MotoE™: Torres takes crucial pole for penultimate showdown
The Championship leader heads Casadei on the grid, with Ferrari sixth as yellow flags interrupt the shootout for pole in Barcelona
Friday, 01 September 2023
Jordi Torres (Openbank Aspar Team) found exactly what he needed in FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship qualifying in Barcelona, taking pole for the penultimate round and turning the tables on closest challenger Mattia Casadei (HP Pons Los40) after the Italian topped practice. Andrea Mantovani (RNF MotoE™ Team) completes the front row, with Matteo Ferrari (Felo Gresini MotoE™) – currently one point behind Casadei – set to start sixth.
Yellow Flags out following a crash for Eric Granado (LCR E-Team) played a key role in Q2. The Brazilian found himself in Q1 after a crash in practice but comfortably topped the session to move through into the fight for pole. As he headed out of pitlane at the start of Q2 though, he suffered a strange crash at low speed that still flipped him over the highside. Rider a little winded but ok, but out of that fight for pole – and the Yellow Flags meant no one else could improve for some time either.
Torres, who had hit early to take to the top, remained unchallenged even after the track was clear, with no one able to make any big improvements in the final couple of minutes. Still, Casadei is within a tenth, making it the top two in the standings ready to start top two on the grid. Mantovani alongside them will be looking to get in their way.
Kevin Zannoni (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse) came through Q1 just behind Granado and heads Row 2, ahead of previous MotoE™ Barcelona winner Miquel Pons (LCR E-Team). Ferrari completes that second row, looking to move forward once the lights go out.
The same is true of Granado as the Brazilian was left a frustrating P10 on the grid due to that early incident, despite his Q1 lap being two thousandths off front row speed.
So that’s the grid(s)! On a super Saturday for MotoE™, Torres could clinch the crown. But with 15 points in hand it’s a long shot, and Casadei is perfectly position to try and cut that gap. Can he – and Ferrari – keep gaining ground?
Check out the full session below and get ready for Race 1 at 12:15 (GMT +2), before Race 2 at 16:10. You can tune in to MotoE™ via your MotoGP™ coverage provider! For Italy that’s Sky Italy with Race 1 live and Race 2 live or on delay, in France CANAL+SPORT 360, and in Spain both races are live via DAZN. In the UK, TNT Sports 2 shows Race 1 live, and often Race 2 – depending on programming. Switzerland’s coverage is across SRF/RTS/RSI, and viewers in Brazil can watch on ESPN4. From Down Under with Fox Sports Australia to the northern tip of Europe with VIAPLAY across Scandinavia, look for MotoE™ with the MotoGP™ broadcaster in your territory, with the full list of our partners HERE. MotoGP™ media partners broadcast MotoE™ live or on delay on their linear or digital channels, and everyone can also tune in to watch both races live and OnDemand via VideoPass on motogp.com!
Fantic is delighted to announce the agreement reached with Aron Canet for the 2024 season.
Aron Canet is the rider chosen by Fantic to continue its history in the World Championship, Moto2 class. The Spanish from Corbera de Alcira, born on September 30th in 1999 and “Caballero” in his soul, is currently fourth in the World Championship standing. This year, Canet convinced with already 2 podiums finishes in the initial part of the season. The rookie of 2020 in the same class is now racing with the Pons Racing team.
Aron Canet: “I am happy to embrace the Fantic project and being linked to a Manufacturer. I already know the technical team, and I am aware it’s very strong, but more than everything, I appreciate the fighting spirit of everyone involved as well as their determination to win, as it is the same as mine”.
Mariano Roman, Fantic Motor managing director: “We welcome Aron, a very strong rider to whom we’ll give all the necessary tools to fight for the victory. Everyone in Fantic is and will be with him. His choice is part of the growth and evolution path of our Moto2 team. He has a great experience in the World Championship and a tremendously high potential”.
Editorial Note: Paul Bird Motorsport currently races at BeerMonster Ducati and its rider Tommy Bridewell is currently leading the British Superbike Championship.
Paul Bird (1967-2023)
The Bennetts British Superbike Championship is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Paul Bird, the Team Owner of Paul Bird Motorsport (PBM), the series’ most successful team.
