First race announced, Season Launch revealed – here are the test dates for the new era of MotoGP.
MotoGP begins a new era in 2027 and dates for the first track action of the season can now be confirmed. There are two pre-season tests before Rio de Janeiro hosts the Season Launch on the 21st of February, then it’s into the first race weekend of the year as the Thai GP takes place at Buriram from the 5th to the 7th of March.
The Shakedown Test – for factory test riders and rookies – will take place at Petronas Sepang International Circuit from the 29th to the 30th of January. This year, it’s back-to-back with the first official test of the season for all riders, the Sepang Test, which will be held on the 31st of January and 1st of February. That’s two days per event for 2027.
The paddock then heads for Buriram in Thailand for the second official two-day test, which takes place on the 6th and 7th of February.
MotoGP moves west for the Season Launch as Brazil beckons for the 2027 edition. Botafogo Beach in Rio de Janeiro provides an unrivalled backdrop for the flagship event, taking MotoGP into the heart of one of the world’s most iconic cities on the 21st of February.
Here’s the full rundown:
SHAKEDOWN TEST: 29th – 30th JANUARY
SEPANG TEST: 31st JANUARY – 1st FEBRUARY
BURIRAM TEST: 6th – 7th FEBRUARY
SEASON LAUNCH: 21st FEBRUARY
All that is preceded by our very first look at the new era – the Valencia Test on the 1st of December 2026. There, the new rider line-ups will head out on their all-new 850cc machinery for the very first time.
Moto2™ and Moto3™ pre-season confirmed
Pre-season testing for Moto2 and Moto3 can also be confirmed. For Moto2, there is one private test and one official test. For Moto3, it’s one official test.
In 2027, they all take place at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto for both classes:
Cunha Returns to AFM with Three-Win Weekend at Buttonwillow’s The Circuit
BUTTONWILLOW, Calif. — The American Federation of Motorcyclists (AFM) brought a full weekend of motorcycle road racing to Buttonwillow Raceway Park’s new “The Circuit” configuration August 29-30, highlighted by the return of former AFM racer Mathew Cunha, close racing throughout the field, and a paddock that showcased the community at the heart of West Coast club racing.
Cunha, who began with the AFM in 2008 before moving away from the area, returned to his former club and immediately found himself back at the front, earning three victories during the weekend: Saturday’s Formula Pacific Sprint, Sunday’s Formula Pacific feature and Open Superbike.
The weekend also welcomed the CVMA Road Crew to the AFM paddock as part of its summer circuit supporting motorcycle road racing throughout the West. The Road Crew has spent the summer visiting events hosted by clubs from California through the Pacific Northwest and Utah, reflecting a growing effort among western racing organizations to support one another and strengthen club-level motorcycle racing across the region.
That sense of community extended beyond the racetrack. Saturday evening, racers, families, crews and volunteers gathered for AFM’s traditional paddock “Family Meal,” supported by club sponsors TBT Apparel, Remix Racing and CVSB. Medals from the weekend’s Relay Race were presented during the gathering, while K9 Counterbalance sponsored the American Twins Unlimited Novice podium with a $300/$200/$100 cash purse for the top three novice finishers.
On track, Cunha made his return to AFM competition a memorable one. In Sunday’s premier Formula Pacific feature, Eugene McMahel launched from the grid to take the holeshot and held the lead through the opening laps, much as he had in Saturday’s Formula Pacific Sprint.
Cunha soon worked his way past McMahel and, once in front, opened a gap that he managed for the remainder of the race.
Behind them, the fight for the final podium position produced some of the weekend’s best racing. Ryan Shu initially held third before a mistake in Turn 1 allowed Haydn Meng through. Shu settled in behind Meng as Jason Nelson began closing from behind.
On the final lap, Shu and Nelson both attacked Meng between Turns 4 and 5, with Shu emerging in third. Nelson remained close and tried to set up one final attack out of Turn 10, but Shu held him off to secure the final podium position.
Cunha also showed his pace in Open Superbike. Shu grabbed the holeshot, but Cunha swept around the outside in Turn 2 to take the lead and never looked back. Behind him, Sahar Zvik secured second after missing all of Saturday’s racing with mechanical problems before getting his motorcycle repaired in time for Sunday.
In Middleweight Superbike, Haydn Meng got a great reaction to the starting lights but struggled to get the motorcycle into second gear, costing him the holeshot. Meng quickly recovered, reclaimed the lead and pulled clear of the field for the victory.
The Formula 40 races provided plenty of action as well. In Formula 40 Heavyweight, Gian Luca Storti took the holeshot before Dmytro Izvoznikov made a two-rider pass entering Turn 5 to take the lead and pull away for a commanding victory.
Formula 40 Middleweight developed into a battle between Greg Olson and Stephen Rue. Olson passed Rue entering Turn 5 on the opening lap and held the lead as the pair worked through lapped traffic. Rue stayed close and made his move entering Turn 1 on the white-flag lap. Olson couldn’t mount another attack before the finish, giving Rue the victory, with Olson second and Jansher Ashraf third.
In Formula 40 Lightweight, Luke Hiesterman grabbed the holeshot and initially held off Dave Moss before beginning to build a gap. Heisterman’s race ended with a crash in Turn 7 on Lap 2, leaving Moss to take the victory.
The Buttonwillow weekend demonstrated both sides of AFM racing: fierce competition once the lights went out and a close-knit paddock once the helmets came off. The CVMA Road Crew’s visit, AFM’s traditional Family Meal, sponsor support and increasing cooperation among western racing organizations all reflected the community that continues to sustain grassroots motorcycle road racing.
The AFM will conclude its 2026 racing season at the freshly repaved Thunderhill Raceway Park on September 26th and 27th.
Round 4 of the UtahSBK series presented by Utah Motorcycle Law took place August 29th-30th at Utah Motorsports Campus in Grantsville, Utah just outside of Salt Lake City. The 5 round championship series kicked off its penultimate round with a Friday practice hosted by track day partner ApexTrackdays. Riders spent the day getting dialed in with eyes on the sky as inclement weather threatened to add an extra element of difficulty to the race weekend.
Randy Alfano Qualifies in wet conditions. Photo by Zac Harston/UtahSBK.
Saturday morning, racers arrived to a wet track and paddock as the inevitable storm hoovered over the 500-acre facility. Qualifying was tricky with the track declared wet as racers took to the East configuration on Rain tires to set their grid positions. After the first roundof qualifying the track started to dry and race direction took a short break in an attempt to further dry the surface but mother nature had other ideas and more rain kissed the surface, a pattern that would last all day long. When qualifying resumed, Ryan Breckenridge proved the bravest in tricky conditions, setting the fastest qualifying time assuming the pole position for the “King of the Mountain” race on Sunday aboard his Zx6R. Justin Delong and Chris Mousley would round out the front row for the weekends premier race.
The racing surface wouldn’t dry out until the lunch break on Saturday, but that wouldn’t dampen the action. Fast qualifier and visiting racer Ryan Breckenridge would go bar to bar with multiple class championship leader Parker Mayer in the Ryder Gear Moto2 Expert race. An exciting battle that would seem to last all weekend between these two. Saturday mornings race would end closely with Breckenridge leading Mayer to the line. The two would battle again in the Fuzimoto Middleweight Superbike race Saturday afternoon, this time on a dry track. Mayer and Breckenridge would run wheel to wheel for the entire race, but after 7 laps it was Mayer crossing the line first under 1 second ahead of Breckenridge. Since the 2 racers seemed inseparable, it was no surprise they would be teaming up in the relay class for the afternoon’s upcoming Endurance Race.
Ryan Breckenridge(347) and Parker Mayer (775) battling in Middleweight Superbike. Photo by Michael Barclay/UtahSBK.
With weather still looming over the racetrack, endurance racers made their final preparations and plotted their strategies in flag-to-flag endurance race. In the final moments leading up to the race, the rain started to come down again, forcing racers to start the race on rain or DOT tires. No sooner than the rain came and the race was underway, the wind picked up and sun broke through the clouds quickly drying the course giving racers the first tough decision on when to switch bikes or tires to a dry set up. Breckenridge was leading the race on rain tires, pulling in and transferring his transponder to Mayer who was on a full dry setup. Meanwhile, the single bike operations of the ironman racers and true endurance teams faced tougher choices. Some teams chose to stay out on their rain tires with a drying track praying for more rain, others quickly came down pitlane looking to take advantage of a dry line on slick tires, then there were a few who started the race on DOT tires that decided to stay out and put in the laps regardless of track conditions. Among the latter was Ironman Gary Yost aboard is Yamaha R3. Yost’s DOT strategy would prove to be a perfect plan. Yost was able to circulate the entire time regardless of conditions making passes on the competition to secure the class lead at the midway point of the race. With about 12 minutes remaining, sky darkened and the rain came down again forcing those on track with slicks to return to pitlane, racers on DOT tires to quickly slow their pace, and the racers still on rain tires finally caught the break they strategized for. True Endurance team “2G1GSXR” piloted by Remington Mathews and Sam Fischer, still out on rains, quickly became the fastest bike on track. With Mathews in the saddle, head down, they quickly began to catch the class leading Precision Fab team but again mother nature had other ideas… lightning struck and due to safety concerns the race was red flagged and inevitably the race was called. The duo of Mayer and Breckenridge secured the overall and relay class win. The Precision Fab Machinery team of Anthony Norton and Ryan Richardson would finish first in the True Endurance category. Gary Yost would end the race ahead of all the other Ironman entrants and secure his first endurance win on the season. UtahSBK and endurance racers thank sponsors, Vortex Racing, IV Haven, and Apex Assassins for supporting our endurance championships all season long.
Gary Yost on his way to winning in Ironman Endurance. Photo by Martina Velcheva/UtahSBK.
Sunday morning track conditions were marginally better, but clear skies above finally brightened things up and it seemed racers would have a dry track to fight on for the day. As racers completed the morning races, track conditions still proved tricky with a “green” track as the previous days rain had seemingly washed away the rubber on the surface keeping the track slightly on the slick side. By lunch ambient conditions were perfect with sun shining and air temperatures reaching 80 degrees with a light breeze, just in time for the weekend’s main event, the 14 lap Same Day Heating & Air King of the Mountain Race.
