Marc Márquez topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Riding his Michelin-shod Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26, the Spaniard turned a lap of 1:31.468 around the 2.63-mile (4.23 km) track and led the 21-rider field.
Marco Bezzecchi was second-best with a 1:31.528 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP25.
Raul Fernandez was third with a lap of 1:31.601 on his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.
Marc Marquez edges out Bezzecchi by 0.060s in Misano FP1. The top two from last year’s Misano stunner begin 2026’s edition at the top in the tightly contested Friday morning stint.
A late lap from Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) saw the reigning World Champion clinch P1 in FP1 at the Red Bull Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera, as the #93 beats home hero – and 2025 Misano sparring partner – Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) to top spot by a slender 0.060s. Marc Marquez’s 1:31.468 was 0.133s quicker than Raul Fernandez’s (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) P3 time, as the opening stint gives us a flavour of what to expect from the rest of the Grand Prix.
Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and the impressive Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) rounded out the top five, with Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) picking up P6 despite the Spaniard suffering a Turn 1 crash with 33 minutes left of FP1.
Where did title-chase leader Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) finish, we hear you asking? P8 the answer, with Italian Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) sandwiched between Acosta and Martin in P7.
Francesco Bagnaia’s (Ducati Lenovo Team) weekend didn’t get underway as the Italian and previous Misano winner would have hoped. It’s P18. 0.9s away from teammate Marquez for Pecco going into the afternoon.
Elsewhere, Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) thankfully walked away from a Turn 4 out-lap crash at the very start of the session. A cold front tyre suddenly washed out from underneath the Australian at the start of the weekend.
MM93 vs MB72 to kickstart the San Marino GP. Next up: Practice at 3 pm local time (UTC +2).
Manuel Gonzalez was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Riding his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex on the 2.63-mile (4.23 km) track, the Spaniard recorded a 1:35.031 to lead the field of 29 riders.
His teammate, Senna Agius was the best of the rest with a 1:35.066.
Izan Guevara was third-fastest with a 1:35.121 on his BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Boscoscuro.
American Joe Roberts finished the opening session in 19th with a 1:36.316 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Joel Kelso was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Riding his GRYD Racing Honda on Pirelli control tires, the Australian rider covered the 2.63-mile (4.23 km) road course in 1:46.033, topping the field of 26 riders.
Leo Rammerstorfer was the best of the rest with a 1:46.566 on his SIC58 Squadra Corse.
Adrian Fernandez was third with a lap time of 1:47.143 on his Leopard Racing Honda.
The 2026 Australian Superbike Champion will make his MotoAmerica Supersport debut with the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing team this weekend at the penultimate round of the championship.
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 10, 2026 – Liberty St. Yamaha Racing is pleased to announce that Harrison Voight, the reigning 2026 Australian Superbike champion, will step in as a fill-in rider for Dominic Doyle aboard the team’s Yamaha YZF-R9 at Round 9 of the MotoAmerica Supersport Championship this weekend at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
Doyle has been sidelined since sustaining an injury earlier this season at Mid-Ohio. Although he has worked diligently toward returning to competition, his recovery is not yet complete. The team’s priority remains Dominic’s health and ensuring that he has the time necessary to fully recover before returning to the track.
Voight brings considerable experience, speed and championship-winning credentials to the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing effort. Fresh from securing the 2026 Australian Superbike Championship, he will take on the challenge of racing the Yamaha YZF-R9 in the highly competitive Next Gen Supersport field as the team continues its 2026 campaign. Voight will also be joined by his former crew chief, Jamie Stauffer, who will support him as he transitions to the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing program.
“First and foremost, I want to wish Dominic a full and speedy recovery,” said Voight. “I know how tough it is to watch from the sidelines when all you want to do is race. I’m really grateful to Liberty St. Yamaha Racing for giving me this opportunity. Winning the Australian Superbike Championship has been a huge achievement, and I’m excited to bring that momentum to the team. Having Jamie Stauffer with me will also help make the transition as smooth as possible. We know how to work together, and I’m looking forward to getting comfortable on the R9 and going racing.”
For Liberty St. Yamaha Racing, bringing Voight and Stauffer on board provides an opportunity to remain competitive while continuing to support Doyle during his recovery.
“We’re obviously disappointed that Dominic isn’t able to return yet, but his health comes first,” said Chuck Giacchetto. “We’re excited to have Harrison on board, and having Jamie with him adds valuable experience and continuity to the program. Harrison is a talented rider, he knows how to race, and winning the Australian Superbike Championship demonstrates the level of performance he brings to our team. We’re looking forward to seeing what they can do on the R9.”
The team will work closely with Voight and Stauffer in preparation for the upcoming round, with the goal of getting Harrison comfortable with the bike and integrating Jamie into the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing operation as quickly as possible.
While Voight takes over riding duties, the entire Liberty St. Yamaha Racing organization continues to support Dominic and looks forward to seeing him back at the track when he is fully recovered.
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.:
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Golf Cars [sold, serviced, and distributed by Yamaha Golf-Car Company], Surface Mount Technology and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
Major Engine, Chassis and Suspension Updates Usher in a New Era of Rideability and Performance.
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 10, 2026 –Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, has announced the return of its off-road WR lineup, highlighted by major updates to the new 2027 WR450F engine, chassis, suspension and more. The new WR450F has been optimized to cater to Enduro riding where there’s a variety of terrain that necessitates a wider range of speed and versatility. The WR250F will return unchanged for 2027.
“The new WR450F has undergone significant changes in order to refine its power and handling characteristics,” said Dan Rivito, Yamaha Motorsports Motorcycle Business Manager. “The result is a machine that sets the standard for being easy to ride on both fast-flowing trails as well as tight, technical singletrack. Because easy to ride means easy to ride fast.”
Engine character has been tuned with a focus on low- to mid-range power to suit off-road riding. A revised intake port design produces a more linear delivery that enhances throttle control. Cam timing changes have resulted in more stable combustion while increased AC magneto inertia promotes a confidence-inspiring delivery aimed at technical and low-speed riding situations. Both changes also increase stall resistance at low speeds. To further improve power delivery, especially when riding flowing third gear trails, the rear drive sprocket has increased in size by one tooth from 50 to 51.
A new frame design for 2027 balances rigidity and flex characteristics. A revised front downtube results in a highly stable ride with enhanced front end feel for improved cornering performance. The new frame is matched with a new high-performance KYB® rear shock and revised fork settings with more progressive settings to provide better front-end contact, feel and initial movement comfort, giving the rider a new level of confidence in rocky, rooty and technical trail situations.
The updated shock features a new piston that improves damping force in the lowest speed range and expands the range of damping adjustments. The shock also has a new hand-operated low-speed compression clicker for simplified trailside adjustments.
These chassis and suspension updates result in greater usability in everything from slow, tight singletrack to high-speed open trail. With better comfort and front-end feel, the new WR450F is easier and less fatiguing to navigate through slippery rocks and roots on technical trails.
2027 WR450F. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
A new hydraulic clutch provides smooth, consistent engagement with less effort while eliminating the need for on-trail adjustments. In addition, a new clutch inner hub design is lubricated over a larger area for stable performance and durability.
New lightweight rear braking components have been reduced in size, including the brake disc, master cylinder and piston diameters. This improves rear brake controllability and saves 180g in total.
Updated styling for 2027 includes a sharper rear fender and new WRF graphics. There is also a new honeycomb-pattern seat cover material that makes sliding forward while braking easier and helps prevent sliding rearward during acceleration.
This model is equipped with Yamaha’s industry-leading smartphone Power Tuner App that features traction control, lap timer, suspension tuning guides, an ECU-lock function and more. Racing customers can access the engine tuning and launch control functions with the purchase of a GYTR Competition ECU Kit.
The 2027 WR450F is an intuitive, rider-friendly machine with an exceptional balance of power and handling. An enduro bike with more connection and control for longer, faster and more comfortable fun, as well as effortless slow speed riding. The result inspires rider confidence and sets a new standard for the class.
2027 WR450F. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
2027 WR450F Features & Benefits
Powerful 450cc four-stroke engine features a revised, more linear power delivery that smooths out the initial response for added control and rideability. Redesigned intake port produces more efficient combustion and improved torque
The reverse-fed engine features magneto, cam timing and drive sprocket changes for easily controllable low speed power delivery
Yamaha’s industry-leading smartphone Power Tuner App features Traction Control tuning and ECU-lock function
New hydraulic clutch offers lighter lever feel, smoother feathering and a consistent mesh point, eliminating the need for on-trail adjustments. A new clutch inner hub design also enables lubrication over a larger area for stable performance and durability
Advanced fuel injection via a 44mm Mikuni® throttle body ensures optimum fuel atomization and power for a wide range of riding conditions and helps efficient starting
Five-speed, wide ratio transmission with tri-shaft layout vertically stacks transmission shafts for a light and compact gearbox
New frame design balances rigidity and flex characteristics for great stability, comfort and compliance in off-road riding conditions
High-spec fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB® coil spring-type fork with revised settings provide exceptional feel, improved comfort and bump absorption
New high-performance KYB® rear shock enhances low-speed damping and smooths the damping transition between low and high speeds for enhanced control in a variety of conditions. The new rear shock now includes a hand-operated low-speed compression clicker for simplified trackside adjustments
New lightweight rear braking components have been reduced in size, including brake disc, master cylinder and piston diameters. This combines with new brake pad material to improve rear brake controllability and saves 180g in total
High-performance front brake features a large 270mm front brake rotor coupled with a Nissin caliper to provide excellent power and fade resistance
Updated styling includes a sharper rear fender and new WRF graphics
New honeycomb-pattern seat cover material maintains ease in sliding forward while improving hold from sliding rearward during acceleration
Trail-ready cross-country specific Dunlop® Geomax AT82 tires
Compact, lightweight push-button electric start provides effortless restarts
The 2027 WR450F and returning WR250F will be available in dealers this October in Team Yamaha Blue:
2027 WR450F: available this October for $10,499 MSRP
2027 WR250F: available this October for $9,199 MSRP
2027 WR450F in action. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Yamaha BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program
All 2027 YZ and WR models are eligible for Yamaha’s current BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, which features over $10 million for Yamaha BLU CRU riders competing in off-road motorcycle racing. YZ and WR riders can earn contingency payouts via a BLU CRU debit card, receive a BLU CRU welcome kit and exclusive invitations to special BLU CRU events and training opportunities.
For complete details on how to register for the BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, along with specific information on which racing series, events, and classes are included, visit the Off-Road Racing Contingency page on the Yamaha Motorsports website at: https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/blucru-registration.
Four MotoAmerica Feature Classes add a quartet of tight championship fights to this weekend’s Quad Lock Superbike action at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas. Supersport, Mission King Of The Baggers and Talent Cup all head into COTA with time running out in their title fights, while the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship reaches its season finale for the class, with the number-one plate up for grabs in Texas.
COTA’s 3.41-mile, 20-turn counterclockwise circuit is one of the most physically and technically demanding venues on the calendar, and it will test every class on the grid. The Texas heat forecast for the weekend is expected to push competitors to their limits across three days of racing, placing a premium on rider endurance and tire management regardless of what machine they’re piloting.
Supersport
For Celtic/Economy Lube + Tire/Warhorse Ducati’s Darryn Binder, COTA is the only track on the MotoAmerica calendar where he has multiple races under his belt. The South African currently holds a 35 point lead over Rahal Ducati Moto with Desnuda Organic Tequila’s Josh Herrin and looks to lean on his prior MotoGP, Moto 2 and Moto 3 experiences to put the points lead further out of reach from Herrin.
Josh Hayes (4) at VIR. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Behind the leading duo, Rahal Ducati Moto with Droplight’s Kayla Yaakov sits 129 points behind in third. The 19-year-old holds a slim three-point advantage over BPR Racing Yamaha’s Josh Hayes in fourth. Hayes’ Race 2 win at VIR was the 90th of his lengthy AMA/MotoAmerica career, putting him just two shy of tying Cameron Beaubier’s current all-time record at 92. Hayes has recorded top-five finishes in 10 of 15 races and eyes a podium points spot just ahead.
