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MotoGP: Viñales Has Withdrawn From the U.S. GP

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

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

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

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

Moto2: Alonso Breaks Record At COTA

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

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

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

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

 

moto2 practice

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

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

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

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

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

Moto2 Practice results!

Moto3: Quiles Sets New Lap Record At COTA

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

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

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

 

moto3 Practice

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

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

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

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

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

Full Moto3 Practice results from COTA!

MotoAmerica: Matsudaira Fastest in Talent Cup FP1 at COTA

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

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

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

 

H-D Bagger World Cup: Mcdonald Fastest in FP2 at COTA

Archie Mcdonald was quickest during FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup Free practice 2 (FP2) Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Joe Rascal Racing Harley-Davidson on Dunlop control tires, the Australian covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:13.043, topping the field of 9 riders.

Oscar Gutierrez was the best of the rest with a 2:13.514 on his Niti Racing Harley-Davidson.

Mcdonald teammate’s Eric Granado was third with a lap time of 2:13.746.

Riding for Saddlemen Racing Harley-Davidson, American teammates Travis Wyman (2:14.883), Jake Lewis (2:15.271), and Cory West (2:15.754) finished 5th, 6th, and 7th respectively.

Cody Wyman was 9 with a time of 2:16.031 on his Joe Rascal Racing Harley-Davidson.

 

WorldSSP: Oncu Tops Superpole Qualifying In Portugal

Can Oncu topped FIM Supersport World Championship Superpole qualifying Friday afternoon at Portimao, in Portugal. Riding his Pata Ten Kate Yamaha YZF-R9 on Pirelli control tires, Oncu lapped the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) course in 1:42.670 to top the field of 32 riders and earn pole position.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was the best of the rest with a 1:43.303 on his Evan Bros Racing ZXMOTO 820RR, and Lucas Mahias earned the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:43.357 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R9.

Row-two qualifiers included BLU CRU Racing Team Yamaha’s Albert Arenas (1:43.493), Feel Racing Ducati’s Philip Oettl (1:43.513) and Orelac Racing Verdnatura Ducati’s Jaume Masia (1:43.606).

 

wssp qp

 

More from a press release issued by WorldSBK:

Oncu back on top of the WorldSSP grid at Portimao while Debise and ZXMOTO impress in P2. Lucas Mahias sprang at the chance to improve his position as time expired, thanks to a lengthy red flag.

The FIM Supersport World Championship’s Pirelli Portuguese round is a go! The World Supersport field’s excitement to take to a sunny Autodromo Internacional do Algarve on Friday afternoon was tangible as they flew out onto the tarmac for their Tissot Superpole session. Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) was the fastest on the day, sending himself to pole position for the fifth time in his WorldSSP career for Saturday’s Race 1. A late red flag was waved after smoke and liquid sprayed out of Josh Whatley’s (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) bike on the descent into Turn 1, but with just five minutes left, only a few clever riders were able to capitalise on the little remaining time to improve their position.

ONCU BACK ON POLE: The #61 takes his fifth career WorldSSP pole

Can Oncu took a strong first step towards getting his season back on track. The Turkish star took his first pole position of the season with his time of 1’42.670s. Speaking of getting seasons back on track, Debise’s Phillip Island results of P24 and P25 weren’t representative of his running at the front Down Under, and the Frenchman did well with a 1’43.303s lap to send him to P2. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) and his team played the red flag restart to perfection as he left long after the other riders but left himself just enough time to be able to ride a two-lap stint in which he could ride alone, improving his time to 1’43.357s for P3

ARENAS TO FIGHT FROM ROW 2: The Spanish rider is on the hunt for his second WorldSSP win in two rounds

Albert Arenas (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) is hungry for a second win this rookie season after a breakout win Down Under, and his 1’43.493 P4 set him up well in that pursuit. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) placed P5 as well as claimed top Ducati honours on the back of his 1’43.513s. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) was mired further down the order for most of the session, until in the final quarter of the session prior to the red flag. The Spanish phenom did enough to start P6 with a personal best lap on the day of 1’43.606s

ZACCONE BEATS THE BUZZER: Seizes the restart opportunity and sends himself to P10

Corentin Perolari (Honda Racing World Supersport) closed 2025 with growing form, and in their second Superpole session of 2026, the Frenchman slotted in a 1’43.625s time to lead the third row on Saturday. Roberto Garcia (GMT94 Yamaha) fought his way up the order as the session wore on, and before the red flag, he had sent himself up to P8 with his time of 1’43.684s. Federico Caricasulo (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) sent his ZXMOTO 820RR up to the front of the grid to join his teammate Debise, and while his time was later sent back down, he will still start from the third row in P9 with a time of 1’44.088s. Alessandro Zaccone (Ecosantagata Althea Racing Team) was one of the only riders to benefit from the restart, as a 1’44.152s lap registered as time expired sent him up from P23 to P10.