KOM pole sitter Ryan Breckenridge would get the jump when the lights went out securing the holeshot as early drama ensued as Justin Delong suffered a mechanical heading into turn 1 causing a bit of congestion behind the leader. Reigning King of the Mountain champion Anthony Norton found himself starting p12 after qualifying complications on Saturday but immediately had his ZX10 moving forward through the field. Out of the first turn the running order was Breckenridge, Mayer, Ryan Richardson, Chris Mousley, and Kohl Burmester. Norton was on a rampage, quickly making his way into 4th, now behind Mayer after Richardson took over the 2nd position.After a brief battle with Mayer, Norton was in 3rd to start the second lap, taking over the 2nd position in turn 2 of the second lap. Breckenridge was setting a fast pace out front as Norton reeled him in during the second lap. On the cusp of his 4th consecutive club championship, Norton slid sideways into turn 1 with the lead to start the third lap, a lead that he would not relinquish for the remainder of the race. The battle was on for the podium as Richardson was chipping away at Breckenridge for 2nd and 3rd positionswith Mayer and Mousley contesting for the podium spots as well. These 4 would run with nothing between them for the first half of the race, exchanging spots multiple times. Richardson would finally edge away in 2ndleaving Mayer, Breckenridge, and Mousley to fight over the final spot on the podium. In the final laps, Mayer would make the move on Breckenridge for 3rd and hold on by a narrow margin earning his spot on the box. Breckenridge would finish 4th and Mousley 5th.
Anthony Norton (#1) hunts down race leader Ryan Breckenridge (#347) with Ryan Richardson (#793) running 3rd. Photo by Michael Barclay/UtahSBK.Same Day Heating and Air King of the Mountain Podium (left to right) Parker Mayer 3rd Anthony Norton 1st Ryan Richardson 2nd. Photo by Zac Harston/UtahSBK.
With his Victory, Anthony Norton secured his 4th consecutive #1 plate and King of the Mountain title. Norton had this to say following the race:
“Starting from the back to take this win summarizes the struggles I have had this season. Every round had a different set of obstacles to overcome. Thankful for my better half Stacey, my friends in the paddock, and of course my sponsors and supporters for helping me persevere. I want to thank Precision Fab Machinery, Legal Ride NV, Bestige Holdings, Racers Edge Dunlop, Ryder Gear, KYT Helmets, Fuzimoto, and Vortex for another year of support. Happy to bring home another #1 plate for everyone involved in my program.”
With only 1 round left, The UtahSBK President Brian Childree wanted to extend the greatest appreciation for all their sponsors and especially the volunteers of the club that brave weekends like this to provide the best possible experience for the racers. Without the support from the community the series wouldn’t be nearly as successful as it is.
Round 5, the final round, is just 3 weeks away and is set to be quite a show. The Oxy Moron Media team is back for round 5 providing a live stream of the weekend (follow them on YouTube), with announcer and personality Emily Mae back in the tower calling races and making her way through the paddock. Expect special appearances from UMC track ownership and some of the other series partners during the broadcast. Racers get signed up and fans mark your calendars, you won’t want to miss the UtahSBK season finale on September 19th and 20th!
This is not a normal ABC type of day. For Laguna Seca, we host with A group, and 2 B-groups. For A-Group, its normal format (the advanced group). For the B groups we’ve got your choice of B+ of B-. If you’re the B Group’er that’s already pretty quick inside that group, and known to pass lots of riders, and maybe even are almost ready for A-Group; B+ is your spot. B- is for you if you’re more the back half of the standard B Group pace-wise, and potentially even upper-level C-Group at normal ABC events. Any questions, you give us a call.
Schedule
AB+B-
Traditional
Registration & Tech: 7:00 AM
Riders Meeting: 8:00 AM
Track Hot: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
A 9:am , B+ 9:20am B- 9:40am
lunch break mandatory
30 riders registered max per group
Whether you’re chasing lap times, learning the basics, getting ready to race, or just looking for as much quality seat time as possible, We’ve got you covered!
Padgett’s Motorcycles, one of the most respected and successful names in British motorcycle racing, has been awarded the historic Torrens Trophy by the Royal Automobile Club in recognition of more than six decades of outstanding contribution to the sport.
Presented only in exceptional circumstances, the Torrens Trophy recognizes an individual or organization that has made an outstanding contribution to the cause or technical excellence of safe and skillful motorcycling in the United Kingdom.
This rare accolade reflects Padgett’s extraordinary legacy in the sport, spanning more than six decades of success at the highest levels of international racing and road racing. Padgett’s has supported and developed generations of world-class riders, achieving sustained success at the very highest level. Over this period, no other organization has supported as many British riders across such a wide range of events and championships, from the Isle of Man TT and British Superbikes to Irish road racing and Grand Prix World Championships.
As one of the most successful privateer teams in motorcycle racing, Padgett’s has achieved multiple Isle of Man TT victories with riders including Bruce Anstey, and has secured historic success with both John McGuinness and Ian Hutchinson, most notably Hutchinson’s unprecedented clean sweep of all five solo TT races in 2010. The team has also established an enduring and influential presence at major road racing events, including the North West 200.
From its early association with Grand Prix legends such as Mike Hailwood and Phil Read, through to its modern-day achievements, Padgett’s Motorcycles holds a unique place at the very heart of British motorcycle racing, making the them truly worthy recipients of this prestigious award.
Duncan Wiltshire, Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club, said: “Over the years, Padgett’s has played a pivotal role in shaping British motorcycle racing, supporting and developing generations of world-class riders while maintaining an unwavering commitment to performance and safety, and establishing standards and relationships that have endured across generations.
“Their enduring competitive success, contribution to the advancement of British motorcycling and role in nurturing talent firmly cement their place at the very heart of the sport. This award recognizes both their remarkable heritage and their continued influence at the highest level.”
Clive Padgett, who continues to lead the family-run team, said: “To receive the Torrens Trophy is an incredible honor for everyone involved with Padgett’s. It’s recognition not just of results, but of decades of hard work, passion and commitment to doing things the right way.
“On a personal level, this means a huge amount to me and my family. My father, Peter, dedicated his life to building Padgett’s into what it is today, and it’s something I know he would have been immensely proud of. To receive this in the same year that we lost him makes it especially poignant.”
Multiple Isle of Man TT winner John McGuinness MBE added: “Padgett’s is more than just a team, it’s a family. To see them recognized with something as prestigious as the Torrens Trophy is absolutely deserved. They’ve been at the heart of British racing for decades, and I feel privileged to have been part of that story.”
Ian Hutchinson said “Clive and the Padgett’s team have always been very special to me. We had an unbelievable year together in 2010, winning all five solo TT races, but it’s always been about much more than the racing.
“They’ve been there for me through the good times and the tough ones. There’s so much knowledge, passion and hard work behind Padgett’s, but also real loyalty and friendship. They’ve given so much to riders like me and to motorcycle racing. I’m absolutely chuffed to see them win the Torrens Trophy – they really deserve it.”
The Torrens Trophy is awarded only when the Royal Automobile Club considers an achievement or contribution truly worthy of the honor, underlining the significance of Padgett’s Motorcycles joining its distinguished roll of recipients.
About The Royal Automobile Club:
The Royal Automobile Club was founded in 1897, and its distinguished history mirrors that of motoring itself. In 1907, the Club was awarded its Royal title by King Edward VII, sealing the Club’s status as Britain’s oldest and most influential motoring organization.
The Club’s early years were focused on promoting the motor car and its place in society, which developed into motoring events such as the 1000 Mile Trial, first held in 1900. In 1905, the Club held the first Tourist Trophy, one of the oldest continuously run competitive motor sports event. The Club promoted the first pre-war and post-war Grands Prix at Brooklands in 1926 and Silverstone in 1948 respectively, whilst continuing to campaign for the rights of the motorist, including introducing the first driving licenses.
Today, the Club continues to develop and support automobilism through representation on the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and RAC Foundation, while promoting its own motoring events including London Motor Week and the RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. This year the Club’s London Motor Week – including the Motoring Book of The Year Awards – runs from Monday 26 October to Sunday 1 November 2026.
The Royal Automobile Club also awards a series of historically world-famous trophies and medals celebrating motoring achievements. These include the Segrave Trophy, the Tourist Trophy, the Simms Medal, the Dewar Trophy, the Torrens Trophy, the Diamond Jubilee Trophy and the Historic Awards.
A 3,000 sq.m exhibition space, an innovative industrial design project,a hub for culture, creativity and entertainment.
5 years of work
Investments exceeding 50 million euro
Production capacity raised to over 30,000 bikes a year
Factory area increased to 38,000 sq.m
4,200 sq.m of new multi-purpose spaces open to the public
Michele Colaninno, Piaggio Group CEO: “It is with great pride and a touch of madness that, after almost five years of hard work and an investment of over 50 million euro, we are launching the new chapter in the life of Moto Guzzi. The project has involved a complete transformation of the factory and the museum, and is the brainchild of Greg Lynn, a friend and internationally renowned architect, with whom we have worked to fuse metal and robots, silence and art.
Overlooking the shores of Lake Como, in Mandello del Lario, surrounded by the past and the present, yet also one of the most cutting-edge motorcycle factories, a technological benchmark in the global motorcycle industry. This was a by no means easy challenge, which, together, we have successfully completed. Moto Guzzi is one of the world’s best loved and iconic motorbike brands: anyone who rides a Moto Guzzi is riding through over a century of Italian history, with all our memories and all our hopes for the future.”
From left to right: the gentleman wearing the tricolour sash is Riccardo Fasoli, Mayor of Mandello, followed by Matteo Colaninno, Chairman of the Piaggio Group, Attilio Fontana, President of the Lombardy Region (holding a pair of scissors), Michele Colaninno, CEO of the Piaggio Group. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
Mandello del Lario (Lecco), 2 September 2026– After almost 5 years of work and investments totalling more than 50 million euro, the new home of Moto Guzzi – still proudly located, as it has been since its foundation in 1921, in Mandello del Lario, on the Lecco side of Lake Como – has made its debut.