Rounding out the top five in points is M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Tyler Scott. Scott will opt out of the Supersport class for COTA to fill in for his injured Superbike teammate Richie Escalante. In the Pennsylvanian’s place and making his MotoAmerica Supersport debut will be the team’s Twins Cup rider, 16-year-old Australian Bodie Paige.
Through a remarkable display of determination and an immense tolerance for the pain of physical rehabilitation, MP13 Racing/One Cure Racing’s Ella Dreher will re-enter the field for the COTA round. The 16-year-old Florida native rejoins the team in Texas after a grueling four-month recovery from her crash at Barber Motorsports Park earlier this year. She looks to regain her race pace before looking forward to 2027 with the MV Agusta-supported team.
Finally, the Supersport grid grows by one for the Texas round as 15-year-old Austin native Mikey Lou Sanchez is set to make his professional debut on home soil. In an impressive milestone for the series’ talent pipeline, the former Mini Cup champion will pilot a third Celtic Racing/Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati Panigale V2, proving the youth program directly leads to the professional MotoAmerica grid.
J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian’s Hayden Gillim took double victory during the previous round at Mid-Ohio, charging from sixth to win Race 2 by 0.25 of a second over teammate Troy Herfoss. Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing’s Bradley Smith rounded out the podium in third, and that’s exactly how the Mission King Of The Baggers field begins their final two rounds with a stop in Texas.
Gillim brings a 23-point lead into COTA, a cushion built on race craft as much as speed. The Kentucky-native has made a habit of finding his way to the front if he isn’t already there at the start.
Indian teammates Hayden Gillim (#69) and Troy Herfoss (#17) will continue their intramural points battle in Texas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
In second is Herfoss, the only rider with a realistic path to catching his teammate after pushing him to the wire more than once already this year. Smith sits third, 54 points back — technically alive but needing plenty to go his way over the final two rounds if Harley-Davidson is going to have a say in how this one ends.
Bradley Smith – 152 points | Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing (Harley-Davidson Road Glide)
Talent Cup
Championship leader Kensei Matsudaira of Team Roberts has his hands full behind him after the previous round, salvaging a pair of podium finishes after a challenging weekend in Virginia.
The 15-year-old Californian still leads the standings, but the margin that once stood at 23 points is down to just five after Quarterley Racing’s Nathan Gouker clawed back 18 with his double-victory performance at his home round. Matsudaira had to fight for every position to protect it, and he’ll need more of that grit at COTA to keep the pressure from turning into a deficit before the final round in New Jersey.
Kensei Matsudaira at VIRginia International Raceway. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Gouker is the one applying it, riding a wave of momentum after his second straight win on home-region asphalt. Team Hammer’s Jake Paige rounds out the top three, 73 points back — technically still in the conversation, but needing a big weekend, and then some help, to stay in the hunt.
COTA isn’t new to this group — it’s where the 2026 season began. Matsudaira and Gouker split the two season-opening races back in March, trading wins separated by two-tenths of a second and a quarter-second, while Paige and Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing’s Sam Drane swapped the final two podium spots by similarly slim margins in both races. That was before the series had turned a single competitive lap of the season. Now, with a full championship’s worth of racing and data behind them, all four return to Texas with a level of track knowledge none of them had back in March — enough that COTA could play out as a completely different race this time around.
Talent Cup Championship Top 3:
Kensei Matsudaira – 249 points | Team Roberts (Krämer APX-350 MA)
Andy DiBrino held off BPR Racing Yamaha teammate and Team Owner Bryce Kornbau by 0.216 of a second at Mid-Ohio, making a last-lap pass in the esses to continue a mid-to-late season trend of the two swapping wins over the last four rounds, and DiBrino on a run of six straight podiums.
DiBrino’s cushion at the front is just as thin — a five-point lead with two races and 50 points left to award. He’s had to earn every bit of it as Kornbau has set multiple lap records this season and the margin could swing either way in Texas.
Andy Dibrino (#62) leading Bryce Kornbau (#74), Gus Rodio (#95) and the rest of the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship Field at Mid-Ohio. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Gus Rodio (Rodio Racing) sits third, 19 points back, and remains the only other rider with a mathematical path to the title. Defending champion James Rispoli of Saddlemen Race Development, 53 points behind with just 50 on the table, has officially run out of road — leaving the fight for the 2026 crown to the top three at this final stop in Texas.
Super Hooligan Championship Top 3:
Andy DiBrino – 168 points | BPR Racing Yamaha (Yamaha MT-09 SP)
MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3 teams are heading to Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli this weekend for Round 14 of the 2026 FIM MotoGP World Championship. Following the Aragón round, the paddock returns to action from September 11-13, with all three classes set to tackle the fast and flowing 2.53-mile (4.226-kilometer) circuit in Misano Adriatico, Italy. As the championship battle intensifies with the season entering its final stages, every point becomes increasingly important. Below, find the latest team press releases ahead of the Red Bull Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera.
More from a press release issued by Aprilia Racing:
Home Grand Prix for Aprilia Racing in Misano. Jorge Martín and Marco Bezzecchi renew the challenge at the GP of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera.
Aprilia Racing makes another stop in Italy, this time at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, for the Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera, the fourteenth round of the Grand Prix Motorcycle Racing Championship season.
After the intense Aragón weekend, Jorge Martín heads to Misano leading the overall standings with 256 points, aiming to build on his confidence aboard the RS-GP26 and get back to battling for the top spots.
Marco Bezzecchi arrives in Misano after his positive weekend in Aragon, where he secured two third-place finishes despite still being affected by the injury sustained at the Sachsenring. The Italian rider will tackle his home race with every intention of confirming the competitiveness he has demonstrated in the last two Grand Prix.
The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli is a technical track with numerous direction changes between turns and chicanes. The layout winds clockwise over 4.23 km with a total of 16 turns – 10 righthanders and 6 lefthanders. Notable among these is Turn 11, the renowned ‘Curvone’, a particularly fast section where riders reach speeds of around 240 km/h.
Jorge Martin (89) at Aragon. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
Jorge Martín: “The Misano GP is always special when you are on an Italian team and, along with Aprilia and the fans, I’m sure it will be a great weekend. We are heading to a track that I like after doing a good job in Aragón, and we have clear objectives. Leading the standings is important for the entire Aprilia team, but we’ve already seen that, given the close gaps, it is neither a priority nor a determining factor. We need to keep focusing on our work. I can’t wait to get on the RS-GP26 and do my best at Aprilia’s home race.”
Marco Bezzecchi (72) at Aragon. Photo courtesy Aprilia Racing.
Marco Bezzecchi: “I’m extremely happy to be going to Misano. It will be fantastic to finally see all our fans again, although it will undoubtedly be a demanding weekend. I can’t wait to get back on the track on my RS-GP26.”
More, from a press release issued by Honda HRC:
Mastering Misano the goal for Marini and Mir.
A trip to the seaside for Honda HRC Castrol, traveling to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for Round 14 of the year – a key moment for both Luca Marini and Joan Mir.
Nestled on Italy’s Adriatic coast near Misano Adriatico in the Province of Rimini, the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli has been a fixture of the MotoGP calendar since 2007. The 4.2km Grand Prix layout features 16 corners that reward precision and hard braking, making it a demanding test for rider and machine alike. With its passionate Italian crowds and rich Grand Prix heritage, Misano remains one of the most atmospheric and historically resonant rounds on the MotoGP calendar.
The San Marino GP is Luca Marini’s home race, the #10 living just a few kilometres from the circuit and hosts him for frequent training days. In 2025, Marini achieved a pair of seventh place finishes in Misano – a solid base to build from this year. Having made improvements to his Qualifying setup last time out in Aragon, the Italian is determined to get into Q2 and chase the leading group rather than spending his race carving through the pack. 11th in the World Championship, Marini is just two points shy of Aldeguer and ready to take the fight down to the wire.
Returning to the points in Aragon, Joan Mir is now looking to turn the result into a consistent streak in this crucial final part of the year. Mir and the team are aiming to extract the maximum from their current package and the Majorca-born 2020 World Champion will be targeting a clean, mistake-free weekend to convert his well-documented braking prowess and racecraft into solid points. While Honda continues to work hard to close the gap to the front-runners, Mir will need to carry the momentum of recent progress into a strong result for the Castrol-backed factory squad.
Luca Marini (10) and Joan Mir (36). Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
Luca Marini:“I am really looking forward to this weekend. Racing in Italy is always great with the extra support from the fans but also Misano is a circuit I really enjoy riding at. The fast back section is fantastic and it’s somewhere I have been strong at in the past. Last time out we made a step in our Qualifying setup so I am optimistic that we can put that to use this weekend and get into the top 12. Like this, I think we can fight for something more. Let’s enjoy with all the fans!”
Joan Mir:“Misano will be about recalibrating after a weekend where we missed something in Aragon. It can be a bit of a tricky circuit, but these last two years the circuits that should be tricky have been a little bit kinder to us! The objective is to put together another clean and consistent weekend and put ourselves in a good position for the races, see what we can accomplish. Now we start a really busy period of the year so we need to keep our momentum up and build from one race to another.”
More, from a press release issued by VR46 Racing Team:
The San Marino and the Rimini Riviera GP hosts MotoGP this weekend, and Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli are back on track on their home soil.
MotoGP is back on track this weekend for the San Marino and the Rimini Riviera GP, one of the most important rounds of the season for the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team. Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli are ready to face their home GP, just as the Tavullia-based Team, which secured a double podium in 2023 (a second place both in the Sprint and in the race) and a Sprint podium last year.
After a complicated Aragon GP, Di Giannantonio is determined to return to the spotlight at Misano, where he arrives in fourth place in the World Standing with 208 points (48 points behind the championship leader and 24 points away from the Top3). Fabio knows his home track like the back of his hand. In his previous home GP appearances, the rider from Rome claimed two third-place finishes in Moto3 (in 2017 and 2018), followed by a second-place finish in 2019 (in Moto2), for a total of three consecutive podiums. Furthermore, last year he finished third in the Sprint.
Morbidelli arrives in Misano full of enthusiasm, and he is ready to confirm the progress he has shown in recent races. Despite the difficulties faced at Aragon, Franco proved that he has excellent potential, which he cannot wait to express at his home track, where he claimed his first MotoGP victory in 2020 and secured a Sprint podium (third) in 2024. Sixteenth in the World Standing with 53 points, the Italian-Brazilian rider returns to the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli” with plenty of data and experience under his belt, also thanks to his participation in the WDW and the tests held throughout the year.
For its home GP, the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team will wear a special jersey celebrating its roots: the flags of Romagna, San Marino and Italy come together in an explosion of shapes and colours. The special jerseys will be available on Kappa Sport and VR46 Tribe, as well as at the circuit store.
The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team will hit the track on Friday for free practice, while qualifying will take place on Saturday at 10:50 (local time). The Sprint will get underway at 3:00 pm (local time) on Saturday, while the Gran Premio di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini will conclude on Sunday with the main race, starting at 2:00 pm (local time).
Fabio Di Giannantonio (on the right) and Franco Morbidelli (on the left). Photo courtesy VR46 Racing Team.
Fabio Di Giannantonio: “We’re really fired up for Misano! It’s our home race, and we have to push as hard as possible. Racing in front of our home crowd, with family and friends here, always gives you that extra motivation to do even better. We arrive in Misano with some very good data from last year, when we were really strong. That will certainly make our job easier, but the feedback we got from the Aragon weekend could also be useful, even though it wasn’t an easy one. We’re ready and can’t wait to race in front of our home crowd.”
Franco Morbidelli: “Misano is always amazing, the atmosphere is magical and the home crowd is always special. We arrive at our home track really fired up because we had good potential at Aragon. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to turn it into a result, but we’re aiming to bounce back this weekend. The goal will be to have a clean weekend. It will be important to get the most out of everything and do a great job because, together with Brazil, this is the most important race of the year for me.”
