MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup by Motul and FIM North America MiniGP racer Joshua Raymond was featured today on NBC Sports Philadelphia.
From NBCPhiladelphia.com: “NBC10’s Matt DeLucia heads to the track to find out what drives motorcycle racer Josh Raymond, Jr. and his dad who says he’s ‘more nervous’ when his kid is on the track.”
Watch the video segment here: https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/sports/this-kid-with-a-need-for-speed-is-no-normal-teenager/3705564/
Provisional 2024 FIM MotoGP™ World Championship Entry Lists
Monday, 27 November 2023
The provisional Entry Lists for the 2024 FIM Grand Prix World Championship can now be announced.
FIM_Grand_Prix_World_Championship_2024_Provisional_Entry_lists_27_November_1_
Alonso Lopez and Daniel Holgado were the quickest after a day of testing Pirelli tires for the Moto2 and Moto3 teams at Valencia. Moto2 and Moto3 are switching from Dunlop to Pirelli, and the teams were working on adapting their bikes to the new rubber on the newly resurfaced circuit.
The all-time lap record for a Moto2 machine was set on Saturday by Fermin Aldeguer at 1:33.264. Lopez topped Monday’s Moto2 timesheets with a 1:33.061 in the first session, just edging Aron Canet’s best of 1:33.074, also set in the first session.
Holgado took a little longer to get down to his best time, waiting until the second session to set a 1:37.300 to set the benchmark for the 23 riders who set a time. The all-time Moto3 lap record was a 1:38.286 set by Darryn Binder in 2020.
Pirelli will serve as the control tire supplier for the Moto2 and Moto3 series from 2024 through 2026.
Moto2 Combined Times cropped image final
More, from a press release issued by Pirelli:
Pirelli’s era in Moto2™ and Moto3™ begins with all time lap records
In the first 2024 official test, on Pirelli tyres, Lopez in Moto2™ and Holgado in Moto3™ were the fastest riders, setting the all time lap record for the Valencia circuit in their respective classes
Today the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia hosted the first official 2024 test for the Moto2™ and Moto3™ riders which also marked the beginning of the Pirelli era in these championships.
Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp – BOSCOSCURO) was the fastest rider of the day in Moto2™ with a time of 1’33.061, setting a new all time lap record for this circuit and class.
Likewise, Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) was the fastest in Moto3™ in 1’37.300, actually improving the lap record for this class by a second.
Lopez set the new all-time lap record in the first session on his 24th out of 26 laps completed, improving the record set by Aldeguer this year in FP3 by two tenths. Holgado did the same in the second session on the 13th out of 17 laps, shattering Binder’s previous record (1’38.286) from 2020.
All riders used DIABLO™ Superbike slick tyres in soft and medium compounds for both the front and rear. In Moto2™ in size 125/70 R17 front and 200/65 R17 rear, in Moto3™ 100/70 R17 front and 120/70 R17 rear.
These are standard tyres and not prototypes, meaning they can be purchased by any motorcyclist because they are regularly on sale.
Giorgio Barbier, Motorcycle Racing Director
All time lap records: the best way to start the Pirelli era
“We are very satisfied with the results obtained in this first official 2024 test with the Moto2™ and Moto3™ riders and teams. For us the goal was to confirm the good impressions seen at the beginning of September on the Montmelò circuit. On that occasion, as it was a private test, no official times were provided, whereas today it was possible to make a direct comparison with the times of the weekend just gone, in similar weather conditions and temperatures. Achieving the all-time lap records ever for this track in the respective championships, in the case of Moto3 even improving it by a second, is certainly clear and easily quantifiable proof of the excellent performance that our tyres are able to guarantee. Some riders ran more laps than the race distance using the same set of tyres, even if not consecutive, with limited drop and good wear. All the compounds performed well, clearly the softer ones are generally those that allowed the riders to achieve their best times. We know that the tests, although representative, are never like a race weekend and that each track makes history in its own right but we can say that the conditions for doing a good job next season are all there.”
More, from a press release issued by Marc VDS Racing Team:
Elf Marc VDS Racing Team kick off 2024 Moto2 preparations in Valencia
Less than 24 hours after the conclusion of the 2023 Moto2 World Championship in Valencia, the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team made a rapid return to the Ricardo Tormo Circuit to commence important preparations for next season’s title challenge.
On a vital test day that saw the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team welcome Filip Salac as Tony Arbolino’s teammate for 2024, the focal point of today’s action was to allow the duo time to assess the performance of tyres from new exclusive supplier Pirelli.
In warm and sunny conditions, Arbolino and Salac completed over 140 laps of the 4km Ricardo Tormo Circuit before heading off on a well-deserved winter break.
Tony Arbolino
/// 7th, 1:33.383, 79 laps
Runner-up in the 2023 Moto2 World Championship campaign, Arbolino’s bid to go one better next year got off to a busy but positive start, as the Italian completed nearly 80 laps in three sessions.
Immediately finding confidence with the new Pirelli rubber, Arbolino ended with a best lap of 1:33.383 to finish just one-hundredth-of-a-second outside of the top six.
Arbolino’s best lap was nearly a second faster than his qualifying pace during last weekend’s season finale in Valencia, with the 23-year-old excited at the prospect of racing the new Pirelli tyres for the first time in Qatar’s season opener next March.
“The Pirelli tyres suit my riding style”
“Today has been an important test to try and recover a good feeling on the bike because it was a difficult race weekend for us here in Valencia. I have to say we did a great job because I felt confident again on the bike and that was the main objective. The first touch with the Pirelli tyres was very positive and they suit my riding style. You get a lot of feedback, and you feel so comfortable, and I think it is going to be an interesting season next year. I’m happy also to see Filip in the garage because I think we can help each other improve next season. Now I will spend the winter training hard and studying data to understand where we can be even more competitive in 2024.”