 

The top six from the WorldSSP Tissot Superpole session, full results here!

1. Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) 1’42.670s

2. Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) +0.633s

3. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) +0.687s

4. Albert Arenas (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) +0.823s

5. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) +0.843s

6. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) +0.936s

 

Catch all the weekend’s race action Live and OnDemand with the WorldSBK VideoPass!

WorldSBK: S.Lowes Heads Friday Practice At Portimao

Sam Lowes led FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Portimao, in Portugal. Riding his ELF Marc VDS Racing Team Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Brit covered the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) track in 1:39.941 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Nicolò Bulega was second-best with a 1:40.188 on his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R.

Yari Montella was third with a 1:40.351 on his Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati Panigale V4R.

Danilo Petrucci was 12th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a lap time of 1:40.962.

American Garrett Gerloff was 14th with a time of 1:41.029 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR. 

 

wsbk fp2

 

More from a press release issued by WorldSBK:

FRIDAY REPORT: Sam Lowes beats Bulega to top spot as WorldSBK tackles the Portimao rollercoaster. The two Ducati riders were separated by 0.247s at the end of Friday’s action as Friday concluded in Portugal.

Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) topped both Free Practice sessions at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve as Round 2 for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship kicked off. Taking on the famous rollercoaster, the British rider was the only rider in the 1’39s to claim top spot ahead of Championship leader Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) at the Pirelli Portuguese Round.

 

SAM LOWES ON TOP: The #14 beats Bulega to P1

British rider Sam Lowes heads into Portimao still nursing a wrist injury, although he was given the all-clear after Thursday’s medical check. He and his team worked on some ergonomics of his Panigale V4R machine in FP1 and was fastest in the morning although he was seen shaking out his left hand after setting his fastest time. In FP2, the #14 went even faster to claim P1 on the combined timesheets, ahead of Australia hat-trick hero Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati). The #11 set a 1’40.188s to claim P2, unable to join Sam Lowes in the 1’39s bracket. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) continued his impressive form from Australia as he claimed P3 with Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) in P5. The #7 had a disrupted day, with a tech problem in FP1 costing him some running time and a crash in FP2 at Turn 5 doing the same. However, he set a 1’40.458s to finish half-a-second down on Sam Lowes’ time. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) was another who fell victim to the right-hand hairpin at Turn 5 but he improved his time at the end of the session to take P6. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) was ninth with Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Optical Express Racing) in 14th. Tommy Bridewell (Superbike Advocates) is preparing for his first weekend as a full-time rider and had two big moments coming over the crest after Turn 8, although he did fall at Turn 5 in FP2. He finished the day in 15th, two places ahead of Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing).

 

Nicolo Bulega at Portimao. Photo courtesy WorldSBK

 

STRONG START FOR BIMOTA: Alex Lowes top four, Bassani P7

Bimota were strong at Phillip Island and that looks to have continued at Portimao, with both Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) and teammate Alex Lowes in the top seven of the combined times. The #22 finished the day in P4 thanks to his FP1 team, with the Brit one of just a few riders not to improve their time in the afternoon session. 1’40.442s was his fastest time and his FP2 was disrupted by a Turn 5 fall. Bassani was seventh overall after finding time in FP2, 1’40.564s his best time.

 

OLIVEIRA LEADS BMW: Aiming for a good result on home soil

Home hero Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and teammate Danilo Petrucci spent the first part of FP2 running on track close together as they looked to continue adapting to the M 1000 RR machine. Oliveira was the faster of the two as he looks to replicate his 2020 Portuguese Grand Prix success, finishing in eighth place after posting a 1’40.685s, while Petrucci had a three-tenths gap to his teammate. However, that time difference meant ‘Petrux’ finished the day in 13th place.

 

STRONG START FOR GERLOFF: The Texan doesn’t find time in FP2

Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) heads into the Portuguese Round in great form and spirits, after getting married in the gap between Phillip Island and Portimao. That continued on Friday in Portugal although he was outside the top ten on the combined timesheets, after not improving his time in FP2. His best time of the day came in the morning as he posted a 1’40.951s.