More, from a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:
Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Head to Misano for Home-from-Home Round.
The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team travelled to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for Round 14 of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship, the Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera.
The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team are looking forward to the Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera, which they regard as a second home round. Riders Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins are gearing up for the upcoming double header, which wraps up the European leg before the overseas rounds.
Quartararo enters the beloved Misano circuit in fifteenth place in the overall standings. The track holds a special place in his heart, it having been the venue where he secured the 2021 MotoGP World Championship title. The Frenchman has visited the MotoGP podium in Misano twice up till now, finishing second in both 2019 and 2021 at the San Marino GP.
Rins is currently 20th in the championship standings. Misano has also proven to be a successful track for him, particularly in the lower classes. He claimed Moto3 victories there in 2013 and 2014 and secured second place in Moto2 in 2016. The Spaniard’s best MotoGP result at the circuit came in 2018 when he finished fourth.
The Misano circuit, constructed in 1972, was a regular venue for Italian Grands Prix throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. Following an extensive renovation to meet MotoGP safety regulations, the 4.23 km track returned to the MotoGP calendar in 2007 and has stayed on it since. It was renamed in 2012 in honour of Marco Simoncelli. The clockwise circuit features six left and ten right corners, with a chicane contributing to the exciting layout that fans and riders enjoy.
Fabio Quartararo (20) and Alex Rins (42). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Fabio Quartararo:“I’m happy to be back in Misano because this track gives me a lot of good memories. Winning the World Championship here in 2021 makes it a very special place for me. After a difficult race in Aragon, it’s important that we start this round in the right way and work efficiently throughout the Friday. Then we can focus on having a good weekend and enjoying the racing.”
Alex Rins:“Misano is a track that I have always enjoyed, and I have some good memories there. We come into this weekend after taking some positives from Aragon, where we managed to move forward in the race and score points despite starting further back on the grid. We know where we need to improve, and I feel motivated for this round and for the upcoming double header. The target is to keep working step by step, be competitive from the beginning of the weekend, and make the most of every opportunity.”
Massimo Meregalli – Team Director:“After a one-week break, we now head to Misano, a circuit that is very special to our team and one that always creates a fantastic atmosphere. It feels like a second home Grand Prix for us, and that gives everyone an extra boost of motivation. Aragon showed us that there is still work to do. We will use the data gathered from the previous round to continue improving and make the most of this important double header. We are looking forward to seeing what we can achieve in front of the passionate Misano fans.”
More, from a press release issued by Ducati Lenovo Team:
Ducati Lenovo Team ready to face the San Marino Grand Prix in front of the home crowd.
The MotoGP paddock moves to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for the 14th round of the 2026 season. A home track, the scene of great duels in the recent past, where the Desmosedici GP has managed to claim victory 8 times: from the first success in 2007 with Casey Stoner, through the victories of Andrea Dovizioso (2018), Pecco Bagnaia (2021, 2022), Jorge Martín (2023), Enea Bastianini (2024 Emilia-Romagna GP), up to Marc Márquez’s triumphs in 2024 and 2025.
This weekend will see a historic milestone for Pecco Bagnaia, who on Sunday will become the rider with the most starts in the history of Ducati Corse in MotoGP, reaching 142 starts (from 2019 Qatar GP to 2026 San Marino GP), surpassing Andrea Dovizioso’s 141 and Héctor Barberá’s 108. An extraordinary journey celebrated by 2 World Titles, 31 victories, 63 podiums, and 22 pole positions. With a complicated weekend behind him but just 22.7 km from home, Pecco prepares to receive a final embrace in Italy from all the Ducatisti who have supported him over these 8 seasons riding the Desmosedici GP.
Marc Márquez returns to the track after his dominance at MotorLand and a full haul of 37 points, on a track that has seen him triumph twice in the last two years. Everyone remembers last year’s iconic Messi-style celebration on the podium in front of the red squad, and Marc is ready to be a key player once again.
Francesco Bagnaia (on the left) and Marc Márquez. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Marc Márquez (#93, Ducati Lenovo Team): “At Aragón we scored maximum points, and that was the goal. MotorLand is a track that suits my riding style very well. Here at Misano it will be a bit more complicated, but it’s still a track where I can try to express myself at my best and push the Desmosedici GP to its full potential. Plus, there will be so many Ducatisti fans, who can definitely give you that extra boost”.
Francesco Bagnaia (#63, Ducati Lenovo Team): “At Aragón we struggled, but holding back isn’t like me. So we’re getting right back to work with the whole Team on a truly special track: my real home track, in front of all the Ducatisti. We’re not giving up and we’ll keep pushing to be key players once again. I’m sure that the fans’ support and passion will give me that little something extra, just as they have in the past“.
More, from a press release issued by Prima Pramac Yamaha:
Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP heads to Misano with confidence after positive Aragón weekend.
Jack Miller and Toprak Razgatlıoğlu return to action at Misano following a positive Aragón weekend, with both riders bringing strong references from the Italian circuit. The characteristics of the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli also provide another opportunity for the YZR-M1 to build on its recent progress.
Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP arrives at the San Marino Grand Prix with renewed confidence after a positive weekend in Aragón, where Jack Miller consistently showed competitive pace and Toprak Razgatlıoğlu demonstrated the ability to run at the level of the Top 10 before his late-race crash. The team now returns to action at a circuit where the progress made with the YZR-M1 will face another important test.
The 4.226-kilometre Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli features 16 corners and a combination of fast, flowing sections and more technical areas, placing a strong emphasis on braking, corner entry and chassis performance. These characteristics offer the Yamaha another opportunity to exploit the improvements made to the bike’s chassis and overall balance as the team continues its development work.
Both riders also arrive with positive memories of Misano. Miller has previously finished fifth in MotoGP at the circuit and secured pole position in 2022, while Razgatlıoğlu has enjoyed outstanding success there in WorldSBK, winning all three races in both 2024 and 2025. For the Turkish rider, the return to a circuit where he has achieved so much will provide another opportunity to continue adapting that experience to the YZR-M1.
With the final part of the season entering a particularly demanding phase, the team will look to make the most of its home Italian round, continuing to build on the progress seen in recent races and gathering further information to guide the development of the project.
Jack Miller (left) and Toprak Razgatlioglu (right). Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha.
Jack Miller:“Looking forward to the second of the Italian rounds this weekend and another home Grand Prix for the team, as many of team members are Italian. Misano should be a nice, warm one, and it‘s always a great place to come and race with the atmosphere and the fans around the circuit. Hopefully we can keep building on the confidence we‘ve gained over the last couple of Grand Prix and continue moving in the right direction. We‘ve made some good progress recently, so the goal is to carry that into Misano, get to work straight away and see what we can put together. It‘s a track I‘ve had some good results at in the past, so hopefully we can have another solid weekend and put ourselves in a good position.”
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu:“Misano is normally my favourite track, and I have really good memories from there, especially after the great weekend we had last year. Now we are going back with the MotoGP bike, so it will be a different experience and we will see how it works. I really like the track, so I‘m looking forward to riding there again and seeing what we can do with the Yamaha. We will work hard from Friday and try to understand the bike better with the characteristics of this track. I will give my best, like always, and I hope we can make another step forward and fight for some special results”
Gino Borsoi – Team Director:“Misano is a track where the qualities of the Yamaha chassis, together with the upgrades and improvements we have made on the electronics side, could help us to continue the positive results we have achieved in the last few races. Miller is getting faster and faster, while Toprak, after a more difficult period, continues to give us positive signs, and I believe this could be a very interesting weekend for him. We will work hard because I believe that, in this final part of the season, more and more opportunities are starting to open up for the team and the riders, and we are very happy with the way things are progressing with Yamaha. There is certainly still a lot of work to do between now and the end of the season, both for the team and for Yamaha, to improve wherever possible and prepare for next year. But, as I have always said, we approach this final part of the championship with a very positive attitude and with the desire to show that, step by step, we are getting closer to where we want to be.”
More, from a press release issued by CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team:
Quiles wants to keep making history. The CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team rider has racked up 10 wins in 30 races and, with one more victory, would be among the top three riders with the most wins in Moto3 history.
Máximo Quiles is keen to continue making history in the Moto3 category this weekend in San Marino. The CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team rider has 10 wins and 20 podium finishes from 30 races in the category and, should he secure one more victory, he would enter the top three riders with the most wins in Moto3 history, behind David Alonso (18) and Romano Fenati (13), and level with Joan Mir and José Antonio Rueda (11). Quiles is enjoying a record-breaking season: at this stage, only Luis Salom in 2013 had scored more points (259, compared to the current Moto3 leader’s 256). Furthermore, among the current World Championship line-up, he is the rider with the second-highest win percentage relative to starts, at 33.3 per cent – close to Marc Márquez’s career win rate of 34.8 per cent up to the Aragon Grand Prix.
With all this in mind, Máximo Quiles heads to the San Marino Grand Prix, which will take place at the Misano – Marco Simoncelli Circuit this weekend, aiming to further extend his lead over his rivals in the overall standings. His lead over Álvaro Carpe narrowed to 85 points after the Silverstone race, which Quiles was unable to contest due to injury. At Aragón, the rider from Murcia was able to put some distance between them once again, finishing twelve points ahead of his compatriot, which means he arrives at Misano with a 97-point lead at the top of the Moto3 standings, with 225 points still up for grabs before the end of the season.
His team-mate Marco Morelli consolidated fifth place in the overall standings at Aragón with his fourth podium of the season – his third in third place – and now has a 28-point lead over the rider in sixth. The Argentine, who set the fastest lap in the MotorLand race, is looking up towards the top positions in the standings, from which he is, coincidentally, also separated by 28 points. Over the next two weeks, Morelli faces the last two circuits on which he has not yet competed in Moto3: Misano and the Red Bull Ring in Austria. However, the Argentine did race at the Italian circuit during his time in the Rookies Cup, where he stood on the podium twice in 2025.
Máximo Quiles (28). Photo courtesy Aspar Team.
Máximo Quiles:“I’m really happy to be back racing after my injury, and to do so with a win is a huge motivation. I still need to improve physically, so I’m heading to Misano without any added pressure. We’ll take it step by step and focus on enjoying ourselves. If we need to take fewer risks to protect my collarbone, we’ll do so, but if we need to fight, we’ll be ready for that too.”
Marco Morelli. Photo courtesy Aspar Team.
Marco Morelli:“I’ve known the Misano circuit since I was racing in the junior categories and I’ve always really liked it. I think this track could suit me well, especially after the positive momentum from the last race at Aragón. I’m really motivated and we need to make the most of it to continue along the same lines: taking it step by step to get where we want to be. I’m sure we’ll get there.”
TYLER SCOTT RACING MISSION M4 ECSTAR SUZUKI SUPERBIKE AT COTA
Escalante missing MotoAmerica round due to injury while Scott and Paige take on expanded roles
Brea, CA – (September 9, 2026) – Team Hammer, Inc. announced today that Supersport standout Tyler Scott will substitute for the injured Richie Escalante in Superbike competition during this coming weekend’s MotoAmerica round at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, on September 11-13.
Escalante, who hails from Tizayuca, Mexico, is recuperating from a crash that injured his shoulder during the series’ most recent round at Virginia International Raceway. It’s an unfortunate turn for the 2020 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, who has been forced to the sidelines amidst another impressive Superbike campaign in which he’s logged five top-fives, including his sixth-career premier-class podium finish.
Scott is an ideal candidate to fill in for Escalante aboard the Mission M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R1000R. He ranks as among the most talented and decorated riders in Supersport despite being just 20 years old.
Scott has finished inside the Supersport Championship top five in all four of his previous attempts, securing six victories and 33 podiums along the way. Prior to that, the Pennsylvanian claimed the 2021 Junior Cup crown and was named AMA Youth Dirt Track Racer of the Year four times.
