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WorldSBK: Lecuona Tops Final Practice In Portugal

Iker Lecuona led FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 3 (FP3) Saturday morning at Portimao, Portugal. Riding his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Spaniard covered the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) track in 1:39.186 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Yari Montella was second-best with a 1:39.605 on his Barni Spark Racing Ducati Panigale V4R. 

Miguel Oliveira was third with a 1:39.622 on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR. 

American Garrett Gerloff was 9th with a time of 1:40.248 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR. 

Danilo Petrucci was 12th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR. 

 

fp3 wsbk

 

 

More from a press release issued by WorldSBK:

Lecuona closes in on Portimao lap record as he tops FP3 ahead of Montella and home hero Oliveira. The #7 set a 1’39.186s, around a tenth away from the Superpole lap record, to top FP3 ahead; the first session he’s topped for Ducati.

Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) set the pace in Free Practice 3 for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship by more than four tenths ahead of his rivals at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve. The #7 was quick on Friday and backed that up on Saturday morning at the Pirelli Portuguese Round as he headed Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) and home hero Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team), who had a crash late in the session.

Lecuona posted a 1’39.186s as he claimed P1 in the 20-minute session to secure P1 for the first time in his Ducati career, and his pace was just a tenth away from Toprak Razgatlioglu’s pole lap record from last year, when he set a 1’39.081s. He was 0.419s clear of Montella in second place with Portuguese star Oliveira in third, although he fell victim to the tricky Turn 5 hairpin with a few minutes remaining in the session. He had a lowside crash after running slightly wide at the hairpin before coming off his bike. Nevertheless, he set a 1’39.622s to secure P3.

Championship leader Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was fourth after setting a 1’39.795s, with the #11 saying on Friday that he ‘couldn’t push how he wanted’. He was ahead of Friday pacesetter Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in fifth, with Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) in sixth. The #97 had been running as high as P2 when he started his time attacks, but was demoted to P6. However, he was able to lap in the 1’39s as he set a 1’39.893s.

Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) has enjoyed plenty of success at Portimao and will aim to keep that going this season, with the two-time WorldSBK Champion finishing in P7 after he set a 1’40.006s. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was eighth ahead of Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) and Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Optical Express Racing), with the Brit rounding out the top ten.

 

The top six from WorldSBK FP3, full results here:

1. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’39.186s

2. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.419s

3. Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.436s

4. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.609s

5. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.632s

6. Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) +0.707s

 

Next up, Tissot Superpole! Catch all action LIVE and UNINTERRUPTED at 11:10 Local Time (UTC+0) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

MotoGP: More From Friday At The Red Bull USGP At COTA

In the morning MotoGP session at the Red Bull Grand Prix of The United States, Ducati Lenovo’s Marc Marquez lost the front just as he touched the gas coming over the crest of Turn 10 and hit the ground at just under 120 mph and plowed into the Roadracing World Action Fund-supplied Alpina soft barriers. Bruised and sore, he went back out and within a couple of laps regained his rhythm, he said. In the afternoon, he was quickest, and showed up at the post-session media conference with bandages on both arms. The surface at COTA changes from year to year, and Marquez says he was caught out by new bumps that had emerged there and elsewhere on the track.

 

Ai Ogura (79). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

There were nine crashes in Friday’s afternoon session. Trackhouse Racing’s Ai Ogura hit the deck, but scuffed leathers and all, he finished the day as the top Aprilia rider, second overall and only 0.053-second behind Marquez.

 

Fabio Di Giannantonio (49). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Coming off of a double podium in Brazil, Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing’s Fabio Di Giannantonio was consistently quick all day and finished the afternoon session third.

 

Marco Bezzecchi (72). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi took his factory Aprilia to fourth on Friday afternoon after working in the morning session on tire wear and data. While he did three runs in the morning, he did them all on the same set of medium front and rear Michelin slicks and finished ninth.

 

Alex Marquez (73) leads Jack Miller (43) on Friday afternoon at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Alex Marquez was another of the crashers in the afternoon session but looked more comfortable aboard his 2026-spec Gresini Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP26. Running the latest equipment means spending more time optimizing it, and Alex Marquez seems to be coming to terms with riding a bike that is still being developed.

