Editorial Note: This effort is being led by Shinichi Sahara, the former Suzuki MotoGP Project Leader.
Suzuki Motor Corporation will participate in the 45th Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race 2024 which will be held at the Suzuka Circuit as one of the 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC), from 19 to 21 July by using Sustainable Fuel and multiple sustainable items.
Suzuki will use the 40% bio-sourced Sustainable Fuel, certified by the FIM (International Motorcycling Federation). Since this is not the official fuel of the EWC, Suzuki will participate in the Experimental Class, a category set for experimental purposes. Besides Sustainable Fuel, development of new sustainable technologies will also take place including muffler, tires, oil, fairings, and brakes which will be provided by our sponsor partners, who have agreed with our challenge, involved in the development and supported this project.
The team is named “Team SUZUKI CN CHALLENGE” and is mainly composed of Suzuki employees. Yoshimura Japan is working together in a collaborative partnership. Additionally, along with all our partners, we will strive to overcome issues to achieve our goal.
The purpose of the participation is to accelerate development of environmental performance technologies through participating physically in the demanding conditions of the endurance racing. By verifying valuable information gathered through this participation, we will discover higher goals and promote feeding back of technologies to our future production models.
Team Suzuki CN Challenge is being led by former Suzuki MotoGP Project Leader Shinichi Sahara (left). Sahara is seen here at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show with Tsuyoshi Tanaka, Executive General Manager Motorcycle Operations (right). Photo courtesy Shinichi Sahara.
2024 APRILIA RS 660 TROFEO AVAILABLE NOW FOR PURCHASE
PREPARED BY APRILIA RACING WITH ALL THE EXPERIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF THE FACTORY THAT HOLDS 54 WORLD TITLES, THE TRACK-ONLY EDITION RETURNS WITH A 2024 PRODUCTION, 28 TOTAL COMING TO THE USA AND CANADA
FROM THE PROVEN CAPABILITY OF THE STANDARD RS 660, RACE-FOCUSED WEIGHT PREPARATION AND POWER ARE THE FOCUS FOR PERFORMANCE ON TRACK
After its début on the track in the single-brand championship, the Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo was launched to the masses for any enthusiast who wants to have fun on the track with the category reference twin-cylinder sport bike from Noale. The limited production, which happens between race seasons, is made directly by the Aprilia Racing department as a part of the Factory Works program, and returns to the public in 2024, with a dedicated livery update, in a production of just 28 units for North America.
Already agile and lightweight in the street-legal version, the Trofeo transformation uses high-level components and exploits the perfect balanced between chassis architecture, engine, and electronics to the fullest. Like its street-legal sibling, it raises the bar in the category, representing the perfect sport twin-cylinder proposal, with an outstanding weight/power ratio and a leading electronics package for the segment.
Starting from the already high-performance standard RS 660, the upgrades begin with the electrical system, simplified by eliminating the ignition switch assembly and ABS. The braking system is simplified with independent lines. The ABS control unit, however, remains on the bike and connected to exploit the strategies of the integrated electronic system. The ECU is reprogrammed in Race version, with mapping (all “full power”) developed by Aprilia Racing and dedicated exclusively to track use, as well as being calibrated for the SC Project racing exhaust. The color TFT dashboard is reprogrammed and integrated by a dedicated button block on the left-hand side.
The suspension can count on a front fork with “Misano by Andreani” internal cartridge, adjustable in hydraulic compression and rebound damping and preload. The Öhlins AP948 rear shock absorber features hydraulic preload, compression, and rebound damping adjustment.
The chassis architecture is upgraded, with a lowered riding position thanks to the racing upper steering yoke and adjustable semi-handlebars. The footpegs are adjustable and dismountable so each rider can achieve optimum ergonomics. The fairing is in fiberglass.
The engine upgrades have brought power up to 105 HP, a record value for an inline twin-cylinder, whereas dry weight has dropped to 153 kg. The secondary air system and the thermostat are eliminated, whereas aluminum guards are installed for the clutch cover and alternator, as well as a specific Sprint Filter air filter. As always, working alongside Aprilia Racing in every one of its projects are top-level partners such as Castrol, Zanasi Group, Cruciata, Jetprime, Spider and Bike Lift.
Stefano Manzi won restarted and red-flag-shortened FIM Supersport World Championship Race Two Sunday at Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing YZF-R6, the Italian rider won what ended up being a six-lap race by 0.086 second.