Scott said, “It’s going to be awesome to get to see what I can do on a Superbike. It’s unfortunate Richie was injured, and I wasn’t happy about that, but this is a chance to help out the team as his substitute. I think there will be a decent learning curve for me, but COTA is a more open track as opposed to some others. I rode about 15 laps on a Superbike at a test a few years ago, and I am really looking forward to the opportunity to actually race one.”
Scott’s shot on the team’s Superbike in turn grants an opportunity to another heralded young prospect who has excelled as both road racer and dirt tracker; Australian Bodie Paige will slot into Scott’s place on the team’s M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750 in Supersport action at the Circuit of the Americas.
Bodie Paige will substitute on Team Hammer’s M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750 in Supersport at the Circuit of the Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Paige is widely recognized as one of the brightest talents in two-wheeled sport. Last year, the 16-year-old was just the second amateur rider ever to be named the Nicky Hayden AMA Horizon Award recipient in both road racing and flat track.
And he’s lived up to that hype since turning pro. Paige currently ranks second in the Twins Cup standings on the strength of seven podiums, including two victories, aboard the M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-8R. Additionally, Paige has finished on the podium in all three of his Progressive American Flat Track starts in limited duty.
Paige said, “It’s a great chance for me, and it could help determine my future. It’s also a chance to learn new things. We’ll be looking to find a good setup for me and then to keep learning how to go fast on the Supersport bike. I rode the bike at Daytona, so I know the basics. COTA is also a track I have raced a couple of times, so it will be a good one for this opportunity.”
ABOUT TEAM HAMMER
The 2026 season marks Team Hammer’s 46th consecutive year of operating as a professional road racing team. Racebikes built and fielded by Team Hammer have won 138 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National races, have finished on AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National podiums 408 times and have won 11 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National Championships, as well as two FIM South American Championships (in Superbike and Supersport). The team has also won 137 endurance races overall (including seven 24-hour races) and 13 Overall WERA National Endurance Championships with Suzuki motorcycles, and holds the U.S. record for mileage covered in a 24-hour race. The team also competed in the televised 1990s Formula USA National Championship, famously running “Methanol Monster” GSX-R1100 Superbikes fueled by methanol, and won four F-USA Championships.
ABOUT SUZUKI
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.
Tyler Scott (70) will sign copies of this poster at the MotoAmerica event at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Brea, CA – Reigning world champion Richard Gadson clinched the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle regular season championship and will head into the upcoming Countdown to the Championship playoffs as the top seed after racing his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki Gen 3 Hayabusa to the semi-final round at the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indianapolis, on Monday.
Race Highlights
Richard Gadson qualified fourth and clinched the Pro Stock Motorcycle regular season championship by advancing to the semi-final round
Gaige Herrera qualified second, won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge and advanced to the semi-final round
After a break of nearly two months since the last race in Norwalk, championship leader Richard Gadson was eager to get back in the saddle of his Hayabusa at the U.S. Nationals in the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines team’s hometown. Historically one of the most prestigious races on the NHRA calendar, Indy also crucially sets the 10-rider field that will contest the six-race Countdown to the Championship to crown the 2026 Pro Stock Motorcycle world champion.
Gadson opened the extended four-day event, which features five qualification rounds spread over three days, by qualifying fourth with a 6.818-second/197.86 mph run on Sunday.
In round one, Gadson caught a break after a sluggish 7.073-second/196.50 mph pass left him vulnerable when his opponent Marc Ingwersen fouled on the starting line, negating what would otherwise have been a winning elapsed time.
Gadson’s magic ran out in in the semi-final round when his 6.878-second/197.25 mph run came up short against Matt Smith (6.773 seconds/200.26 mph), but not before he’d earned enough points to clinch the regular season title plus the purse money and top seed in the Countdown that comes with it.
“We’ve been in a little bit of a performance funk since the race in Norwalk and the All-Star Callout in Sonoma. I haven’t been able to run big numbers, but I’ve been racing my way through rounds and getting wins one way or another, sometimes with luck like today. I want to be both lucky and good. This weekend proved why,” Gadson said. “We’re heading into an intense part of the season with three races in the next month and there’s no room for error, so we’re going to do some testing here tomorrow to see what we can learn and keep plugging away.”
Gaige Herrera came to Indy as a back-to-back U.S. Nationals winner hoping to make it three in a row. He qualified second with a 6.781-second/198.79 mph run and won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, the specialty race-within-a-race held during qualifying sessions that carries a cash purse and championship bonus points, for the third time this year and 13th in his career.
Herrera advanced to the semi-finals with runs of 6.781 seconds at 199.29 mph and 6.809 seconds at 197.83 mph in rounds one and two over Hector Arana Jr. (foul) and Michael Ray (6.886 seconds/196.93 mph), respectively.
In the semi-final round, Herrera came up just .004-second short against Angie Smith (6.794 seconds/199.14 mph), losing by a narrow hole shot despite posting a slightly quicker 6.791-second/198.93 mph run. Photo courtesy Suzuki.
“We were missing a little performance this weekend, but I can’t be too mad about losing that one to Angie. That’s racing. Having a close race like that makes it fun for us racers and the fans,” Herrera said.
Herrera’s attention now turns to the Countdown, where he hopes to take back the championship from Gadson and add a third crown to the titles he earned in 2023 and 2024.
“I definitely feel mentally and physically prepared for the Countdown. It’s going to be a tight one between me, Matt, Angie and Richard, especially if it’s anything like this weekend. I’m going to put my head down and have fun with it,” he said. “I’m excited to go to Martin for the first race in the Countdown. It’s a new one for the NHRA but I’ve done a lot of testing there and I really love the track. Hopefully it gives me better luck than Maple Grove ever did.”
RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki crew chief Andrew Hines said the team’s performance was affected negatively by recent competition adjustments imposed by the NHRA, but their focus now switches to preparing for success over the remaining races.
“The Buells have a little bit of a performance advantage on us right now. There was a rule change coming into this race that gave us back a five-pound weight increase after NHRA had removed it earlier in the season. Hopefully they’ll take another look at it, because we were getting destroyed [in top speed] from the eighth-mile mark to the end of the track before the weight change and now we’re getting destroyed even more, so obviously it was the wrong thing to do,” Hines said.
Looking ahead, Hines said the team used the long break to perform engine maintenance and dyno testing in preparation for the Countdown, which will pack six races into the next ten weeks on the calendar.
“We have a week off and then three back-to-back events to start the Countdown. It’s going to be fast and furious, so we need everything to be ready to go for Sunday from the time we unload the trailer,” he said. “It’s going to be intense, and preparation and experience will definitely have an effect on the how the rest of the season shakes out, so we think that gives us an advantage.”
At the conclusion of the eight-race regular season, Gadson topped the standings with 795 points, followed by Herrera in third with 723 points. Championship points for the top ten riders in the Countdown will be reset ahead of the six-race playoffs, with Gadson on top of the standings and Herrera starting in third position.
The RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines team returns to action September 18-20 for the opening round of the Countdown to the Championship at the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals at US 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, MI.
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.
About Vance & Hines Motorsports:
Vance & Hines Motorsports is a powerhouse in the world of motorcycle racing, boasting a rich legacy of success. With a focus on innovation, performance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries, the team continues to redefine excellence in the NHRA and MotoAmerica. For more information, visit www.vanceandhinesmotorsports.com.
The Italian rider will make his debut in the top class next season and completes the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team’s line-up for 2027.
The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team announces the arrival of Nicolò Bulega from the 2027 campaign. The Italian rider, who is currently competing in WorldSBK, will make his debut in MotoGP with the Tavullia-based Team abroad a Ducati Desmosedici GP alongside Fermín Aldeguer, completing the line-up for next season.
For Bulega, this will mark his debut in the premier class as a full-time rider; however, he has already experienced the MotoGP feelings as a Ducati MotoGP test rider and racing the last two races of the last season as a replacement rider in the Official Team.
Furthermore, Nicolò took his first steps on the world stage in the premier class paddock, making his debut in Moto3 in 2015 as a wild card with the VR46 Racing Team after winning the FIM CEV Moto3 Junior Championship in the same year. Together with the Tavullia-based team, he completed the next three seasons in the lightweight class and his first year in Moto2 in 2019.
Bulega embarked on his journey in the production bikes, making his debut in WorldSSP in 2022 with Ducati. He won the world title the following year with ten pole positions and sixteen victories. The 2023 world title earned him the promotion to WorldSBK from 2024 with the factory team. He immediately made his mark, ending his debut season as a runner-up, confirming that result the following year. He currently leads the World Standing after a dominant campaign with 26 victories on 27 races contested so far.
From 2027, Bulega and the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team will work together with the goal of growing and achieving great results in MotoGP.
Nicolò Bulega. Photo courtesy VR46 Team.
Nicolò Bulega – 11: “Making it to MotoGP is a dream, because I will make my debut with the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team. I chose this team because I’ve always been linked to them: I was in the VR46 Riders Academy when I was a child, so I know everyone very well. So, making this step with people I know is easier from a human perspective. Moreover, they are all extremely professional. When I started to race, I had the dream of arriving to MotoGP. Then, for many reasons, my career took a different path: I moved to WorldSBK, when I focused build a successful career. But these years have gone far beyond my expectations, so we thought about making this step up to the premier class. I’m happy to reach this goal, even if it took me a little longer and I did a different journey compared to the usual one. For sure, it’s amazing and I’m very proud. Now, I don’t want to set any goals, I want to try to do well, take it one race at a time, especially at the beginning, and do the best job possible. I want to thank the entire VR46 Racing Team, Ducati Corse and Aruba for making this possible.”
Alessio Salucci – Team Director: “We are very happy to welcome Nicolò to the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team. We’ve been knowing him for many years, he started his career with us, and we achieved great results together. Over the years, both him and the team have been growing a lot, and now we are here to make great things together. We know he is a very talented rider since he was younger, and he proved that both in the past and currently, by dominating WorldSBK. I think he is ready to embark this new journey with maturity and awareness. We are very proud to have him in our Team, and we will give him the maximum support possible to help him achieve all his goals together.”
Gigi Dall’Igna – Direttore Generale Ducati Corse: “We are very happy to renew our agreement with Nicolò and to welcome him to the MotoGP Ducati project from next season. During these years, he proved to be a very talented rider, capable of growing consistently, making the most of our bikes and reaching an extremely high level of competitiveness. His journey confirms he is a rider with a solid and successful present, but at the same time, with a very promising future. We think the right moment to embark this new challenge has arrived. The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team is the ideal environment to support him during his adaptation to MotoGP, and we are convinced that he will have all the tools he needs to express his potential at his maximum. The new challenge will have to wait: for now, the focus is still the WorldSBK Championship. Nicolò is making a great season and now it’s time to focus all the work on just one goal: fighting together for the World Championship title. Finally, I would like to thank the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team for all the work they did together with Nicolò during these seasons. They were the first to believe in him, and the growing path that brought him to be ready for the MotoGP is the result of a shared commitment, the hard work of the team and the determination that Nicolò could show year by year.”
Pablo Nieto – Team Manager: “We complete next year’s line-up with Nicolò Bulega, a rider who always proved to be very talented and determined. His journey has not been always easy, but he is dominating the WorldSBK: he proved to deserve a place in MotoGP. Next year the regulation will change, and we will all start from zero. For sure, his experience with the WorldSBK tyres and the test with the new Ducati Desmosedici GP as a Ducati test rider will help him adapting well to the new category and making this journey as easy as possible. We trust him and we know he will be able to fight for the most important goals.”
Marc Márquez (93) at Misano. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
Marc Márquez topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Riding his Michelin-shod Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26, the Spaniard turned a lap of 1:31.468 around the 2.63-mile (4.23 km) track and led the 21-rider field.
Marco Bezzecchi was second-best with a 1:31.528 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP25.
Raul Fernandez was third with a lap of 1:31.601 on his SuperFile Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.
Marc Marquez edges out Bezzecchi by 0.060s in Misano FP1. The top two from last year’s Misano stunner begin 2026’s edition at the top in the tightly contested Friday morning stint.