 

Joe Roberts (16). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

American Joe Roberts finished the afternoon Moto2 session in 10th place, almost exactly a second off of the quickest time.

 

Jake Lewis (85). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

The Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup got off to a quiet start, with only nine riders taking to the track in the series’ inaugural event. And the locals were unable to convert the home court advantage to their favor, with Jake Lewis the quickest of the U.S. riders. On his Saddlemen Racing Development machine, Lewis finished qualifying in fourth, 2.1 seconds behind Eric Granado.

 

Enea Bastiannini (23). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Maverick Vinales withdrew from the event because a screw in his left shoulder had come loose. His Red Bull KTM Tech3 teammate Enea Bastiannini crashed twice in the afternoon session but still finished 10th-quickest and transfered directly to final qualifying for the first time since Barcelona in 2025.

 

Kensei Matsudaira (74). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Kensei Matsudaira led the first Talent Cup session, dropped to fourth in the second and finished the day by qualifying in second place, just behind Nathan Gouker. Jake Paige was third-quickest in qualifying but was penalized a position for an alleged track limits violation, bumping him back to fourth and moving San Drane up into third. Reese Frankenfield qualified fifth-quickest.

MotoAmerica: Gouker On Talent Cup Pole At COTA

Nathan Gouker earned pole position during MotoAmerica Talent Cup qualifying Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Quarterley Racing Kramer APX-350 MA on Dunlop control tires, Gouker covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:27.429, topping the field of 14 riders.

Kensei Matsudaira was the best of the rest with a 2:27.664 on his Team Roberts Kramer APX-350 MA.

Sam Drane was third with a lap time of 2:27.880 on his Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing Kramer APX-350 MA.

 

 

 

 

More from a press release issued by Phillip Gouker:

Nathan Gouker Claims Pole Position at COTA During Premier MotoAmerica / MotoGP Weekend.

AUSTIN, TX — March 27, 2026 — Nathan delivered a standout performance at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) today, securing pole position during qualifying in one of the most competitive race weekends of the season, sharing the stage alongside MotoGP.

Facing a deep and talented field on the world-class Texas circuit, Nathan executed a near-perfect lap to claim the top starting spot. His performance highlighted both his growing confidence and the strength of the team as they compete on one of the biggest platforms in road racing.

“Getting pole at COTA is huge,” said Nathan. “This track is one of the toughest we race, and to do it on a weekend like this, with MotoGP here, makes it even more meaningful. The Quarterley Racing Team has worked incredibly hard this weekend giving me a competitive bike, and the bike felt amazing out there.”

Circuit of the Americas is widely regarded as one of North America’s most technical tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, a mix of high-speed sections, and tight, demanding corners. Nathan’s qualifying lap demonstrated exceptional pace and control, positioning him as a strong contender heading into race day tomorrow.

The team would like to extend a sincere thank you to its valued partners and sponsors for their continued support: Wrench Motorcycle, Warhorse Racing, CP Motorsports, Fast By Ferracci, Cornerspin, KYT Americas, VO2 Leathers, Precision Track Days, Essex Moto, Accossato Racing, Fast Glass Media, LeJune Motorsports, Busters Speed Shop, Identity Custom Signage, 64 Degree Racing, Carolina Supermoto, VIR Kart Track, Daniels Tire, and Ride Supermoto. Their commitment plays a vital role in the team’s success on and off the track.

 

With pole-position secured, Nathan and the team now shift focus to race day, aiming to convert strong qualifying pace into a podium result at COTA.

H-D Bagger World Cup: Granado On Pole at COTA

Eric Granado earned pole position during FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup Qualifying session Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Joe Rascal Racing Harley-Davidson on Dunlop control tires, the Brazilian covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:12.387, topping the field of 9 riders.

His teammate, Archie Mcdonald was the best of the rest with a 2:12.804.

Oscar Gutierrez claimed the third and final spot on the front  with a lap time of 2:13.710 on his Niti Racing Harley-Davidson.

Riding for Saddlemen Racing Harley-Davidson, American teammates Jake Lewis (2:14.527), Travis Wyman (2:15.178), and Cory West (2:15.269) finished 4th, 5th, and 6th respectively.

