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Barber Museum Celebrates Ducati and Suzuki Milestones

Mathilde Gasnier

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August 21, 2026

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Barber Museum Celebrates Ducati and Suzuki Milestones

New exhibitions at Barber Vintage Motorsports museum celebrate Ducati and Suzuki milestones.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala — Two new exhibitions at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum will kickstart the 21st annual Barber Vintage Festival, Friday, Oct. 9 to Sunday, Oct. 11, at Barber Motorsports Park. DUCATI 100 and GSX-R|40 salute the rich histories, brilliant engineering, and championship-winning performances of two of the best-known and celebrated brands in all of motorcycling.

DUCATI 100 draws a direct line from an electromechanical pioneer to a modern-day motorcycle manufacturer recognized worldwide for its powerful engines, striking styling, and racing heritage. GSX-R|40 concentrates on a single model line, developed, as author Marc Cook described in “Suzuki GSX-R: A Legacy of Performance,” with “a clarity of focus and a depth of commitment to a concept that few bikes in history had ever presented.”

GSX R Forty Years — The Barber Museum created this graphic to go with its exhibition celebrating the 40th anniversary of the original Suzuki GSX-R750.

Ultan Guilfoyle, museum board member and celebrated co-curator of “The Art of the Motorcycle,” which set attendance records when it debuted nearly 30 years ago at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City, is organizing DUCATI 100 and GSX-R|40. Both exhibitions will be unveiled on Wednesday, Oct. 7, with the actual installations located on the third and fifth floors of the museum.

“When I first met George Barber,” said Guilfoyle, “his vision for what the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and Barber Motorsports Park could bring to Birmingham and a wider audience was astonishing for its farsightedness. Part of that vision was a robust and engaging museum exhibition program. To be asked to curate these two exhibitions in celebration of George’s life is a thrill and an honor.”

Ducati Paso 750 Wes Johnson Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum — The Ducati Paso 750 is photographed in the basement conservation area of the museum. Photo by Wes Johnson/Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

Pierre Terblanche, resident mentor in the Barber Advanced Design Center, located on the fifth floor of the museum, worked closely with Guilfoyle and a talented creative team to design the open, flowing exhibitions. During his tenure as design director at Ducati, Terblanche was responsible for many new models, four of which—Supermono, 999R, MH900e, and Hypermotard—appear in DUCATI 100. The Museum created the graphic seen below to use with the exhibition.

Purchase Barber Vintage Festival tickets at barbermuseum.org/barber-vintage-festival. Children 15 years of age and under receive free admission when accompanied by a paying adult. This year’s festival carries special meaning as attendees celebrate the life of museum and park founder George Barber. “Motorcycles by Moonlight,” the museum’s annual gala, officially opens the 21st annual Barber Vintage Festival on Friday, Oct. 9.

Official event partners for the Barber Vintage Festival include BMW Motorrad USA, Law Tigers Motorcycle Lawyers, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Triumph Motorcycles, Mecum Auctions, and Papa Johns. The museum thanks Ducati North America, Suzuki Motor USA, and the Italian American Heritage Society for their support of the exhibitions.

About the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum:

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a 501(C)(3) tax-exempt, private operating foundation dedicated to the preservation, interpretation, exhibition, and history of motorcycles, vintage vehicles, and motorsports located at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala. For more than 30 years, the museum has focused on various aspects of motorsports, from displaying motorcycles and cars spanning more than 120 years of production to the Barber Advanced Design Center, a high-tech workspace for design exploration. The museum embraces the culture of motorsports enthusiasts by hosting programs, such as the Barber Design Camp, and events, including the annual Barber Vintage Festival. With five floors housing 1,800 motorcycles, 150-plus automobiles, 60 of which are Lotus race cars, and numerous vintage and iconic vehicles, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is the ultimate family-friendly environment for education, exploration, and inspiration. Additional information is available at www.barbermuseum.org.

AFT: Championship Contenders Ready for Peoria TT

Mathilde Gasnier

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August 20, 2026

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AFT: Championship Contenders Ready for Peoria TT

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 20, 2026) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is Peoria, Illinois-bound for one of the most revered and renowned events in global motorsport – the World Famous Caterpillar Peoria TT presented by Walters Brothers Harley-Davidson, on Saturday, August 22.

2026 marks the 79th edition of the fabled race hosted annually by the Peoria Motorcycle Club. There race fans gather in huge numbers to witness world-class competition inside the venue’s spectacular natural amphitheater, an experience that cannot be replicated anywhere else.

The Path to Peoria Power Now Runs Through Bauman

Ranking among the Grand National Championship’s most iconic races, aspiring and established dirt trackers alike make a victory at the Peoria TT one of their most coveted goals.

Few achieve it. And those who do master it battle tooth-and-claw to do so again and again, creating precious little opportunity for others to share in that glory. Even top fives are difficult to come by for those without serious Peoria TT bona fides. 

This has always been true. Dirt track legends of yore such as Roger Soderstrom (winner of five straight Peoria TTs from 1949-1953), Joe Leonard (seven-time winner from 1954-1961), Bart Markel (six-time winner from 1960-1968, and Dick Mann (five-time winner from 1959-1972) stamped out the dreams of those who were not up to the task of beating the best of the best at Peoria.

This trend has only further solidified over time. Over the last four decades, just nine different winners have stood atop the Mission AFT SuperTwins podium here.