Marcel Schroetter was the runner-up on his MV Agusta Reparto Corsa F3 800 RR, and Lucas Mahias placed third, just 0.201 second behind Manzi, on his GMT94 Yamaha.
Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise finished fifth, just 0.714 second behind the race winner, on his Evan Bros. Racing Yamaha.
Provisional Parts Unlimited AFT Singles Main Event (6 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Kody Kopp (KTM), 22 laps
2. Tom Drane (Yam), -1.522 seconds
3. Chase Saathoff (Hon), -2.726
4. Aidan RoosEvans (Yam), -3.662
5. Dalton Gauthier (KTM), -4.539
6. James Ott (Hus), -7.306
7. Hunter Bauer (Yam), -8.271
8. Trent Lowe (Hon), -8.898
9. Travis Petton (KTM), -8.971
10. Bradon Pfanders (KTM), -10.193
11. Tarren Santero (Hon), -10.716
12. Tyler Raggio (Hon), -11.365
13. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), -11.576
14. Evan Renshaw (Hon), -11.833
15. Landen Smith (KTM), -12.332
16. Logan Eisenhard (KTM), -13.748
17. Justin Jones (Hus), -13.791
18. Jared Lowe (Hon), -14.307
19. Chad Cose (KTM), -18.021
Provisional Mission SuperTwins Main Event (10 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Jared Mees (Ind), 36 laps
2. Dallas Daniels (Yam), -1.591 seconds
3. Brandon Robinson (Ind), -3.211
4. Briar Bauman (KTM), -3.371
5. Jarod VanDerKooi (Ind), -7.706
6. Johnny Lewis (Roy), -9.482
7. Brandon Price (Yam), -10.689
8. Davis Fisher (Ind), -11.984
9. Trevor Brunner (KTM), -17.031
10. Max Whale (Har), -17.191
11. Dan Bromley (Hon), -17.324
12. Ben Lowe (KTM), -17.720
13. Bronson Bauman (KTM), -17.930
14. Declan Bender (Ind), -18.432
15. Kolby Carlile (Yam), -1 lap
16. Cameron Smith (KTM), -1 lap, 9.245 seconds
17. Kevin Stollings (Kaw), -2 laps, -7.366
18. Michael Hill (Yam), -15 laps, DNF
More, from a press release issued by AFT:
Mees Responds with Statement Ride at Yamaha Senoia Short Track
Jared Mees (1) and Dallas Daniels (32) in action at Senoia Raceway. Photo by Tim Lester, courtesy AFT.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 24, 2024) – Reigning Mission SuperTwins champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) turned to his successful ‘23 script, once again rebounding from a quiet season opener with a statement performance in the Yamaha Senoia Short Track at Senoia Raceway in Senoia, Georgia, Round 3 of the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.
That said, Sunday’s ride didn’t exactly get underway as he’d originally envisioned. The factory Indian star was involved in a minor pre-race dispute and was forced to line up on the far outside of Row 1 after believing he could select the slot at the bottom. Even if it went against his wishes, the swap either gifted him the ideal position or the motivation required to make it work, as Mees promptly blasted into the lead once the race got underway.
Even with the benefit of that prime launch, Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) was quickly looking for a way by and slid underneath to steal away first less than a minute into the Main Event. But Mees had an answer, reclaiming the position a short two laps later and then went about steadily working his way to what proved to be a 1.591-second margin of victory.
Afterward Mees said, “I fast qualified earlier in the day, but I didn’t really feel good. I was making some decent laps but also making a lot of mistakes. In the (Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge), Dallas ate my lunch – I was really worried about him; he and his team were rolling really good. He was really consistent and could get the bike turned, and that’s where I was struggling all day. We made some changes and went a direction we’ve never gone before with some things. And the motorcycle was phenomenal. It turned great and rolled good. Everything I needed it to do all day, it finally came to me.”
The fight for third was a hard-fought three-way affair for much of the race, led for a long spell by Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) with Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) and Briar Bauman (No. 3 Rick Ware Racing/KTM/Parts Plus KTM 790 Duke) jammed up close behind.
Lewis did well to keep Robinson and Bauman corralled behind him for the majority of the contest, but their superior pace ultimately won out – at least once Bauman showed they could tap into the high line to find a path through.