A late lap from Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) saw the reigning World Champion clinch P1 in FP1 at the Red Bull Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera, as the #93 beats home hero – and 2025 Misano sparring partner – Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) to top spot by a slender 0.060s. Marc Marquez’s 1:31.468 was 0.133s quicker than Raul Fernandez’s (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) P3 time, as the opening stint gives us a flavour of what to expect from the rest of the Grand Prix.
Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) and the impressive Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) rounded out the top five, with Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) picking up P6 despite the Spaniard suffering a Turn 1 crash with 33 minutes left of FP1.
Where did title-chase leader Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) finish, we hear you asking? P8 the answer, with Italian Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) sandwiched between Acosta and Martin in P7.
Francesco Bagnaia’s (Ducati Lenovo Team) weekend didn’t get underway as the Italian and previous Misano winner would have hoped. It’s P18. 0.9s away from teammate Marquez for Pecco going into the afternoon.
Elsewhere, Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) thankfully walked away from a Turn 4 out-lap crash at the very start of the session. A cold front tyre suddenly washed out from underneath the Australian at the start of the weekend.
MM93 vs MB72 to kickstart the San Marino GP. Next up: Practice at 3 pm local time (UTC +2).
Manuel Gonzalez (18) at Misano. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
Manuel Gonzalez was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Riding his Pirelli-shod Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex on the 2.63-mile (4.23 km) track, the Spaniard recorded a 1:35.031 to lead the field of 29 riders.
His teammate, Senna Agius was the best of the rest with a 1:35.066.
Izan Guevara was third-fastest with a 1:35.121 on his BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Boscoscuro.
American Joe Roberts finished the opening session in 19th with a 1:36.316 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Joel Kelso was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Riding his GRYD Racing Honda on Pirelli control tires, the Australian rider covered the 2.63-mile (4.23 km) road course in 1:46.033, topping the field of 26 riders.
Leo Rammerstorfer was the best of the rest with a 1:46.566 on his SIC58 Squadra Corse.
Adrian Fernandez was third with a lap time of 1:47.143 on his Leopard Racing Honda.
Harrison Voight to Substitute for Dominic Doyle at Liberty St. Yamaha Racing at COTA. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
The 2026 Australian Superbike Champion will make his MotoAmerica Supersport debut with the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing team this weekend at the penultimate round of the championship.
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 10, 2026 – Liberty St. Yamaha Racing is pleased to announce that Harrison Voight, the reigning 2026 Australian Superbike champion, will step in as a fill-in rider for Dominic Doyle aboard the team’s Yamaha YZF-R9 at Round 9 of the MotoAmerica Supersport Championship this weekend at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
Doyle has been sidelined since sustaining an injury earlier this season at Mid-Ohio. Although he has worked diligently toward returning to competition, his recovery is not yet complete. The team’s priority remains Dominic’s health and ensuring that he has the time necessary to fully recover before returning to the track.
Voight brings considerable experience, speed and championship-winning credentials to the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing effort. Fresh from securing the 2026 Australian Superbike Championship, he will take on the challenge of racing the Yamaha YZF-R9 in the highly competitive Next Gen Supersport field as the team continues its 2026 campaign. Voight will also be joined by his former crew chief, Jamie Stauffer, who will support him as he transitions to the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing program.
“First and foremost, I want to wish Dominic a full and speedy recovery,” said Voight. “I know how tough it is to watch from the sidelines when all you want to do is race. I’m really grateful to Liberty St. Yamaha Racing for giving me this opportunity. Winning the Australian Superbike Championship has been a huge achievement, and I’m excited to bring that momentum to the team. Having Jamie Stauffer with me will also help make the transition as smooth as possible. We know how to work together, and I’m looking forward to getting comfortable on the R9 and going racing.”
For Liberty St. Yamaha Racing, bringing Voight and Stauffer on board provides an opportunity to remain competitive while continuing to support Doyle during his recovery.
“We’re obviously disappointed that Dominic isn’t able to return yet, but his health comes first,” said Chuck Giacchetto. “We’re excited to have Harrison on board, and having Jamie with him adds valuable experience and continuity to the program. Harrison is a talented rider, he knows how to race, and winning the Australian Superbike Championship demonstrates the level of performance he brings to our team. We’re looking forward to seeing what they can do on the R9.”
The team will work closely with Voight and Stauffer in preparation for the upcoming round, with the goal of getting Harrison comfortable with the bike and integrating Jamie into the Liberty St. Yamaha Racing operation as quickly as possible.
While Voight takes over riding duties, the entire Liberty St. Yamaha Racing organization continues to support Dominic and looks forward to seeing him back at the track when he is fully recovered.
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.:
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Golf Cars [sold, serviced, and distributed by Yamaha Golf-Car Company], Surface Mount Technology and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
Major Engine, Chassis and Suspension Updates Usher in a New Era of Rideability and Performance.
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 10, 2026 –Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, has announced the return of its off-road WR lineup, highlighted by major updates to the new 2027 WR450F engine, chassis, suspension and more. The new WR450F has been optimized to cater to Enduro riding where there’s a variety of terrain that necessitates a wider range of speed and versatility. The WR250F will return unchanged for 2027.
“The new WR450F has undergone significant changes in order to refine its power and handling characteristics,” said Dan Rivito, Yamaha Motorsports Motorcycle Business Manager. “The result is a machine that sets the standard for being easy to ride on both fast-flowing trails as well as tight, technical singletrack. Because easy to ride means easy to ride fast.”
Engine character has been tuned with a focus on low- to mid-range power to suit off-road riding. A revised intake port design produces a more linear delivery that enhances throttle control. Cam timing changes have resulted in more stable combustion while increased AC magneto inertia promotes a confidence-inspiring delivery aimed at technical and low-speed riding situations. Both changes also increase stall resistance at low speeds. To further improve power delivery, especially when riding flowing third gear trails, the rear drive sprocket has increased in size by one tooth from 50 to 51.
A new frame design for 2027 balances rigidity and flex characteristics. A revised front downtube results in a highly stable ride with enhanced front end feel for improved cornering performance. The new frame is matched with a new high-performance KYB® rear shock and revised fork settings with more progressive settings to provide better front-end contact, feel and initial movement comfort, giving the rider a new level of confidence in rocky, rooty and technical trail situations.
The updated shock features a new piston that improves damping force in the lowest speed range and expands the range of damping adjustments. The shock also has a new hand-operated low-speed compression clicker for simplified trailside adjustments.
These chassis and suspension updates result in greater usability in everything from slow, tight singletrack to high-speed open trail. With better comfort and front-end feel, the new WR450F is easier and less fatiguing to navigate through slippery rocks and roots on technical trails.
2027 WR450F. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
A new hydraulic clutch provides smooth, consistent engagement with less effort while eliminating the need for on-trail adjustments. In addition, a new clutch inner hub design is lubricated over a larger area for stable performance and durability.
New lightweight rear braking components have been reduced in size, including the brake disc, master cylinder and piston diameters. This improves rear brake controllability and saves 180g in total.
Updated styling for 2027 includes a sharper rear fender and new WRF graphics. There is also a new honeycomb-pattern seat cover material that makes sliding forward while braking easier and helps prevent sliding rearward during acceleration.
This model is equipped with Yamaha’s industry-leading smartphone Power Tuner App that features traction control, lap timer, suspension tuning guides, an ECU-lock function and more. Racing customers can access the engine tuning and launch control functions with the purchase of a GYTR Competition ECU Kit.
The 2027 WR450F is an intuitive, rider-friendly machine with an exceptional balance of power and handling. An enduro bike with more connection and control for longer, faster and more comfortable fun, as well as effortless slow speed riding. The result inspires rider confidence and sets a new standard for the class.
2027 WR450F. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
2027 WR450F Features & Benefits
Powerful 450cc four-stroke engine features a revised, more linear power delivery that smooths out the initial response for added control and rideability. Redesigned intake port produces more efficient combustion and improved torque
The reverse-fed engine features magneto, cam timing and drive sprocket changes for easily controllable low speed power delivery
Yamaha’s industry-leading smartphone Power Tuner App features Traction Control tuning and ECU-lock function
New hydraulic clutch offers lighter lever feel, smoother feathering and a consistent mesh point, eliminating the need for on-trail adjustments. A new clutch inner hub design also enables lubrication over a larger area for stable performance and durability
Advanced fuel injection via a 44mm Mikuni® throttle body ensures optimum fuel atomization and power for a wide range of riding conditions and helps efficient starting
Five-speed, wide ratio transmission with tri-shaft layout vertically stacks transmission shafts for a light and compact gearbox
New frame design balances rigidity and flex characteristics for great stability, comfort and compliance in off-road riding conditions
High-spec fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB® coil spring-type fork with revised settings provide exceptional feel, improved comfort and bump absorption
New high-performance KYB® rear shock enhances low-speed damping and smooths the damping transition between low and high speeds for enhanced control in a variety of conditions. The new rear shock now includes a hand-operated low-speed compression clicker for simplified trackside adjustments
New lightweight rear braking components have been reduced in size, including brake disc, master cylinder and piston diameters. This combines with new brake pad material to improve rear brake controllability and saves 180g in total
High-performance front brake features a large 270mm front brake rotor coupled with a Nissin caliper to provide excellent power and fade resistance
Updated styling includes a sharper rear fender and new WRF graphics
New honeycomb-pattern seat cover material maintains ease in sliding forward while improving hold from sliding rearward during acceleration
Trail-ready cross-country specific Dunlop® Geomax AT82 tires
Compact, lightweight push-button electric start provides effortless restarts
The 2027 WR450F and returning WR250F will be available in dealers this October in Team Yamaha Blue:
2027 WR450F: available this October for $10,499 MSRP
2027 WR250F: available this October for $9,199 MSRP
2027 WR450F in action. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Yamaha BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program
All 2027 YZ and WR models are eligible for Yamaha’s current BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, which features over $10 million for Yamaha BLU CRU riders competing in off-road motorcycle racing. YZ and WR riders can earn contingency payouts via a BLU CRU debit card, receive a BLU CRU welcome kit and exclusive invitations to special BLU CRU events and training opportunities.
For complete details on how to register for the BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, along with specific information on which racing series, events, and classes are included, visit the Off-Road Racing Contingency page on the Yamaha Motorsports website at: https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/blucru-registration.
Darryn Binder (#53), Josh Herrin (#2) and Josh Hayes (#4) screaming down the front straight at VIRginia International Raceway. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Four MotoAmerica Feature Classes add a quartet of tight championship fights to this weekend’s Quad Lock Superbike action at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas. Supersport, Mission King Of The Baggers and Talent Cup all head into COTA with time running out in their title fights, while the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship reaches its season finale for the class, with the number-one plate up for grabs in Texas.
COTA’s 3.41-mile, 20-turn counterclockwise circuit is one of the most physically and technically demanding venues on the calendar, and it will test every class on the grid. The Texas heat forecast for the weekend is expected to push competitors to their limits across three days of racing, placing a premium on rider endurance and tire management regardless of what machine they’re piloting.
Supersport
For Celtic/Economy Lube + Tire/Warhorse Ducati’s Darryn Binder, COTA is the only track on the MotoAmerica calendar where he has multiple races under his belt. The South African currently holds a 35 point lead over Rahal Ducati Moto with Desnuda Organic Tequila’s Josh Herrin and looks to lean on his prior MotoGP, Moto 2 and Moto 3 experiences to put the points lead further out of reach from Herrin.
Josh Hayes (4) at VIR. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Behind the leading duo, Rahal Ducati Moto with Droplight’s Kayla Yaakov sits 129 points behind in third. The 19-year-old holds a slim three-point advantage over BPR Racing Yamaha’s Josh Hayes in fourth. Hayes’ Race 2 win at VIR was the 90th of his lengthy AMA/MotoAmerica career, putting him just two shy of tying Cameron Beaubier’s current all-time record at 92. Hayes has recorded top-five finishes in 10 of 15 races and eyes a podium points spot just ahead.