Those who have are considered Peoria royalty. The longest reign, of course, belonged to “King” Henry Wiles (No. 911 DL Racing/HYMMCO Yamaha MT-07), who won 14 straight premier-class Main Events.

Chris Carr – known as “the Prince of Peoria” – earned that moniker via 13 wins of his own. More recently, JD Beach became the race’s ruling regent, notching up three consecutive triumphs from 2021-2023.

Its current warden is Briar Bauman (No. 3 Super.com/RWR/Rocket Doctor Harley-Davidson XG750R). Bauman’s win here a year ago was the third of his career, and he’s finished no worse than third since the big twins took flight once again in 2017.

The Rick Ware Racing superstar will now look to translate that expertise into a fourth Peoria TT victory – one that could draw him closer to a potential third Grand National Championship.

The Prince That Was Promised

But Bauman understands he can’t just show up and expect to roll over the competition.

Reigning champion and current points leader Dallas Daniels (No. 1 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07) was practically born to be a Peoria legend himself.

Hailing from nearby Mattoon, Illinois, Daniels lived up to his childhood ambitions by breaking through with a stunning maiden professional victory as a KICKER AFT Singles rookie in 2019.

While, in many ways, that performance signaled what was to come – namely back-to-back KICKER AFT Singles titles and, ultimately, a Grand National Championship – he has yet to return to the top of the box in Peoria. 

It hasn’t been due to a lack of pace, but rather a mix of misfortune, mistakes, Beach, and Bauman. 

If Daniels can reclaim a destiny once almost taken granted, he’ll be in a commanding position indeed. Hang tight – we’ll return to that idea in a moment.

The Standard is the Standard

As accomplished and skilled as Bauman and Daniels are in Peoria, rookie title hopeful Kody Kopp (No. 12 Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R) has no choice but to meet if not exceed their level with the championship race so tight and so close to its conclusion.

Kopp has steadily improved over the years in Peoria – claiming ninth (with the save of the year) as a rookie in 2021, then fourth, third, and second in successive attempts while winning three consecutive KICKER AFT Singles crowns from 2022-2024.

While he is likely heartened about his chances at the season-finale Springfield doubleheader as a result of his DuQuoin Mile triumph – that might not be enough, as we’ll discuss next.

But as a preview, know that if Kopp wants this title, he likely needs to put in Peoria of his career… and get some help.

Running Numbers

Daniels’ Sturgis success not only put him on top of the points for the first time during his title defense, it also stripped his adversaries of control over their own destinies. 

After winning both the TT and ST at the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club, the Estenson Racing Yamaha pilot now leads Kopp by 13 points and Bauman by 16 (249-236-233) with just three races to go.

With 23 points awarded for a win, 19 for second, and 16 for third, that means Daniels would repeat as champion with three seconds (306), even if Kopp were to win out (305).

The path is even more difficult for Bauman, who would have 302 points with three wins to end the year. That’s a tally Daniels could top with two seconds and a third (303).

Fast Local

Another part-timer with the potential to make things interesting is Peoria resident Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Dick Ford Racing/Mission Foods Yamaha MT-07).

Bauman still has plenty of pace – as evidenced by three top fives in his last six attempts. He also has serious Peoria chops – as evidenced by his 2019 runner-up finish to brother Briar and last year’s fourth.

As the numbers discussed above make clear, Briar could use a repeat of that 2019 1-2 right about now.

And if not Bronson, who?

Outside of the Baumans, Daniels, and Wiles, every other rider to have finished inside the top five in the premier class at the Peoria TT is either injured, retired, off racing elsewhere, or otherwise not present.

With the likes of JD Beach, Jared Mees, Jarod VanDerkooi, Max Whale, Robert Pearson, and Brandon Robinson not in the mix, that provides plenty of room for a new generation to step forward.

It’s not just about Peoria glory. There are championship rankings yet to be decided. 

Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing KTM 790 Duke), Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods Honda CB750 Hornet), Aidan RoosEvans (No. 26 Bubba Boswell/Smokey Mountain Harley-Davidson XG750R), Declan Bender (No. 70 Memphis Shades/Vinson Construction Yamaha MT-07), Ben Lowe (No. 25 Rackley Racing/Roof Systems KTM 790 Duke), Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), Chad Cose (No. 49 PRO Roofing/Parker Racing Yamaha MT-07), and Hunter Bauer (No. 24 G&G Yamaha MT-07) are still fighting to secure their GNC standing with little time left to do so.

The Amphitheater Awaits

Beyond the 79th running of one of the most thrilling and historic motorcycle races on the planet, those in attendance will also be treated to a Saturday afternoon of entertainment highlighted by a range of vendors, expansive food and beverage options, and dedicated motorcycle parking.

Mark Ramsey and Eric “Digger” Manes, stars of the hit television show Moonshiners, will be on site to serve as Grand Marshals to underline the celebratory nature of the event.

General Admission tickets are just $30 (kids 12 and under free with a paid adult GA ticket).

For $125 (all ages), fans can purchase a VIP ticket, which includes admission to the Turn 1 VIP lounge – located in an air-conditioned building that overlooks the entire track – food and beverage, a swag bag, and VIP parking.

And for $135 (all ages), H.O.G. members can enjoy the Harley-Davidson VIP Experience, which provides dedicated H.O.G. parking and an exclusive seating section, a guided tour of the infield podium and start/finish line, photo ops included, a meet-and-greet with the Harley-Davidson riders, and exclusive swag.