Filip Salac
/// 17th, 1:33.723, 62 laps
Today’s test was very much a familiarisation exercise for the Czech rider, who was getting acquainted to his new crew at Elf Marc VDS Racing while also assessing the new range of Pirelli rubber.
Salac immediately felt comfortable in his new surroundings and his hard braking style was instantly a positive match with the new Pirelli tyres.
He was able to make constant progress throughout the day to improve his lap time by 0.6s to finish within touching distance of the top 10.
“I’ve enjoyed this first experience in the box and immediately I have a positive feeling”
“It has been an amazing day for me today and I want to thank the Team for giving me such a warm welcome. I’ve enjoyed this first experience in the box and immediately I have a positive feeling. The communication is already very good with my crew, and we have been able to get positive sensations from the new Pirelli tyres. I have to say my feeling with Pirelli is amazing and we also tried some set-up changes on the bike that all helped us make steps forward. The difference between Pirelli and what we have used previously in Moto2 was bigger than I expected. The front tyre I think is going to be really good for my riding style and we haven’t come anywhere near to finding the limit of their potential and I’m already quite fast. It feels like it will be slightly more difficult to manage the tyres in the race, but I think this is a great step for Moto2. Now I’m hoping that the next three months go really quick because I can’t wait to be back on the bike again.”
More, from a press release issued by Red Bull KTM Tech3:
FIRST TASTE OF 2024: HOLGADO SETS NEW ALL TIME LAP RECORD IN VALENCIA, ROULSTONE MAKES DEBUTS IN MOTO3™
We got a small taste of what 2024 will look like for Red Bull KTM Tech3 on Monday in Valencia as the lightweight class participated in the Valencia Moto3™ Official Test. Daniel Holgado tried the 2024 KTM bike as he will stay with the team for a second season, and he was joined by new recrue Jacob Roulstone, from Australia, who made his debuts in the Moto3™ class with his new team. The lightweight class had three different sessions to get on with their testing plan, as they shared the track with the Moto2™ class.
Twenty-rounds all over the world were completed in 2023, but the Red Bull KTM Tech3 crew still needed what was left of Daniel Holgado’s energy on Monday as the Moto3™ class began its 2024 campaign. The number 96 was able to try the 2024 bike provided by KTM, in addition to the new Pirelli tyres, and it is fair to say that everything seemed to go well as the Spaniard set a new all time lap record at the circuit Ricardo Tormo with a 1’37.300, 0.986 seconds faster than the 1’38.286 of Darryn Binder from 2021. Dani rode two of the three sessions, completed a total of thirty-six laps with his new package, and headed to the off season fastest of the final official day on track of 2023.
The Red Bull KTM Tech3 welcomed eighteen year-old Australian Jacob Roulstone coming from the FIM Junior Grand Prix with the Aspar Team, in addition to having participated in the 2023 edition of the Red Bull Rookies Cup. The goal of the day was to take this first day to discover his new bike and get his first feeling of the Moto3™ class. The young boy rode a total of 58 laps across the three sessions with a best lap 1’38.511 from Session 3.
The next time Red Bull KTM Tech3 will hit the track with Daniel Holgado and Jacob Roulstone will be in February 2024, at the Portimao Moto3™ Test on February 22nd and 23rd.
Daniel Holgado
Position: 1st
Time: 1’37.300
Laps: 36
“I am really happy with our test day because we had both the new KTM bike and Pirelli tyres, and I was really fast. The grip was also very good. Everyone worked really well, so I want to thank both KTM and the Tech3 team for this amazing day, because we head to the off season on a really positive note. It is now time to rest and recover from this intense year.”
Jacob Roulestone
Position: 12th
Time: 1’38.511
Laps: 58
“I am very happy with my first day in the team. Everyone has given me a warm welcome, and all the team is very nice! My first runs were a bit challenging, but then the feeling started to come as the day went by. Lap after lap I got more used to the tyres and it became easier. In the last session, we tried the new 2024 bike and it felt amazing! Happy going to the winter break with a nice feeling!”
Hervé Poncharal
Team Manager
“What a better way to start our 2024 season with the Moto3 team than taking the new all time lap record in Valencia! Today was a really interesting day, because we were able to test the new 2024 bike prepared by KTM, but it was also our first official day with Pirelli, who will be the official tyres supplier for the Moto3 class in 2024. Right out of the box, Daniel Holgado felt really confident, everything was almost perfect, even if he was still suffering from his left foot injury sustained in qualifying Saturday. He did a few laps and broke the all time lap record by nearly a second, which is amazing. He can now go to rest and spend the winter break with a positive frame of mind. On the other side, we were pleased to welcome Jacob Roulstone who will do his rookie season in Moto3 with us next year. He worked really hard, in a very constructive way with his new team and finished twelfth in the combined standing, which is really good for a first day. He already feels very comfortable with the new crew, and that is a key thing for a rookie, so we are happy to have been able to get a first day on track before the winter. I am positive, and I believe that we are set to have a great 2024 season! Thank you to everyone, and I wish the whole staff a good winter!”
Estenson Racing Announces 2024 American Flat Track Team
Young title contenders Dallas Daniels and Tom Drane return to spearhead a 2024 AFT championship campaign for the Estenson Racing squad
MARIETTA, Ga. – November 27, 2023 – Estenson Racing is pleased to announce the return of Dallas Daniels and Tom Drane for the 2024 American Flat Track season. The two phenoms will spearhead the team’s title campaign in the series, with Daniels leading the way in the SuperTwins Championship aboard the Yamaha MT-07 and Drane looking to take the AFT Singles crown aboard the Yamaha YZ450F.