 

VIERGE ON TOP IN BLUE: Continuing to lead Yamaha’s charge

Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) has so often been the fastest Yamaha rider this season and that continued on Friday at Portimao, securing a top-ten place; the sole Yamaha rider to do so. He was directly ahead of Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in 11th, while Vierge’s teammate, Andrea Locatelli, was 16th. Stefano Manzi (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was 19th while Bahattin Sofuoglu (Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) and teammate Mattia Rato rounded out the WorldSBK field; the Turkish rider had a Turn 5 fall in FP2.

 

TWO CRASHES AT HONDA: Rea, Chantra both fall in FP2

Jonathan Rea (Honda HRC) was the fastest of the two Honda riders on track at Portimao, although his day was disrupted by a Free Practice 2 crash at Turns 10-11 at the change of direction. Nevertheless, the six-time Champion finished in 18th place with a 1’41.578s. Teammate Somkiat Chantra also had a crash in FP2, having a high-speed fall at Turn 15 but the Thai rider was able to walk away from his crash. He finished in 20th, four tenths behind his teammate.

 

The top six from Portimao’s Friday action, full results here:

1. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) 1’39.941s

2. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.247s

3. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.410s

4. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.501s

5. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.517s

6. Álvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.535s

 

Follow Saturday’s WorldSBK action from 09:40 Local Time (UTC+0) on Saturday using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

MotoGP: Acosta Heads Opening Practice At COTA

Pedro Acosta topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Michelin-shod Red Bull KTM Factory Racing RC16, the Spaniard turned a lap of 2:01.715 around the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) track and led the 22-rider field.

Fabio Di Giannantonio was second-best with a 2:01.818 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Jorge Martin was third with a lap of 2:01.936 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.

 

motogp fp1

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Acosta takes charge in COTA FP1, Marc Marquez crash brings out red flag. The #37 was back to the top straight out of the crate on Friday whilst the reigning Champion suffered a far from smooth session.

Enjoying the first rodeo at COTA in 2026, Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) led the way in FP1. The Spaniard set a lap time of 2’01:715 to have a tenth in his pocket over the field. Elsewhere, the session was red-flagged due to a crash for Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) at Turn 10. Slow to get to his feet but ultimately getting back out to the track later on, the reigning World Champion’s start to the weekend was far from ideal.

Fast laps came in right at the end of the session with the track rubbered in and in good condition. With just over two minutes left on the clock, Acosta went into P1 by a tenth of a second, back on the pace he showed at Buriram. A podium finisher in 2025 at COTA, Di Giannantonio was up in second place and started his US GP weekend strongly. Making it three different manufacturers inside the top three, Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) was top Aprilia in the opening session in the USA as his strong form from Brazil continues. The first major headline of the session occurred at Turn 10, when the #93 crashed, bringing out the red flag. Able to walk away, he did eventually get back out on track in the final ten minutes of the session, completing it in P4 whilst Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) clinched P5.

Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) was able to come away with sixth place in the opening session of the weekend whilst making it seven different teams in the top seven, Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol). Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) continued his top ten form with eighth place in FP1 whilst Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) was the slowest of the Aprilias in P9 but set more laps than anyone else in the top ten – which was completed by Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team). Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was 11th, one place ahead of top Yamaha Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP).

Full results from MotoGP FP1 at COTA!

Moto2: Vietti Tops Opening Practice at COTA

Celestino Vietti was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Pirelli-shod HDR SpeedRS Team Boscoscuro on the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) track, the Italian recorded a 2:06.724 to lead the field of 28 riders.

David Alonso was the best of the rest with a 2:06.779 on his CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team Kalex.

Tony Arbolino was third-fastest with a 2:06.863 on his REDS Fantic Racing Kalex.

American Joe Roberts finished the opening session in 17th with a 2:08.090 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

moto2 fp1

Moto3: Carpe Quickest In Opening Practice at COTA

Alvaro Carpe was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Red Bull KTM Ajo machine on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:14.209, topping the field of 25 riders.

Maximo Quiles was the best of the rest with a 2:14.405 on his CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team KTM.

Joel Esteban was third with a lap time of 2:14.555 on his LevelUP MTA KTM.

 

moto3 fp1

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moto2: Alonso Breaks Record At COTA

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

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

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

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

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

 

moto2 practice

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

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

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

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

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

Moto2 Practice results!

Moto3: Quiles Sets New Lap Record At COTA

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

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

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

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

 

moto3 Practice

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

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

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

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

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

Full Moto3 Practice results from COTA!