Rounding out the top five in points is M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Tyler Scott. Scott will opt out of the Supersport class for COTA to fill in for his injured Superbike teammate Richie Escalante. In the Pennsylvanian’s place and making his MotoAmerica Supersport debut will be the team’s Twins Cup rider, 16-year-old Australian Bodie Paige.
Through a remarkable display of determination and an immense tolerance for the pain of physical rehabilitation, MP13 Racing/One Cure Racing’s Ella Dreher will re-enter the field for the COTA round. The 16-year-old Florida native rejoins the team in Texas after a grueling four-month recovery from her crash at Barber Motorsports Park earlier this year. She looks to regain her race pace before looking forward to 2027 with the MV Agusta-supported team.
Finally, the Supersport grid grows by one for the Texas round as 15-year-old Austin native Mikey Lou Sanchez is set to make his professional debut on home soil. In an impressive milestone for the series’ talent pipeline, the former Mini Cup champion will pilot a third Celtic Racing/Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati Panigale V2, proving the youth program directly leads to the professional MotoAmerica grid.
J&P Cycles/Motul/Vance & Hines Factory Indian’s Hayden Gillim took double victory during the previous round at Mid-Ohio, charging from sixth to win Race 2 by 0.25 of a second over teammate Troy Herfoss. Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing’s Bradley Smith rounded out the podium in third, and that’s exactly how the Mission King Of The Baggers field begins their final two rounds with a stop in Texas.
Gillim brings a 23-point lead into COTA, a cushion built on race craft as much as speed. The Kentucky-native has made a habit of finding his way to the front if he isn’t already there at the start.
Indian teammates Hayden Gillim (#69) and Troy Herfoss (#17) will continue their intramural points battle in Texas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
In second is Herfoss, the only rider with a realistic path to catching his teammate after pushing him to the wire more than once already this year. Smith sits third, 54 points back — technically alive but needing plenty to go his way over the final two rounds if Harley-Davidson is going to have a say in how this one ends.
Bradley Smith – 152 points | Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing (Harley-Davidson Road Glide)
Talent Cup
Championship leader Kensei Matsudaira of Team Roberts has his hands full behind him after the previous round, salvaging a pair of podium finishes after a challenging weekend in Virginia.
The 15-year-old Californian still leads the standings, but the margin that once stood at 23 points is down to just five after Quarterley Racing’s Nathan Gouker clawed back 18 with his double-victory performance at his home round. Matsudaira had to fight for every position to protect it, and he’ll need more of that grit at COTA to keep the pressure from turning into a deficit before the final round in New Jersey.
Kensei Matsudaira at VIRginia International Raceway. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Gouker is the one applying it, riding a wave of momentum after his second straight win on home-region asphalt. Team Hammer’s Jake Paige rounds out the top three, 73 points back — technically still in the conversation, but needing a big weekend, and then some help, to stay in the hunt.
COTA isn’t new to this group — it’s where the 2026 season began. Matsudaira and Gouker split the two season-opening races back in March, trading wins separated by two-tenths of a second and a quarter-second, while Paige and Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing’s Sam Drane swapped the final two podium spots by similarly slim margins in both races. That was before the series had turned a single competitive lap of the season. Now, with a full championship’s worth of racing and data behind them, all four return to Texas with a level of track knowledge none of them had back in March — enough that COTA could play out as a completely different race this time around.
Talent Cup Championship Top 3:
Kensei Matsudaira – 249 points | Team Roberts (Krämer APX-350 MA)
Andy DiBrino held off BPR Racing Yamaha teammate and Team Owner Bryce Kornbau by 0.216 of a second at Mid-Ohio, making a last-lap pass in the esses to continue a mid-to-late season trend of the two swapping wins over the last four rounds, and DiBrino on a run of six straight podiums.
DiBrino’s cushion at the front is just as thin — a five-point lead with two races and 50 points left to award. He’s had to earn every bit of it as Kornbau has set multiple lap records this season and the margin could swing either way in Texas.
Andy Dibrino (#62) leading Bryce Kornbau (#74), Gus Rodio (#95) and the rest of the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship Field at Mid-Ohio. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Gus Rodio (Rodio Racing) sits third, 19 points back, and remains the only other rider with a mathematical path to the title. Defending champion James Rispoli of Saddlemen Race Development, 53 points behind with just 50 on the table, has officially run out of road — leaving the fight for the 2026 crown to the top three at this final stop in Texas.
Super Hooligan Championship Top 3:
Andy DiBrino – 168 points | BPR Racing Yamaha (Yamaha MT-09 SP)
MotoGP race start at Aragon. Photo courtesy MotoGP.
MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3 teams are heading to Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli this weekend for Round 14 of the 2026 FIM MotoGP World Championship. Following the Aragón round, the paddock returns to action from September 11-13, with all three classes set to tackle the fast and flowing 2.53-mile (4.226-kilometer) circuit in Misano Adriatico, Italy. As the championship battle intensifies with the season entering its final stages, every point becomes increasingly important. Below, find the latest team press releases ahead of the Red Bull Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera.
More from a press release issued by Aprilia Racing:
Home Grand Prix for Aprilia Racing in Misano. Jorge Martín and Marco Bezzecchi renew the challenge at the GP of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera.
Aprilia Racing makes another stop in Italy, this time at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, for the Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera, the fourteenth round of the Grand Prix Motorcycle Racing Championship season.
After the intense Aragón weekend, Jorge Martín heads to Misano leading the overall standings with 256 points, aiming to build on his confidence aboard the RS-GP26 and get back to battling for the top spots.
Marco Bezzecchi arrives in Misano after his positive weekend in Aragon, where he secured two third-place finishes despite still being affected by the injury sustained at the Sachsenring. The Italian rider will tackle his home race with every intention of confirming the competitiveness he has demonstrated in the last two Grand Prix.
The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli is a technical track with numerous direction changes between turns and chicanes. The layout winds clockwise over 4.23 km with a total of 16 turns – 10 righthanders and 6 lefthanders. Notable among these is Turn 11, the renowned ‘Curvone’, a particularly fast section where riders reach speeds of around 240 km/h.
Jorge Martin (89) at Aragon. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
Jorge Martín: “The Misano GP is always special when you are on an Italian team and, along with Aprilia and the fans, I’m sure it will be a great weekend. We are heading to a track that I like after doing a good job in Aragón, and we have clear objectives. Leading the standings is important for the entire Aprilia team, but we’ve already seen that, given the close gaps, it is neither a priority nor a determining factor. We need to keep focusing on our work. I can’t wait to get on the RS-GP26 and do my best at Aprilia’s home race.”
Marco Bezzecchi (72) at Aragon. Photo courtesy Aprilia Racing.
Marco Bezzecchi: “I’m extremely happy to be going to Misano. It will be fantastic to finally see all our fans again, although it will undoubtedly be a demanding weekend. I can’t wait to get back on the track on my RS-GP26.”
More, from a press release issued by Honda HRC:
Mastering Misano the goal for Marini and Mir.
A trip to the seaside for Honda HRC Castrol, traveling to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for Round 14 of the year – a key moment for both Luca Marini and Joan Mir.
Nestled on Italy’s Adriatic coast near Misano Adriatico in the Province of Rimini, the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli has been a fixture of the MotoGP calendar since 2007. The 4.2km Grand Prix layout features 16 corners that reward precision and hard braking, making it a demanding test for rider and machine alike. With its passionate Italian crowds and rich Grand Prix heritage, Misano remains one of the most atmospheric and historically resonant rounds on the MotoGP calendar.
The San Marino GP is Luca Marini’s home race, the #10 living just a few kilometres from the circuit and hosts him for frequent training days. In 2025, Marini achieved a pair of seventh place finishes in Misano – a solid base to build from this year. Having made improvements to his Qualifying setup last time out in Aragon, the Italian is determined to get into Q2 and chase the leading group rather than spending his race carving through the pack. 11th in the World Championship, Marini is just two points shy of Aldeguer and ready to take the fight down to the wire.
Returning to the points in Aragon, Joan Mir is now looking to turn the result into a consistent streak in this crucial final part of the year. Mir and the team are aiming to extract the maximum from their current package and the Majorca-born 2020 World Champion will be targeting a clean, mistake-free weekend to convert his well-documented braking prowess and racecraft into solid points. While Honda continues to work hard to close the gap to the front-runners, Mir will need to carry the momentum of recent progress into a strong result for the Castrol-backed factory squad.
Luca Marini (10) and Joan Mir (36). Photo courtesy Honda HRC.
Luca Marini:“I am really looking forward to this weekend. Racing in Italy is always great with the extra support from the fans but also Misano is a circuit I really enjoy riding at. The fast back section is fantastic and it’s somewhere I have been strong at in the past. Last time out we made a step in our Qualifying setup so I am optimistic that we can put that to use this weekend and get into the top 12. Like this, I think we can fight for something more. Let’s enjoy with all the fans!”
Joan Mir:“Misano will be about recalibrating after a weekend where we missed something in Aragon. It can be a bit of a tricky circuit, but these last two years the circuits that should be tricky have been a little bit kinder to us! The objective is to put together another clean and consistent weekend and put ourselves in a good position for the races, see what we can accomplish. Now we start a really busy period of the year so we need to keep our momentum up and build from one race to another.”
More, from a press release issued by VR46 Racing Team:
The San Marino and the Rimini Riviera GP hosts MotoGP this weekend, and Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli are back on track on their home soil.
MotoGP is back on track this weekend for the San Marino and the Rimini Riviera GP, one of the most important rounds of the season for the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team. Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli are ready to face their home GP, just as the Tavullia-based Team, which secured a double podium in 2023 (a second place both in the Sprint and in the race) and a Sprint podium last year.
After a complicated Aragon GP, Di Giannantonio is determined to return to the spotlight at Misano, where he arrives in fourth place in the World Standing with 208 points (48 points behind the championship leader and 24 points away from the Top3). Fabio knows his home track like the back of his hand. In his previous home GP appearances, the rider from Rome claimed two third-place finishes in Moto3 (in 2017 and 2018), followed by a second-place finish in 2019 (in Moto2), for a total of three consecutive podiums. Furthermore, last year he finished third in the Sprint.
Morbidelli arrives in Misano full of enthusiasm, and he is ready to confirm the progress he has shown in recent races. Despite the difficulties faced at Aragon, Franco proved that he has excellent potential, which he cannot wait to express at his home track, where he claimed his first MotoGP victory in 2020 and secured a Sprint podium (third) in 2024. Sixteenth in the World Standing with 53 points, the Italian-Brazilian rider returns to the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli” with plenty of data and experience under his belt, also thanks to his participation in the WDW and the tests held throughout the year.
For its home GP, the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team will wear a special jersey celebrating its roots: the flags of Romagna, San Marino and Italy come together in an explosion of shapes and colours. The special jerseys will be available on Kappa Sport and VR46 Tribe, as well as at the circuit store.
The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team will hit the track on Friday for free practice, while qualifying will take place on Saturday at 10:50 (local time). The Sprint will get underway at 3:00 pm (local time) on Saturday, while the Gran Premio di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini will conclude on Sunday with the main race, starting at 2:00 pm (local time).
Fabio Di Giannantonio (on the right) and Franco Morbidelli (on the left). Photo courtesy VR46 Racing Team.
Fabio Di Giannantonio: “We’re really fired up for Misano! It’s our home race, and we have to push as hard as possible. Racing in front of our home crowd, with family and friends here, always gives you that extra motivation to do even better. We arrive in Misano with some very good data from last year, when we were really strong. That will certainly make our job easier, but the feedback we got from the Aragon weekend could also be useful, even though it wasn’t an easy one. We’re ready and can’t wait to race in front of our home crowd.”
Franco Morbidelli: “Misano is always amazing, the atmosphere is magical and the home crowd is always special. We arrive at our home track really fired up because we had good potential at Aragon. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to turn it into a result, but we’re aiming to bounce back this weekend. The goal will be to have a clean weekend. It will be important to get the most out of everything and do a great job because, together with Brazil, this is the most important race of the year for me.”