Paul died earlier today at the age of 56 following a short time in hospital with illness.
Paul’s family are requesting privacy during this time.
MotoAmerica: Former Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee Joins Altus Motorsports for Circuit of The Americas Round
(Altus, OK) Two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee will be taking the helm of the Altus Motorsports Suzuki GSX-R1000 at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) round. Lee won the Stock 1000 class back-to-back in 2018 and 2019. Lee also raced the Suzuka 8-hour in 2018. Last year, he raced a GSX-R at several MotoAmerica rounds.
Andrew Lee: “I’m excited for the opportunity to partner with George, Janette, and the Altus Motorsports Team. The program they’ve put together has garnered great results in the past few seasons, and I’m looking forward to joining them at COTA. The GSX-R platform they’ve built is proven. I look forward to continuing the momentum the team has been building on!”
George Nassaney: “We are very excited to have a proven champ like Andrew on the 1000 for COTA. It’s the last event for the Stock 1000 class and we are looking to finish strong.”
Altus Motorsports team is supported by our great family of sponsors: Altus Motorsports, FLY Racing WPS, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Yamaha Motor Company, Barnett, Buy A Jet From Steve Main, Maxima Racing Oils, Moto-D Racing, Bonamici, Hot Bodies Racing, M4 Exhausts, Vortex EK, Motion Pro, SBS Brakes, BrakeTech USA, Inc., Ohlins, K-Tech, RS Taichi, Arai, Yoshimura, Chicken Hawk Tire Warmers, CarbonSmith, Law Tigers Oklahoma, and Altus Factory Racing
Aleix Espargaro broke the All-Time Lap Record during MotoGP “Practice” Friday afternoon at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his factory Aprilia RS-GP, the Spaniard did a 1:38.686, which led the field of 22 riders and eclipsed Espargaro’s own All-Time Lap Record of 1:38.742 from 2022.
Espargaro’s teammate Maverick Vinales was second-best, just like he was in Free Practice One, with a time of 1:39.048. Defending World Champion Francesco Bagnaia was third with a 1:39.061 on his Lenovo Ducati Desmosedici.
Riders outside of the top 10 in Practice who now must participate in Qualifying One in hopes of reaching Qualifying Two and competing for one of the top grid spots include: Red Bull KTM’s Jack Miller (P12 – 1:39.752), last year’s race winner Fabio Quartararo (P17 – 1:40.106), and six-time MotoGP World Champion Marc Marquez (P19 – 1:40.249).
Aleix Espargaro leads Aprilia 1-2 to set the stage for a Barcelona barnstormer
The number 41 did the business in Barcelona with a scintillating lap as a Noale factory 1-2 denies Bagnaia
Aleix Espargaro (41). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Friday, 01 September 2023
Friday at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has set the stage for a potential stunner at the Gran Premi Monster Energy de Catalunya! Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) had the bit between his teeth in Practice as he put down a stunning 1:38.686 to lead the field by 0.362s on his home hunting ground. His teammate Maverick Viñales made it an Aprilia 1-2 on Day 1 too, and the number 12 pulled off quite a save on his way to second overall. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was in hot pursuit however, as he kept the Noale manufacturer in his sights, finishing 3rd but just 0.013s shy of Viñales.
Maverick Vinales (12). Photo courtesy Dorna.
The rush for Q2
With Friday afternoon’s Practice session deciding who goes through to Q2, the riders spent the majority of the session working on their race packages before turning up the wick for their late time attacks.
The top 10 go through to Q2, and it was a mad rush as the soft tyres went in with fifteen minutes to go. The times then really began to tumble and it was a late charge in the final moments that saw Aleix Espargaro crush the hearts of his competitors as he became the first rider of the weekend to put down a 1:38s lap – a new record.
Both Bagnaia and Viñales spent their fair share on the top spot as the fast laps came in from every direction, but neither could get the better of the number 41.
Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) was one of those threatening the top spots as well. Red sectors and a superb final split saw the Frenchman hit the top towards the end until he was bumped down to P4 ahead of a late-charging Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), who completes the top five.