On the heels of a stellar rookie season in the premier class, Daniels came out swinging in 2023. The fast rider from Illinois fired the first shot by sweeping the season opener at the Daytona Short Track doubleheader and led the points standings for most of the season aboard his Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07. It was a landmark year for Daniels, who completed a dirt track grand slam (a career win in all four Grand National Championship track disciplines – Short Track, Half-Mile, Mile, and TT) in just his second year in the premier class. It was an exciting season, with the title chase going down to the wire and the 20-year-old ultimately finishing the year runner-up with five wins and a total of 15 podiums in 18 rounds. Daniels heads into his sixth season with the team looking to add a Grand National Championship to his already impressive resume of back-to-back AFT Singles titles and multiple victories aboard the MT-07 and YZ450F.
Drane returns for his second season with the team and looks to build on his standout rookie season in the AFT Singles Championship. With a new team, new bike, and new tracks, the Australian hit his stride before the halfway mark of the season, quickly climbing his way up the points standings and finishing the year in the runner-up spot with a total of four wins and 10 podiums. The 17-year-old looks to build on that progress in 2024, battle for top honors, and return the number-one plate to the Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F.
Tommy Hayden – Estenson Racing Team Manager
“2024 will be a change for us with a two-rider team, but we feel that a more concentrated effort will allow us to make another step forward in performance next season. As a team, we had a lot to be proud of this past season, but to come so close to a SuperTwins Championship and not get it done definitely stung and has motivated us to come back even stronger next year. With the way Dallas performed this past season in just his second year as a SuperTwins rider and the way Tom improved over the course of his first full year in AFT, I believe we are in a good position to fight for the championship in both classes in 24′.
“As excited as we are about next year, it is also difficult not to be continuing with JD and Trevor. I have a tremendous amount of respect for both of these guys and nothing but good things to say about them. They are both true professionals on- and off- the track, and I will genuinely miss working with them. With JD in particular, he started with our program from the beginning. Although there were many bumps in the road along the way with the development, he always gave us his best effort, performed like a champion, and won some big races for us and Yamaha. I would like to thank both of them for everything they gave the team and wish them the best in their future endeavors.”
Dallas Daniels – Estenson Racing Mission SuperTwins
“I’m very excited to be back with the Estenson Racing team for 2024. I’ve been with them every year since I turned pro, and I’m looking forward to continuing to build on our relationship and to keep learning. I’m very happy with this team and super happy that they are having me back. We learned so much last year. So even though the year didn’t end exactly how we wanted, finishing second in the championship, we had a lot of success and are going to apply all of that to next year. I’m looking forward to fighting for more race wins and trying to get that championship.”
Tom Drane – Estenson Racing AFT Singles
I’m really excited to be returning with Estenson Racing after such a good first year. It was great to have my first full season traveling the championship, getting to know everyone, finding a lot of different setups, and learning from the team. We were able to improve all year, which was really good. At the end of the season, we started to really come on strong and were able to win races. I feel really comfortable on the bike, and we’re looking to continue that stretch through next year.”
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (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, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) 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.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC), with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).
MotoGP™ introduces new manufacturer concession system
The new system, along with a number of other proposals, has been approved by the Grand Prix Commission
MotoGP™ is introducing a new system of concessions for manufacturers, effective immediately as the test day allocation for the 2024 season begins on Tuesday the 28th of November.
Approved by the Grand Prix Commission ahead of the Valencia GP, the new system covers test days and riders, wildcard appearances, the number of engines, engine specifications and freezes, aero updates and the number of tyres supplied for testing. Factories will be classified into four groups – A, B, C or D – depending on the percentage of the possible maximum constructor points they have accrued in each window.
There are now two windows in which each factory’s performance is assessed: from the first event to the last event of the season AND from the first event after the summer test ban to the last event before the summer test ban of the following season. This allows factories to more quickly gain, or lose, their concessions based on their most recent form – ensuring competition in the world’s most exciting sport can stay as close as possible.
All manufacturers, via the MSMA, approved the proposal for the same reason. Find below the full details of the new system.
Concessions
More from the MotoGP season finale at Circuito Ricardo Tormo at Cheste, Spain, where Francesco Bagnaia took the victory and sealed his second straight MotoGP World Championship.
The MotoGP™️ Selection Committee, comprising members of FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports, have decided not to select the CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™️ Team for the 2024 season.
Repeated infractions and breaches of the Participation Agreement affecting the public image of MotoGP™️ have obliged this decision.
The Selection Committee will be reviewing applications for a new Independent Team, using Aprilia machinery, to join the MotoGP™️ class grid for 2024.
More information on this matter will follow in due course.
More, from a press release issued by CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Racing Team:
Press Statement: CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team
There are many speculations in the press about the CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team and because of this we want to provide clarifications through this official press release.
One thing is clear – CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team has a contract for participation in the MotoGP Championships that is valid until 2026 which was assigned from Sepang Racing Team. This contract has very clear terms and conditions and until now we have not even been notified about a breach of a contractual obligation. Even more, we did not receive a termination notice of this contract.
Moreover, RNF has a valid contract with Aprilia and we did not receive a notice to terminate this contract as well. The speculations with respect to the quality of the parts for motorcycles provided by Aprilia due to “alleged” debts are false. There are no debts towards Aprilia and all amounts are settled since earlier this year. Also, in addition to what was in the contract, we have agreed to additional mechanics and carried out with fulfilling the extra costs.
It’s true that RNF had received an offer for the place on the grid, in Madrid at DORNA Office, however this offer was rejected officially more than 2 weeks ago and since then no other negotiation was initiated. The CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team does not have any debts or disputes with its suppliers and all the activity is carried out according to the business plan and according to the contractual terms with the suppliers.