Cody Wyman was 8 with a time of 2:16.090 on his Joe Rascal Racing Harley-Davidson.

 

MotoAmerica: Gouker Quickest in Talent Cup FP2 At COTA

Nathan Gouker was quickest during MotoAmerica Talent Cup Free Practice 2 Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Quarterley Racing Kramer APX-350 MA on Dunlop control tires, Gouker covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:27.710, topping the field of 14 riders.

Jake Paige was the best of the rest with a 2:27.996 on his Team Hammer Kramer APX-350 MA.

Sam Drane was third with a lap time of 2:28.249 on his Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing Kramer APX-350 MA.

 

MotoGP: M.Marquez Fastest Friday Afternoon at COTA

Marc Marquez led MotoGP World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Lenovo Ducati Desmosedici GP26 on spec Michelin tires, the seven-time World Champion turned a lap time of 2:00.927 to lead the 21-rider field.

Ai Ogura was the best of the rest with a 2:00.980 on his Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.

Fabio Di Giannantonio was third at 2:01.114 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Marco Bezzecchi finished the session fourth with a 2:01.127 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.

Alex Marquez, riding his BK8 Gresini Ducati Desmosedici GP26, got fifth with a lap time of 2:01.213.

 

practice motogp

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Marc Marquez bounces back to go fastest on Friday, Ogura on the chase. The #93 ends the day fastest at a signature track despite his FP1 tumble – with the Aprilia charge led by Ogura in Texas, just 0.053 off the top.

Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) suffered a fast off in FP1 at the Red Bull GP of the United States, but come the end of play on Friday the seven-time MotoGP Champion was back on top at a venue he’s called his own more than any other rider. That said, it was a close-run day on the timesheets, with Ai Ogura – for home team Trackhouse MotoGP Team – just 0.053 off the top. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) takes P3 on Friday, 0.187 off Marc Marquez at the top.

After Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) stole the show in the morning at the top and Marc Marquez the headlines with his crash – rider ok – there was plenty at stake on Friday afternoon. There were nine crashes overall: Diggia, Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing), two for Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3), Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), Ogura, Toprak Razgatlioglu (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) and Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) in the first half hour, before the clock ticked down and only Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) slid out late on.

By the end of the classic end of session charge for the top, Marc Marquez was back on top – but Ogura’s lap did run him close. Both were set late in the session, with the Aprilia just 0.053 off. Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) was forced to settle for fourth on Friday – although just 0.013 off Diggia, who had breifly sat top of the session before the #93 turned up the wick, in third.

Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) slots into fifth, with Acosta taking sixth on Day 1. Martin, despite his crash, takes seventh ahead of Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) and Bastianini. For Bastianini, it’s his first time straight to Q2 since the 2025 Catalan GP – when he also took a podium on Sunday.

Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) is the first to just miss the cut in P11, with Binder another high-profile name down the order after his late crash – the #33 taking 19 on Friday.

There’s another chance for two more riders to move through to Q2 in qualifying on Saturday morning so make sure to tune in for more MotoGP on super Saturday at the Red Bull US GP!

MotoGP Practice results from Austin!

MotoGP: Viñales Has Withdrawn From the U.S. GP

Viñales sidelined from US GP, targets Jerez return. The #12 will undergo a minor procedure to remove a displaced screw fitted after his 2025 German GP crash. 

Following further assessment with MotoGP’s Medical Director, Red Bull KTM Tech3 rider Maverick Viñales has elected not to continue competing for the remainder of this weekend’s Red Bull Grand Prix of the United States. 

Viñales has been experiencing pain and limited power in his left shoulder and, following investigations earlier this week, it was discovered that a screw fitted after his Sachsenring injury last year has become displaced. The #12 crashed at the 2025 German GP and injured his shoulder, necessitating a long period of recovery.

Viñales will now travel back to Europe to undergo a minor procedure to remove the screw, with the intention of being fit to return for the Grand Prix of Spain in Jerez in April.

Moto2: Alonso Breaks Record At COTA

David Alonso led Moto2 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Colombian lapped the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:05.847, topping the field of 28 riders and breaking Manuel Gonzalez’s All-Time Lap Record of 2:07.355 from 2025.

Manuel Gonzalez was second-best with a time of 2:06.341 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt IntactGP Kalex.