Francesco Bagnaia (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Fine margins decide the Q2 cut
It was looking as if Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) had something up his sleeve when the soft rubber went in, but the Italian was unable to compete with the flurry of fast laps and found himself almost a second adrift of the top spot in P7, just behind Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), who heads through to Q2 in sixth.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) bagged an important top 10 in P8 as he snapped up a Q2 spot. The Italian’s race pace is looking strong as well. As the clock dipped under 40 minutes remaining, the Gresini rider had been sat at the top of the timing screens with a strong run of low 1:40s.
The final two Q2 spots went to the two riders who were scrapping it out last season for the 2023 factory Ducati ride. Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), who finished in 9th and 10th respectively. Bastianini will be content with a good sign of progress whilst Martin will be hoping for more on Saturday…
Let battle commence in Q1!
It’s anyone’s guess as to who will take the top two spots in Q1. Pol Espargaro (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3) was the first to miss out after finishing Practice in P11. The local rider – from Granollers right next to the track – will be eager to join his brother in Saturday’s Q2 session.
It won’t be an easy task, however, as he’ll have to compete with the likes of Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), the two CryptoDATA RNF Aprilias of Raul Fernandez and Miguel Oliveira, as well as Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team).
The struggles continued for Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™ teammates Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli, as well as Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) and his teammate Joan Mir as all failed to make the top 15.
Will Yamaha and Honda find something on Saturday? Can Aprilia keep their form as we head into qualifying and the Tissot Sprint? Or do Ducati and KTM have something up their sleeves? Make sure you don’t miss a single detail as the action unfolds on super Saturday!
SHOWTIME
The stage is set for Qualifying and then the Tissot Sprint at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Make sure you tune in:
Ai Ogura (79). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Margins tight in Moto2™: Ogura, Acosta, Lopez & Canet covered by 0.058
Ai Ogura (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) topped the timesheets on Day 1 of the Gran Premi Monster Energy de Catalunya as his 1:44.804 proved he’s back to his brilliant best. The margins were amazingly close, however, and just 0.002s back comes Championship leader Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo). Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools Speed Up) is in hot pursuit on Day 1 in third, with Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) fourth but still just 0.058s off the top.
Manuel Gonzalez (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team) made a big step to top Practice 2 and jumped up to the top 5 on combined times. Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) was one of many who struggled to improve as the temperatures rose in Practice 2, but did consolidate P6 thanks to his P1 time. Three afternoon improvers are up next: Albert Arenas (Red Bull KTM Ajo), Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) and rookie Sergio Garcia (Pons Wegos Los40).
Jake Dixon (Asterius GASGAS Aspar Team) rounded out the top 10 ahead of title contender Tony Arbolino (Elf MarcVDS Racing Team), with Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) pipping 2022 Barcelona winner and winner last time out Celestino Vietti (Fantic Racing). Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools Speed Up) is currently on to pick up the final Q2 spot.
Moto2™ will be back in action on Saturday for Practice 3 at 9:25 and qualifying at 13:45 local (GMT +2).
Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Moto3™: Masia makes his mark on Friday
It’s advantage Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) as Moto3™ conclude Friday’s action at the Gran Premi Monster Energy de Catalunya. The Spaniard’s stellar 1:48.300 was set on his final lap of Practice 1 and remained untouched as he sat almost half a second clear of the field. Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team) made big strides as he found half a second to top Practice 2 and slot himself into 2nd place on the combined practice times. Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) is also showing good form at a circuit he’ll know well from his time in the FIM JuniorGP. The Dutchman put in a solid lap in P2 to put himself into 3rd place.
Whilst Masia was in a league of his own, the rest of the grid was locked together in the usual Moto3™ fashion. Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was just 0.040s away from the top three and is looking in fine fettle as he bagged P4. Matteo Bertelle (Rivacold Snipers Team) also enjoyed a positive Friday to round out the top five.
Championship leader Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) isn’t having it all his own way in Barcelona. Whilst the Spaniard has bagged himself an automatic Q2 spot, he sits in P9 behind Tatsuki Suzuki (Leopard Racing), Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse) and Silverstone winner David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team). Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) rounded out the top 10 with Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) taking the final provisional Q2 spot in P14 and looking for more.