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/peoriamotorcycleclub/events/2025-peoria-tt-129191 to secure your tickets today.

Gates will open at 9:00 a.m. ET/6:00 a.m. PT with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m. ET/12:00 p.m. PT.

How to Watch

FloRacing

For those that can’t catch the live action at the track, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive American Flat Track. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2026. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/AFT2026 or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

FS1

FOX Sports coverage of the World Famous Caterpillar Peoria TT, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, August 30, at 12:00 p.m. ET (9:00 a.m. PT). The full listing of American Flat Track’s television premieres can be found at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports.

MotoGP: Zarco Set To Resume Racing at Aragon

Mathilde Gasnier

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August 20, 2026

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MotoGP: Zarco Set To Resume Racing at Aragon

Castrol Honda LCR is pleased to announce that Johann Zarco will return to racing at the Aragon Grand Prix, subject to passing the mandatory medical examination at the circuit.

After suffering a crash during Sunday’s race at the Catalan Grand Prix, Zarco was forced to miss the subsequent Grands Prix to allow him to recover from ligament injuries to his left knee. The rider and his medical team opted for a non-surgical approach, with September initially set as his target for a return to competition.

However, Zarco’s recovery has continued to improve in recent weeks, allowing him to bring forward his return to racing. He has gradually increased his workload, riding both a supermoto and a Honda CBR1000RR as part of his rehabilitation. Having made steady progress and received clearance from his medical team to resume racing, Zarco will travel to Aragon with the aim of returning to competition, subject to passing the mandatory medical assessment at the circuit.

Both Johann Zarco and the Castrol Honda LCR team are looking forward to being reunited at the Aragon Grand Prix and continuing their work together on track.

Pressure Makes Diamonds: Hayes Adds Another Jewel To His Crown

Michael Gougis

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August 20, 2026

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Pressure Makes Diamonds: Hayes Adds Another Jewel To His Crown

First Person/Opinion

by Michael Gougis

Racing is hard. Racing in changing conditions on a treacherous track makes it exponentially harder. Virginia International Raceway sent riders home with injuries this weekend, notably Richie Escalante and Juliana Fernandez, and a lot of crew members loaded a lot of wrecked machinery back into the trucks at the end of Sunday. In those conditions, good riders made mistakes on the track, crews made mistakes in the pits, and those mistakes bit hard.

So it’s not just that Josh Hayes, age 51, clocked his 90th career AMA professional road racing win that made his ride in the MotoAmerica Supersport race on Sunday so memorable. It’s that Josh delivered one of those performances that just left you thinking that somehow, someway, on this day, he was on a different track than the rest of the field.

Let’s not overstate it. The two top title contenders in the class got stuck at the back of the field for the start because they weren’t ready when the time came to race. A downpour just before the race start left teams and riders scratching their heads over tire and setup choice, and Darryn Binder started from the back of the grid and Josh Herrin from pit lane. Both had to fight their way through the field. When the lights went out, some bikes were on slicks, some on rains.

But four-time AMA Superbike Champion Hayes did the wet familiarization session, stuck his finger in the air and he and the BPR Racing team quickly and confidently made their choice – slicks for a wet-but-rapidly drying track. Typically, riders who make this choice drop backward during the first part of the race, then as the track dries out and those on rain tires overheat them on the hot, dry pavement, the slick-shod riders move back to the front – hopefully. Hayes’ years of experience told him that VIR would dry rapidly, and gave him an idea of where he could find grip with the slicks from the start.

And he did.

He was in first going into the first corner and after that, it wasn’t even close. If it was a boxing match, the ref would have stopped it. Hayes put five seconds into eventual second-place finisher Binder on the second lap. He put eight seconds into Herrin. Next time around, Hayes turned a 1:33 lap while Binder was doing a 1:38 and Herrin a 1:41. At the halfway point of the 14-lap race, Hayes was nearly 25 seconds ahead. That’s 25 seconds. That’s nearly a third of a lap at VIR! And at no point did it look like Hayes was riding over his head or taking dumb risks. What it did look like was an incredibly skilled rider demonstrating exactly how well a good Yamaha YZF-R9 could go in these conditions, a demonstration no one else in the field could come close to matching.

BJNA0136 P — Josh Hayes (4). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

It might not have been the most exciting race to watch. But accomplishments grow in hindsight and with perspective. You see them for the incredibly special moments that they are. Think Valentino Rossi’s 2003 Australia Grand Prix, where he was penalized 10 seconds for passing under the yellow, put his head down and gapped the field by 15 seconds. Think Marc Marquez’s qualifying lap in Brno in 2019 on slicks in a downpour that left him 2.524 seconds clear of the field – a bigger gap than the margin from second on the grid to 12th. Think Johann Zarco’s masterstroke of strategy and courage that earned him the win in the rain-lashed French Grand Prix last year, nearly 20 seconds ahead of Marquez. In each of those cases, you were aware that what you were watching was something special, a bit of roadracing magic.

Hayes’ legacy in road racing is secure. He has nothing to prove to anyone. This was just a reminder of just how good Josh Hayes really is. And for me, it’s one of the best parts of professional racing, something that helps balance out the struggles, the injuries, the sacrifices. It’s watching a racer delivering a masterclass, something that just leaves you speechless and wondering how they are doing it – and grateful you got to see it.