Barry Baltus did a third-fastest 2:06.453 on his REDS Fantic Racing Kalex.

American Joe Roberts finished Friday afternoon’s practice session 10th with a best time of 2:06.853 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

moto2 practice

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Alonso lays down Day 1 Austin gauntlet as Holgado faces Q1. The Colombian sits over four tenths clear of Gonzalez and the chasing pack as the Championship leader finishes P20 on Friday.

On one side of the CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team box, a lot of joy was had on the opening day of Moto2 action at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the United States after David Alonso set a 2:05.847 to sit 0.494s clear of second place Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP). Barry Baltus (REDS Fantic Racing) ended Practice in P3, 0.606s shy of Alonso, while on the other side of the Aspar box, World Championship leader Daniel Holgado faces Q1 for the second weekend running.

Alonso’s race rhythm and one lap pace were stunning, with Gonzalez – who crashed unhurt at Turn 1 in the closing stages – the only rider able to get within half a second of the #80. Filip Salač (OnlyFans American Racing Team) was P4 ahead of fifth fastest Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP), with Tony Arbolino (REDS Fantic Racing) going well again in P6.

There was something for the local fans to cheer about after Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) ended Friday in a solid P10 to see the American gain automatic Q2 entry for the first time this season, so the #16 is a rider Holgado won’t need to try and beat when the light goes green for Moto2 Q1 at 13:40 local time on Saturday afternoon.

Moto2 Practice results!

Moto3: Quiles Sets New Lap Record At COTA

Maximo Quiles led Moto3 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Quiles used his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team KTM to lap the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) track in 2:13.757, which led the field of 25 riders and broke Matteo Bertelle’s All-Time Lap Record of 2:13.939 from 2025.

Guido Pini was second-best with a time of 2:13.929 on his Leopard Racing Honda.

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 2:14.202. 

 

moto3 Practice

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Quiles sets new lap record to top Friday running at COTA. Back at the track where he debuted last year, Quiles was fast out the blocks this year. 

Moto3’s opening day of action has concluded with Championship leader Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) setting a new lap record and setting himself as a favourite for honours this weekend. A 2’13.757 saw him ease to the top of the standings ahead of Guido Pini (Leopard Racing) and Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo), although there’ll be plenty of surprises across Saturday and Sunday.

New lap record bagged, Quiles was in fine form to lead the charge into Saturday at COTA as the Championship leader set to work straight away and never dropped out of the top two positions, eventually securing P1. Guido Pini (Leopard Racing) was the first rider into the 2’13s and his lap time was good enough for second at the chequered flag, whilst Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo), who was fastest in the morning session, was able to complete the top three.

Just in behind them was COTA podium finisher from 12 months ago, Matteo Bertelle (LEVELUP-MTA). The Italian flew up the order into the top three before finishing fourth, just ahead of Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) and Joel Esteban (LEVLUP-MTA). Other highlights from the session included Joel Kelso (GRYD – MLav Racing) and teammate Eddie O’Shea who both make it directly into Q2, as well as a flock of rookies, such as: Rico Salmela (Red Bull KTM Tech 3), Marco Morelli (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), Casey O’Gorman (SIC58 Squadra Corse), Brian Uriarte (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Veda Pratama (Honda Team Asia).

Full Moto3 Practice results from COTA!

MotoAmerica: Matsudaira Fastest in Talent Cup FP1 at COTA

Kensei Matsudaira was quickest during MotoAmerica Talent Cup Free Practice 1 Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Team Roberts Kramer APX-350 MA on Dunlop control tires, Matsudaira covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:28.556, topping the field of 14 riders.

Nathan Gouker was the best of the rest with a 2:29.311 on his Quarterley Racing Kramer APX-350 MA.

Sam Drane was third with a lap time of 2:29.697 on his Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing Kramer APX-350 MA.

 

WorldSBK: Lecuona Tops Final Practice In Portugal

Iker Lecuona (7) during FP3 at Portimao. Photo courtesy WorldSBK

Iker Lecuona led FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 3 (FP3) Saturday morning at Portimao, Portugal. Riding his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Spaniard covered the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) track in 1:39.186 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Yari Montella was second-best with a 1:39.605 on his Barni Spark Racing Ducati Panigale V4R. 