Moto3™ action continues on Saturday, make sure not to miss any of the action with Practice 3 at 08:40 and qualifying at 12:50 local time (GMT +2)!
Manuel Gonzalez was quickest during Moto2 Practice Two (P2) Friday at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Correos Prepago Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team Kalex, the Spainard covered the 2.9-mile (4.7 km) road course in 1:44.956 and topped the field of 30 riders.
American Joe Roberts was 25th with a time of 1:46.737 on his Italtrans Racing Kalex.
American Sean Dylan Kelly is not riding at Catalunya because he and his team have parted ways.
Ivan Ortola led Moto3 World Championship Practice Two (P2) Friday at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. The Spaniard lapped the 2.9-mile (4.7 km) road course in 1:48.702 on his Angeluss MTA Team KTM, topping the field of 30 riders.
Mattia Casadei led FIM MotoE World Championship Practice Two (P2) with another new All-Time Lap Record Friday at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his HP Pons Los40 Ducati electric racebike, the Italian lapped the 2.9-mile (4.7 km) road course in 1:48.832, which was nearly one second faster than the All-Time Lap Record of 1:49.867 he set in P1.
Beach to Finish MotoAmerica Superbike Season with Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing
JD Beach returns as a fill-in rider for the Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing team at the final two MotoAmerica Superbike rounds of 2023
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 1, 2023 – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing is pleased to announce that JD Beach will return with the team as a fill-in rider for Cameron Petersen at the remaining rounds of the MotoAmerica Superbike season.
Despite not racing a Superbike full-time since 2019, Beach showed strength when he filled in for Petersen at the previous round at the Pittsburgh International Race Complex (PIRC). The dirt track/road racer also got some seat time last month at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) test before the tripleheader at PIRC and showed speed at the track where he earned his first MotoAmerica Supersport win in 2015. After the American Flat Track season finale this weekend at the Springfield Mile with the Estenson Racing team, Beach will head down to Austin, Texas, to line up on the grid aboard the Attack Performance Yamaha R1 at the penultimate MotoAmerica round at COTA on September 8-10. Then it’s on to the New Jersey Motorsports Park for the season finale on September 22-24, where Beach has also enjoyed success in the past.
Richard Stanboli – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing Team Manager
“We are pleased to have JD Beach as our fill-in rider for the final two rounds. He adapted quickly at PIRC, regardless of the fact that he has been away from road racing for the past four seasons. He proved himself by improving every session and riding within reach of the podium. He also showed good speed at our recent COTA test and raced for the win on our R1 at NJMP in 2019. It should be good fun watching him build speed over the next two events.”
JD Beach – Estenson Racing
“I’m really excited to get to finish out the season with the Attack team. I feel like I’m building up some good speed with the bike and feeling better every time I get more laps. After having a full race weekend under our belt and now going back to COTA, where we tested, I think it will help a lot, as well as racing at New Jersey, which is a track where I’ve done well in the past. So I’m really looking forward to it and want to build on what I’ve done already. I’m thankful the Estenson team is okay with me doing this and that Yamaha wanted to keep me on the bike.”
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).
Aprilia factory riders Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales finished 1-2 in MotoGP Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding their Aprilia RS-GP machines, Espargaro did a 1:39.809 and Vinales turned a 1:40.073 on the 2.9-mile (4.7 km) circuit.
Jorge Martin was third-fastest with a 1:40.273 on his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, but then the times dropped off sharply with Brad Binder fourth at 1:40.859 – 1.050 seconds slower then Espargaro – on his Red Bull KTM RC16.
MotoE™: Torres takes crucial pole for penultimate showdown
The Championship leader heads Casadei on the grid, with Ferrari sixth as yellow flags interrupt the shootout for pole in Barcelona
Friday, 01 September 2023
Jordi Torres (Openbank Aspar Team) found exactly what he needed in FIM Enel MotoE™ World Championship qualifying in Barcelona, taking pole for the penultimate round and turning the tables on closest challenger Mattia Casadei (HP Pons Los40) after the Italian topped practice. Andrea Mantovani (RNF MotoE™ Team) completes the front row, with Matteo Ferrari (Felo Gresini MotoE™) – currently one point behind Casadei – set to start sixth.