The RNF Team is still owned 60% by CDT SPORTS AND MEDIA SRL and 40% by Razlan Razali. The company RNF Racing Ltd. is subject to an internal audit by the majority shareholder (CDT) to review the internal processes and the activity of the employees. The changes in the management of the team will come with certainty as this was a transition year and after the audit we will put into place optimization processes of the human resources in order to implement the strategy with tactics to obtain performance in the team.
The decision for Razlan Razali not to be part of the RNF Team management was not only from yesterday, but was taken more than 1 month ago, due the pressure made by the shareholders following poor performance and financial decisions.
The #49 will wear the colours of the Tavullia team on the Ducati Desmosedici and will debut on track for the first testing session of the new season in Valencia.
Fabio Di Giannantonio will complete the line up of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team for the 2024 season. The young rider, born in 1998, will share the garage with Marco Bezzecchi riding the Ducati Desmosedici GP.
A member of the prestigious club of MotoGP™ race winners after his success at the Qatar Grand Prix, Fabio will wear the neon yellow of the Tavullia Team for his third season in the premeir class. In addition to his MotoGP™ win, Diggia has also earned a podium at the 2023 Australian GP, a Tissot Sprint podium at the 2023 Qatar GP and a pole position at Mugello in 2022. For one of the most promising riders in the Italian nursery, thanks to a second place in the Moto3™ Championship in 2018 and eight podiums in the intermediate class, including a victory at the 2021 Spanish GP, the goal is to continue to grow in this category and be among the chief contenders.
For Fabio, the first appointment with the new team is on Tuesday, when he will be on track for the first day of testing in 2024.
Alessio Salucci, Team Director Mooney VR46 Racing Team: “I am really happy to announce that Fabio will join our Team. It was an unexpected arrival, at the last minute but I am satisfied that we have chosen him. He had a great end of the season, he didn’t lose himself when things didn’t go well and I’m sure he’ll be able to feel at home here. On a motorsport level, he has proven to be among the fastest young Italians, he will continue to work with Ducati and the objective is to help him be not only competitive but also consistent in his results. It is an ambitious project, it marks a turning point in the history of our Team, but I am sure that we will all give our best to go in the same direction.”
Fabio Di Giannantonio: “I’m happy to join such a strong Team as the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, I can learn a lot and I can’t wait to start working together on this project, we can do really good things. In the last two seasons in MotoGP, I have grown a lot and in this team I will certainly be able to mature further and achieve great results. I’m excited, I can’t wait to meet all my new staff and crew and start working on the track. Thanks to everyone who made this possible.”
Honda Racing Corporation are pleased to announce the signing of Luca Marini for the 2024 and 2025 MotoGP™ World Championship seasons.
Repsol Honda have confirmed the signing of Luca Marini. The 26-year-old joined the premier class in 2021 after claiming six wins and 15 podiums in the Moto2™ World Championship, finishing runner up in 2020. Since joining the premier class, Marini has taken two Grand Prix podiums, two pole positions and four Sprint podiums in 2023. He will join Joan Mir in the Honda factory team on a two-year contract.
MOONEY VR46 RACING TEAM AND LUCA MARINI PART WAYS AT THE END OF 2023
After six years together, starting from the 2024 season, to better follow their future objectives and goals, Luca will not race for the Tavullia Team in MotoGP
Tavullia (Italy) – Mooney VR46 Racing Team and Luca Marini announce, after six seasons of shared goals, that they will not continue together in the 2024 season. The time has come for both parties to pursue ambitious goals and results following different paths. All the management, the Team and the people involved in the project wish Luca the best for his future.
Luca joined the Moto2 Team at the end of 2017 and has achieved his most prestigious results within this family. First podium in the Moto2 World Championship (German GP) in 2018 and first win in the middle class in the same year (Malaysian GP 2018 – 6 victories in Moto2). Best overall result in the 2020 Championship when he is a contender for the Moto2 World title until the last race (final P2). Luca was the first rider to have brought the VR46 brand to MotoGP on the Ducati Desmosedici GP in 2021.
In the last two seasons (2022 – 2023), Luca is one of the protagonist of the successes of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team project, built around him to become among the most competitive riders in the Top class. He signs two pole positions, 4 podiums in the Sprint and two podiums in the Sunday race.
Luca Marini and VR46 Racing Team in numbers
888 total points (533 in Moto2, 355 in MotoGP)
P2 RIDERS World Championship 2020 (Moto2)
P1 TEAMS World Championship 2020 (Moto2 – with Bezzecchi)
6 wins (in Moto2)
17 podiums (2 MotoGP)
7 pole positions (2 MotoGP)
4 Sprint podiums
109 races with the Team (110 included ValenciaGP)
LUCA MARINI – 10
I spent most of my Championship career in this Team, so many of the most significant moments of my career so far are linked to this group of people. We have grown a lot together and have gained a lot of satisfactions. This will be my last race with the Mooney VR46 Racing Team: I thought a lot before making this decision and evaluated the new challenges I will face. I leave behind a fantastic Team that contributed to my growth and knowledge of the technical aspects and complexity that characterises this kind sport. It’s time to embrace a new path with enthusiasm, without denying what has been, but with the eyes focused on the future.
ALESSIO SALUCCI, TEAM DIRECTOR
I have really seen Luca grow, since he was a child, then from a motorsport point of view I had the pleasure of seeing him become one of the strongest riders in MotoGP. I’m happy to have shared six beautiful seasons with him in this project. From the first satisfactions in Moto2, the second place in the Championship in 2020, then the debut in MotoGP, the birth of our Team in the Top class and a 2023 where he managed to be a real protagonist. Luca is a professional with few equals, a technician, a true passionate enthusiast before being a rider and then a great worker. It is a pity to let him go, he will be a really tough opponent in the future, but an opportunity of this type is too much important not to be considered and I sincerely I wish him, together with the whole Team, the very best of luck.
MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup by Motul and FIM North America MiniGP racer Joshua Raymond was featured today on NBC Sports Philadelphia.
From NBCPhiladelphia.com: “NBC10’s Matt DeLucia heads to the track to find out what drives motorcycle racer Josh Raymond, Jr. and his dad who says he’s ‘more nervous’ when his kid is on the track.”
Watch the video segment here: https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/sports/this-kid-with-a-need-for-speed-is-no-normal-teenager/3705564/
Provisional 2024 FIM MotoGP™ World Championship Entry Lists
Monday, 27 November 2023
The provisional Entry Lists for the 2024 FIM Grand Prix World Championship can now be announced.
FIM_Grand_Prix_World_Championship_2024_Provisional_Entry_lists_27_November_1_
Alonso Lopez and Daniel Holgado were the quickest after a day of testing Pirelli tires for the Moto2 and Moto3 teams at Valencia. Moto2 and Moto3 are switching from Dunlop to Pirelli, and the teams were working on adapting their bikes to the new rubber on the newly resurfaced circuit.
The all-time lap record for a Moto2 machine was set on Saturday by Fermin Aldeguer at 1:33.264. Lopez topped Monday’s Moto2 timesheets with a 1:33.061 in the first session, just edging Aron Canet’s best of 1:33.074, also set in the first session.
Holgado took a little longer to get down to his best time, waiting until the second session to set a 1:37.300 to set the benchmark for the 23 riders who set a time. The all-time Moto3 lap record was a 1:38.286 set by Darryn Binder in 2020.
Pirelli will serve as the control tire supplier for the Moto2 and Moto3 series from 2024 through 2026.
Moto2 Combined Times cropped image final
More, from a press release issued by Pirelli:
Pirelli’s era in Moto2™ and Moto3™ begins with all time lap records
In the first 2024 official test, on Pirelli tyres, Lopez in Moto2™ and Holgado in Moto3™ were the fastest riders, setting the all time lap record for the Valencia circuit in their respective classes
Today the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia hosted the first official 2024 test for the Moto2™ and Moto3™ riders which also marked the beginning of the Pirelli era in these championships.
Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp – BOSCOSCURO) was the fastest rider of the day in Moto2™ with a time of 1’33.061, setting a new all time lap record for this circuit and class.
Likewise, Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) was the fastest in Moto3™ in 1’37.300, actually improving the lap record for this class by a second.
Lopez set the new all-time lap record in the first session on his 24th out of 26 laps completed, improving the record set by Aldeguer this year in FP3 by two tenths. Holgado did the same in the second session on the 13th out of 17 laps, shattering Binder’s previous record (1’38.286) from 2020.
All riders used DIABLO™ Superbike slick tyres in soft and medium compounds for both the front and rear. In Moto2™ in size 125/70 R17 front and 200/65 R17 rear, in Moto3™ 100/70 R17 front and 120/70 R17 rear.
These are standard tyres and not prototypes, meaning they can be purchased by any motorcyclist because they are regularly on sale.
Giorgio Barbier, Motorcycle Racing Director
All time lap records: the best way to start the Pirelli era
“We are very satisfied with the results obtained in this first official 2024 test with the Moto2™ and Moto3™ riders and teams. For us the goal was to confirm the good impressions seen at the beginning of September on the Montmelò circuit. On that occasion, as it was a private test, no official times were provided, whereas today it was possible to make a direct comparison with the times of the weekend just gone, in similar weather conditions and temperatures. Achieving the all-time lap records ever for this track in the respective championships, in the case of Moto3 even improving it by a second, is certainly clear and easily quantifiable proof of the excellent performance that our tyres are able to guarantee. Some riders ran more laps than the race distance using the same set of tyres, even if not consecutive, with limited drop and good wear. All the compounds performed well, clearly the softer ones are generally those that allowed the riders to achieve their best times. We know that the tests, although representative, are never like a race weekend and that each track makes history in its own right but we can say that the conditions for doing a good job next season are all there.”
More, from a press release issued by Marc VDS Racing Team:
Elf Marc VDS Racing Team kick off 2024 Moto2 preparations in Valencia
Less than 24 hours after the conclusion of the 2023 Moto2 World Championship in Valencia, the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team made a rapid return to the Ricardo Tormo Circuit to commence important preparations for next season’s title challenge.
On a vital test day that saw the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team welcome Filip Salac as Tony Arbolino’s teammate for 2024, the focal point of today’s action was to allow the duo time to assess the performance of tyres from new exclusive supplier Pirelli.
In warm and sunny conditions, Arbolino and Salac completed over 140 laps of the 4km Ricardo Tormo Circuit before heading off on a well-deserved winter break.
Tony Arbolino
/// 7th, 1:33.383, 79 laps
Runner-up in the 2023 Moto2 World Championship campaign, Arbolino’s bid to go one better next year got off to a busy but positive start, as the Italian completed nearly 80 laps in three sessions.
Immediately finding confidence with the new Pirelli rubber, Arbolino ended with a best lap of 1:33.383 to finish just one-hundredth-of-a-second outside of the top six.
Arbolino’s best lap was nearly a second faster than his qualifying pace during last weekend’s season finale in Valencia, with the 23-year-old excited at the prospect of racing the new Pirelli tyres for the first time in Qatar’s season opener next March.
“The Pirelli tyres suit my riding style”
“Today has been an important test to try and recover a good feeling on the bike because it was a difficult race weekend for us here in Valencia. I have to say we did a great job because I felt confident again on the bike and that was the main objective. The first touch with the Pirelli tyres was very positive and they suit my riding style. You get a lot of feedback, and you feel so comfortable, and I think it is going to be an interesting season next year. I’m happy also to see Filip in the garage because I think we can help each other improve next season. Now I will spend the winter training hard and studying data to understand where we can be even more competitive in 2024.”