Miguel Oliveira was third with a 1:39.622 on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR. 

American Garrett Gerloff was 9th with a time of 1:40.248 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR. 

Danilo Petrucci was 12th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR. 

 

fp3 wsbk

 

 

More from a press release issued by WorldSBK:

Lecuona closes in on Portimao lap record as he tops FP3 ahead of Montella and home hero Oliveira. The #7 set a 1’39.186s, around a tenth away from the Superpole lap record, to top FP3 ahead; the first session he’s topped for Ducati.

Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) set the pace in Free Practice 3 for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship by more than four tenths ahead of his rivals at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve. The #7 was quick on Friday and backed that up on Saturday morning at the Pirelli Portuguese Round as he headed Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) and home hero Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team), who had a crash late in the session.

Lecuona posted a 1’39.186s as he claimed P1 in the 20-minute session to secure P1 for the first time in his Ducati career, and his pace was just a tenth away from Toprak Razgatlioglu’s pole lap record from last year, when he set a 1’39.081s. He was 0.419s clear of Montella in second place with Portuguese star Oliveira in third, although he fell victim to the tricky Turn 5 hairpin with a few minutes remaining in the session. He had a lowside crash after running slightly wide at the hairpin before coming off his bike. Nevertheless, he set a 1’39.622s to secure P3.

Championship leader Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was fourth after setting a 1’39.795s, with the #11 saying on Friday that he ‘couldn’t push how he wanted’. He was ahead of Friday pacesetter Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in fifth, with Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) in sixth. The #97 had been running as high as P2 when he started his time attacks, but was demoted to P6. However, he was able to lap in the 1’39s as he set a 1’39.893s.

Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) has enjoyed plenty of success at Portimao and will aim to keep that going this season, with the two-time WorldSBK Champion finishing in P7 after he set a 1’40.006s. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was eighth ahead of Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) and Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Optical Express Racing), with the Brit rounding out the top ten.

 

The top six from WorldSBK FP3, full results here:

1. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’39.186s

2. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.419s

3. Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.436s

4. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.609s

5. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.632s

6. Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) +0.707s

 

Next up, Tissot Superpole! Catch all action LIVE and UNINTERRUPTED at 11:10 Local Time (UTC+0) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

MotoGP: More From Friday At The Red Bull USGP At COTA

Marc Marquez (93) leads Jorge Martin (89) at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Michael Gougis.

In the morning MotoGP session at the Red Bull Grand Prix of The United States, Ducati Lenovo’s Marc Marquez lost the front just as he touched the gas coming over the crest of Turn 10 and hit the ground at just under 120 mph and plowed into the Roadracing World Action Fund-supplied Alpina soft barriers. Bruised and sore, he went back out and within a couple of laps regained his rhythm, he said. In the afternoon, he was quickest, and showed up at the post-session media conference with bandages on both arms. The surface at COTA changes from year to year, and Marquez says he was caught out by new bumps that had emerged there and elsewhere on the track.

 

Ai Ogura (79). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

There were nine crashes in Friday’s afternoon session. Trackhouse Racing’s Ai Ogura hit the deck, but scuffed leathers and all, he finished the day as the top Aprilia rider, second overall and only 0.053-second behind Marquez.

 

Fabio Di Giannantonio (49). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Coming off of a double podium in Brazil, Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing’s Fabio Di Giannantonio was consistently quick all day and finished the afternoon session third.

 

Marco Bezzecchi (72). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi took his factory Aprilia to fourth on Friday afternoon after working in the morning session on tire wear and data. While he did three runs in the morning, he did them all on the same set of medium front and rear Michelin slicks and finished ninth.

 

Alex Marquez (73) leads Jack Miller (43) on Friday afternoon at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Alex Marquez was another of the crashers in the afternoon session but looked more comfortable aboard his 2026-spec Gresini Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP26. Running the latest equipment means spending more time optimizing it, and Alex Marquez seems to be coming to terms with riding a bike that is still being developed.

 

Joe Roberts (16). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

American Joe Roberts finished the afternoon Moto2 session in 10th place, almost exactly a second off of the quickest time.