The institutional inauguration was attended by the Governor of the Region of Lombardy, Attilio Fontana, leading local dignitaries, the Executive Chairman of the Piaggio Group,Matteo Colaninno, and the Piaggio Group CEO, Michele Colaninno.
Moto Guzzi’s new home in Mandello del Lario was designed and engineered by a world class team led by architect GregLynn* and is one of the most ambitious initiatives in the recent history of industrial architecture.
It is not just a new factory, nor simply a new museum, but a place where ingenuity and technology, legend and passion come together to generate new ideas, to imagine and build the future.
In the place where Moto Guzzi was founded 105 years ago, between the mountains and the lake, the American designer – a former winner of the Golden Lion at the Venice Architecture Biennale – has created a multifunctional hub where innovation, experimentation and history come together to create a unique cultural space. A visionary project, which opens the doors to a completely new experience, merging technology and design in a futuristic harmony.
Moto Guzzi World Days 2026: opening of new museum and factory. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
Moto Guzzi’s new home goes far beyond its original function of production and preserving its heritage. It has been designed to create, experiment, enjoy experiences and stir emotions. A site where ideas can come together and different visions can be shared, where a love for a historic brand goes hand in hand with a vision of the future, to imagine that future and help bring it to life.
Sweeping metal-clad architecture defines the redeveloped Mandello complex, blending modern production and visitor facilities into the dramatic landscape overlooking Lake Como. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
Designed to be more than a factory, the new complex welcomes visitors with dedicated event spaces and immersive Moto Guzzi experiences throughout the year. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
THE NEW FACILITY
The new production facility, designed with a constant focus on environmental sustainability and efficient use of resources, is equipped with 1,300 square metres of photovoltaic panels, makes the most of natural light and is built to Class A standards. It is situated within the same industrial site where Moto Guzzi motorbikes have always been constructed. The red gate on Via Parodi, which has been the entrance for Moto Guzzi’s technicians, workers, engineers and riders since 1921, and which over the years has become a place of pilgrimage for motorcyclists from all over the world, will remain in place, a symbol of continuity with a unique company history. But now, beyond that entrance, after almost five years of work, is a state-of-the-art factory, a new global benchmark for the motorcycle industry.
The factory complex is situated at the heart of the original site, transforming it completely but harmoniously, and respecting both its history and its architecture. It comprises 5,500 square metres of new industrial buildings (bringing the total factory area to 38,000 square metres), so boosting production capacity to more than 30,000 vehicles a year, as well as 380 square metres of new office space.
The factory. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
The latest-generation automated engine assembly lines are not a refurbishment of existing buildings, but a completely new facility equipped with cutting-edge technology.
The final motorcycle assembly plant is linked to the engine shop by a sophisticated, fully robotised conveyor system. Here, at the end of the production line, the motorbikes are handed over to kilo™ ground drones, designed and manufactured in Boston by Piaggio Fast Forward (PFF), and sent for final testing, thereby keeping the physical demands on workers to a minimum and maximising safety. The entire production process complies with the highest manufacturing quality standards.
A look inside the Moto Guzzi museum in Mandello del Lario, Italy. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
THE NEW MUSEUM
Adjacent to the factory, in entirely new premises, is the Moto Guzzi Museum.
The new 3,000 sq.m building that houses the museum takes its inspiration from the technical and metallic aesthetic of the motorbikes produced in Mandello: many of the shapes and finishes of the spacious, light-filled new spaces echo the characteristics of the bikes, creating a visual and material link between the architecture and the brand’s identity.
A visit to the collection will be an extraordinary journey through the history of motorcycling, thanks to the rarity of the fascinating models on display: more than 160 meticulously restored two-wheelers, ranging from the G.P. – a unique world prototype, whose construction marked the beginning of the Moto Guzzi story – right up to current production, including models that have become legendary and the racing bikes that won 14 MotoGP World Championship titles.
The various sections – dedicated to cinema, racing, travel, the arts, and military and police vehicles – provide a new type of museum experience, allowing visitors to explore more than one hundred years of social, cultural, technological and design change through the history and models of Moto Guzzi. The Museum will be a vibrant, contemporary space, directly linked to Moto Guzzi’s present, as visitors will have a window on the brand-new assembly lines so that they can follow the production process of every new motorbike.
The Moto Guzzi caffe. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
NEW MULTI-PURPOSE SPACES OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
The new spaces also include extensive outdoor areas, the restored Galleria del Vento wind tunnel and a splendid raised terrace overlooking the large central piazza and featuring a monumental mosaic of the Moto Guzzi eagle.
The outdoor spaces are pedestrianised and intended for guests, with two exclusive tree-lined squares forming an iconic promenade and a path offering views of the factory in full operation.
All these areas are within the original perimeter of the factory and have been designed to welcome visitors from around the world, all year round. The new Moto Guzzi is a modern hub that also comprises the large Motoplex Store, a café, spaces for workshops and events, and a new auditorium, for a total of over 4,200 square metres.
The new facilities and the new Museum in Mandello del Lario are not a refurbishment of a historic factory but the creation of a new global benchmark in motorbike manufacturing and brand experience, a location of great emotional and cultural significance, and a unique destination for Guzzi bikers and motorbike enthusiasts from all over the world.
MILLVILLE, N.J. — The American Superbike Racing Association (ASRA) wrapped up an action-packed double-header weekend August 28–30 at New Jersey Motorsports Park, with full grids, close racing, and sending riders home with stories that will last until the next round.
Complete official results can be seen below, and points updates are available at asraracing.com. Highlight footage from the weekend, including onboard views from riders such as Joseph Limandri, Matthew Chapin, Josh Raymond Jr., and others, has already been shared on the ASRA website and also on youtube by ASRA and Noiseless Productions.
ASRA extends a sincere thank you to every racer who lined up and to every fan who came out to support the weekend. Your energy in the paddock and along the fence made the event a success.
The series now heads to Blackhawk Farms Raceway September 11–13 before the season finale at Daytona International Speedway October 15–18.
FIM North America Names Roster for 2026 FIM Intercontinental Games
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — FIM North America announced its roster for the 2026 FIM Intercontinental Games, taking place Dec. 10-13 at the famed Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna in Goiânia, Brazil, with all six FIM Continental Unions (CONU) battling for global bragging rights.
After a successful inaugural event in 2024, the 2026 FIM Intercontinental Games will provide an opportunity for FIM North America — which is made up of the American Motorcyclist Association, Canadian Motorcycle Association and Barbados Motoring Federation — to once again compete against the remaining CONUs from around the world, including Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and Oceania.
“The FIM Intercontinental Games offers an excellent opportunity to showcase the abilities of our North American riders on a global stage,” FIM North America President and AMA President and CEO, Rob Dingman said. “We are confident in the group that we selected to represent our continent, as each of these racers have shown the necessary skill, determination and pride to compete on behalf of our CONU in this international competition.”
This year’s event will include circuit racing in Supersport and Supersport 300 classes, with riders racing aboard FIM-provided Yamaha YZF-R3 and YZF-R7 motorcycles. New this year, motocross will be added to the racing schedule at the FIM Intercontinental Games under an MX2 format.
Teams will be made up of four riders per category, including one female rider per team, with 12 total racers representing FIM North America in Brazil.
The list of FIM North America competitors include:
Circuit Racing Team Manager — Michael Martin
Supersport (SSP):
Josh Herrin
Max Toth
Blake Davis
Mallory Dobbs
Supersport 300 (SSP300):
Hank Vossberg
Matthew Chapin
Kensei Matsudaira
Ella Dreher
Motocross Team Manager — Steve Westfall
MX2:
Zach Osborne
Ryder McNabb
Preston Kilroy
Mayla Herrick
Matthew Chapin on a 2026 MotoAmerica Twins Cup podium.
Mallory Dobbs with her Aprilia RS660 ahead of Reparto Veloce Racing’s 2026 MotoAmerica Twins Cup debut. Photo courtesy Reparto Veloce Racing.
Blake Davis (22) on a MotoAmerica Supersport podium at Road Atlanta, 2026. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Max Toth, 2026. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Hank Vossberg celebrates his 2026 MotoAmerica Twins Cup championship with the Robem Engineering Aprilia crew. Photo by Sara Chappell.
Kensei Matsudaira at the podium after winning a MotoAmerica Talent Cup race at Laguna Seca, 2026. Photo by Brian J Nelson.
MP13 Racing/One Cure Racing’s Ella Dreher captured a third place finish in Talent Cup Race 1 at VIRginia International Raceway last year and finished fifth overall in Talent Cup points. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
About FIM North America
FIM North America is one of six Continental Unions (CONUs) recognized as geographical subdivisions and accountable to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). It was founded in 1998. The national federations who are members of FIM North America are, by virtue of their geographical area and their membership in the FIM, the American Motorcyclist Association, the Barbados Motoring Federation and the Canadian Motorcycle Association. FIM North America establishes an annual calendar of Continental Championship events and other activities and declares champions in designated disciplines and classes. Its member federations issue CONU licenses to riders participating in FIM NA events as well as those who are participating in Continental Championship events organized in other CONUs. For more information, visit https://fim-northamerica.com.
About the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA)
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
More, from a press release issued by the FIM:
Expanded programme for second edition of FIM Intercontinental Games
The FIM Intercontinental Games (ICG) returns to the calendar this year for its second edition – scheduled to run from 11-13 December at the Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna in Goiania, Brazil – where teams from all six FIM Continental Unions (CONU) will come together for this biennial gathering of the FIM Family.
Following on from the hugely-successful first edition that was held at Spain’s Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto in 2024, this year’s event has been expanded with the addition of a Motocross category for MX2 machines to run alongside the established Supersport and Supersport 300 classes that featured two years ago. This means that for the second ICG, that will be staged in the central state of Goiàs, for the first time the coveted title will be decided across both on circuit racing and off-road disciplines.