Filip Salac
/// 17th, 1:33.723, 62 laps
Today’s test was very much a familiarisation exercise for the Czech rider, who was getting acquainted to his new crew at Elf Marc VDS Racing while also assessing the new range of Pirelli rubber.
Salac immediately felt comfortable in his new surroundings and his hard braking style was instantly a positive match with the new Pirelli tyres.
He was able to make constant progress throughout the day to improve his lap time by 0.6s to finish within touching distance of the top 10.
“I’ve enjoyed this first experience in the box and immediately I have a positive feeling”
“It has been an amazing day for me today and I want to thank the Team for giving me such a warm welcome. I’ve enjoyed this first experience in the box and immediately I have a positive feeling. The communication is already very good with my crew, and we have been able to get positive sensations from the new Pirelli tyres. I have to say my feeling with Pirelli is amazing and we also tried some set-up changes on the bike that all helped us make steps forward. The difference between Pirelli and what we have used previously in Moto2 was bigger than I expected. The front tyre I think is going to be really good for my riding style and we haven’t come anywhere near to finding the limit of their potential and I’m already quite fast. It feels like it will be slightly more difficult to manage the tyres in the race, but I think this is a great step for Moto2. Now I’m hoping that the next three months go really quick because I can’t wait to be back on the bike again.”
More, from a press release issued by Red Bull KTM Tech3:
FIRST TASTE OF 2024: HOLGADO SETS NEW ALL TIME LAP RECORD IN VALENCIA, ROULSTONE MAKES DEBUTS IN MOTO3™
We got a small taste of what 2024 will look like for Red Bull KTM Tech3 on Monday in Valencia as the lightweight class participated in the Valencia Moto3™ Official Test. Daniel Holgado tried the 2024 KTM bike as he will stay with the team for a second season, and he was joined by new recrue Jacob Roulstone, from Australia, who made his debuts in the Moto3™ class with his new team. The lightweight class had three different sessions to get on with their testing plan, as they shared the track with the Moto2™ class.
Twenty-rounds all over the world were completed in 2023, but the Red Bull KTM Tech3 crew still needed what was left of Daniel Holgado’s energy on Monday as the Moto3™ class began its 2024 campaign. The number 96 was able to try the 2024 bike provided by KTM, in addition to the new Pirelli tyres, and it is fair to say that everything seemed to go well as the Spaniard set a new all time lap record at the circuit Ricardo Tormo with a 1’37.300, 0.986 seconds faster than the 1’38.286 of Darryn Binder from 2021. Dani rode two of the three sessions, completed a total of thirty-six laps with his new package, and headed to the off season fastest of the final official day on track of 2023.
The Red Bull KTM Tech3 welcomed eighteen year-old Australian Jacob Roulstone coming from the FIM Junior Grand Prix with the Aspar Team, in addition to having participated in the 2023 edition of the Red Bull Rookies Cup. The goal of the day was to take this first day to discover his new bike and get his first feeling of the Moto3™ class. The young boy rode a total of 58 laps across the three sessions with a best lap 1’38.511 from Session 3.
The next time Red Bull KTM Tech3 will hit the track with Daniel Holgado and Jacob Roulstone will be in February 2024, at the Portimao Moto3™ Test on February 22nd and 23rd.
Daniel Holgado
Position: 1st
Time: 1’37.300
Laps: 36
“I am really happy with our test day because we had both the new KTM bike and Pirelli tyres, and I was really fast. The grip was also very good. Everyone worked really well, so I want to thank both KTM and the Tech3 team for this amazing day, because we head to the off season on a really positive note. It is now time to rest and recover from this intense year.”
Jacob Roulestone
Position: 12th
Time: 1’38.511
Laps: 58
“I am very happy with my first day in the team. Everyone has given me a warm welcome, and all the team is very nice! My first runs were a bit challenging, but then the feeling started to come as the day went by. Lap after lap I got more used to the tyres and it became easier. In the last session, we tried the new 2024 bike and it felt amazing! Happy going to the winter break with a nice feeling!”
Hervé Poncharal
Team Manager
“What a better way to start our 2024 season with the Moto3 team than taking the new all time lap record in Valencia! Today was a really interesting day, because we were able to test the new 2024 bike prepared by KTM, but it was also our first official day with Pirelli, who will be the official tyres supplier for the Moto3 class in 2024. Right out of the box, Daniel Holgado felt really confident, everything was almost perfect, even if he was still suffering from his left foot injury sustained in qualifying Saturday. He did a few laps and broke the all time lap record by nearly a second, which is amazing. He can now go to rest and spend the winter break with a positive frame of mind. On the other side, we were pleased to welcome Jacob Roulstone who will do his rookie season in Moto3 with us next year. He worked really hard, in a very constructive way with his new team and finished twelfth in the combined standing, which is really good for a first day. He already feels very comfortable with the new crew, and that is a key thing for a rookie, so we are happy to have been able to get a first day on track before the winter. I am positive, and I believe that we are set to have a great 2024 season! Thank you to everyone, and I wish the whole staff a good winter!”
Estenson Racing Announces 2024 American Flat Track Team
Young title contenders Dallas Daniels and Tom Drane return to spearhead a 2024 AFT championship campaign for the Estenson Racing squad
MARIETTA, Ga. – November 27, 2023 – Estenson Racing is pleased to announce the return of Dallas Daniels and Tom Drane for the 2024 American Flat Track season. The two phenoms will spearhead the team’s title campaign in the series, with Daniels leading the way in the SuperTwins Championship aboard the Yamaha MT-07 and Drane looking to take the AFT Singles crown aboard the Yamaha YZ450F.