 

Jake Lewis (85). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

The Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup got off to a quiet start, with only nine riders taking to the track in the series’ inaugural event. And the locals were unable to convert the home court advantage to their favor, with Jake Lewis the quickest of the U.S. riders. On his Saddlemen Racing Development machine, Lewis finished qualifying in fourth, 2.1 seconds behind Eric Granado.

 

Enea Bastiannini (23). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Maverick Vinales withdrew from the event because a screw in his left shoulder had come loose. His Red Bull KTM Tech3 teammate Enea Bastiannini crashed twice in the afternoon session but still finished 10th-quickest and transfered directly to final qualifying for the first time since Barcelona in 2025.

 

Kensei Matsudaira (74). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

Kensei Matsudaira led the first Talent Cup session, dropped to fourth in the second and finished the day by qualifying in second place, just behind Nathan Gouker. Jake Paige was third-quickest in qualifying but was penalized a position for an alleged track limits violation, bumping him back to fourth and moving San Drane up into third. Reese Frankenfield qualified fifth-quickest.

MotoAmerica: Gouker On Talent Cup Pole At COTA

Nathan Gouker (19) during QP at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Nathan Gouker earned pole position during MotoAmerica Talent Cup qualifying Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Quarterley Racing Kramer APX-350 MA on Dunlop control tires, Gouker covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:27.429, topping the field of 14 riders.

Kensei Matsudaira was the best of the rest with a 2:27.664 on his Team Roberts Kramer APX-350 MA.

Sam Drane was third with a lap time of 2:27.880 on his Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing Kramer APX-350 MA.

 

 

 

 

More from a press release issued by Phillip Gouker:

Nathan Gouker Claims Pole Position at COTA During Premier MotoAmerica / MotoGP Weekend.

AUSTIN, TX — March 27, 2026 — Nathan delivered a standout performance at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) today, securing pole position during qualifying in one of the most competitive race weekends of the season, sharing the stage alongside MotoGP.

Facing a deep and talented field on the world-class Texas circuit, Nathan executed a near-perfect lap to claim the top starting spot. His performance highlighted both his growing confidence and the strength of the team as they compete on one of the biggest platforms in road racing.

“Getting pole at COTA is huge,” said Nathan. “This track is one of the toughest we race, and to do it on a weekend like this, with MotoGP here, makes it even more meaningful. The Quarterley Racing Team has worked incredibly hard this weekend giving me a competitive bike, and the bike felt amazing out there.”

Circuit of the Americas is widely regarded as one of North America’s most technical tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, a mix of high-speed sections, and tight, demanding corners. Nathan’s qualifying lap demonstrated exceptional pace and control, positioning him as a strong contender heading into race day tomorrow.

The team would like to extend a sincere thank you to its valued partners and sponsors for their continued support: Wrench Motorcycle, Warhorse Racing, CP Motorsports, Fast By Ferracci, Cornerspin, KYT Americas, VO2 Leathers, Precision Track Days, Essex Moto, Accossato Racing, Fast Glass Media, LeJune Motorsports, Busters Speed Shop, Identity Custom Signage, 64 Degree Racing, Carolina Supermoto, VIR Kart Track, Daniels Tire, and Ride Supermoto. Their commitment plays a vital role in the team’s success on and off the track.

 

With pole-position secured, Nathan and the team now shift focus to race day, aiming to convert strong qualifying pace into a podium result at COTA.

H-D Bagger World Cup: Granado On Pole at COTA

Eric Granada (51) claims pole position at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Eric Granado earned pole position during FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup Qualifying session Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Joe Rascal Racing Harley-Davidson on Dunlop control tires, the Brazilian covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:12.387, topping the field of 9 riders.

His teammate, Archie Mcdonald was the best of the rest with a 2:12.804.

Oscar Gutierrez claimed the third and final spot on the front  with a lap time of 2:13.710 on his Niti Racing Harley-Davidson.

Riding for Saddlemen Racing Harley-Davidson, American teammates Jake Lewis (2:14.527), Travis Wyman (2:15.178), and Cory West (2:15.269) finished 4th, 5th, and 6th respectively.

Cody Wyman was 8 with a time of 2:16.090 on his Joe Rascal Racing Harley-Davidson.