WWCR: Herrera & Vercelloni Show the Power of Women in Racing

Mathilde Gasnier

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August 20, 2026

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WWCR: Herrera & Vercelloni Show the Power of Women in Racing

WorldWCR DUO: Herrera and Vercelloni on supporting each other, new challenges and the future.

Reigning Champion Herrera and mechanic Vercelloni discuss their working relationship, supporting each other and long-term goals.

Reigning FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Champion Maria Herrera joined the Terra & Vita GRT Yamaha WorldWCR Team for the 2026 season. Her mechanic is Lucrezia Vercelloni, one of few women working in a technical role in the WorldWCR series. In a special feature, the pair discuss working together, the current landscape and changing it in the future.

THE WorldWCR EXPERIENCE

Both Maria and Lucrezia have been a part of WorldWCR since its inception, in 2024. Discussing WorldWCR, Vercelloni said: “WorldWCR is a very interesting environment in which to work because we essentially all ‘share’ a garage so there’s a real collaborative spirit. It’s like we’ve created a small community of our own inside the WorldSBK paddock. It’s great to see how the women riders support each other too, offering advice and helping each other. The Italian and European championships are a great platform, but here you have a lot more eyes on you. There’s a lot of interest, also because it’s a relatively new Championship.”

Herrera added: “People sometimes think women riders are slower or less aggressive, but I’ve been very impressed. It’s a challenge every year. We’re at the limit with the bike in WorldWCR, and this year the level is incredible! The bikes are the same for everyone, which levels the playing field. So, you must fight harder and be more precise with certain details than is perhaps necessary in another category, like MotoE or WorldSSP.”

Maria Herrera (on the bike) and her mechanic Lucrezia Vercelloni. Photo courtesy WWCR.

A NEW DYNAMIC

2026 brought a fresh challenge, as Herrera adjusted to a new team, while Vercelloni faced the pressure of working with the reigning champion. On this change, Herrera said: “I hoped to do a pre-season test to get to know the team, but it wasn’t possible and so we came to the first round without really knowing each other. But in the end, it was easy and I immediately felt good. It helped that I already felt fast at the first Portimao round, so I was calm and relaxed. And I’m still riding an R7 of course. Switching teams can be tricky, but I know I just have to trust myself and get on with it. I work with one mechanic and one technician, so it’s just the three of us, and I feel very comfortable.”

Vercelloni added: “Maria brings so much experience of course. There’s a little more pressure perhaps, but it’s normal to feel a little under pressure when you work with a high-level professional. You always try to do your best and know you’re being closely watched, but that also pushes you to do even better. I think she teaches us, just as we can teach her certain things. Maria’s very good at what she does, and the crew chief, a former rider, is able to steer her in terms of communication, to better understand what she’s feeling on the bike.”

CHANGING THE LANDSCAPE

Herrera and Vercelloni continue to break barriers in motorsport, but have there been challenges along the way?

Herrera said: “After leading the 2013 CEV Moto3 Championship, they didn’t give me the opportunity to step up to an official team. I just didn’t get that chance. I’d been leading the Championship, and everything was good, so I feel the lack of opportunity had to do with me being a woman rider; I believe we face more obstacles, at least in the beginning. But over the years, I’ve always got on well with my teams. One or two riders were difficult or might be overly aggressive in response to me overtaking them in a race. But generally, I’ve felt that other riders and paddock staff respect me. I’d like to see more female technicians of course! I think women can do any job they want, technician, mechanic, anything. Things are improving step by step, and there are now more female mechanics in the MotoGP paddock too. When I started racing, women only worked in organisational areas, travel or hospitality.”

Lucrezia added: “Fortunately, I’ve always worked on teams that welcomed me and were willing to teach me. We’re all here to work, to achieve a goal, and I’ve never come up against any walls. I would say it’s a very positive environment. Sometimes people offer help because they assume that, as a woman, I’m not physically capable of doing something, but that’s okay and I don’t really get offended. There are not many women technicians in WorldWCR, just me and a couple of others. I think some girls are self-conscious about working in this world, but if they see women carving a path here, maybe they too will have the courage to give it a go.”

Lucrezia Vercelloni working on Maria Herrera’s bike. Photo courtesy WWCR.

BUILDING THE FUTURE

As they continue to develop in their respective careers, the pair share their goals for the future, from competing at the highest level to supporting the next generation.

On her plans for the future, Vercelloni said: “The focus is on my race work right now. I’m definitely open to working in another category in the future, WorldSBK perhaps. It’s another world, different bikes, different work rhythms, but would be a very interesting technical challenge. It’s a dream of mine to work on bigger bikes.”

Herrera explained her plans that go beyond being on track: “Next year, I hope to keep pushing in this Championship. Then, beyond WorldWCR, I want to help and support young women, also via the Spanish Federation. It’s something I already do actually, as my goal is to pass on everything I know to a new generation. This is very important to me.”

Re-watch incredible WorldWCR races for FREE on the official WorldWCR YouTube channel, and follow the Championship on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and Instagram!