Winners in 2024, FIM Europe will defend its title in the face of stiff opposition from the other CONUs of Africa, Asia, Latin America, North America and Oceania with each CONU fielding four riders in all three categories. Each CONU is allowed to include one ‘specialist’ rider with a permanent place in an FIM World Championship during 2026 along with the requirement to have a minimum of one female rider per category who is also permitted to be a permanent FIM World Championship rider this season.
All other selected riders must be considered ‘rising talents’ and cannot have taken part in any FIM World Championship in 2026 as a permanent rider.
With twenty-four riders per class, a total of seventy-two competitors from twenty-five nations – an increase of six participating countries compared to the inaugural event – will contest the 2026 ICG.
Machinery for competitors in both Circuit Racing disciplines will be provided by Yamaha with a fleet of YZF-R3 and YZF-R7 models available, while Motocross competitors will race on motorcycles supplied locally, in accordance with each rider’s requested brand and model, and compliant with FIM regulations.
On the opening day of the ICG (Friday 11 December), SSP and SSP300 teams will take part in a non-timed test practice followed by FP1 and FP2. MX2 teams will be on track for free practice and FP1. The following morning, SSP and SSP300 teams will all take part in Qualifying 1 and Qualifying 2, while MX2 teams will be on track for FP2 and a Timed Practice before the first points-scoring races across all three classes are staged in the afternoon.
On the final day (Sunday 13 December) teams across all three classes will take part in a short warm-up before lining up for Race Two and, for MX2 only, a concluding Race Three.
FIM President Jorge Viegas, who first envisaged the ICG in 2002, said: “It is incredibly exciting to be visiting Brazil for the second edition of the FIM Intercontinental Games. The inaugural FIM Intercontinental Games was a landmark event and for me the culmination of a long-standing ambition, but the intention was always to expand the number of categories and competitors and I am delighted to say we are moving in a very positive, defined direction.
Bringing all six FIM Continental Unions together in this manner is very important, allowing us to celebrate the shared FIM Family values of fairness, inclusion and unity in a competitive, yet friendly environment with participants from across the globe.”
Magny-Cours beckons as Bulega closes in on WorldSBK title.
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship returns to the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours for the Acerbis French Round from 4-6 September. As the 2026 season enters its decisive stages, Nicolo Bulega arrives in France with more milestones within reach, including his first mathematical opportunity to secure the WorldSBK Riders’ Championship.
Recent Form and Momentum
Championship leader Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) heads into the season’s final four rounds with 491 points. The Italian is currently on a streak of 37 consecutive podium finishes, the longest active streak in WorldSBK.
Teammate Iker Lecuona occupies second place with 358 points. The Spaniard claimed his maiden WorldSBK victory at the previous round in Donington Park and has recently renewed his contract with Aruba.it Racing – Ducati.
Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) completes the current championship top three with 211 points. He holds a 29-point advantage over Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team), who has 182 points.
Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) completes the top five on 177 points, five behind his brother.
Nicolo Bulega (11) and Iker Lecuona (7). Photo courtesy Ducati.
Historical Performance
Nicolo Bulega has already claimed two WorldSBK wins at Magny-Cours, both coming in 2024. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) is the only other rider on the current grid to have won at the French venue, also with two victories.
Last year, Toprak Razgatlioglu won all three races at Magny-Cours, while Nicolo Bulega and Alex Lowes both claimed three podium finishes.
Axel Bassani (47) and Danilo Petrucci (9) at Balaton Park. Photo courtesy bimota by Kawasaki.
Private Test
Honda HRC, ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and ELF Marc VDS Racing Team took part in a private test at Magny-Cours ahead of the final stages of the season. Honda HRC and ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team also tested at Estoril.
Alberto Surra (67) at Aragon. Photo courtesy WSBK.
Medical Updates
Having both been declared unfit during the UK Round, Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Optical Express Racing) and Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) will need to pass a medical check before being cleared to race in France.
Nicolo Bulega (11) at Donington Park. Photo courtesy WSBK.
At Stake This Weekend
Bulega arrives at Magny-Cours with his first mathematical opportunity to secure the 2026 WorldSBK Riders’ Championship. Holding a 133-point advantage over teammate Iker Lecuona, he would be crowned in Race 2 if he outscores the Spaniard by 53 points across the three races at Magny-Cours.
With 23 wins already this season, Bulega is on course for the second-most successful winning campaign in WorldSBK history. The Italian is now chasing the all-time record of 27 victories, set by Alvaro Bautista in 2023.
Bulega is also one weekend away from equalling Toprak Razgatlioglu‘s all-time record of 11 three-race clean sweeps, having won Race 1, the Tissot Superpole Race and Race 2 at 10 previous events.
World Supersport race start at Donington Park. Photo courtesy WSBK.
The FIM Supersport World Championship heads to the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours for the French Round from 4-6 September, with four rounds and 200 points still available in the 2026 campaign. Championship leader Albert Arenas faces a key challenge from home rider Valentin Debise as the title fight enters its decisive stages.
Recent Form and Momentum
Albert Arenas (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) heads into the final stretch of the season as the championship leader. The Spanish rider has 291 points and holds an 82-point advantage over ZXMOTO’s Valentin Debise.
Debise (EASTROC ZXMOTO Evan Bros Factory) heads into his home round on 209 points and will look to perform in front of his home fans. The Frenchman remains the rider with the most victories this season and will be looking to extend his advantage over Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura), who sits just 14 points behind in the standings.
Having led the championship during the early stages of the season, Masia now occupies third place, with a 17-point advantage over Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing).
Two victories at Donington Park provided a major boost to Tom Booth-Amos’ (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) championship campaign. The British rider remains in contention for a top three finish in the standings, trailing Masia by 30 points.
Valentin Debise (53), Tom Booth-Amos (69), Can Oncu (61) and Jaume Masia (5) during the WSSP Race 2 at Misano. Photo courtesy WSBK.
Historical Performance
Arenas arrives at Magny-Cours with no previous racing experience at the French circuit. Debise, meanwhile, has a best result of second place at the venue, achieved in 2023, while Masia‘s best finish there is ninth.
Among the current field, Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) and Dominique Aegerter (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) are the only riders to have previously won at Magny-Cours, with Mahias claiming victory in 2019 and Aegerter in 2021.
Tom Booth-Amos and Can Oncu both finished on the podium at the French venue last season.
Private Test
Several WorldSSP teams headed to Magny-Cours ahead of the round to take part in a private test at the French circuit, including Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing, Honda Racing World Supersport, GMT94 Yamaha and VFT Racing Yamaha.
WorldSPB enters its final phase at the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours from 4-6 September, with David Salvador looking to strengthen his championship lead. Behind him, Antonio Torres and Xavi Artigas prepare for a close battle for second place in the standings.
WorldSPB race start at Aragon. Photo courtesy WorldSBK.
Recent Form and Momentum
David Salvador heads into the French Round as the championship leader with 164 points scored this season. With seven podiums claimed already, including a win at the most recent round in Misano, the Team ProDina Kawasaki XCI rider has built a comfortable margin at the front. Already a race winner at Magny-Cours in WorldSSP300, Salvador will look to extend his advantage at the French venue.
34 points behind is teammate Antonio Torres, on 130 points. While his main goal will be to close the gap to Salvador, Torres will also need to defend second place from Xavi Artigas (MTM Kawasaki), who is just one point behind in the standings.
Matteo Vannucci (Revo-M2) completes the current top five with 99 points.
Historical Performance
WorldSPB will make its first appearance at the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours. However, several riders with WorldSSP300 experience are already familiar with the French track. David Salvador, Jeffrey Buis, Matteo Vannucci and Loris Veneman have all previously won at Magny-Cours in WorldSSP300, with Buis holding the record for most WorldSSP300 victories at the circuit with four.
On the Front Cover: Andrew Lee (14) dominated the under-appreciated MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship for years, and he is still dominating since its relabeling as Superbike Cup and its integration into Superbike races. His plan is to get the maximum number of points every weekend while making the minimum number of mistakes, and it has put him way out front in the title chase again in 2026. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 ISSUE
FEATURES
Inside Info: Suzuki updates the Hayabusa. Bridgestone renews as
the spec tire supplier for Canadian Superbike. FIM taking bids
on new MotoMini spec racebikes. Talbott and KYT donate For
Airfence, and more…
Shops: GBrakes, Restarting A Family Business In The U.S.A
First Person/Opinion: The Death Of Cycle World Magazine, by Kevin Cameron
RACING
MotoGP: Aprilia’s Fernandez & Martin Dominate
MotoAmerica Superbike: Kelly Tightens His Grip At Mid-Ohio
MotoAmerica Inside Info: Benjamin Smith’s Bike Goes Ghost Riding
MotoAmerica Superbike: Fong Versus Baz At VIR
MotoAmerica Inside Info: Uribe Breaks Through, Aprilia Tops Twins
World Superbike: All Ducati At Misano
World Superbike Notes: American Gerloff Earns 6th & 8th
COLUMNS
Letters To The Editor: Kids Racing, Corner Working, Having Fun
10 Years Ago: Superbike race winners Cam Beaubier (1), Roger
Hayden (95) and Josh Hayes (4) are on the cover of the August
2016 issue of Roadracing World. MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley told of
plans to ban wings on racebike fairings for 2017-on; Valentino
Rossi said, “I don’t like them because they are quite ugly,” but
admitted they did help increase front tire contact.
The Crash Page: Lewis Cooper Upside-Down In The U.K.
2026 Racing, School & Track Day Calendar: Where & When To Ride
Classified Ads/Advertiser Index
High Performance Parts & Services Directory
Chris Ulrich’s Adventures Of An Ex-Racer: The Case For Urban Street Courses
First race announced, Season Launch revealed – here are the test dates for the new era of MotoGP.
MotoGP begins a new era in 2027 and dates for the first track action of the season can now be confirmed. There are two pre-season tests before Rio de Janeiro hosts the Season Launch on the 21st of February, then it’s into the first race weekend of the year as the Thai GP takes place at Buriram from the 5th to the 7th of March.