MotoAmerica: Matsudaira Fastest in Talent Cup FP1 at COTA

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

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

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

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

 

H-D Bagger World Cup: Mcdonald Fastest in FP2 at COTA

Archie Mcdonald (69) during Bagger World Cup FP2 at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Archie Mcdonald was quickest during FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup Free practice 2 (FP2) Friday afternoon at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Joe Rascal Racing Harley-Davidson on Dunlop control tires, the Australian covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:13.043, topping the field of 9 riders.

Oscar Gutierrez was the best of the rest with a 2:13.514 on his Niti Racing Harley-Davidson.

Mcdonald teammate’s Eric Granado was third with a lap time of 2:13.746.

Riding for Saddlemen Racing Harley-Davidson, American teammates Travis Wyman (2:14.883), Jake Lewis (2:15.271), and Cory West (2:15.754) finished 5th, 6th, and 7th respectively.

Cody Wyman was 9 with a time of 2:16.031 on his Joe Rascal Racing Harley-Davidson.

 

WorldSSP: Oncu Tops Superpole Qualifying In Portugal

Can Oncu (61) at Portimao. Photo courtesy WorldSBK

Can Oncu topped FIM Supersport World Championship Superpole qualifying Friday afternoon at Portimao, in Portugal. Riding his Pata Ten Kate Yamaha YZF-R9 on Pirelli control tires, Oncu lapped the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) course in 1:42.670 to top the field of 32 riders and earn pole position.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was the best of the rest with a 1:43.303 on his Evan Bros Racing ZXMOTO 820RR, and Lucas Mahias earned the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:43.357 on his GMT94 Yamaha YZF-R9.

Row-two qualifiers included BLU CRU Racing Team Yamaha’s Albert Arenas (1:43.493), Feel Racing Ducati’s Philip Oettl (1:43.513) and Orelac Racing Verdnatura Ducati’s Jaume Masia (1:43.606).

 

wssp qp

 

More from a press release issued by WorldSBK:

Oncu back on top of the WorldSSP grid at Portimao while Debise and ZXMOTO impress in P2. Lucas Mahias sprang at the chance to improve his position as time expired, thanks to a lengthy red flag.

The FIM Supersport World Championship’s Pirelli Portuguese round is a go! The World Supersport field’s excitement to take to a sunny Autodromo Internacional do Algarve on Friday afternoon was tangible as they flew out onto the tarmac for their Tissot Superpole session. Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) was the fastest on the day, sending himself to pole position for the fifth time in his WorldSSP career for Saturday’s Race 1. A late red flag was waved after smoke and liquid sprayed out of Josh Whatley’s (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) bike on the descent into Turn 1, but with just five minutes left, only a few clever riders were able to capitalise on the little remaining time to improve their position.

ONCU BACK ON POLE: The #61 takes his fifth career WorldSSP pole

Can Oncu took a strong first step towards getting his season back on track. The Turkish star took his first pole position of the season with his time of 1’42.670s. Speaking of getting seasons back on track, Debise’s Phillip Island results of P24 and P25 weren’t representative of his running at the front Down Under, and the Frenchman did well with a 1’43.303s lap to send him to P2. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) and his team played the red flag restart to perfection as he left long after the other riders but left himself just enough time to be able to ride a two-lap stint in which he could ride alone, improving his time to 1’43.357s for P3

ARENAS TO FIGHT FROM ROW 2: The Spanish rider is on the hunt for his second WorldSSP win in two rounds

Albert Arenas (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) is hungry for a second win this rookie season after a breakout win Down Under, and his 1’43.493 P4 set him up well in that pursuit. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) placed P5 as well as claimed top Ducati honours on the back of his 1’43.513s. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) was mired further down the order for most of the session, until in the final quarter of the session prior to the red flag. The Spanish phenom did enough to start P6 with a personal best lap on the day of 1’43.606s

ZACCONE BEATS THE BUZZER: Seizes the restart opportunity and sends himself to P10

Corentin Perolari (Honda Racing World Supersport) closed 2025 with growing form, and in their second Superpole session of 2026, the Frenchman slotted in a 1’43.625s time to lead the third row on Saturday. Roberto Garcia (GMT94 Yamaha) fought his way up the order as the session wore on, and before the red flag, he had sent himself up to P8 with his time of 1’43.684s. Federico Caricasulo (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) sent his ZXMOTO 820RR up to the front of the grid to join his teammate Debise, and while his time was later sent back down, he will still start from the third row in P9 with a time of 1’44.088s. Alessandro Zaccone (Ecosantagata Althea Racing Team) was one of the only riders to benefit from the restart, as a 1’44.152s lap registered as time expired sent him up from P23 to P10.