Free of the Royal Enfield runner, Robinson then managed to keep two-time champion Bauman at bay by just over a tenth-of-a-second at the flag. Lewis, meanwhile, found himself also overtaken by a charging Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Ohio Indian FTR750), who secured the final spot in the top five after circulating as low as ninth in the early going.
The remainder of the top ten consisted of a pair of premier-class veterans – Brandon Price (No. 92 Memphis Shades/Corbin/OTBR Yamaha MT-07) and Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750) – and class rookies – Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Mission Foods/Zanotti Racing KTM 790 Duke) and Max Whale (No. 18 Latus Motors Racing/Liqui Moly Harley-Davidson XG750R).
Mees’ triumph elevated him from sixth to third in the points (54), but he continues to trail Daniels (64) and Robinson (61), the duo having upped their respective ‘24 podium streaks to a perfect three for three.
Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER
Reigning two-time Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER king Kody Kopp (No. 1 Rick Ware Racing/Parts Plus KTM 450 SX-F) continued to build his case as the most accomplished rider in class history, earning a record-tying sixth career Short Track win on Sunday afternoon.
While in the end, the victory proved a lonely one, that order first had to be forged in chaos.
Former class champion Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F) grabbed the holeshot with title fighters Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), Chase Saathoff (No. 88 JPG Motorsports Honda CRF450R), and Kopp running alongside while sorting out second in shadow.
In one fell swoop, that fight for second became one for the lead as Drane and Saathoff both went under Gauthier at the same moment Kopp ringed around the outside, all despite no obvious mistake on Gauthier’s part.
Kopp continued to work the high line, using it to both overhaul Drane and make his escape in relatively short order.
At that point, the top three broke apart, while Gauthier lost one final position to Aiden RoosEvans (No. 26 FRA Trust/ATV’s and More Yamaha YZ450F), who ran just removed from the lead pack for the entirety of the race.
“I’m happy to be up here and be able to spin laps like that,” Kopp said. “Hats off to Tom, Chase, and Dalton – those first few laps were chaos. I got a terrible start and tried to roll ‘em around the outside. Huge shout out to my Rick Ware Racing team and everybody that’s behind me. We’re ready to get on a roll now.”
2023 Senoia Short Track podium finisher James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) took sixth, followed by Hunter Bauer (No. 24 Vinson Construction/American Harley-Davidson, Yamaha YZ450F), Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Travis Petton IV (No. 82 ECG Racing/A.M Ortega KTM 450 SX-F).
The final spot in the top ten was earned by Bradon Pfanders (No. 288 Pfanders Racing/Scott Powersports KTM 450 SX-F), who made an extremely impressive Progressive AFT debut immediately after becoming eligible by turning 16.
Kopp already boasts an early 17-point advantage over Gauthier (71-54) with Drane (51) and Saathoff (50) placed third and fourth and desperate to prevent the double defending champ from executing another championship runaway.
Next Up:
The Progressive American Flat Track tour will compete on a Half-Mile for the first time this season with the Mission Texas Half-Mile presented by Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda and Roof Systems of Dallas at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday, April 27. Please visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/texas-half-mile-86387 to secure your tickets today.
For those who can’t catch the action from the circuit, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at http://flosports.link/aft.
FOX Sports coverage of the Yamaha Senoia Short Track, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, March 31, at 12:30 p.m. ET (9:30 a.m. PT).
More, from a press release issued by Indian Motorcycle:
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RACING AND REIGHNING CHAMPION JARED MEESE SECURE FIRST VICTORY OF 2024 SEASON AT SENOIA SHORT TRACK
Mees Edges Out the Competition Aboard Indian FTR750, Moving into Third in Overall Standings
Fellow Indian FTR750 Rider Brandon Robinson Rounds out the Podium in Third
Minneapolis, MN. – Indian Motorcycle Racing had a stellar showing at round three of the 2024 American Flat Track series in Senoia, Georgia, for the Senoia Short Track. It was nine-time champion Jared Mees scoring his first victory of the year aboard his Indian FTR750, moving him into third in the championship. Fellow Indian Motorcycle-supported racer Brandon Robinson rounded out the top three aboard his Indian FTR750 privateer ride.
After a slow start to the season, Mees, the reigning champion, made a strong statement in Senoia that he’s still at the top of his game and the rider to beat. Despite an unwanted starting position, he used it as motivation to rocket his FTR750 off the line when the green flag waved to take over the lead quickly. Mees was overtaken a short time later but maintained his speed and stayed within striking distance to regain the lead a few laps later. Once out front, Mees didn’t look back throughout the remainder of the 36-lap race, taking the checkered flag and winning by 1.6 seconds.