The Shakedown Test – for factory test riders and rookies – will take place at Petronas Sepang International Circuit from the 29th to the 30th of January. This year, it’s back-to-back with the first official test of the season for all riders, the Sepang Test, which will be held on the 31st of January and 1st of February. That’s two days per event for 2027.
The paddock then heads for Buriram in Thailand for the second official two-day test, which takes place on the 6th and 7th of February.
MotoGP moves west for the Season Launch as Brazil beckons for the 2027 edition. Botafogo Beach in Rio de Janeiro provides an unrivalled backdrop for the flagship event, taking MotoGP into the heart of one of the world’s most iconic cities on the 21st of February.
Here’s the full rundown:
SHAKEDOWN TEST: 29th – 30th JANUARY
SEPANG TEST: 31st JANUARY – 1st FEBRUARY
BURIRAM TEST: 6th – 7th FEBRUARY
SEASON LAUNCH: 21st FEBRUARY
All that is preceded by our very first look at the new era – the Valencia Test on the 1st of December 2026. There, the new rider line-ups will head out on their all-new 850cc machinery for the very first time.
Moto2™ and Moto3™ pre-season confirmed
Pre-season testing for Moto2 and Moto3 can also be confirmed. For Moto2, there is one private test and one official test. For Moto3, it’s one official test.
In 2027, they all take place at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto for both classes:
From left, Eugene McMahel, Steve Weir, winner Mat Cunha, and Ryan Shu. Photo by Daniela Fredrick/AFM.
Cunha Returns to AFM with Three-Win Weekend at Buttonwillow’s The Circuit
BUTTONWILLOW, Calif. — The American Federation of Motorcyclists (AFM) brought a full weekend of motorcycle road racing to Buttonwillow Raceway Park’s new “The Circuit” configuration August 29-30, highlighted by the return of former AFM racer Mathew Cunha, close racing throughout the field, and a paddock that showcased the community at the heart of West Coast club racing.
Cunha, who began with the AFM in 2008 before moving away from the area, returned to his former club and immediately found himself back at the front, earning three victories during the weekend: Saturday’s Formula Pacific Sprint, Sunday’s Formula Pacific feature and Open Superbike.
The weekend also welcomed the CVMA Road Crew to the AFM paddock as part of its summer circuit supporting motorcycle road racing throughout the West. The Road Crew has spent the summer visiting events hosted by clubs from California through the Pacific Northwest and Utah, reflecting a growing effort among western racing organizations to support one another and strengthen club-level motorcycle racing across the region.
That sense of community extended beyond the racetrack. Saturday evening, racers, families, crews and volunteers gathered for AFM’s traditional paddock “Family Meal,” supported by club sponsors TBT Apparel, Remix Racing and CVSB. Medals from the weekend’s Relay Race were presented during the gathering, while K9 Counterbalance sponsored the American Twins Unlimited Novice podium with a $300/$200/$100 cash purse for the top three novice finishers.
On track, Cunha made his return to AFM competition a memorable one. In Sunday’s premier Formula Pacific feature, Eugene McMahel launched from the grid to take the holeshot and held the lead through the opening laps, much as he had in Saturday’s Formula Pacific Sprint.
Cunha soon worked his way past McMahel and, once in front, opened a gap that he managed for the remainder of the race.
Behind them, the fight for the final podium position produced some of the weekend’s best racing. Ryan Shu initially held third before a mistake in Turn 1 allowed Haydn Meng through. Shu settled in behind Meng as Jason Nelson began closing from behind.
On the final lap, Shu and Nelson both attacked Meng between Turns 4 and 5, with Shu emerging in third. Nelson remained close and tried to set up one final attack out of Turn 10, but Shu held him off to secure the final podium position.
Cunha also showed his pace in Open Superbike. Shu grabbed the holeshot, but Cunha swept around the outside in Turn 2 to take the lead and never looked back. Behind him, Sahar Zvik secured second after missing all of Saturday’s racing with mechanical problems before getting his motorcycle repaired in time for Sunday.
In Middleweight Superbike, Haydn Meng got a great reaction to the starting lights but struggled to get the motorcycle into second gear, costing him the holeshot. Meng quickly recovered, reclaimed the lead and pulled clear of the field for the victory.
The Formula 40 races provided plenty of action as well. In Formula 40 Heavyweight, Gian Luca Storti took the holeshot before Dmytro Izvoznikov made a two-rider pass entering Turn 5 to take the lead and pull away for a commanding victory.
Formula 40 Middleweight developed into a battle between Greg Olson and Stephen Rue. Olson passed Rue entering Turn 5 on the opening lap and held the lead as the pair worked through lapped traffic. Rue stayed close and made his move entering Turn 1 on the white-flag lap. Olson couldn’t mount another attack before the finish, giving Rue the victory, with Olson second and Jansher Ashraf third.
In Formula 40 Lightweight, Luke Hiesterman grabbed the holeshot and initially held off Dave Moss before beginning to build a gap. Heisterman’s race ended with a crash in Turn 7 on Lap 2, leaving Moss to take the victory.
The Buttonwillow weekend demonstrated both sides of AFM racing: fierce competition once the lights went out and a close-knit paddock once the helmets came off. The CVMA Road Crew’s visit, AFM’s traditional Family Meal, sponsor support and increasing cooperation among western racing organizations all reflected the community that continues to sustain grassroots motorcycle road racing.
The AFM will conclude its 2026 racing season at the freshly repaved Thunderhill Raceway Park on September 26th and 27th.
Anthony Norton Wins KOM Race and Championship: Photo by Michael Barclay.
Round 4 of the UtahSBK series presented by Utah Motorcycle Law took place August 29th-30th at Utah Motorsports Campus in Grantsville, Utah just outside of Salt Lake City. The 5 round championship series kicked off its penultimate round with a Friday practice hosted by track day partner ApexTrackdays. Riders spent the day getting dialed in with eyes on the sky as inclement weather threatened to add an extra element of difficulty to the race weekend.
Randy Alfano Qualifies in wet conditions. Photo by Zac Harston/UtahSBK.
Saturday morning, racers arrived to a wet track and paddock as the inevitable storm hoovered over the 500-acre facility. Qualifying was tricky with the track declared wet as racers took to the East configuration on Rain tires to set their grid positions. After the first roundof qualifying the track started to dry and race direction took a short break in an attempt to further dry the surface but mother nature had other ideas and more rain kissed the surface, a pattern that would last all day long. When qualifying resumed, Ryan Breckenridge proved the bravest in tricky conditions, setting the fastest qualifying time assuming the pole position for the “King of the Mountain” race on Sunday aboard his Zx6R. Justin Delong and Chris Mousley would round out the front row for the weekends premier race.
The racing surface wouldn’t dry out until the lunch break on Saturday, but that wouldn’t dampen the action. Fast qualifier and visiting racer Ryan Breckenridge would go bar to bar with multiple class championship leader Parker Mayer in the Ryder Gear Moto2 Expert race. An exciting battle that would seem to last all weekend between these two. Saturday mornings race would end closely with Breckenridge leading Mayer to the line. The two would battle again in the Fuzimoto Middleweight Superbike race Saturday afternoon, this time on a dry track. Mayer and Breckenridge would run wheel to wheel for the entire race, but after 7 laps it was Mayer crossing the line first under 1 second ahead of Breckenridge. Since the 2 racers seemed inseparable, it was no surprise they would be teaming up in the relay class for the afternoon’s upcoming Endurance Race.
Ryan Breckenridge(347) and Parker Mayer (775) battling in Middleweight Superbike. Photo by Michael Barclay/UtahSBK.
With weather still looming over the racetrack, endurance racers made their final preparations and plotted their strategies in flag-to-flag endurance race. In the final moments leading up to the race, the rain started to come down again, forcing racers to start the race on rain or DOT tires. No sooner than the rain came and the race was underway, the wind picked up and sun broke through the clouds quickly drying the course giving racers the first tough decision on when to switch bikes or tires to a dry set up. Breckenridge was leading the race on rain tires, pulling in and transferring his transponder to Mayer who was on a full dry setup. Meanwhile, the single bike operations of the ironman racers and true endurance teams faced tougher choices. Some teams chose to stay out on their rain tires with a drying track praying for more rain, others quickly came down pitlane looking to take advantage of a dry line on slick tires, then there were a few who started the race on DOT tires that decided to stay out and put in the laps regardless of track conditions. Among the latter was Ironman Gary Yost aboard is Yamaha R3. Yost’s DOT strategy would prove to be a perfect plan. Yost was able to circulate the entire time regardless of conditions making passes on the competition to secure the class lead at the midway point of the race. With about 12 minutes remaining, sky darkened and the rain came down again forcing those on track with slicks to return to pitlane, racers on DOT tires to quickly slow their pace, and the racers still on rain tires finally caught the break they strategized for. True Endurance team “2G1GSXR” piloted by Remington Mathews and Sam Fischer, still out on rains, quickly became the fastest bike on track. With Mathews in the saddle, head down, they quickly began to catch the class leading Precision Fab team but again mother nature had other ideas… lightning struck and due to safety concerns the race was red flagged and inevitably the race was called. The duo of Mayer and Breckenridge secured the overall and relay class win. The Precision Fab Machinery team of Anthony Norton and Ryan Richardson would finish first in the True Endurance category. Gary Yost would end the race ahead of all the other Ironman entrants and secure his first endurance win on the season. UtahSBK and endurance racers thank sponsors, Vortex Racing, IV Haven, and Apex Assassins for supporting our endurance championships all season long.
Gary Yost on his way to winning in Ironman Endurance. Photo by Martina Velcheva/UtahSBK.
Sunday morning track conditions were marginally better, but clear skies above finally brightened things up and it seemed racers would have a dry track to fight on for the day. As racers completed the morning races, track conditions still proved tricky with a “green” track as the previous days rain had seemingly washed away the rubber on the surface keeping the track slightly on the slick side. By lunch ambient conditions were perfect with sun shining and air temperatures reaching 80 degrees with a light breeze, just in time for the weekend’s main event, the 14 lap Same Day Heating & Air King of the Mountain Race.