Yellow Flags out following a crash for Eric Granado (LCR E-Team) played a key role in Q2. The Brazilian found himself in Q1 after a crash in practice but comfortably topped the session to move through into the fight for pole. As he headed out of pitlane at the start of Q2 though, he suffered a strange crash at low speed that still flipped him over the highside. Rider a little winded but ok, but out of that fight for pole – and the Yellow Flags meant no one else could improve for some time either.
Torres, who had hit early to take to the top, remained unchallenged even after the track was clear, with no one able to make any big improvements in the final couple of minutes. Still, Casadei is within a tenth, making it the top two in the standings ready to start top two on the grid. Mantovani alongside them will be looking to get in their way.
Kevin Zannoni (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse) came through Q1 just behind Granado and heads Row 2, ahead of previous MotoE™ Barcelona winner Miquel Pons (LCR E-Team). Ferrari completes that second row, looking to move forward once the lights go out.
The same is true of Granado as the Brazilian was left a frustrating P10 on the grid due to that early incident, despite his Q1 lap being two thousandths off front row speed.
So that’s the grid(s)! On a super Saturday for MotoE™, Torres could clinch the crown. But with 15 points in hand it’s a long shot, and Casadei is perfectly position to try and cut that gap. Can he – and Ferrari – keep gaining ground?
Check out the full session below and get ready for Race 1 at 12:15 (GMT +2), before Race 2 at 16:10. You can tune in to MotoE™ via your MotoGP™ coverage provider! For Italy that’s Sky Italy with Race 1 live and Race 2 live or on delay, in France CANAL+SPORT 360, and in Spain both races are live via DAZN. In the UK, TNT Sports 2 shows Race 1 live, and often Race 2 – depending on programming. Switzerland’s coverage is across SRF/RTS/RSI, and viewers in Brazil can watch on ESPN4. From Down Under with Fox Sports Australia to the northern tip of Europe with VIAPLAY across Scandinavia, look for MotoE™ with the MotoGP™ broadcaster in your territory, with the full list of our partners HERE. MotoGP™ media partners broadcast MotoE™ live or on delay on their linear or digital channels, and everyone can also tune in to watch both races live and OnDemand via VideoPass on motogp.com!
Aron Canet (40), as seen earlier this season. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Aron Canet joins the Moto2 Fantic Racing team
Fantic is delighted to announce the agreement reached with Aron Canet for the 2024 season.
Aron Canet is the rider chosen by Fantic to continue its history in the World Championship, Moto2 class. The Spanish from Corbera de Alcira, born on September 30th in 1999 and “Caballero” in his soul, is currently fourth in the World Championship standing. This year, Canet convinced with already 2 podiums finishes in the initial part of the season. The rookie of 2020 in the same class is now racing with the Pons Racing team.
Aron Canet: “I am happy to embrace the Fantic project and being linked to a Manufacturer. I already know the technical team, and I am aware it’s very strong, but more than everything, I appreciate the fighting spirit of everyone involved as well as their determination to win, as it is the same as mine”.
Mariano Roman, Fantic Motor managing director: “We welcome Aron, a very strong rider to whom we’ll give all the necessary tools to fight for the victory. Everyone in Fantic is and will be with him. His choice is part of the growth and evolution path of our Moto2 team. He has a great experience in the World Championship and a tremendously high potential”.
Paul Bird, R.I.P. Photo courtesy Paul Bird Motorsport.
Editorial Note: Paul Bird Motorsport currently races at BeerMonster Ducati and its rider Tommy Bridewell is currently leading the British Superbike Championship.
Paul Bird (1967-2023)
The Bennetts British Superbike Championship is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Paul Bird, the Team Owner of Paul Bird Motorsport (PBM), the series’ most successful team.
Paul died earlier today at the age of 56 following a short time in hospital with illness.
Paul’s family are requesting privacy during this time.