Rolex Monterey Reunion Celebrates Racing at Laguna Seca

Mathilde Gasnier

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August 19, 2026

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Rolex Monterey Reunion Celebrates Racing at Laguna Seca

MONTEREY, Calif., August 19, 2026 —  The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion delivered an unforgettable celebration of motorsports history at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, bringing phenomenal crowds, fiercely competitive racing and an extraordinary collection of legendary cars and drivers together for four action-packed days during Monterey Car Week.

From priceless machines representing generations of international motorsports to celebrated champions returning to competition, the Reunion once again demonstrated why it remains one of the world’s premier historic racing events. This year’s celebration of Japanese Icons of Motorsport brought an added dimension to the event, showcasing the innovation, performance and lasting influence of Japanese manufacturers and racers on the global motorsports stage.

The paddock and grandstands were filled throughout the event as fans enjoyed the rare opportunity to see hundreds of historically significant race cars not simply displayed, but driven at speed around the iconic 2.238-mile WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca circuit.

Competition remained at the heart of the Reunion, with drivers battling throughout the weekend across an exceptional variety of racing eras and disciplines. From early sports and touring cars to Trans-Am, Can-Am, IMSA GTP and FIA Group C machinery, each race offered fans a window into a different chapter of motorsports history.

The IROC podium: Tomy Drissi, Jimmie Johnson, Kurt Busch and Series Owner Ray Evernham celebrate. Photo courtesy WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

The weekend also brought together an extraordinary roster of racing personalities. Grand Marshal Peter Brock was joined by champions and motorsports legends from across generations, while the return of IROC Presented by Chevrolet put some of racing’s most recognizable names back behind the wheel, including Zak Brown, Kurt Busch, Tomy Drissi, Jimmie Johnson, Bobby Labonte, Patrick Long, Scott Pruett, Dario Franchitti, Bruce Canepa and Danny Sullivan.

For the first time in nearly two decades, all six-living American 500cc World Grand Prix Champions reunited at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, adding an extraordinary two-wheel element to the Reunion’s celebration of motorsports legends. Kenny Roberts, Freddie Spencer, Eddie Lawson, Wayne Rainey, Kevin Schwantz and Kenny Roberts Jr. came together at a circuit where each raced, representing one of the most dominant eras in Grand Prix motorcycle racing history. Together, the six American champions captured an incredible 14 of the 23 500cc World Championships between 1978 and 2000. Fans were ecstatic over the rare opportunity to see these six legends together again, in the paddock and on track riding their championship-winning bikes, celebrating an unforgettable era of American motorcycle racing at a circuit that played an important role in each of their careers.

Riders image: The six American World Champions following their exhibition ride (L-R) Kevin Schwantz, Kenny Roberts Jr., Freddie Spencer, Wayne Rainey, Eddie Lawson, and Kenny Roberts. In memoriam is the Repsol Honda #69 of the late Nicky Hayden. Chris MacAllister (standing) owns the Kenny Roberts bikes. Photo courtesy WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

Two collections attracted a steady flow of visitors to the display and the fences to see and hear them on track. The Japanese Heritage Display with its 40-plus cars and motorcycles represented the pinnacle of Japanese motorsport, which included the 1991 Mazda 787B, the first Japanese car to capture the crown, and the 2018 Toyota GAZOO Racing’s TS050 Hybrid that gave Toyota its first overall victory. The Indy Car exhibit featured a vibrant evolution of more than two dozen Indy Cars that ranged from a 1911 National and 1931 Miller to the 1983 March 83C (the winner of the first Indy Car race at Laguna Seca) and the 2022 Dallara of Alex Palou.

Adding a new chapter to the Reunion was the first-ever Hypercar Parade, which brought an incredible collection of more than 40 modern hypercars onto the legendary circuit. The spectacular procession provided a striking contrast to the historic machinery competing throughout the weekend and offered fans a glimpse at the evolution of performance from motorsports past to the cutting edge of today’s automotive world.

Another significant milestone came with the inaugural Bonhams auction at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Following nearly three decades at The Quail Lodge, Bonhams brought its prestigious Monterey Car Week auction directly to the raceway, creating a natural connection between exceptional collector automobiles, historic racing and the enthusiasts gathered at Laguna Seca. The successful debut further expanded the Reunion experience and established WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca as an even greater destination during Monterey Car Week.

Throughout the four days, fans were immersed in motorsports history through special displays, forums, driver appearances, autograph sessions, paddock access and celebrations honoring the people and machines that have shaped the sport. The open paddock remained one of the event’s defining experiences, allowing guests to get remarkably close to legendary cars and interact with the drivers, owners and crews who keep their histories alive.

“This year’s Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion was truly extraordinary,” said Mel Harder, president and general manager of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. “The crowds, the quality of competition and the caliber of cars and drivers were incredible. Between celebrating Japanese motorsport, welcoming Bonhams to the raceway and introducing the Hypercar Parade, there was something special happening everywhere you looked. Most importantly, our fans came out in tremendous numbers to celebrate the history and future of motorsports with us.”

The event capped an exciting stretch that began with the Monterey Pre-Reunion and Corkscrew Hillclimb, setting the stage for a remarkable week of automotive celebrations on the Monterey Peninsula.

While the cars represented decades of racing history, the weekend proved that the passion surrounding them is as strong as ever. Legendary cars, legendary racers and generations of fans came together at one of the world’s most legendary racing circuits for a Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion that will be remembered for years to come.

