will test it at Mugello after the Grand Prix.”

 

Johann Zarco. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Johann Zarco. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

JOHANN ZARCO

How are you enjoying the challenge, and what is a realistic goal for you this weekend?

“It is a nice experience to live and because I knew the challenge was going to be tough. In the moment you can get frustrated but later you understand that the work is done and you tried your best. I did not expect to have so much support from the crowd yesterday and this morning and I am hoping that will give me a little boost this weekend. A realistic goal is to get a few points, around 10th position which would be a good result and I would be glad to take that here. It would give a new push for my team and Honda, we don’t have anything to try at the moment because we had a test in Jerez where we could see if things were working or not so we have kept it simple to use the best of what we have at the moment.”

 

French fans along the front straightaway Thursday at Le Mans. Photo courtesy Dorna.
French fans along the front straightaway Thursday at Le Mans. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

 
French GP fans go all-in on Thursday

It has to been seen and heard to be believed. The seeing, at least, we can help with thanks to a few stunning postcards from the pitlane walk and special Canal+ live event held on the main straight on Thursday evening. The hearing can be enjoyed on the event broadcast or across social media, including MotoGP™’s instagram story!

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: Broc Glover Named Grand Marshal

Six-time AMA Motocross National Champion and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Broc Glover (6 B) will be the Grand Marshal at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. Photo courtesy AMA.
Six-time AMA Motocross National Champion and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Broc Glover (6 B) will be the Grand Marshal at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. Photo courtesy AMA.

Broc Glover Named Grand Marshal of 2024 Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days presented by Yamaha

Six-time AMA Motocross National champion to headline AMA’s centennial celebration

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — This year’s Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days presented by Yamaha will double as the AMA’s centennial celebration, running July 26-28 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, and who better to ring in the festivities than the “Golden Boy” of the golden years of professional motocross?

As Yamaha will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the fabled YZ250 at VMD, six-time AMA motocross national champion, Yamaha legend, and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Broc Glover will serve as the event’s Grand Marshal, engraining himself in a three-day long celebration of all things vintage motorcycling.

“I am really looking forward to this year’s AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days at Mid-Ohio,” Glover said. “Sadly, I’ve never been to VMD, but it’s been on my bucket list for years. I hear it’s quite an event, but this year seems like it will be even more spectacular, with the AMA’s 100th and Yamaha’s 50th for the YZ being celebrated. It is a tremendous honor to be named Grand Marshal for such a special event. I look forward to taking in the sights and sounds that vintage motorcycling offers, and spending time with some of the most loyal enthusiasts in the world.”

A native of San Diego, Glover’s motorcycling journey began when he was only nine years old, and experienced a major upshift when he began racing at age 13. Although financial hardship hindered his early racing efforts, Glover was clearly a standout competitor, and made the jump to the pro ranks when he was just 16.

After his promising rookie campaign, Glover signed a professional contract with Yamaha in 1977 and remained with the brand for the rest of his illustrious racing career. In his first three seasons with the marque, Glover raced to a trio of AMA 125cc Motocross National Championships and became the first racer to win three consecutive titles in the class. During that run, Glover also notched a win at the 125cc U.S. Grand Prix at the old Mid-Ohio Moto Park venue in Lexington, Ohio…just a few miles from Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, where VMD takes place each year.

Glover moved to the 500cc class in 1981 and didn’t skip a beat, winning three more titles in 1981, 1983 and 1985. Glover retired in 1989 and finished his career with a stunning 50 AMA National Motocross wins.

“Broc Glover is a champion in every sense of the word, both on and off the racetrack,” AMA Editorial Director Mitch Boehm said, “but especially so in terms of his long affiliation with Yamaha, which will celebrate its legendary YZ250 model at VMD. And so we are super excited to welcome him as Grand Marshal for this year’s VMD celebration. With Yamaha as presenting sponsor, and the YZ250’s 50th and the AMA’s 100th both being celebrated, this year’s VMD is definitely going to be one for the ages.”

At VMD, Glover will be on hand to sign autographs, speak to enthusiasts at the AMA Soundstage, participate in the Lap for History on the track at Mid-Ohio each day, and much more. Yamaha will also be on-site with historic bikes and demo rides, while Glover will be joined by several other racing champions that rode for the historic marque.

Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days presented by Yamaha is fast approaching and is primed to be yet another very special event. With North America’s largest motorcycle swap meet, bike shows, AMA Hall of Fame exhibits, vendor displays and racing in several disciplines, there’s something for everyone at VMD.

To purchase tickets and stay up to date on the latest VMD information, visit https://vintagemotorcycledays.com/. Make sure to sign up for the VMD Newsletter and follow our Facebook and Instagram pages.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

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