KOM pole sitter Ryan Breckenridge would get the jump when the lights went out securing the holeshot as early drama ensued as Justin Delong suffered a mechanical heading into turn 1 causing a bit of congestion behind the leader. Reigning King of the Mountain champion Anthony Norton found himself starting p12 after qualifying complications on Saturday but immediately had his ZX10 moving forward through the field. Out of the first turn the running order was Breckenridge, Mayer, Ryan Richardson, Chris Mousley, and Kohl Burmester. Norton was on a rampage, quickly making his way into 4th, now behind Mayer after Richardson took over the 2nd position.After a brief battle with Mayer, Norton was in 3rd to start the second lap, taking over the 2nd position in turn 2 of the second lap. Breckenridge was setting a fast pace out front as Norton reeled him in during the second lap. On the cusp of his 4th consecutive club championship, Norton slid sideways into turn 1 with the lead to start the third lap, a lead that he would not relinquish for the remainder of the race. The battle was on for the podium as Richardson was chipping away at Breckenridge for 2nd and 3rd positionswith Mayer and Mousley contesting for the podium spots as well. These 4 would run with nothing between them for the first half of the race, exchanging spots multiple times. Richardson would finally edge away in 2ndleaving Mayer, Breckenridge, and Mousley to fight over the final spot on the podium. In the final laps, Mayer would make the move on Breckenridge for 3rd and hold on by a narrow margin earning his spot on the box. Breckenridge would finish 4th and Mousley 5th.
Anthony Norton (#1) hunts down race leader Ryan Breckenridge (#347) with Ryan Richardson (#793) running 3rd. Photo by Michael Barclay/UtahSBK.Same Day Heating and Air King of the Mountain Podium (left to right) Parker Mayer 3rd Anthony Norton 1st Ryan Richardson 2nd. Photo by Zac Harston/UtahSBK.
With his Victory, Anthony Norton secured his 4th consecutive #1 plate and King of the Mountain title. Norton had this to say following the race:
“Starting from the back to take this win summarizes the struggles I have had this season. Every round had a different set of obstacles to overcome. Thankful for my better half Stacey, my friends in the paddock, and of course my sponsors and supporters for helping me persevere. I want to thank Precision Fab Machinery, Legal Ride NV, Bestige Holdings, Racers Edge Dunlop, Ryder Gear, KYT Helmets, Fuzimoto, and Vortex for another year of support. Happy to bring home another #1 plate for everyone involved in my program.”
With only 1 round left, The UtahSBK President Brian Childree wanted to extend the greatest appreciation for all their sponsors and especially the volunteers of the club that brave weekends like this to provide the best possible experience for the racers. Without the support from the community the series wouldn’t be nearly as successful as it is.
Round 5, the final round, is just 3 weeks away and is set to be quite a show. The Oxy Moron Media team is back for round 5 providing a live stream of the weekend (follow them on YouTube), with announcer and personality Emily Mae back in the tower calling races and making her way through the paddock. Expect special appearances from UMC track ownership and some of the other series partners during the broadcast. Racers get signed up and fans mark your calendars, you won’t want to miss the UtahSBK season finale on September 19th and 20th!
This is not a normal ABC type of day. For Laguna Seca, we host with A group, and 2 B-groups. For A-Group, its normal format (the advanced group). For the B groups we’ve got your choice of B+ of B-. If you’re the B Group’er that’s already pretty quick inside that group, and known to pass lots of riders, and maybe even are almost ready for A-Group; B+ is your spot. B- is for you if you’re more the back half of the standard B Group pace-wise, and potentially even upper-level C-Group at normal ABC events. Any questions, you give us a call.
Schedule
AB+B-
Traditional
Registration & Tech: 7:00 AM
Riders Meeting: 8:00 AM
Track Hot: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
A 9:am , B+ 9:20am B- 9:40am
lunch break mandatory
30 riders registered max per group
Whether you’re chasing lap times, learning the basics, getting ready to race, or just looking for as much quality seat time as possible, We’ve got you covered!
Duncan Wiltshire, Chairman Royal Automobile Club (left) presenting the Torrens Trophy to Clive Padgett of Padgett's Motorcycles. Photo courtesy Royal Automobile Club.
Padgett’s Motorcycles, one of the most respected and successful names in British motorcycle racing, has been awarded the historic Torrens Trophy by the Royal Automobile Club in recognition of more than six decades of outstanding contribution to the sport.
Presented only in exceptional circumstances, the Torrens Trophy recognizes an individual or organization that has made an outstanding contribution to the cause or technical excellence of safe and skillful motorcycling in the United Kingdom.
This rare accolade reflects Padgett’s extraordinary legacy in the sport, spanning more than six decades of success at the highest levels of international racing and road racing. Padgett’s has supported and developed generations of world-class riders, achieving sustained success at the very highest level. Over this period, no other organization has supported as many British riders across such a wide range of events and championships, from the Isle of Man TT and British Superbikes to Irish road racing and Grand Prix World Championships.
As one of the most successful privateer teams in motorcycle racing, Padgett’s has achieved multiple Isle of Man TT victories with riders including Bruce Anstey, and has secured historic success with both John McGuinness and Ian Hutchinson, most notably Hutchinson’s unprecedented clean sweep of all five solo TT races in 2010. The team has also established an enduring and influential presence at major road racing events, including the North West 200.
From its early association with Grand Prix legends such as Mike Hailwood and Phil Read, through to its modern-day achievements, Padgett’s Motorcycles holds a unique place at the very heart of British motorcycle racing, making the them truly worthy recipients of this prestigious award.
Duncan Wiltshire, Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club, said: “Over the years, Padgett’s has played a pivotal role in shaping British motorcycle racing, supporting and developing generations of world-class riders while maintaining an unwavering commitment to performance and safety, and establishing standards and relationships that have endured across generations.
“Their enduring competitive success, contribution to the advancement of British motorcycling and role in nurturing talent firmly cement their place at the very heart of the sport. This award recognizes both their remarkable heritage and their continued influence at the highest level.”
Clive Padgett, who continues to lead the family-run team, said: “To receive the Torrens Trophy is an incredible honor for everyone involved with Padgett’s. It’s recognition not just of results, but of decades of hard work, passion and commitment to doing things the right way.
“On a personal level, this means a huge amount to me and my family. My father, Peter, dedicated his life to building Padgett’s into what it is today, and it’s something I know he would have been immensely proud of. To receive this in the same year that we lost him makes it especially poignant.”
Multiple Isle of Man TT winner John McGuinness MBE added: “Padgett’s is more than just a team, it’s a family. To see them recognized with something as prestigious as the Torrens Trophy is absolutely deserved. They’ve been at the heart of British racing for decades, and I feel privileged to have been part of that story.”
Ian Hutchinson said “Clive and the Padgett’s team have always been very special to me. We had an unbelievable year together in 2010, winning all five solo TT races, but it’s always been about much more than the racing.
“They’ve been there for me through the good times and the tough ones. There’s so much knowledge, passion and hard work behind Padgett’s, but also real loyalty and friendship. They’ve given so much to riders like me and to motorcycle racing. I’m absolutely chuffed to see them win the Torrens Trophy – they really deserve it.”
The Torrens Trophy is awarded only when the Royal Automobile Club considers an achievement or contribution truly worthy of the honor, underlining the significance of Padgett’s Motorcycles joining its distinguished roll of recipients.
About The Royal Automobile Club:
The Royal Automobile Club was founded in 1897, and its distinguished history mirrors that of motoring itself. In 1907, the Club was awarded its Royal title by King Edward VII, sealing the Club’s status as Britain’s oldest and most influential motoring organization.
The Club’s early years were focused on promoting the motor car and its place in society, which developed into motoring events such as the 1000 Mile Trial, first held in 1900. In 1905, the Club held the first Tourist Trophy, one of the oldest continuously run competitive motor sports event. The Club promoted the first pre-war and post-war Grands Prix at Brooklands in 1926 and Silverstone in 1948 respectively, whilst continuing to campaign for the rights of the motorist, including introducing the first driving licenses.
Today, the Club continues to develop and support automobilism through representation on the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and RAC Foundation, while promoting its own motoring events including London Motor Week and the RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. This year the Club’s London Motor Week – including the Motoring Book of The Year Awards – runs from Monday 26 October to Sunday 1 November 2026.
The Royal Automobile Club also awards a series of historically world-famous trophies and medals celebrating motoring achievements. These include the Segrave Trophy, the Tourist Trophy, the Simms Medal, the Dewar Trophy, the Torrens Trophy, the Diamond Jubilee Trophy and the Historic Awards.
A 3,000 sq.m exhibition space, an innovative industrial design project, a hub for culture, creativity and entertainment. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
A 3,000 sq.m exhibition space, an innovative industrial design project,a hub for culture, creativity and entertainment.
5 years of work
Investments exceeding 50 million euro
Production capacity raised to over 30,000 bikes a year
Factory area increased to 38,000 sq.m
4,200 sq.m of new multi-purpose spaces open to the public
Michele Colaninno, Piaggio Group CEO: “It is with great pride and a touch of madness that, after almost five years of hard work and an investment of over 50 million euro, we are launching the new chapter in the life of Moto Guzzi. The project has involved a complete transformation of the factory and the museum, and is the brainchild of Greg Lynn, a friend and internationally renowned architect, with whom we have worked to fuse metal and robots, silence and art.
Overlooking the shores of Lake Como, in Mandello del Lario, surrounded by the past and the present, yet also one of the most cutting-edge motorcycle factories, a technological benchmark in the global motorcycle industry. This was a by no means easy challenge, which, together, we have successfully completed. Moto Guzzi is one of the world’s best loved and iconic motorbike brands: anyone who rides a Moto Guzzi is riding through over a century of Italian history, with all our memories and all our hopes for the future.”
From left to right: the gentleman wearing the tricolour sash is Riccardo Fasoli, Mayor of Mandello, followed by Matteo Colaninno, Chairman of the Piaggio Group, Attilio Fontana, President of the Lombardy Region (holding a pair of scissors), Michele Colaninno, CEO of the Piaggio Group. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
Mandello del Lario (Lecco), 2 September 2026– After almost 5 years of work and investments totalling more than 50 million euro, the new home of Moto Guzzi – still proudly located, as it has been since its foundation in 1921, in Mandello del Lario, on the Lecco side of Lake Como – has made its debut.