2024 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport: sold for $4,570,000. Photo courtesy WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

UP NEXT: NTT INDYCAR SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP FINALE

The action continues at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca over Labor Day weekend, September 4-6, as the NTT INDYCAR SERIES Championship Finale brings Championship Week to the Monterey Peninsula. The season comes down to Laguna Seca, where both the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone champions will be crowned following a weekend of thrilling, high-stakes competition on one of the most challenging and iconic circuits in motorsports. With championships on the line, the stars of INDYCAR are battling the legendary Corkscrew amid a full weekend of fan activities and entertainment. Tickets, hospitality packages and camping are available at weathertechraceway.com.

About WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca:

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is a world-renowned motorsport facility located in Monterey, California, operated and managed by Friends of Laguna Seca, a 501c(3) non-profit. Nestled among scenic hills, it has a rich history of hosting premier racing events, making it a favorite destination for motorsport enthusiasts from around the world. The 2.238-mile raceway features 11 challenging turns and approximately 180 feet of elevation change, including the world-famous Corkscrew, providing a thrilling experience for both drivers and fans. Friends of Laguna Seca is committed to delivering top-tier racing and entertainment experiences year after year. Find out how you can get involved at FriendsOfLagunaSeca.org.

Motorcycle Industry Council Acquires MotorcycleIndustryJobs.com

Mathilde Gasnier

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August 19, 2026

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Motorcycle Industry Council Acquires MotorcycleIndustryJobs.com

Acquisition builds on platform’s 22-year history of connecting powersports employers and job seekers.

IRVINE, Calif., — The Motorcycle Industry Council (http://mic.org) has acquired MotorcycleIndustryJobs.com (http://motorcycleindustryjobs.com), bringing the long-standing powersports employment platform under the MIC umbrella and creating new opportunities to strengthen the industry’s workforce.

Now backed by MIC’s resources and broad industry reach, MIJ is poised to grow while building on more than two decades of connecting powersports employers and job seekers.

“One of MIC’s pillars is to support the expansion of the powersports market, and MIJ gives us a tremendous opportunity to do just that by connecting employers with the people they need and helping more people discover the many career opportunities in powersports,” said Christy LaCurelle, MIC President and CEO. “MIJ has been serving job seekers in our industry — as well as employers — for more than two decades, and we are excited to keep that momentum rolling while also exploring the new benefits it can create for MIC members.”

MIJ was founded in 2004 by Alex Baylon, who had been looking for a job in the motorcycle industry and realized that openings were often circulated through word-of-mouth or classified ads. Baylon created the website to give people who wanted to work in the motorcycle industry a dedicated place to find jobs and for companies to find experienced candidates.

“MIJ has been a labor of love for many years, and while selling the website was not an easy decision, I’m incredibly optimistic about its future,” said Baylon. “MIC has the vision and the resources to take MIJ to the next level, helping it grow and serve the industry in even bigger ways. I truly believe this is the perfect home for MIJ, and I can’t wait to see where MIC takes it and how it can continue to serve the industry that has looked to it as a resource for so long.”

Over its 22-year history, MIJ has grown from a website that connects job seekers to employers to a comprehensive, mobile-friendly employment platform. In addition to job listings and resume posting, MIJ offers recruiting and employer services, industry and company profiles, career information, and industry-related content and data. MIJ’s administrative team will continue in their roles, helping ensure users see no change in service or support.

About the Motorcycle Industry Council:

The Motorcycle Industry Council is a not-for-profit trade association that protects, informs, and promotes the motorcycle industry. MIC represents motorcycle manufacturers, distributors, aftermarket companies, dealers, retailers, and related organizations providing vital support to the powersports industry. MIC advocates for pro-motorcycling policy and fair regulation, delivers industry insights, and promotes awareness to grow ridership. Established in 1914, MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. Keep up with the industry association on MIC.org (https://www.mic.org/#/) and through the weekly MIC RideReport (https://mailchi.mp/11fa39907daf/6ryox011tw) .

AFT Singles Crown Within Reach at Caterpillar Peoria TT

Mathilde Gasnier

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August 19, 2026

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AFT Singles Crown Within Reach at Caterpillar Peoria TT

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 19, 2026) – The championship is on the line as the KICKER AFT Singles competitors arrive in Peoria, Illinois, for the 79th World Famous Caterpillar Peoria TT presented by Walters Brothers Harley-Davidson at the Peoria Motorcycle Club on Saturday, August 22.

The world’s elite 450cc motorcycle dirt track pilots will battle each other around right- and left-hand turns and over jumps, with the visceral moment-to-moment action and overarching season goals combining to create a most compelling draw for the 14th round of the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.

The Best Revenge

Defending KICKER AFT Singles champion Tom Drane (No. 1 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) enters this weekend in Peoria following a dreadful week of racing in Sturgis that saw him hit with his worst back-to-back finishes since early his rookie season.

And that’s not all that hit him. The Australian’s dip in results came after being taken out while leading the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT. He then hit the ground again two days later after getting caught between two competitors as they all sought the same real estate off the start of the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Short Track.

As a result, he was forced to run up through the field from the back of the grid following both restarts, winding up with 10th-and 7th-place finishes. 

A small positive was that 10th was elevated to a 9th after archrival Chase Saathoff (No. 88 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) was disqualified for having taken Drane out. A larger negative was that Drane himself was hit with a five-point penalty after banging into the back of Saathoff’s rear wheel out of frustration when it was all over.