On the heels of a stellar rookie season in the premier class, Daniels came out swinging in 2023. The fast rider from Illinois fired the first shot by sweeping the season opener at the Daytona Short Track doubleheader and led the points standings for most of the season aboard his Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07. It was a landmark year for Daniels, who completed a dirt track grand slam (a career win in all four Grand National Championship track disciplines – Short Track, Half-Mile, Mile, and TT) in just his second year in the premier class. It was an exciting season, with the title chase going down to the wire and the 20-year-old ultimately finishing the year runner-up with five wins and a total of 15 podiums in 18 rounds. Daniels heads into his sixth season with the team looking to add a Grand National Championship to his already impressive resume of back-to-back AFT Singles titles and multiple victories aboard the MT-07 and YZ450F.
Drane returns for his second season with the team and looks to build on his standout rookie season in the AFT Singles Championship. With a new team, new bike, and new tracks, the Australian hit his stride before the halfway mark of the season, quickly climbing his way up the points standings and finishing the year in the runner-up spot with a total of four wins and 10 podiums. The 17-year-old looks to build on that progress in 2024, battle for top honors, and return the number-one plate to the Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F.
Tommy Hayden – Estenson Racing Team Manager
“2024 will be a change for us with a two-rider team, but we feel that a more concentrated effort will allow us to make another step forward in performance next season. As a team, we had a lot to be proud of this past season, but to come so close to a SuperTwins Championship and not get it done definitely stung and has motivated us to come back even stronger next year. With the way Dallas performed this past season in just his second year as a SuperTwins rider and the way Tom improved over the course of his first full year in AFT, I believe we are in a good position to fight for the championship in both classes in 24′.
“As excited as we are about next year, it is also difficult not to be continuing with JD and Trevor. I have a tremendous amount of respect for both of these guys and nothing but good things to say about them. They are both true professionals on- and off- the track, and I will genuinely miss working with them. With JD in particular, he started with our program from the beginning. Although there were many bumps in the road along the way with the development, he always gave us his best effort, performed like a champion, and won some big races for us and Yamaha. I would like to thank both of them for everything they gave the team and wish them the best in their future endeavors.”
Dallas Daniels – Estenson Racing Mission SuperTwins
“I’m very excited to be back with the Estenson Racing team for 2024. I’ve been with them every year since I turned pro, and I’m looking forward to continuing to build on our relationship and to keep learning. I’m very happy with this team and super happy that they are having me back. We learned so much last year. So even though the year didn’t end exactly how we wanted, finishing second in the championship, we had a lot of success and are going to apply all of that to next year. I’m looking forward to fighting for more race wins and trying to get that championship.”
Tom Drane – Estenson Racing AFT Singles
I’m really excited to be returning with Estenson Racing after such a good first year. It was great to have my first full season traveling the championship, getting to know everyone, finding a lot of different setups, and learning from the team. We were able to improve all year, which was really good. At the end of the season, we started to really come on strong and were able to win races. I feel really comfortable on the bike, and we’re looking to continue that stretch through next year.”
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (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, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) 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.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC), with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).
MotoGP™ introduces new manufacturer concession system
The new system, along with a number of other proposals, has been approved by the Grand Prix Commission
MotoGP™ is introducing a new system of concessions for manufacturers, effective immediately as the test day allocation for the 2024 season begins on Tuesday the 28th of November.
Approved by the Grand Prix Commission ahead of the Valencia GP, the new system covers test days and riders, wildcard appearances, the number of engines, engine specifications and freezes, aero updates and the number of tyres supplied for testing. Factories will be classified into four groups – A, B, C or D – depending on the percentage of the possible maximum constructor points they have accrued in each window.
There are now two windows in which each factory’s performance is assessed: from the first event to the last event of the season AND from the first event after the summer test ban to the last event before the summer test ban of the following season. This allows factories to more quickly gain, or lose, their concessions based on their most recent form – ensuring competition in the world’s most exciting sport can stay as close as possible.
All manufacturers, via the MSMA, approved the proposal for the same reason. Find below the full details of the new system.
Concessions
More from the MotoGP season finale at Circuito Ricardo Tormo at Cheste, Spain, where Francesco Bagnaia took the victory and sealed his second straight MotoGP World Championship.
The MotoGP™️ Selection Committee, comprising members of FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports, have decided not to select the CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™️ Team for the 2024 season.
Repeated infractions and breaches of the Participation Agreement affecting the public image of MotoGP™️ have obliged this decision.
The Selection Committee will be reviewing applications for a new Independent Team, using Aprilia machinery, to join the MotoGP™️ class grid for 2024.
More information on this matter will follow in due course.
More, from a press release issued by CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Racing Team:
Press Statement: CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team
There are many speculations in the press about the CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team and because of this we want to provide clarifications through this official press release.
One thing is clear – CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team has a contract for participation in the MotoGP Championships that is valid until 2026 which was assigned from Sepang Racing Team. This contract has very clear terms and conditions and until now we have not even been notified about a breach of a contractual obligation. Even more, we did not receive a termination notice of this contract.
Moreover, RNF has a valid contract with Aprilia and we did not receive a notice to terminate this contract as well. The speculations with respect to the quality of the parts for motorcycles provided by Aprilia due to “alleged” debts are false. There are no debts towards Aprilia and all amounts are settled since earlier this year. Also, in addition to what was in the contract, we have agreed to additional mechanics and carried out with fulfilling the extra costs.
It’s true that RNF had received an offer for the place on the grid, in Madrid at DORNA Office, however this offer was rejected officially more than 2 weeks ago and since then no other negotiation was initiated. The CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team does not have any debts or disputes with its suppliers and all the activity is carried out according to the business plan and according to the contractual terms with the suppliers.