MotoAmerica: Former Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee Joins Altus Motorsports for Circuit of The Americas Round
(Altus, OK) Two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee will be taking the helm of the Altus Motorsports Suzuki GSX-R1000 at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) round. Lee won the Stock 1000 class back-to-back in 2018 and 2019. Lee also raced the Suzuka 8-hour in 2018. Last year, he raced a GSX-R at several MotoAmerica rounds.
Andrew Lee: “I’m excited for the opportunity to partner with George, Janette, and the Altus Motorsports Team. The program they’ve put together has garnered great results in the past few seasons, and I’m looking forward to joining them at COTA. The GSX-R platform they’ve built is proven. I look forward to continuing the momentum the team has been building on!”
George Nassaney: “We are very excited to have a proven champ like Andrew on the 1000 for COTA. It’s the last event for the Stock 1000 class and we are looking to finish strong.”
Altus Motorsports team is supported by our great family of sponsors: Altus Motorsports, FLY Racing WPS, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Yamaha Motor Company, Barnett, Buy A Jet From Steve Main, Maxima Racing Oils, Moto-D Racing, Bonamici, Hot Bodies Racing, M4 Exhausts, Vortex EK, Motion Pro, SBS Brakes, BrakeTech USA, Inc., Ohlins, K-Tech, RS Taichi, Arai, Yoshimura, Chicken Hawk Tire Warmers, CarbonSmith, Law Tigers Oklahoma, and Altus Factory Racing
Aleix Espargaro (41) in action Friday at Catalunya. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
Aleix Espargaro broke the All-Time Lap Record during MotoGP “Practice” Friday afternoon at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his factory Aprilia RS-GP, the Spaniard did a 1:38.686, which led the field of 22 riders and eclipsed Espargaro’s own All-Time Lap Record of 1:38.742 from 2022.
Espargaro’s teammate Maverick Vinales was second-best, just like he was in Free Practice One, with a time of 1:39.048. Defending World Champion Francesco Bagnaia was third with a 1:39.061 on his Lenovo Ducati Desmosedici.
Riders outside of the top 10 in Practice who now must participate in Qualifying One in hopes of reaching Qualifying Two and competing for one of the top grid spots include: Red Bull KTM’s Jack Miller (P12 – 1:39.752), last year’s race winner Fabio Quartararo (P17 – 1:40.106), and six-time MotoGP World Champion Marc Marquez (P19 – 1:40.249).
Aleix Espargaro leads Aprilia 1-2 to set the stage for a Barcelona barnstormer
The number 41 did the business in Barcelona with a scintillating lap as a Noale factory 1-2 denies Bagnaia
Aleix Espargaro (41). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Friday, 01 September 2023
Friday at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has set the stage for a potential stunner at the Gran Premi Monster Energy de Catalunya! Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) had the bit between his teeth in Practice as he put down a stunning 1:38.686 to lead the field by 0.362s on his home hunting ground. His teammate Maverick Viñales made it an Aprilia 1-2 on Day 1 too, and the number 12 pulled off quite a save on his way to second overall. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was in hot pursuit however, as he kept the Noale manufacturer in his sights, finishing 3rd but just 0.013s shy of Viñales.
Maverick Vinales (12). Photo courtesy Dorna.
The rush for Q2
With Friday afternoon’s Practice session deciding who goes through to Q2, the riders spent the majority of the session working on their race packages before turning up the wick for their late time attacks.
The top 10 go through to Q2, and it was a mad rush as the soft tyres went in with fifteen minutes to go. The times then really began to tumble and it was a late charge in the final moments that saw Aleix Espargaro crush the hearts of his competitors as he became the first rider of the weekend to put down a 1:38s lap – a new record.
Both Bagnaia and Viñales spent their fair share on the top spot as the fast laps came in from every direction, but neither could get the better of the number 41.
Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) was one of those threatening the top spots as well. Red sectors and a superb final split saw the Frenchman hit the top towards the end until he was bumped down to P4 ahead of a late-charging Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), who completes the top five.