More, from a press release issued by Monster Energy Yamaha:
Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Head to Misano for Home-from-Home Round.
The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team travelled to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for Round 14 of the 2026 MotoGP World Championship, the Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera.
The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team are looking forward to the Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera, which they regard as a second home round. Riders Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins are gearing up for the upcoming double header, which wraps up the European leg before the overseas rounds.
Quartararo enters the beloved Misano circuit in fifteenth place in the overall standings. The track holds a special place in his heart, it having been the venue where he secured the 2021 MotoGP World Championship title. The Frenchman has visited the MotoGP podium in Misano twice up till now, finishing second in both 2019 and 2021 at the San Marino GP.
Rins is currently 20th in the championship standings. Misano has also proven to be a successful track for him, particularly in the lower classes. He claimed Moto3 victories there in 2013 and 2014 and secured second place in Moto2 in 2016. The Spaniard’s best MotoGP result at the circuit came in 2018 when he finished fourth.
The Misano circuit, constructed in 1972, was a regular venue for Italian Grands Prix throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. Following an extensive renovation to meet MotoGP safety regulations, the 4.23 km track returned to the MotoGP calendar in 2007 and has stayed on it since. It was renamed in 2012 in honour of Marco Simoncelli. The clockwise circuit features six left and ten right corners, with a chicane contributing to the exciting layout that fans and riders enjoy.
Fabio Quartararo (20) and Alex Rins (42). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Fabio Quartararo:“I’m happy to be back in Misano because this track gives me a lot of good memories. Winning the World Championship here in 2021 makes it a very special place for me. After a difficult race in Aragon, it’s important that we start this round in the right way and work efficiently throughout the Friday. Then we can focus on having a good weekend and enjoying the racing.”
Alex Rins:“Misano is a track that I have always enjoyed, and I have some good memories there. We come into this weekend after taking some positives from Aragon, where we managed to move forward in the race and score points despite starting further back on the grid. We know where we need to improve, and I feel motivated for this round and for the upcoming double header. The target is to keep working step by step, be competitive from the beginning of the weekend, and make the most of every opportunity.”
Massimo Meregalli – Team Director:“After a one-week break, we now head to Misano, a circuit that is very special to our team and one that always creates a fantastic atmosphere. It feels like a second home Grand Prix for us, and that gives everyone an extra boost of motivation. Aragon showed us that there is still work to do. We will use the data gathered from the previous round to continue improving and make the most of this important double header. We are looking forward to seeing what we can achieve in front of the passionate Misano fans.”
More, from a press release issued by Ducati Lenovo Team:
Ducati Lenovo Team ready to face the San Marino Grand Prix in front of the home crowd.
The MotoGP paddock moves to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for the 14th round of the 2026 season. A home track, the scene of great duels in the recent past, where the Desmosedici GP has managed to claim victory 8 times: from the first success in 2007 with Casey Stoner, through the victories of Andrea Dovizioso (2018), Pecco Bagnaia (2021, 2022), Jorge Martín (2023), Enea Bastianini (2024 Emilia-Romagna GP), up to Marc Márquez’s triumphs in 2024 and 2025.
This weekend will see a historic milestone for Pecco Bagnaia, who on Sunday will become the rider with the most starts in the history of Ducati Corse in MotoGP, reaching 142 starts (from 2019 Qatar GP to 2026 San Marino GP), surpassing Andrea Dovizioso’s 141 and Héctor Barberá’s 108. An extraordinary journey celebrated by 2 World Titles, 31 victories, 63 podiums, and 22 pole positions. With a complicated weekend behind him but just 22.7 km from home, Pecco prepares to receive a final embrace in Italy from all the Ducatisti who have supported him over these 8 seasons riding the Desmosedici GP.
Marc Márquez returns to the track after his dominance at MotorLand and a full haul of 37 points, on a track that has seen him triumph twice in the last two years. Everyone remembers last year’s iconic Messi-style celebration on the podium in front of the red squad, and Marc is ready to be a key player once again.
Francesco Bagnaia (on the left) and Marc Márquez. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Marc Márquez (#93, Ducati Lenovo Team): “At Aragón we scored maximum points, and that was the goal. MotorLand is a track that suits my riding style very well. Here at Misano it will be a bit more complicated, but it’s still a track where I can try to express myself at my best and push the Desmosedici GP to its full potential. Plus, there will be so many Ducatisti fans, who can definitely give you that extra boost”.
Francesco Bagnaia (#63, Ducati Lenovo Team): “At Aragón we struggled, but holding back isn’t like me. So we’re getting right back to work with the whole Team on a truly special track: my real home track, in front of all the Ducatisti. We’re not giving up and we’ll keep pushing to be key players once again. I’m sure that the fans’ support and passion will give me that little something extra, just as they have in the past“.
More, from a press release issued by Prima Pramac Yamaha:
Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP heads to Misano with confidence after positive Aragón weekend.
Jack Miller and Toprak Razgatlıoğlu return to action at Misano following a positive Aragón weekend, with both riders bringing strong references from the Italian circuit. The characteristics of the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli also provide another opportunity for the YZR-M1 to build on its recent progress.
Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP arrives at the San Marino Grand Prix with renewed confidence after a positive weekend in Aragón, where Jack Miller consistently showed competitive pace and Toprak Razgatlıoğlu demonstrated the ability to run at the level of the Top 10 before his late-race crash. The team now returns to action at a circuit where the progress made with the YZR-M1 will face another important test.
The 4.226-kilometre Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli features 16 corners and a combination of fast, flowing sections and more technical areas, placing a strong emphasis on braking, corner entry and chassis performance. These characteristics offer the Yamaha another opportunity to exploit the improvements made to the bike’s chassis and overall balance as the team continues its development work.
Both riders also arrive with positive memories of Misano. Miller has previously finished fifth in MotoGP at the circuit and secured pole position in 2022, while Razgatlıoğlu has enjoyed outstanding success there in WorldSBK, winning all three races in both 2024 and 2025. For the Turkish rider, the return to a circuit where he has achieved so much will provide another opportunity to continue adapting that experience to the YZR-M1.
With the final part of the season entering a particularly demanding phase, the team will look to make the most of its home Italian round, continuing to build on the progress seen in recent races and gathering further information to guide the development of the project.
Jack Miller (left) and Toprak Razgatlioglu (right). Photo courtesy Prima Pramac Yamaha.
Jack Miller:“Looking forward to the second of the Italian rounds this weekend and another home Grand Prix for the team, as many of team members are Italian. Misano should be a nice, warm one, and it‘s always a great place to come and race with the atmosphere and the fans around the circuit. Hopefully we can keep building on the confidence we‘ve gained over the last couple of Grand Prix and continue moving in the right direction. We‘ve made some good progress recently, so the goal is to carry that into Misano, get to work straight away and see what we can put together. It‘s a track I‘ve had some good results at in the past, so hopefully we can have another solid weekend and put ourselves in a good position.”
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu:“Misano is normally my favourite track, and I have really good memories from there, especially after the great weekend we had last year. Now we are going back with the MotoGP bike, so it will be a different experience and we will see how it works. I really like the track, so I‘m looking forward to riding there again and seeing what we can do with the Yamaha. We will work hard from Friday and try to understand the bike better with the characteristics of this track. I will give my best, like always, and I hope we can make another step forward and fight for some special results”
Gino Borsoi – Team Director:“Misano is a track where the qualities of the Yamaha chassis, together with the upgrades and improvements we have made on the electronics side, could help us to continue the positive results we have achieved in the last few races. Miller is getting faster and faster, while Toprak, after a more difficult period, continues to give us positive signs, and I believe this could be a very interesting weekend for him. We will work hard because I believe that, in this final part of the season, more and more opportunities are starting to open up for the team and the riders, and we are very happy with the way things are progressing with Yamaha. There is certainly still a lot of work to do between now and the end of the season, both for the team and for Yamaha, to improve wherever possible and prepare for next year. But, as I have always said, we approach this final part of the championship with a very positive attitude and with the desire to show that, step by step, we are getting closer to where we want to be.”
More, from a press release issued by CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team:
Quiles wants to keep making history. The CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team rider has racked up 10 wins in 30 races and, with one more victory, would be among the top three riders with the most wins in Moto3 history.
Máximo Quiles is keen to continue making history in the Moto3 category this weekend in San Marino. The CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team rider has 10 wins and 20 podium finishes from 30 races in the category and, should he secure one more victory, he would enter the top three riders with the most wins in Moto3 history, behind David Alonso (18) and Romano Fenati (13), and level with Joan Mir and José Antonio Rueda (11). Quiles is enjoying a record-breaking season: at this stage, only Luis Salom in 2013 had scored more points (259, compared to the current Moto3 leader’s 256). Furthermore, among the current World Championship line-up, he is the rider with the second-highest win percentage relative to starts, at 33.3 per cent – close to Marc Márquez’s career win rate of 34.8 per cent up to the Aragon Grand Prix.
With all this in mind, Máximo Quiles heads to the San Marino Grand Prix, which will take place at the Misano – Marco Simoncelli Circuit this weekend, aiming to further extend his lead over his rivals in the overall standings. His lead over Álvaro Carpe narrowed to 85 points after the Silverstone race, which Quiles was unable to contest due to injury. At Aragón, the rider from Murcia was able to put some distance between them once again, finishing twelve points ahead of his compatriot, which means he arrives at Misano with a 97-point lead at the top of the Moto3 standings, with 225 points still up for grabs before the end of the season.
His team-mate Marco Morelli consolidated fifth place in the overall standings at Aragón with his fourth podium of the season – his third in third place – and now has a 28-point lead over the rider in sixth. The Argentine, who set the fastest lap in the MotorLand race, is looking up towards the top positions in the standings, from which he is, coincidentally, also separated by 28 points. Over the next two weeks, Morelli faces the last two circuits on which he has not yet competed in Moto3: Misano and the Red Bull Ring in Austria. However, the Argentine did race at the Italian circuit during his time in the Rookies Cup, where he stood on the podium twice in 2025.
Máximo Quiles (28). Photo courtesy Aspar Team.
Máximo Quiles:“I’m really happy to be back racing after my injury, and to do so with a win is a huge motivation. I still need to improve physically, so I’m heading to Misano without any added pressure. We’ll take it step by step and focus on enjoying ourselves. If we need to take fewer risks to protect my collarbone, we’ll do so, but if we need to fight, we’ll be ready for that too.”
Marco Morelli. Photo courtesy Aspar Team.
Marco Morelli:“I’ve known the Misano circuit since I was racing in the junior categories and I’ve always really liked it. I think this track could suit me well, especially after the positive momentum from the last race at Aragón. I’m really motivated and we need to make the most of it to continue along the same lines: taking it step by step to get where we want to be. I’m sure we’ll get there.”
Tyler Scott will make his M4 ECSTAR Suzuki Superbike debut this weekend at Circuit of The Americas, substituting for the injured Richie Escalante. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
TYLER SCOTT RACING MISSION M4 ECSTAR SUZUKI SUPERBIKE AT COTA
Escalante missing MotoAmerica round due to injury while Scott and Paige take on expanded roles
Brea, CA – (September 9, 2026) – Team Hammer, Inc. announced today that Supersport standout Tyler Scott will substitute for the injured Richie Escalante in Superbike competition during this coming weekend’s MotoAmerica round at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, on September 11-13.
Escalante, who hails from Tizayuca, Mexico, is recuperating from a crash that injured his shoulder during the series’ most recent round at Virginia International Raceway. It’s an unfortunate turn for the 2020 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, who has been forced to the sidelines amidst another impressive Superbike campaign in which he’s logged five top-fives, including his sixth-career premier-class podium finish.
Scott is an ideal candidate to fill in for Escalante aboard the Mission M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R1000R. He ranks as among the most talented and decorated riders in Supersport despite being just 20 years old.
Scott has finished inside the Supersport Championship top five in all four of his previous attempts, securing six victories and 33 podiums along the way. Prior to that, the Pennsylvanian claimed the 2021 Junior Cup crown and was named AMA Youth Dirt Track Racer of the Year four times.