The institutional inauguration was attended by the Governor of the Region of Lombardy, Attilio Fontana, leading local dignitaries, the Executive Chairman of the Piaggio Group,Matteo Colaninno, and the Piaggio Group CEO, Michele Colaninno.
Moto Guzzi’s new home in Mandello del Lario was designed and engineered by a world class team led by architect GregLynn* and is one of the most ambitious initiatives in the recent history of industrial architecture.
It is not just a new factory, nor simply a new museum, but a place where ingenuity and technology, legend and passion come together to generate new ideas, to imagine and build the future.
In the place where Moto Guzzi was founded 105 years ago, between the mountains and the lake, the American designer – a former winner of the Golden Lion at the Venice Architecture Biennale – has created a multifunctional hub where innovation, experimentation and history come together to create a unique cultural space. A visionary project, which opens the doors to a completely new experience, merging technology and design in a futuristic harmony.
Moto Guzzi World Days 2026: opening of new museum and factory. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
Moto Guzzi’s new home goes far beyond its original function of production and preserving its heritage. It has been designed to create, experiment, enjoy experiences and stir emotions. A site where ideas can come together and different visions can be shared, where a love for a historic brand goes hand in hand with a vision of the future, to imagine that future and help bring it to life.
Sweeping metal-clad architecture defines the redeveloped Mandello complex, blending modern production and visitor facilities into the dramatic landscape overlooking Lake Como. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
Designed to be more than a factory, the new complex welcomes visitors with dedicated event spaces and immersive Moto Guzzi experiences throughout the year. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
THE NEW FACILITY
The new production facility, designed with a constant focus on environmental sustainability and efficient use of resources, is equipped with 1,300 square metres of photovoltaic panels, makes the most of natural light and is built to Class A standards. It is situated within the same industrial site where Moto Guzzi motorbikes have always been constructed. The red gate on Via Parodi, which has been the entrance for Moto Guzzi’s technicians, workers, engineers and riders since 1921, and which over the years has become a place of pilgrimage for motorcyclists from all over the world, will remain in place, a symbol of continuity with a unique company history. But now, beyond that entrance, after almost five years of work, is a state-of-the-art factory, a new global benchmark for the motorcycle industry.
The factory complex is situated at the heart of the original site, transforming it completely but harmoniously, and respecting both its history and its architecture. It comprises 5,500 square metres of new industrial buildings (bringing the total factory area to 38,000 square metres), so boosting production capacity to more than 30,000 vehicles a year, as well as 380 square metres of new office space.
The factory. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
The latest-generation automated engine assembly lines are not a refurbishment of existing buildings, but a completely new facility equipped with cutting-edge technology.
The final motorcycle assembly plant is linked to the engine shop by a sophisticated, fully robotised conveyor system. Here, at the end of the production line, the motorbikes are handed over to kilo™ ground drones, designed and manufactured in Boston by Piaggio Fast Forward (PFF), and sent for final testing, thereby keeping the physical demands on workers to a minimum and maximising safety. The entire production process complies with the highest manufacturing quality standards.
A look inside the Moto Guzzi museum in Mandello del Lario, Italy. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
THE NEW MUSEUM
Adjacent to the factory, in entirely new premises, is the Moto Guzzi Museum.
The new 3,000 sq.m building that houses the museum takes its inspiration from the technical and metallic aesthetic of the motorbikes produced in Mandello: many of the shapes and finishes of the spacious, light-filled new spaces echo the characteristics of the bikes, creating a visual and material link between the architecture and the brand’s identity.
A visit to the collection will be an extraordinary journey through the history of motorcycling, thanks to the rarity of the fascinating models on display: more than 160 meticulously restored two-wheelers, ranging from the G.P. – a unique world prototype, whose construction marked the beginning of the Moto Guzzi story – right up to current production, including models that have become legendary and the racing bikes that won 14 MotoGP World Championship titles.
The various sections – dedicated to cinema, racing, travel, the arts, and military and police vehicles – provide a new type of museum experience, allowing visitors to explore more than one hundred years of social, cultural, technological and design change through the history and models of Moto Guzzi. The Museum will be a vibrant, contemporary space, directly linked to Moto Guzzi’s present, as visitors will have a window on the brand-new assembly lines so that they can follow the production process of every new motorbike.
The Moto Guzzi caffe. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
NEW MULTI-PURPOSE SPACES OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
The new spaces also include extensive outdoor areas, the restored Galleria del Vento wind tunnel and a splendid raised terrace overlooking the large central piazza and featuring a monumental mosaic of the Moto Guzzi eagle.
The outdoor spaces are pedestrianised and intended for guests, with two exclusive tree-lined squares forming an iconic promenade and a path offering views of the factory in full operation.
All these areas are within the original perimeter of the factory and have been designed to welcome visitors from around the world, all year round. The new Moto Guzzi is a modern hub that also comprises the large Motoplex Store, a café, spaces for workshops and events, and a new auditorium, for a total of over 4,200 square metres.
The new facilities and the new Museum in Mandello del Lario are not a refurbishment of a historic factory but the creation of a new global benchmark in motorbike manufacturing and brand experience, a location of great emotional and cultural significance, and a unique destination for Guzzi bikers and motorbike enthusiasts from all over the world.
Edvin Tabakovic (187), Robert Marrone (495), Jason Hill (158) and Rodney Williamson (84). Photo by Ashley Harvey.
MILLVILLE, N.J. — The American Superbike Racing Association (ASRA) wrapped up an action-packed double-header weekend August 28–30 at New Jersey Motorsports Park, with full grids, close racing, and sending riders home with stories that will last until the next round.
Complete official results can be seen below, and points updates are available at asraracing.com. Highlight footage from the weekend, including onboard views from riders such as Joseph Limandri, Matthew Chapin, Josh Raymond Jr., and others, has already been shared on the ASRA website and also on youtube by ASRA and Noiseless Productions.
ASRA extends a sincere thank you to every racer who lined up and to every fan who came out to support the weekend. Your energy in the paddock and along the fence made the event a success.
The series now heads to Blackhawk Farms Raceway September 11–13 before the season finale at Daytona International Speedway October 15–18.
In March 2026, Josh Herrin took a record fourth straight Daytona 200 win on the Ducati Panigale V2. Photo courtesy Ducati.
FIM North America Names Roster for 2026 FIM Intercontinental Games
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — FIM North America announced its roster for the 2026 FIM Intercontinental Games, taking place Dec. 10-13 at the famed Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna in Goiânia, Brazil, with all six FIM Continental Unions (CONU) battling for global bragging rights.
After a successful inaugural event in 2024, the 2026 FIM Intercontinental Games will provide an opportunity for FIM North America — which is made up of the American Motorcyclist Association, Canadian Motorcycle Association and Barbados Motoring Federation — to once again compete against the remaining CONUs from around the world, including Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and Oceania.
“The FIM Intercontinental Games offers an excellent opportunity to showcase the abilities of our North American riders on a global stage,” FIM North America President and AMA President and CEO, Rob Dingman said. “We are confident in the group that we selected to represent our continent, as each of these racers have shown the necessary skill, determination and pride to compete on behalf of our CONU in this international competition.”
This year’s event will include circuit racing in Supersport and Supersport 300 classes, with riders racing aboard FIM-provided Yamaha YZF-R3 and YZF-R7 motorcycles. New this year, motocross will be added to the racing schedule at the FIM Intercontinental Games under an MX2 format.
Teams will be made up of four riders per category, including one female rider per team, with 12 total racers representing FIM North America in Brazil.
The list of FIM North America competitors include:
Circuit Racing Team Manager — Michael Martin
Supersport (SSP):
Josh Herrin
Max Toth
Blake Davis
Mallory Dobbs
Supersport 300 (SSP300):
Hank Vossberg
Matthew Chapin
Kensei Matsudaira
Ella Dreher
Motocross Team Manager — Steve Westfall
MX2:
Zach Osborne
Ryder McNabb
Preston Kilroy
Mayla Herrick
Matthew Chapin on a 2026 MotoAmerica Twins Cup podium.
Mallory Dobbs with her Aprilia RS660 ahead of Reparto Veloce Racing’s 2026 MotoAmerica Twins Cup debut. Photo courtesy Reparto Veloce Racing.
Blake Davis (22) on a MotoAmerica Supersport podium at Road Atlanta, 2026. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Max Toth, 2026. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Hank Vossberg celebrates his 2026 MotoAmerica Twins Cup championship with the Robem Engineering Aprilia crew. Photo by Sara Chappell.
Kensei Matsudaira at the podium after winning a MotoAmerica Talent Cup race at Laguna Seca, 2026. Photo by Brian J Nelson.
MP13 Racing/One Cure Racing’s Ella Dreher captured a third place finish in Talent Cup Race 1 at VIRginia International Raceway last year and finished fifth overall in Talent Cup points. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
About FIM North America
FIM North America is one of six Continental Unions (CONUs) recognized as geographical subdivisions and accountable to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). It was founded in 1998. The national federations who are members of FIM North America are, by virtue of their geographical area and their membership in the FIM, the American Motorcyclist Association, the Barbados Motoring Federation and the Canadian Motorcycle Association. FIM North America establishes an annual calendar of Continental Championship events and other activities and declares champions in designated disciplines and classes. Its member federations issue CONU licenses to riders participating in FIM NA events as well as those who are participating in Continental Championship events organized in other CONUs. For more information, visit https://fim-northamerica.com.
About the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA)
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
More, from a press release issued by the FIM:
Expanded programme for second edition of FIM Intercontinental Games
The FIM Intercontinental Games (ICG) returns to the calendar this year for its second edition – scheduled to run from 11-13 December at the Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna in Goiania, Brazil – where teams from all six FIM Continental Unions (CONU) will come together for this biennial gathering of the FIM Family.