However, that penalty wasn’t big enough to prevent Drane from taking out his frustrations in a more productive manner this weekend.

Despite the subtraction, he still holds a 42-point advantage over second-ranked Saathoff. Drane already has the tiebreaker in hand, which means if he leaves Peoria with that lead expanded by just four points, he’ll have secured his second consecutive KICKER AFT Singles championship.

Incidentally, the difference between first- and second-place is four points.

So if Drane wins this year’s Caterpillar Peoria TT – as he did by more than eight seconds a year ago – the rising star will lock this one up two rounds early. It’ll also give him a strong case to be rewarded with a Mission AFT SuperTwins wild card ride at the Caterpillar Springfield Mile I & II double finale.

There should be no lack of motivation.

Standing in the Way

The flip side to that is Saathoff knows exactly what he must do to make certain he keeps his vanishingly slim title hopes alive to the finale: win.

Drane’s ‘25 victory at the circuit was no doubt made easier by the fact that Saathoff was absent after suffering an injury during qualifying. And he would have been a threat; the Illinois native had just posted the fastest time of the session when he was thrown from his machine attempting to land the jump.

Now fully healthy and with his own source of motivation, Saathoff responded to his Sturgis DQ by scoring his first win of the season two days later. 

He’ll look to carry those winning ways forward at the same Peoria racetrack where he took top honors in 2024 following an intense battle with then-champion Kody Kopp and future-champion Drane.

Signing Off

So long as he’s sufficiently recovered from the qualifying spill that ruled him out at the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT, Jesse Janisch (No. 33 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) will line up for what’s being billed the final Progressive AFT race of his career.

If that holds true, Janisch can be proud of his sparkling record, which is highlighted by the 2022 Mission AFT Production Twins title but spread out across many classes and years.

Along with his successful title run, Janisch will be remembered as one of the all-time KICKER AFT Singles TT greats – a discipline in which he leads all riders with six career victories… and a certified Peoria TT superstar.

Janisch has won four races at the venue – three in KICKER AFT Singles competition (2015, 2017, and 2018) along with last year’s AFT AdventureTrackers Main Event.

Still plenty quick and with a huge edge in experience, it’ll be interesting to see how the young lions of the class match up with a returning (and exiting) Peoria grand master.

Dark Horses

A couple other riders have shown they have what it takes to fight up front this weekend.

Trevor Brunner (No. 21 JMC Motorsports/Fairway GMC KTM 450 SX-F) won in a wild one here in 2023, edging Drane and Kopp to the checkered flag. He also finished as last year’s runner-up and earlier earned a podium in 2022, when he finished third.

Brunner’s first week of action on the JMC Motorsports KTM signaled a return to form, a fact that makes him a contender of note this weekend.

And Tarren Santero (No. 75 Roof Systems/Texas Utility Studies/Vinson Construction Honda CRF450R) has also shown well here in the past. He rounded out the podium in 2025 after finishing fourth in 2024.

But podiums are no longer the goal – Santero has racked up his share of those these past three seasons; it’s that maiden win that’s overdue.

Wizards of Oz

Drane isn’t the only Australian with their sights set on the top step of the podium this weekend.

Two others are set to join the mix, one whose Peoria potential is proven, the other’s whose is projected.

Max Whale (No. 18 Australian Road Services/Heaton Plant & Pipeline KTM 450 SX-F) is set to make his first Progressive AFT appearance of the season after taking a step away following a decorated near-decade long stint in the series from 2018-2025. During that time, Whale finished as KICKER AFT Singles runner-up twice while scoring nine victories along the way.

Two of those wins came at the Peoria TT, and he underlined his expertise at the venue with a top five in last year’s Mission AFT SuperTwins Main Event.

Whale will be joined by young charger Bodie Paige (No. 165 American Honda/RWR/BA Ranch Honda CRF450R), who has not only finished on the podium in all three of his prior KICKER AFT Singles starts, he’s also spent the season winning races in MotoAmerica Twins Cup action.

Paige, who followed Dallas Daniels to become just the second-ever winner of the Nicky Hayden AMA Horizon Award in both flat track and road racing, should be able to put that unique blend of abilities to good use in Peoria.

Time to Step Up

Meanwhile, the field is full of young chargers who have yet to taste significant success at the fabled race. No doubt they’ll look to do just that this weekend.

Four-time KICKER AFT Singles winner Kage Tadman (No. 28 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), DAYTONA winner Bradon Pfanders (No. 83 Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats Yamaha YZ450F), and Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT winner Evan Kelleher (No. 31 Schaeffer’s Motorsports KTM 450 SX-F) have shown they’ve got what it takes to stand atop the podium.

Meanwhile, the likes of Walker Porter (No. 10 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Jared Lowe (No. 63 Big R Racing/Vinson Construction Honda CRF450R), and Jack Brucks (No. 113 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) are hungry to do the same.

Dan Bromley AFT ProSport 450 Invitational

This weekend, Progressive AFT will pay further tribute to the late Dan Bromley, a two-time national champion who was cherished for his generosity and spirit as much as his talent and speed.

The series will do so by hosting the Dan Bromley AFT ProSport 450 Invitational as part of Saturday’s race activities at the Caterpillar Peoria TT. Invitations have been extended to riders who earned AFT Pro Sport licenses through the Road to AFT Program during the 2026 season, and they’ll be racing with a $4000 purse on the line.