 

The top six from the WorldSSP Tissot Superpole session, full results here!

1. Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) 1’42.670s

2. Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) +0.633s

3. Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) +0.687s

4. Albert Arenas (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) +0.823s

5. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) +0.843s

6. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) +0.936s

 

Catch all the weekend’s race action Live and OnDemand with the WorldSBK VideoPass!

WorldSBK: S.Lowes Heads Friday Practice At Portimao

Sam Lowes (14) at Portimao. Photo courtesy WorldSBK

Sam Lowes led FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Portimao, in Portugal. Riding his ELF Marc VDS Racing Team Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Brit covered the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) track in 1:39.941 to lead the field of 22 riders.

Nicolò Bulega was second-best with a 1:40.188 on his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R.

Yari Montella was third with a 1:40.351 on his Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati Panigale V4R.

Danilo Petrucci was 12th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a lap time of 1:40.962.

American Garrett Gerloff was 14th with a time of 1:41.029 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR. 

 

wsbk fp2

 

More from a press release issued by WorldSBK:

FRIDAY REPORT: Sam Lowes beats Bulega to top spot as WorldSBK tackles the Portimao rollercoaster. The two Ducati riders were separated by 0.247s at the end of Friday’s action as Friday concluded in Portugal.

Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) topped both Free Practice sessions at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve as Round 2 for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship kicked off. Taking on the famous rollercoaster, the British rider was the only rider in the 1’39s to claim top spot ahead of Championship leader Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) at the Pirelli Portuguese Round.

 

SAM LOWES ON TOP: The #14 beats Bulega to P1

British rider Sam Lowes heads into Portimao still nursing a wrist injury, although he was given the all-clear after Thursday’s medical check. He and his team worked on some ergonomics of his Panigale V4R machine in FP1 and was fastest in the morning although he was seen shaking out his left hand after setting his fastest time. In FP2, the #14 went even faster to claim P1 on the combined timesheets, ahead of Australia hat-trick hero Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati). The #11 set a 1’40.188s to claim P2, unable to join Sam Lowes in the 1’39s bracket. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) continued his impressive form from Australia as he claimed P3 with Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) in P5. The #7 had a disrupted day, with a tech problem in FP1 costing him some running time and a crash in FP2 at Turn 5 doing the same. However, he set a 1’40.458s to finish half-a-second down on Sam Lowes’ time. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) was another who fell victim to the right-hand hairpin at Turn 5 but he improved his time at the end of the session to take P6. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) was ninth with Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Optical Express Racing) in 14th. Tommy Bridewell (Superbike Advocates) is preparing for his first weekend as a full-time rider and had two big moments coming over the crest after Turn 8, although he did fall at Turn 5 in FP2. He finished the day in 15th, two places ahead of Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing).

 

Nicolo Bulega at Portimao. Photo courtesy WorldSBK

 

STRONG START FOR BIMOTA: Alex Lowes top four, Bassani P7

Bimota were strong at Phillip Island and that looks to have continued at Portimao, with both Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) and teammate Alex Lowes in the top seven of the combined times. The #22 finished the day in P4 thanks to his FP1 team, with the Brit one of just a few riders not to improve their time in the afternoon session. 1’40.442s was his fastest time and his FP2 was disrupted by a Turn 5 fall. Bassani was seventh overall after finding time in FP2, 1’40.564s his best time.

 

OLIVEIRA LEADS BMW: Aiming for a good result on home soil

Home hero Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and teammate Danilo Petrucci spent the first part of FP2 running on track close together as they looked to continue adapting to the M 1000 RR machine. Oliveira was the faster of the two as he looks to replicate his 2020 Portuguese Grand Prix success, finishing in eighth place after posting a 1’40.685s, while Petrucci had a three-tenths gap to his teammate. However, that time difference meant ‘Petrux’ finished the day in 13th place.

 

STRONG START FOR GERLOFF: The Texan doesn’t find time in FP2

Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) heads into the Portuguese Round in great form and spirits, after getting married in the gap between Phillip Island and Portimao. That continued on Friday in Portugal although he was outside the top ten on the combined timesheets, after not improving his time in FP2. His best time of the day came in the morning as he posted a 1’40.951s.