Following on from the hugely-successful first edition that was held at Spain’s Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto in 2024, this year’s event has been expanded with the addition of a Motocross category for MX2 machines to run alongside the established Supersport and Supersport 300 classes that featured two years ago. This means that for the second ICG, that will be staged in the central state of Goiàs, for the first time the coveted title will be decided across both on circuit racing and off-road disciplines.
Winners in 2024, FIM Europe will defend its title in the face of stiff opposition from the other CONUs of Africa, Asia, Latin America, North America and Oceania with each CONU fielding four riders in all three categories. Each CONU is allowed to include one ‘specialist’ rider with a permanent place in an FIM World Championship during 2026 along with the requirement to have a minimum of one female rider per category who is also permitted to be a permanent FIM World Championship rider this season.
All other selected riders must be considered ‘rising talents’ and cannot have taken part in any FIM World Championship in 2026 as a permanent rider.
With twenty-four riders per class, a total of seventy-two competitors from twenty-five nations – an increase of six participating countries compared to the inaugural event – will contest the 2026 ICG.
Machinery for competitors in both Circuit Racing disciplines will be provided by Yamaha with a fleet of YZF-R3 and YZF-R7 models available, while Motocross competitors will race on motorcycles supplied locally, in accordance with each rider’s requested brand and model, and compliant with FIM regulations.
On the opening day of the ICG (Friday 11 December), SSP and SSP300 teams will take part in a non-timed test practice followed by FP1 and FP2. MX2 teams will be on track for free practice and FP1. The following morning, SSP and SSP300 teams will all take part in Qualifying 1 and Qualifying 2, while MX2 teams will be on track for FP2 and a Timed Practice before the first points-scoring races across all three classes are staged in the afternoon.
On the final day (Sunday 13 December) teams across all three classes will take part in a short warm-up before lining up for Race Two and, for MX2 only, a concluding Race Three.
FIM President Jorge Viegas, who first envisaged the ICG in 2002, said: “It is incredibly exciting to be visiting Brazil for the second edition of the FIM Intercontinental Games. The inaugural FIM Intercontinental Games was a landmark event and for me the culmination of a long-standing ambition, but the intention was always to expand the number of categories and competitors and I am delighted to say we are moving in a very positive, defined direction.
Bringing all six FIM Continental Unions together in this manner is very important, allowing us to celebrate the shared FIM Family values of fairness, inclusion and unity in a competitive, yet friendly environment with participants from across the globe.”
WSBK race start at Donington Park. Photo courtesy WSBK.
Magny-Cours beckons as Bulega closes in on WorldSBK title.
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship returns to the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours for the Acerbis French Round from 4-6 September. As the 2026 season enters its decisive stages, Nicolo Bulega arrives in France with more milestones within reach, including his first mathematical opportunity to secure the WorldSBK Riders’ Championship.
Recent Form and Momentum
Championship leader Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) heads into the season’s final four rounds with 491 points. The Italian is currently on a streak of 37 consecutive podium finishes, the longest active streak in WorldSBK.
Teammate Iker Lecuona occupies second place with 358 points. The Spaniard claimed his maiden WorldSBK victory at the previous round in Donington Park and has recently renewed his contract with Aruba.it Racing – Ducati.
Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) completes the current championship top three with 211 points. He holds a 29-point advantage over Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team), who has 182 points.
Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) completes the top five on 177 points, five behind his brother.
Nicolo Bulega (11) and Iker Lecuona (7). Photo courtesy Ducati.
Historical Performance
Nicolo Bulega has already claimed two WorldSBK wins at Magny-Cours, both coming in 2024. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) is the only other rider on the current grid to have won at the French venue, also with two victories.
Last year, Toprak Razgatlioglu won all three races at Magny-Cours, while Nicolo Bulega and Alex Lowes both claimed three podium finishes.
Axel Bassani (47) and Danilo Petrucci (9) at Balaton Park. Photo courtesy bimota by Kawasaki.
Private Test
Honda HRC, ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and ELF Marc VDS Racing Team took part in a private test at Magny-Cours ahead of the final stages of the season. Honda HRC and ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team also tested at Estoril.
Alberto Surra (67) at Aragon. Photo courtesy WSBK.
Medical Updates
Having both been declared unfit during the UK Round, Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Optical Express Racing) and Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) will need to pass a medical check before being cleared to race in France.
Nicolo Bulega (11) at Donington Park. Photo courtesy WSBK.
At Stake This Weekend
Bulega arrives at Magny-Cours with his first mathematical opportunity to secure the 2026 WorldSBK Riders’ Championship. Holding a 133-point advantage over teammate Iker Lecuona, he would be crowned in Race 2 if he outscores the Spaniard by 53 points across the three races at Magny-Cours.
With 23 wins already this season, Bulega is on course for the second-most successful winning campaign in WorldSBK history. The Italian is now chasing the all-time record of 27 victories, set by Alvaro Bautista in 2023.
Bulega is also one weekend away from equalling Toprak Razgatlioglu‘s all-time record of 11 three-race clean sweeps, having won Race 1, the Tissot Superpole Race and Race 2 at 10 previous events.
World Supersport race start at Donington Park. Photo courtesy WSBK.
The FIM Supersport World Championship heads to the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours for the French Round from 4-6 September, with four rounds and 200 points still available in the 2026 campaign. Championship leader Albert Arenas faces a key challenge from home rider Valentin Debise as the title fight enters its decisive stages.
Recent Form and Momentum
Albert Arenas (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) heads into the final stretch of the season as the championship leader. The Spanish rider has 291 points and holds an 82-point advantage over ZXMOTO’s Valentin Debise.
Debise (EASTROC ZXMOTO Evan Bros Factory) heads into his home round on 209 points and will look to perform in front of his home fans. The Frenchman remains the rider with the most victories this season and will be looking to extend his advantage over Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura), who sits just 14 points behind in the standings.
Having led the championship during the early stages of the season, Masia now occupies third place, with a 17-point advantage over Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing).
Two victories at Donington Park provided a major boost to Tom Booth-Amos’ (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) championship campaign. The British rider remains in contention for a top three finish in the standings, trailing Masia by 30 points.
Valentin Debise (53), Tom Booth-Amos (69), Can Oncu (61) and Jaume Masia (5) during the WSSP Race 2 at Misano. Photo courtesy WSBK.
Historical Performance
Arenas arrives at Magny-Cours with no previous racing experience at the French circuit. Debise, meanwhile, has a best result of second place at the venue, achieved in 2023, while Masia‘s best finish there is ninth.
Among the current field, Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) and Dominique Aegerter (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) are the only riders to have previously won at Magny-Cours, with Mahias claiming victory in 2019 and Aegerter in 2021.
Tom Booth-Amos and Can Oncu both finished on the podium at the French venue last season.
Private Test
Several WorldSSP teams headed to Magny-Cours ahead of the round to take part in a private test at the French circuit, including Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing, Honda Racing World Supersport, GMT94 Yamaha and VFT Racing Yamaha.
WorldSPB enters its final phase at the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours from 4-6 September, with David Salvador looking to strengthen his championship lead. Behind him, Antonio Torres and Xavi Artigas prepare for a close battle for second place in the standings.
WorldSPB race start at Aragon. Photo courtesy WorldSBK.
Recent Form and Momentum
David Salvador heads into the French Round as the championship leader with 164 points scored this season. With seven podiums claimed already, including a win at the most recent round in Misano, the Team ProDina Kawasaki XCI rider has built a comfortable margin at the front. Already a race winner at Magny-Cours in WorldSSP300, Salvador will look to extend his advantage at the French venue.
34 points behind is teammate Antonio Torres, on 130 points. While his main goal will be to close the gap to Salvador, Torres will also need to defend second place from Xavi Artigas (MTM Kawasaki), who is just one point behind in the standings.
Matteo Vannucci (Revo-M2) completes the current top five with 99 points.
Historical Performance
WorldSPB will make its first appearance at the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours. However, several riders with WorldSSP300 experience are already familiar with the French track. David Salvador, Jeffrey Buis, Matteo Vannucci and Loris Veneman have all previously won at Magny-Cours in WorldSSP300, with Buis holding the record for most WorldSSP300 victories at the circuit with four.
On the Front Cover: Andrew Lee (14) dominated the under-appreciated MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship for years, and he is still dominating since its relabeling as Superbike Cup and its integration into Superbike races. His plan is to get the maximum number of points every weekend while making the minimum number of mistakes, and it has put him way out front in the title chase again in 2026. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 ISSUE
FEATURES
Inside Info: Suzuki updates the Hayabusa. Bridgestone renews as
the spec tire supplier for Canadian Superbike. FIM taking bids
on new MotoMini spec racebikes. Talbott and KYT donate For
Airfence, and more…
Shops: GBrakes, Restarting A Family Business In The U.S.A
First Person/Opinion: The Death Of Cycle World Magazine, by Kevin Cameron
RACING
MotoGP: Aprilia’s Fernandez & Martin Dominate
MotoAmerica Superbike: Kelly Tightens His Grip At Mid-Ohio
MotoAmerica Inside Info: Benjamin Smith’s Bike Goes Ghost Riding
MotoAmerica Superbike: Fong Versus Baz At VIR
MotoAmerica Inside Info: Uribe Breaks Through, Aprilia Tops Twins
World Superbike: All Ducati At Misano
World Superbike Notes: American Gerloff Earns 6th & 8th
COLUMNS
Letters To The Editor: Kids Racing, Corner Working, Having Fun
10 Years Ago: Superbike race winners Cam Beaubier (1), Roger
Hayden (95) and Josh Hayes (4) are on the cover of the August
2016 issue of Roadracing World. MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley told of
plans to ban wings on racebike fairings for 2017-on; Valentino
Rossi said, “I don’t like them because they are quite ugly,” but
admitted they did help increase front tire contact.
The Crash Page: Lewis Cooper Upside-Down In The U.K.
2026 Racing, School & Track Day Calendar: Where & When To Ride
Classified Ads/Advertiser Index
High Performance Parts & Services Directory
Chris Ulrich’s Adventures Of An Ex-Racer: The Case For Urban Street Courses
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and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