Francesco Bagnaia (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Fine margins decide the Q2 cut
It was looking as if Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) had something up his sleeve when the soft rubber went in, but the Italian was unable to compete with the flurry of fast laps and found himself almost a second adrift of the top spot in P7, just behind Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), who heads through to Q2 in sixth.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) bagged an important top 10 in P8 as he snapped up a Q2 spot. The Italian’s race pace is looking strong as well. As the clock dipped under 40 minutes remaining, the Gresini rider had been sat at the top of the timing screens with a strong run of low 1:40s.
The final two Q2 spots went to the two riders who were scrapping it out last season for the 2023 factory Ducati ride. Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), who finished in 9th and 10th respectively. Bastianini will be content with a good sign of progress whilst Martin will be hoping for more on Saturday…
Let battle commence in Q1!
It’s anyone’s guess as to who will take the top two spots in Q1. Pol Espargaro (GASGAS Factory Racing Tech3) was the first to miss out after finishing Practice in P11. The local rider – from Granollers right next to the track – will be eager to join his brother in Saturday’s Q2 session.
It won’t be an easy task, however, as he’ll have to compete with the likes of Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), the two CryptoDATA RNF Aprilias of Raul Fernandez and Miguel Oliveira, as well as Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team).
The struggles continued for Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™ teammates Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli, as well as Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) and his teammate Joan Mir as all failed to make the top 15.
Will Yamaha and Honda find something on Saturday? Can Aprilia keep their form as we head into qualifying and the Tissot Sprint? Or do Ducati and KTM have something up their sleeves? Make sure you don’t miss a single detail as the action unfolds on super Saturday!
SHOWTIME
The stage is set for Qualifying and then the Tissot Sprint at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Make sure you tune in:
Ai Ogura (79). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Margins tight in Moto2™: Ogura, Acosta, Lopez & Canet covered by 0.058
Ai Ogura (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) topped the timesheets on Day 1 of the Gran Premi Monster Energy de Catalunya as his 1:44.804 proved he’s back to his brilliant best. The margins were amazingly close, however, and just 0.002s back comes Championship leader Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo). Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools Speed Up) is in hot pursuit on Day 1 in third, with Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) fourth but still just 0.058s off the top.
Manuel Gonzalez (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team) made a big step to top Practice 2 and jumped up to the top 5 on combined times. Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) was one of many who struggled to improve as the temperatures rose in Practice 2, but did consolidate P6 thanks to his P1 time. Three afternoon improvers are up next: Albert Arenas (Red Bull KTM Ajo), Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) and rookie Sergio Garcia (Pons Wegos Los40).
Jake Dixon (Asterius GASGAS Aspar Team) rounded out the top 10 ahead of title contender Tony Arbolino (Elf MarcVDS Racing Team), with Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) pipping 2022 Barcelona winner and winner last time out Celestino Vietti (Fantic Racing). Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools Speed Up) is currently on to pick up the final Q2 spot.
Moto2™ will be back in action on Saturday for Practice 3 at 9:25 and qualifying at 13:45 local (GMT +2).
Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Moto3™: Masia makes his mark on Friday
It’s advantage Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) as Moto3™ conclude Friday’s action at the Gran Premi Monster Energy de Catalunya. The Spaniard’s stellar 1:48.300 was set on his final lap of Practice 1 and remained untouched as he sat almost half a second clear of the field. Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team) made big strides as he found half a second to top Practice 2 and slot himself into 2nd place on the combined practice times. Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) is also showing good form at a circuit he’ll know well from his time in the FIM JuniorGP. The Dutchman put in a solid lap in P2 to put himself into 3rd place.
Whilst Masia was in a league of his own, the rest of the grid was locked together in the usual Moto3™ fashion. Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was just 0.040s away from the top three and is looking in fine fettle as he bagged P4. Matteo Bertelle (Rivacold Snipers Team) also enjoyed a positive Friday to round out the top five.
Championship leader Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) isn’t having it all his own way in Barcelona. Whilst the Spaniard has bagged himself an automatic Q2 spot, he sits in P9 behind Tatsuki Suzuki (Leopard Racing), Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse) and Silverstone winner David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team). Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) rounded out the top 10 with Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) taking the final provisional Q2 spot in P14 and looking for more.