 

VIERGE ON TOP IN BLUE: Continuing to lead Yamaha’s charge

Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) has so often been the fastest Yamaha rider this season and that continued on Friday at Portimao, securing a top-ten place; the sole Yamaha rider to do so. He was directly ahead of Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in 11th, while Vierge’s teammate, Andrea Locatelli, was 16th. Stefano Manzi (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was 19th while Bahattin Sofuoglu (Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) and teammate Mattia Rato rounded out the WorldSBK field; the Turkish rider had a Turn 5 fall in FP2.

 

TWO CRASHES AT HONDA: Rea, Chantra both fall in FP2

Jonathan Rea (Honda HRC) was the fastest of the two Honda riders on track at Portimao, although his day was disrupted by a Free Practice 2 crash at Turns 10-11 at the change of direction. Nevertheless, the six-time Champion finished in 18th place with a 1’41.578s. Teammate Somkiat Chantra also had a crash in FP2, having a high-speed fall at Turn 15 but the Thai rider was able to walk away from his crash. He finished in 20th, four tenths behind his teammate.

 

The top six from Portimao’s Friday action, full results here:

1. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) 1’39.941s

2. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.247s

3. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.410s

4. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.501s

5. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.517s

6. Álvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.535s

 

Follow Saturday’s WorldSBK action from 09:40 Local Time (UTC+0) on Saturday using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

MotoGP: Acosta Heads Opening Practice At COTA

Pedro Acosta during FP1 at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Pedro Acosta topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Michelin-shod Red Bull KTM Factory Racing RC16, the Spaniard turned a lap of 2:01.715 around the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) track and led the 22-rider field.

Fabio Di Giannantonio was second-best with a 2:01.818 on his Pertamina Enduro VR46 Ducati Desmosedici GP26.

Jorge Martin was third with a lap of 2:01.936 on his Aprilia Racing RS-GP26.

 

motogp fp1

 

More from a press release issued by MotoGP:

Acosta takes charge in COTA FP1, Marc Marquez crash brings out red flag. The #37 was back to the top straight out of the crate on Friday whilst the reigning Champion suffered a far from smooth session.

Enjoying the first rodeo at COTA in 2026, Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) led the way in FP1. The Spaniard set a lap time of 2’01:715 to have a tenth in his pocket over the field. Elsewhere, the session was red-flagged due to a crash for Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) at Turn 10. Slow to get to his feet but ultimately getting back out to the track later on, the reigning World Champion’s start to the weekend was far from ideal.

Fast laps came in right at the end of the session with the track rubbered in and in good condition. With just over two minutes left on the clock, Acosta went into P1 by a tenth of a second, back on the pace he showed at Buriram. A podium finisher in 2025 at COTA, Di Giannantonio was up in second place and started his US GP weekend strongly. Making it three different manufacturers inside the top three, Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) was top Aprilia in the opening session in the USA as his strong form from Brazil continues. The first major headline of the session occurred at Turn 10, when the #93 crashed, bringing out the red flag. Able to walk away, he did eventually get back out on track in the final ten minutes of the session, completing it in P4 whilst Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) clinched P5.

Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) was able to come away with sixth place in the opening session of the weekend whilst making it seven different teams in the top seven, Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol). Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) continued his top ten form with eighth place in FP1 whilst Championship leader Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) was the slowest of the Aprilias in P9 but set more laps than anyone else in the top ten – which was completed by Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team). Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was 11th, one place ahead of top Yamaha Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP).

Full results from MotoGP FP1 at COTA!

Moto2: Vietti Tops Opening Practice at COTA

Celestino Vietti (13) during FP1 at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Celestino Vietti was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Pirelli-shod HDR SpeedRS Team Boscoscuro on the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) track, the Italian recorded a 2:06.724 to lead the field of 28 riders.

David Alonso was the best of the rest with a 2:06.779 on his CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team Kalex.

Tony Arbolino was third-fastest with a 2:06.863 on his REDS Fantic Racing Kalex.

American Joe Roberts finished the opening session in 17th with a 2:08.090 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.

 

moto2 fp1

Moto3: Carpe Quickest In Opening Practice at COTA

Alvaro Carpe (83) at COTA. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Alvaro Carpe was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit Of The Americas, in Texas. Riding his Red Bull KTM Ajo machine on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard covered the 3.43-mile (5.51 km) road course in 2:14.209, topping the field of 25 riders.

Maximo Quiles was the best of the rest with a 2:14.405 on his CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team KTM.

Joel Esteban was third with a lap time of 2:14.555 on his LevelUP MTA KTM.

 

moto3 fp1
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