Scott said, “It’s going to be awesome to get to see what I can do on a Superbike. It’s unfortunate Richie was injured, and I wasn’t happy about that, but this is a chance to help out the team as his substitute. I think there will be a decent learning curve for me, but COTA is a more open track as opposed to some others. I rode about 15 laps on a Superbike at a test a few years ago, and I am really looking forward to the opportunity to actually race one.”
Scott’s shot on the team’s Superbike in turn grants an opportunity to another heralded young prospect who has excelled as both road racer and dirt tracker; Australian Bodie Paige will slot into Scott’s place on the team’s M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750 in Supersport action at the Circuit of the Americas.
Bodie Paige will substitute on Team Hammer’s M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750 in Supersport at the Circuit of the Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Paige is widely recognized as one of the brightest talents in two-wheeled sport. Last year, the 16-year-old was just the second amateur rider ever to be named the Nicky Hayden AMA Horizon Award recipient in both road racing and flat track.
And he’s lived up to that hype since turning pro. Paige currently ranks second in the Twins Cup standings on the strength of seven podiums, including two victories, aboard the M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-8R. Additionally, Paige has finished on the podium in all three of his Progressive American Flat Track starts in limited duty.
Paige said, “It’s a great chance for me, and it could help determine my future. It’s also a chance to learn new things. We’ll be looking to find a good setup for me and then to keep learning how to go fast on the Supersport bike. I rode the bike at Daytona, so I know the basics. COTA is also a track I have raced a couple of times, so it will be a good one for this opportunity.”
ABOUT TEAM HAMMER
The 2026 season marks Team Hammer’s 46th consecutive year of operating as a professional road racing team. Racebikes built and fielded by Team Hammer have won 138 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National races, have finished on AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National podiums 408 times and have won 11 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National Championships, as well as two FIM South American Championships (in Superbike and Supersport). The team has also won 137 endurance races overall (including seven 24-hour races) and 13 Overall WERA National Endurance Championships with Suzuki motorcycles, and holds the U.S. record for mileage covered in a 24-hour race. The team also competed in the televised 1990s Formula USA National Championship, famously running “Methanol Monster” GSX-R1100 Superbikes fueled by methanol, and won four F-USA Championships.
ABOUT SUZUKI
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.
Tyler Scott (70) will sign copies of this poster at the MotoAmerica event at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Gadson created his own luck in round two by combining a .083-second reaction time advantage and a 6.856-second/196.76 mph run to take a hole shot win over Ryan Oehler (6.841 seconds/197.25 mph). Photo courtesy Suzuki.
Brea, CA – Reigning world champion Richard Gadson clinched the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle regular season championship and will head into the upcoming Countdown to the Championship playoffs as the top seed after racing his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki Gen 3 Hayabusa to the semi-final round at the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indianapolis, on Monday.
Race Highlights
Richard Gadson qualified fourth and clinched the Pro Stock Motorcycle regular season championship by advancing to the semi-final round
Gaige Herrera qualified second, won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge and advanced to the semi-final round
After a break of nearly two months since the last race in Norwalk, championship leader Richard Gadson was eager to get back in the saddle of his Hayabusa at the U.S. Nationals in the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines team’s hometown. Historically one of the most prestigious races on the NHRA calendar, Indy also crucially sets the 10-rider field that will contest the six-race Countdown to the Championship to crown the 2026 Pro Stock Motorcycle world champion.
Gadson opened the extended four-day event, which features five qualification rounds spread over three days, by qualifying fourth with a 6.818-second/197.86 mph run on Sunday.
In round one, Gadson caught a break after a sluggish 7.073-second/196.50 mph pass left him vulnerable when his opponent Marc Ingwersen fouled on the starting line, negating what would otherwise have been a winning elapsed time.
Gadson’s magic ran out in in the semi-final round when his 6.878-second/197.25 mph run came up short against Matt Smith (6.773 seconds/200.26 mph), but not before he’d earned enough points to clinch the regular season title plus the purse money and top seed in the Countdown that comes with it.
“We’ve been in a little bit of a performance funk since the race in Norwalk and the All-Star Callout in Sonoma. I haven’t been able to run big numbers, but I’ve been racing my way through rounds and getting wins one way or another, sometimes with luck like today. I want to be both lucky and good. This weekend proved why,” Gadson said. “We’re heading into an intense part of the season with three races in the next month and there’s no room for error, so we’re going to do some testing here tomorrow to see what we can learn and keep plugging away.”
Gaige Herrera came to Indy as a back-to-back U.S. Nationals winner hoping to make it three in a row. He qualified second with a 6.781-second/198.79 mph run and won the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, the specialty race-within-a-race held during qualifying sessions that carries a cash purse and championship bonus points, for the third time this year and 13th in his career.
Herrera advanced to the semi-finals with runs of 6.781 seconds at 199.29 mph and 6.809 seconds at 197.83 mph in rounds one and two over Hector Arana Jr. (foul) and Michael Ray (6.886 seconds/196.93 mph), respectively.
In the semi-final round, Herrera came up just .004-second short against Angie Smith (6.794 seconds/199.14 mph), losing by a narrow hole shot despite posting a slightly quicker 6.791-second/198.93 mph run. Photo courtesy Suzuki.
“We were missing a little performance this weekend, but I can’t be too mad about losing that one to Angie. That’s racing. Having a close race like that makes it fun for us racers and the fans,” Herrera said.
Herrera’s attention now turns to the Countdown, where he hopes to take back the championship from Gadson and add a third crown to the titles he earned in 2023 and 2024.
“I definitely feel mentally and physically prepared for the Countdown. It’s going to be a tight one between me, Matt, Angie and Richard, especially if it’s anything like this weekend. I’m going to put my head down and have fun with it,” he said. “I’m excited to go to Martin for the first race in the Countdown. It’s a new one for the NHRA but I’ve done a lot of testing there and I really love the track. Hopefully it gives me better luck than Maple Grove ever did.”
RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki crew chief Andrew Hines said the team’s performance was affected negatively by recent competition adjustments imposed by the NHRA, but their focus now switches to preparing for success over the remaining races.
“The Buells have a little bit of a performance advantage on us right now. There was a rule change coming into this race that gave us back a five-pound weight increase after NHRA had removed it earlier in the season. Hopefully they’ll take another look at it, because we were getting destroyed [in top speed] from the eighth-mile mark to the end of the track before the weight change and now we’re getting destroyed even more, so obviously it was the wrong thing to do,” Hines said.
Looking ahead, Hines said the team used the long break to perform engine maintenance and dyno testing in preparation for the Countdown, which will pack six races into the next ten weeks on the calendar.
“We have a week off and then three back-to-back events to start the Countdown. It’s going to be fast and furious, so we need everything to be ready to go for Sunday from the time we unload the trailer,” he said. “It’s going to be intense, and preparation and experience will definitely have an effect on the how the rest of the season shakes out, so we think that gives us an advantage.”
At the conclusion of the eight-race regular season, Gadson topped the standings with 795 points, followed by Herrera in third with 723 points. Championship points for the top ten riders in the Countdown will be reset ahead of the six-race playoffs, with Gadson on top of the standings and Herrera starting in third position.
The RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines team returns to action September 18-20 for the opening round of the Countdown to the Championship at the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals at US 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, MI.
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.
About Vance & Hines Motorsports:
Vance & Hines Motorsports is a powerhouse in the world of motorcycle racing, boasting a rich legacy of success. With a focus on innovation, performance, and a commitment to pushing boundaries, the team continues to redefine excellence in the NHRA and MotoAmerica. For more information, visit www.vanceandhinesmotorsports.com.
Alessio Salucci – Team Director (on the left) and Nicolò Bulega. Photo courtesy VR46 Team.
The Italian rider will make his debut in the top class next season and completes the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team’s line-up for 2027.
The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team announces the arrival of Nicolò Bulega from the 2027 campaign. The Italian rider, who is currently competing in WorldSBK, will make his debut in MotoGP with the Tavullia-based Team abroad a Ducati Desmosedici GP alongside Fermín Aldeguer, completing the line-up for next season.
For Bulega, this will mark his debut in the premier class as a full-time rider; however, he has already experienced the MotoGP feelings as a Ducati MotoGP test rider and racing the last two races of the last season as a replacement rider in the Official Team.
Furthermore, Nicolò took his first steps on the world stage in the premier class paddock, making his debut in Moto3 in 2015 as a wild card with the VR46 Racing Team after winning the FIM CEV Moto3 Junior Championship in the same year. Together with the Tavullia-based team, he completed the next three seasons in the lightweight class and his first year in Moto2 in 2019.
Bulega embarked on his journey in the production bikes, making his debut in WorldSSP in 2022 with Ducati. He won the world title the following year with ten pole positions and sixteen victories. The 2023 world title earned him the promotion to WorldSBK from 2024 with the factory team. He immediately made his mark, ending his debut season as a runner-up, confirming that result the following year. He currently leads the World Standing after a dominant campaign with 26 victories on 27 races contested so far.
From 2027, Bulega and the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team will work together with the goal of growing and achieving great results in MotoGP.
Nicolò Bulega. Photo courtesy VR46 Team.
Nicolò Bulega – 11: “Making it to MotoGP is a dream, because I will make my debut with the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team. I chose this team because I’ve always been linked to them: I was in the VR46 Riders Academy when I was a child, so I know everyone very well. So, making this step with people I know is easier from a human perspective. Moreover, they are all extremely professional. When I started to race, I had the dream of arriving to MotoGP. Then, for many reasons, my career took a different path: I moved to WorldSBK, when I focused build a successful career. But these years have gone far beyond my expectations, so we thought about making this step up to the premier class. I’m happy to reach this goal, even if it took me a little longer and I did a different journey compared to the usual one. For sure, it’s amazing and I’m very proud. Now, I don’t want to set any goals, I want to try to do well, take it one race at a time, especially at the beginning, and do the best job possible. I want to thank the entire VR46 Racing Team, Ducati Corse and Aruba for making this possible.”
Alessio Salucci – Team Director: “We are very happy to welcome Nicolò to the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team. We’ve been knowing him for many years, he started his career with us, and we achieved great results together. Over the years, both him and the team have been growing a lot, and now we are here to make great things together. We know he is a very talented rider since he was younger, and he proved that both in the past and currently, by dominating WorldSBK. I think he is ready to embark this new journey with maturity and awareness. We are very proud to have him in our Team, and we will give him the maximum support possible to help him achieve all his goals together.”
Gigi Dall’Igna – Direttore Generale Ducati Corse: “We are very happy to renew our agreement with Nicolò and to welcome him to the MotoGP Ducati project from next season. During these years, he proved to be a very talented rider, capable of growing consistently, making the most of our bikes and reaching an extremely high level of competitiveness. His journey confirms he is a rider with a solid and successful present, but at the same time, with a very promising future. We think the right moment to embark this new challenge has arrived. The Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team is the ideal environment to support him during his adaptation to MotoGP, and we are convinced that he will have all the tools he needs to express his potential at his maximum. The new challenge will have to wait: for now, the focus is still the WorldSBK Championship. Nicolò is making a great season and now it’s time to focus all the work on just one goal: fighting together for the World Championship title. Finally, I would like to thank the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team for all the work they did together with Nicolò during these seasons. They were the first to believe in him, and the growing path that brought him to be ready for the MotoGP is the result of a shared commitment, the hard work of the team and the determination that Nicolò could show year by year.”
Pablo Nieto – Team Manager: “We complete next year’s line-up with Nicolò Bulega, a rider who always proved to be very talented and determined. His journey has not been always easy, but he is dominating the WorldSBK: he proved to deserve a place in MotoGP. Next year the regulation will change, and we will all start from zero. For sure, his experience with the WorldSBK tyres and the test with the new Ducati Desmosedici GP as a Ducati test rider will help him adapting well to the new category and making this journey as easy as possible. We trust him and we know he will be able to fight for the most important goals.”
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