The entry list is a who’s who of highly rated amateurs, including AFT ProSport 450 race winners Sam Drane (No. 7 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), Adam Costan-Wood (No. 88 Turner Racing Honda CRF450R), and Bayne Nantz (No. 313 Nantz Bros Racing KTM 450 SX-F), among several other podium finishers.

The future stars of the sport will need to give it their all to properly honor the legacy of Bromley, who won the 2021 Mission AFT Productions Twins race in Peoria.

They will, and Bromley – who dedicated himself to helping prepare the next generation of racers prior to his passing – would have no doubt been proud of their efforts.

The Amphitheater Awaits

Beyond the 79th running of one of the most thrilling and historic motorcycle races on the planet, those in attendance will also be treated to a Saturday afternoon of entertainment highlighted by a range of vendors, expansive food and beverage options, and dedicated motorcycle parking.

Mark Ramsey and Eric “Digger” Manes, stars of the hit television show Moonshiners, will be on site to serve as Grand Marshals to underline the celebratory nature of the event.

General Admission tickets are just $30 (kids 12 and under free with a paid adult GA ticket).

For $125 (all ages), fans can purchase a VIP ticket, which includes admission to the Turn 1 VIP lounge – located in an air-conditioned building that overlooks the entire track – food and beverage, a swag bag, and VIP parking.

And for $135 (all ages), H.O.G. members can enjoy the Harley-Davidson VIP Experience, which provides dedicated H.O.G. parking and an exclusive seating section, a guided tour of the infield podium and start/finish line, photo ops included, a meet-and-greet with the Harley-Davidson riders, and exclusive swag.

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/peoriamotorcycleclub/events/2025-peoria-tt-129191 to secure your tickets today.

Gates will open at 9:00 a.m. ET/6:00 a.m. PT with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m. ET/12:00 p.m. PT.

How to Watch

FloRacing

For those that can’t catch the live action at the track, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive American Flat Track. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2026. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/AFT2026 or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

FS1

FOX Sports coverage of the World Famous Caterpillar Peoria TT, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, August 30, at 12:00 p.m. ET (9:00 a.m. PT). The full listing of American Flat Track’s television premieres can be found at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports.

ASRA Race of Champions: Barnett Sidecar Challenge at Daytona

Mathilde Gasnier

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August 19, 2026

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ASRA Race of Champions: Barnett Sidecar Challenge at Daytona

Barnett National Sidecar Challenge Heads to Daytona International Speedway for ASRA Race of Champions.

Team Hammer Practice Day on Thursday Kicks Off Action-Packed Weekend; Full Coverage Streaming Live on ASRA Racing YouTube Channel.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The high-speed, high-skill world of sidecar racing returns to the iconic Daytona International Speedway this October as the Barnett National Sidecar Challenge takes the stage during the American Superbike Racing Association (ASRA) Race of Champions.

The event forms part of ASRA’s season-ending Race of Champions weekend, scheduled for October 15–18, 2026, at the World Center of Racing. Sidecar teams will battle on the legendary 3.51-mile infield road course in what promises to be one of the most exciting and unique classes of the weekend.

The action begins on Thursday with the popular Team Hammer Pro Practice & School. This dedicated practice day gives racers and students valuable track time, expert instruction, and the opportunity to dial in their machines and technique ahead of the championship races. The Team Hammer sessions have become a highlight for competitors preparing for the demanding Daytona layout.

Throughout the weekend, fans can expect a full slate of ASRA racing, including sprints, Endurance/Team Challenge events, and the crowning of national champions across multiple classes. The Barnett National Sidecar Challenge will deliver the distinctive thrills of two-person motorcycle racing—combining speed, precision, and seamless rider-passenger teamwork—on one of motorsports’ most historic venues.

Entire Race Weekend Streaming Live

Fans unable to attend in person can follow every session of the Race of Champions weekend, including the Barnett National Sidecar Challenge, live on the ASRA Racing YouTube channel. Coverage will bring the sights, sounds, and intensity of Daytona directly to viewers around the world.

For more information, schedules, registration, and spectator details, visit asraracing.com. Follow ASRA on social media and subscribe to the ASRA Racing YouTube channel for live streams, highlights, and updates.

Sportbike Track Time: Upcoming Track Days

August 21, 2026

A rider having fun at a Sportbike Track Time event. Photo by SPImages.

IS BARBER ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

Ready to ride 2.38 miles of pure motorcycle paradise? Join Sportbike Track Time on October 3rd and 4th as we return to the world-class Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.

Join us for the flowing 16-corner layout, STT’s top-tier coaching staff, the pristine facilities and the amazing community! This is the fall event you don’t want to miss. Even better – a few 1:1 Instruction spots are still available on Sunday for our Intermediate and Advanced riders!

Fall dates at Barber sell out notoriously fast, so head over to the site and lock in your weekend before your group fills up!

Saturday, October 3

Sunday, October 4

UPCOMING EVENTS

GINGERMAN RACEWAY BIKE NIGHT

Friday, August 28

AUTOBAHN COUNTRY CLUB

Novice group sold out

1:1 Instruction available

Race Certificate Class available

Novice group sold out

1:1 Instruction available

BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK

GRATTAN RACEWAY – BACKWARDS!

TALLADEGA GP – LADIES FIRST

TALLADEGA GP