“This was a solid showing for Jared and the Indian Motorcycle team, securing the win and keeping him within striking distance in the chase for his 10th-career championship,” said Gary Gray, Vice President of Racing & Service for Indian Motorcycle. “Although the weekend didn’t go completely how he’d like, it was important for him to get this win under his belt. There is still a lot of racing left this season, and this victory provide him and his team momentum going next month’s race in Texas.”
“It was a challenging start to the season so to come away with the win tonight is incredible,” said Mees. “I struggled throughout the day and during qualifying so was a little worried but after making some changes to the bike it performed phenomenally in the Main event. Everything I had been wanting it to do all day, finally came to me and it paid off. I can’t thank the Indian team enough for the support.
After three rounds, Mees sits third in the championship chase with 54 points, a mere 10 points off the lead. Currently tied with Scottie Parker with the most career championships, Mees is looking to secure his spot in the history books as the all-time greatest flat track racer with a 2024 championship, earning him 10-career titles. Of his nine-career championships, Mees has five while piloting the Indian FTR750, coming in 2017, 2018, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
The 2024 American Flat Track season continues on April 27 for the Texas Half-Mile in Fort Worth, TX.
For more information on Indian Motorcycle Racing, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, X and Instagram.
ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE
Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.
Cooper Webb Wins Seattle Supercross in Closest Finish of the Year
Levi Kitchen Tops Field in 250SX Class
Seattle, Wash., (March 23, 2024) Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb took a thrilling win at Lumen Field in Seattle to nab his third win of the season at Round 11 of the 2024 Monster Energy Supercross season. The win marked the slimmest margin of victory so far this season as 58,342 fans cheered Webb and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Chase Sexton to the finish line.
Chase Sexton led much of the race and put on an incredible final surge; he missed the win by less than one second to earn the runner-up spot. Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence pushed a strong pace early but a crash with Webb put him back; he finished in third place. In the Western Regional 250SX Class’ return to racing, Washington-native Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Levi Kitchen ran away with a huge win in what is his hometown Supercross.
Cooper Webb. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports.
“This is probably – we keep saying it every weekend – but by far the gnarliest track I’ve ridden. And it was really tough; we were all trying to push the pace, but you had to watch out for all the changing lines, the ruts, the lappers… I got arm pump pretty bad there at the end and it was just [a matter of] surviving, but I was able to hold on. Chase rode great, obviously made a few mistakes, then I’d make mistakes, and we’d go back and forth so, man, I’m stoked. I just want to give it up to the good Lord, want to give it up to the team; man, we’ve been dealt some adversity and we’re fighting through it, and it just feels amazing to win. It’s crazy, you know, you see Jett do it over and over and you just, you want to get that feeling again… I’m pumped.” – Cooper Webb.
“To be honest I didn’t even look at the pit board, so I had no idea [Webb was jumping the wall after the sand section]. I had [a] line late in the race where I was doubling into the pocket, but I never even thought of going outside [in the sand], so that’s on me not looking at the pit board. But overall, minus a few mistakes, I rode a really good race, even through[out] the whole race. I came back towards the end. I felt like I had really good speed. We made a change going into the heat race with my bike and it showed. I was really comfortable the whole night on such a gnarly track. And I gotta give it up to the team; they put a lot of work in to get me happy and we’re climbing that ladder… [when asked about stalling the engine during the night’s racing] …I got actually clipped that hay bail on this rhythm over here and bent my rear brake out, and I think that’s what happened when I stalled it over there. I caught my rear brake. So, just a few small hiccups, but overall it was a lot better race from me. This is the most I’ve fought all year, as far as [battling] close to the front, so we’re getting better.” – Chase Sexton, when asked if he saw that his mechanic was signaling him to double out of the sand and over the wall.