 

MotoAmerica: Gouker Quickest in Talent Cup FP2 At COTA

Nathan Gouker (19) during FP2 at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Nathan Gouker was quickest during MotoAmerica Talent Cup Free Practice 2 Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Quarterley Racing Kramer APX-350 MA on Dunlop control tires, Gouker covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:27.710, topping the field of 14 riders.

Jake Paige was the best of the rest with a 2:27.996 on his Team Hammer Kramer APX-350 MA.

Sam Drane was third with a lap time of 2:28.249 on his Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing Kramer APX-350 MA.

 

MotoGP: M.Marquez Fastest Friday Afternoon at COTA

Marc Marquez (93) during the Practice session at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis

Marc Marquez led MotoGP World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Lenovo Ducati Desmosedici GP26 on spec Michelin tires, the seven-time World Champion turned a lap time of 2:00.927 to lead the 21-rider field.

Ai Ogura was the best of the rest with a 2:00.980 on his Trackhouse Aprilia RS-GP26.

Fabio Di Giannantonio was third at 2:01.114 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Team Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Marco Bezzecchi finished the session fourth with a 2:01.127 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.

Alex Marquez, riding his BK8 Gresini Ducati Desmosedici GP26, got fifth with a lap time of 2:01.213.

 

practice motogp

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Marc Marquez bounces back to go fastest on Friday, Ogura on the chase. The #93 ends the day fastest at a signature track despite his FP1 tumble – with the Aprilia charge led by Ogura in Texas, just 0.053 off the top.

Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) suffered a fast off in FP1 at the Red Bull GP of the United States, but come the end of play on Friday the seven-time MotoGP Champion was back on top at a venue he’s called his own more than any other rider. That said, it was a close-run day on the timesheets, with Ai Ogura – for home team Trackhouse MotoGP Team – just 0.053 off the top. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) takes P3 on Friday, 0.187 off Marc Marquez at the top.

After Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) stole the show in the morning at the top and Marc Marquez the headlines with his crash – rider ok – there was plenty at stake on Friday afternoon. There were nine crashes overall: Diggia, Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing), two for Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3), Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team), Ogura, Toprak Razgatlioglu (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP) and Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) in the first half hour, before the clock ticked down and only Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) slid out late on.

By the end of the classic end of session charge for the top, Marc Marquez was back on top – but Ogura’s lap did run him close. Both were set late in the session, with the Aprilia just 0.053 off. Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) was forced to settle for fourth on Friday – although just 0.013 off Diggia, who had breifly sat top of the session before the #93 turned up the wick, in third.

Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) slots into fifth, with Acosta taking sixth on Day 1. Martin, despite his crash, takes seventh ahead of Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) and Bastianini. For Bastianini, it’s his first time straight to Q2 since the 2025 Catalan GP – when he also took a podium on Sunday.

Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) is the first to just miss the cut in P11, with Binder another high-profile name down the order after his late crash – the #33 taking 19 on Friday.

There’s another chance for two more riders to move through to Q2 in qualifying on Saturday morning so make sure to tune in for more MotoGP on super Saturday at the Red Bull US GP!

MotoGP Practice results from Austin!

MotoGP: Viñales Has Withdrawn From the U.S. GP

Maverick Viñales (12) during FP1 at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Viñales sidelined from US GP, targets Jerez return. The #12 will undergo a minor procedure to remove a displaced screw fitted after his 2025 German GP crash. 

Following further assessment with MotoGP’s Medical Director, Red Bull KTM Tech3 rider Maverick Viñales has elected not to continue competing for the remainder of this weekend’s Red Bull Grand Prix of the United States. 

Viñales has been experiencing pain and limited power in his left shoulder and, following investigations earlier this week, it was discovered that a screw fitted after his Sachsenring injury last year has become displaced. The #12 crashed at the 2025 German GP and injured his shoulder, necessitating a long period of recovery.

Viñales will now travel back to Europe to undergo a minor procedure to remove the screw, with the intention of being fit to return for the Grand Prix of Spain in Jerez in April.

Moto2: Alonso Breaks Record At COTA

David Alonso (80) during the practice session at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis.

David Alonso led Moto2 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Colombian lapped the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:05.847, topping the field of 28 riders and breaking Manuel Gonzalez’s All-Time Lap Record of 2:07.355 from 2025.