Moto3™ action continues on Saturday, make sure not to miss any of the action with Practice 3 at 08:40 and qualifying at 12:50 local time (GMT +2)!
Manuel Gonzalez (18). Photo courtesy VR46 Racing Team.
Manuel Gonzalez was quickest during Moto2 Practice Two (P2) Friday at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Correos Prepago Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team Kalex, the Spainard covered the 2.9-mile (4.7 km) road course in 1:44.956 and topped the field of 30 riders.
American Joe Roberts was 25th with a time of 1:46.737 on his Italtrans Racing Kalex.
American Sean Dylan Kelly is not riding at Catalunya because he and his team have parted ways.
Ivan Ortola led Moto3 World Championship Practice Two (P2) Friday at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. The Spaniard lapped the 2.9-mile (4.7 km) road course in 1:48.702 on his Angeluss MTA Team KTM, topping the field of 30 riders.
Mattia Casadei led FIM MotoE World Championship Practice Two (P2) with another new All-Time Lap Record Friday at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his HP Pons Los40 Ducati electric racebike, the Italian lapped the 2.9-mile (4.7 km) road course in 1:48.832, which was nearly one second faster than the All-Time Lap Record of 1:49.867 he set in P1.
JD Beach (95) at speed on a Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Superbike. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.
Beach to Finish MotoAmerica Superbike Season with Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing
JD Beach returns as a fill-in rider for the Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing team at the final two MotoAmerica Superbike rounds of 2023
MARIETTA, Ga. – September 1, 2023 – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing is pleased to announce that JD Beach will return with the team as a fill-in rider for Cameron Petersen at the remaining rounds of the MotoAmerica Superbike season.
Despite not racing a Superbike full-time since 2019, Beach showed strength when he filled in for Petersen at the previous round at the Pittsburgh International Race Complex (PIRC). The dirt track/road racer also got some seat time last month at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) test before the tripleheader at PIRC and showed speed at the track where he earned his first MotoAmerica Supersport win in 2015. After the American Flat Track season finale this weekend at the Springfield Mile with the Estenson Racing team, Beach will head down to Austin, Texas, to line up on the grid aboard the Attack Performance Yamaha R1 at the penultimate MotoAmerica round at COTA on September 8-10. Then it’s on to the New Jersey Motorsports Park for the season finale on September 22-24, where Beach has also enjoyed success in the past.
Richard Stanboli – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing Team Manager
“We are pleased to have JD Beach as our fill-in rider for the final two rounds. He adapted quickly at PIRC, regardless of the fact that he has been away from road racing for the past four seasons. He proved himself by improving every session and riding within reach of the podium. He also showed good speed at our recent COTA test and raced for the win on our R1 at NJMP in 2019. It should be good fun watching him build speed over the next two events.”
JD Beach – Estenson Racing
“I’m really excited to get to finish out the season with the Attack team. I feel like I’m building up some good speed with the bike and feeling better every time I get more laps. After having a full race weekend under our belt and now going back to COTA, where we tested, I think it will help a lot, as well as racing at New Jersey, which is a track where I’ve done well in the past. So I’m really looking forward to it and want to build on what I’ve done already. I’m thankful the Estenson team is okay with me doing this and that Yamaha wanted to keep me on the bike.”
About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).
Aleix Espargaro (41), as seen earlier this season. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Aprilia factory riders Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales finished 1-2 in MotoGP Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding their Aprilia RS-GP machines, Espargaro did a 1:39.809 and Vinales turned a 1:40.073 on the 2.9-mile (4.7 km) circuit.
Jorge Martin was third-fastest with a 1:40.273 on his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, but then the times dropped off sharply with Brad Binder fourth at 1:40.859 – 1.050 seconds slower then Espargaro – on his Red Bull KTM RC16.
A “press release” is promotional text issued by a rider, team, company or organization to inform
the public about an event, product, or service from the issuer’s own point of view, and if deemed
to have news value, may be placed on roadracingworld.com as a service to our readers.
A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. When a post is labeled with the words “press release”, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors.
Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode 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
Improves website's visuals
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
Helps to focus on specific content
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
Reduces distractions and improve focus
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
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
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.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
April 6, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
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