The RNF Team is still owned 60% by CDT SPORTS AND MEDIA SRL and 40% by Razlan Razali. The company RNF Racing Ltd. is subject to an internal audit by the majority shareholder (CDT) to review the internal processes and the activity of the employees. The changes in the management of the team will come with certainty as this was a transition year and after the audit we will put into place optimization processes of the human resources in order to implement the strategy with tactics to obtain performance in the team.
The decision for Razlan Razali not to be part of the RNF Team management was not only from yesterday, but was taken more than 1 month ago, due the pressure made by the shareholders following poor performance and financial decisions.
The #49 will wear the colours of the Tavullia team on the Ducati Desmosedici and will debut on track for the first testing session of the new season in Valencia.
Fabio Di Giannantonio will complete the line up of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team for the 2024 season. The young rider, born in 1998, will share the garage with Marco Bezzecchi riding the Ducati Desmosedici GP.
A member of the prestigious club of MotoGP™ race winners after his success at the Qatar Grand Prix, Fabio will wear the neon yellow of the Tavullia Team for his third season in the premeir class. In addition to his MotoGP™ win, Diggia has also earned a podium at the 2023 Australian GP, a Tissot Sprint podium at the 2023 Qatar GP and a pole position at Mugello in 2022. For one of the most promising riders in the Italian nursery, thanks to a second place in the Moto3™ Championship in 2018 and eight podiums in the intermediate class, including a victory at the 2021 Spanish GP, the goal is to continue to grow in this category and be among the chief contenders.
For Fabio, the first appointment with the new team is on Tuesday, when he will be on track for the first day of testing in 2024.
Alessio Salucci, Team Director Mooney VR46 Racing Team: “I am really happy to announce that Fabio will join our Team. It was an unexpected arrival, at the last minute but I am satisfied that we have chosen him. He had a great end of the season, he didn’t lose himself when things didn’t go well and I’m sure he’ll be able to feel at home here. On a motorsport level, he has proven to be among the fastest young Italians, he will continue to work with Ducati and the objective is to help him be not only competitive but also consistent in his results. It is an ambitious project, it marks a turning point in the history of our Team, but I am sure that we will all give our best to go in the same direction.”
Fabio Di Giannantonio: “I’m happy to join such a strong Team as the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, I can learn a lot and I can’t wait to start working together on this project, we can do really good things. In the last two seasons in MotoGP, I have grown a lot and in this team I will certainly be able to mature further and achieve great results. I’m excited, I can’t wait to meet all my new staff and crew and start working on the track. Thanks to everyone who made this possible.”
Honda Racing Corporation are pleased to announce the signing of Luca Marini for the 2024 and 2025 MotoGP™ World Championship seasons.
Repsol Honda have confirmed the signing of Luca Marini. The 26-year-old joined the premier class in 2021 after claiming six wins and 15 podiums in the Moto2™ World Championship, finishing runner up in 2020. Since joining the premier class, Marini has taken two Grand Prix podiums, two pole positions and four Sprint podiums in 2023. He will join Joan Mir in the Honda factory team on a two-year contract.
MOONEY VR46 RACING TEAM AND LUCA MARINI PART WAYS AT THE END OF 2023
After six years together, starting from the 2024 season, to better follow their future objectives and goals, Luca will not race for the Tavullia Team in MotoGP
Tavullia (Italy) – Mooney VR46 Racing Team and Luca Marini announce, after six seasons of shared goals, that they will not continue together in the 2024 season. The time has come for both parties to pursue ambitious goals and results following different paths. All the management, the Team and the people involved in the project wish Luca the best for his future.
Luca joined the Moto2 Team at the end of 2017 and has achieved his most prestigious results within this family. First podium in the Moto2 World Championship (German GP) in 2018 and first win in the middle class in the same year (Malaysian GP 2018 – 6 victories in Moto2). Best overall result in the 2020 Championship when he is a contender for the Moto2 World title until the last race (final P2). Luca was the first rider to have brought the VR46 brand to MotoGP on the Ducati Desmosedici GP in 2021.
In the last two seasons (2022 – 2023), Luca is one of the protagonist of the successes of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team project, built around him to become among the most competitive riders in the Top class. He signs two pole positions, 4 podiums in the Sprint and two podiums in the Sunday race.
Luca Marini and VR46 Racing Team in numbers
888 total points (533 in Moto2, 355 in MotoGP)
P2 RIDERS World Championship 2020 (Moto2)
P1 TEAMS World Championship 2020 (Moto2 – with Bezzecchi)
6 wins (in Moto2)
17 podiums (2 MotoGP)
7 pole positions (2 MotoGP)
4 Sprint podiums
109 races with the Team (110 included ValenciaGP)
LUCA MARINI – 10
I spent most of my Championship career in this Team, so many of the most significant moments of my career so far are linked to this group of people. We have grown a lot together and have gained a lot of satisfactions. This will be my last race with the Mooney VR46 Racing Team: I thought a lot before making this decision and evaluated the new challenges I will face. I leave behind a fantastic Team that contributed to my growth and knowledge of the technical aspects and complexity that characterises this kind sport. It’s time to embrace a new path with enthusiasm, without denying what has been, but with the eyes focused on the future.
ALESSIO SALUCCI, TEAM DIRECTOR
I have really seen Luca grow, since he was a child, then from a motorsport point of view I had the pleasure of seeing him become one of the strongest riders in MotoGP. I’m happy to have shared six beautiful seasons with him in this project. From the first satisfactions in Moto2, the second place in the Championship in 2020, then the debut in MotoGP, the birth of our Team in the Top class and a 2023 where he managed to be a real protagonist. Luca is a professional with few equals, a technician, a true passionate enthusiast before being a rider and then a great worker. It is a pity to let him go, he will be a really tough opponent in the future, but an opportunity of this type is too much important not to be considered and I sincerely I wish him, together with the whole Team, the very best of luck.