Manuel Gonzalez was second-best with a time of 2:06.341 on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt IntactGP Kalex.

Barry Baltus did a third-fastest 2:06.453 on his REDS Fantic Racing Kalex.

American Joe Roberts finished Friday afternoon’s practice session 10th with a best time of 2:06.853 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

moto2 practice

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Alonso lays down Day 1 Austin gauntlet as Holgado faces Q1. The Colombian sits over four tenths clear of Gonzalez and the chasing pack as the Championship leader finishes P20 on Friday.

On one side of the CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team box, a lot of joy was had on the opening day of Moto2 action at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the United States after David Alonso set a 2:05.847 to sit 0.494s clear of second place Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP). Barry Baltus (REDS Fantic Racing) ended Practice in P3, 0.606s shy of Alonso, while on the other side of the Aspar box, World Championship leader Daniel Holgado faces Q1 for the second weekend running.

Alonso’s race rhythm and one lap pace were stunning, with Gonzalez – who crashed unhurt at Turn 1 in the closing stages – the only rider able to get within half a second of the #80. Filip Salač (OnlyFans American Racing Team) was P4 ahead of fifth fastest Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP), with Tony Arbolino (REDS Fantic Racing) going well again in P6.

There was something for the local fans to cheer about after Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) ended Friday in a solid P10 to see the American gain automatic Q2 entry for the first time this season, so the #16 is a rider Holgado won’t need to try and beat when the light goes green for Moto2 Q1 at 13:40 local time on Saturday afternoon.

Moto2 Practice results!

Moto3: Quiles Sets New Lap Record At COTA

Maximo Quiles (28) during the Moto3 practice session at COTA. Photo courtesy Michael Gougis.

Maximo Quiles led Moto3 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Quiles used his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team KTM to lap the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) track in 2:13.757, which led the field of 25 riders and broke Matteo Bertelle’s All-Time Lap Record of 2:13.939 from 2025.

Guido Pini was second-best with a time of 2:13.929 on his Leopard Racing Honda.

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe, claimed the third and final spot on the front with a lap time of 2:14.202. 

 

moto3 Practice

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Quiles sets new lap record to top Friday running at COTA. Back at the track where he debuted last year, Quiles was fast out the blocks this year. 

Moto3’s opening day of action has concluded with Championship leader Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) setting a new lap record and setting himself as a favourite for honours this weekend. A 2’13.757 saw him ease to the top of the standings ahead of Guido Pini (Leopard Racing) and Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo), although there’ll be plenty of surprises across Saturday and Sunday.

New lap record bagged, Quiles was in fine form to lead the charge into Saturday at COTA as the Championship leader set to work straight away and never dropped out of the top two positions, eventually securing P1. Guido Pini (Leopard Racing) was the first rider into the 2’13s and his lap time was good enough for second at the chequered flag, whilst Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo), who was fastest in the morning session, was able to complete the top three.

Just in behind them was COTA podium finisher from 12 months ago, Matteo Bertelle (LEVELUP-MTA). The Italian flew up the order into the top three before finishing fourth, just ahead of Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) and Joel Esteban (LEVLUP-MTA). Other highlights from the session included Joel Kelso (GRYD – MLav Racing) and teammate Eddie O’Shea who both make it directly into Q2, as well as a flock of rookies, such as: Rico Salmela (Red Bull KTM Tech 3), Marco Morelli (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), Casey O’Gorman (SIC58 Squadra Corse), Brian Uriarte (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Veda Pratama (Honda Team Asia).

Full Moto3 Practice results from COTA!

MotoAmerica: Matsudaira Fastest in Talent Cup FP1 at COTA

Kensei Matsudaira (74) during the first practice session at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis

Kensei Matsudaira was quickest during MotoAmerica Talent Cup Free Practice 1 Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Team Roberts Kramer APX-350 MA on Dunlop control tires, Matsudaira covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:28.556, topping the field of 14 riders.

Nathan Gouker was the best of the rest with a 2:29.311 on his Quarterley Racing Kramer APX-350 MA.

Sam Drane was third with a lap time of 2:29.697 on his Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing Kramer APX-350 MA.

 

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