“I had a good charge at the start [of the race], had a really good flow, and I think I just came in the sand here and was a little bit committed. I knew I was going to hit Cooper, I could have been mean and hit him harder and just committed to it, but I didn’t want to hit him, and then in that sand you don’t want to – it’s very hard to pull up. So yeah, I ended up kind of being nice and checking up, but I [ended up] clipping the back [of Cooper’s bike], got off balance [and crashed]. And then I stalled it here once, and also had a lapper stop on the wall jump in front of me [and hold me up]. So, I’m like, ‘You know, that’s enough signs that tonight’s not the night, so we’ll just try and bring it home in third.’”– Jett Lawrence
The Western Regional 250SX Class passed its season midpoint with Seattle marking Round 6 of 10 rounds. Levi Kitchen made the technical track look almost easy with a win margin of over twenty seconds. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire fought back from a mediocre start to claim second place. Team Honda HRC’s Jo Shimoda was blazing fast, recovering from a crash to lock down the third-place spot.
Levi Kitchen (47). Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports.
“I’ve been waiting for a night like this for a long time… I just finally rode like myself and, you know, to do that in front of the hometown is awesome. Man, I just felt good on my dirt bike, like finally completely myself… it wasn’t a pretty race, actually, if you were me; I got really frustrated a few times and just tried to stay with it and I just kept telling myself, ‘stay with it,’ and I find myself again. It was crazy, but yeah I can’t give it up [enough] to all my friends and family for coming out, and shout out to my sister and my newborn nephew and niece, and just everybody, man, I’m going to really enjoy this one. Yeah, I’m stoked, extending the points a little bit.” – Levi Kitchen
“I said in the beginning of the day [to] just kind of take what the night gives me. I had nothing for Levi all day, I mean, you’ve seen in the heat race – like, that was embarrassing… I didn’t have the speed, that’s just what it was. I had to settle down and then, I don’t know what happened off the start there; I felt like I had a really good jump, and [then] I must have spun or something. And those first couple laps are hectic. I made some good passes but, man, the track is brutal. I rode Indy a few times [but] I don’t think I rode a track like this. So coming from the East Coast, it’s definitely technical tonight… We said we want to be solid tonight, and that’s all we had, so we’ll take a second on the night and look forward to St. Louis.” – RJ Hampshire
“Oh my God, it was the gnarliest track I ever rode. Honestly, like, from the heat race, I just kept dragging my foot pegs, and that threw me off. I actually crashed on the rhythm [section in the Main Event] – same thing, just [coming] out of the rut [it] caught my peg and it threw me off to the side…. I just needed to really, really focus, I guess. But I’m stoked to be on the podium, and I just want to shout out my mechanic [and team]. Thank you so much, and it was tough one.” – Jo Shimoda
The series moves east for Round 12, which kicks off next Saturday inside The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis, Missouri. The round also pays points toward the SuperMotocross World Championship, seeding top racers from both Supercross and Pro Motocross into two Playoff races and a World Championship Final. zMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Texas Motor Speedway, and The Strip at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway will host the 2024 post-season rounds.
Every Monster Energy AMA Supercross and SuperMotocross League event is available live and on-demand at PeacockTV. Select rounds can also be found on NBC, USA Network, CNBC, NBCSports.com, and the NBC Sports app. CNBC airs next-day encore presentations of all 31 rounds of 2024 racing. For international coverage the SuperMotocross Video Pass (supermotocross.tv) provides live and on-demand coverage, in both English and Spanish.
The Seattle round continued to celebrate Supercross’ long-standing partnership with St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Fans are encouraged to support this great cause and wear their Love Moto Stop Cancer t-shirt, which is available with a donation. For more information go to stjude.org/supercross to text “SUPER” to 785-833.
Tickets are available for the remaining Monster Energy Supercross events. For tickets, video highlights, points standings, feature stories, and more information on streaming and broadcast airtimes please go to SupercrossLIVE.com.
Jorge Martin won the MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24, the Spaniard won the 25-lap race by 0.882 second.
Factory Ducati rider Enea Bastianini was the runner-up on his Lenovo-sponsored Desmosedici, and rookie sensation Pedro Acosta took his career-first MotoGP podium finish with third place on on his Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 machine.
The MotoGP World Championship races next on April 12-14 at Circuit of The Americas, in Austin, Texas.
Drama on the Algarve: Martin wins, Acosta makes history as Bagnaia and Marc Marquez collide
Headlines, history and adrenaline on the rollercoaster: Martin takes the Championship lead as the storylines overflow in Portugal
The start of the Portuguese Grand Prix. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Sunday, 24 March 2024
The 2024 Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal was a stunning lights to flag win for Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) as the number #89 took the victory and the Championship lead with it. But this is the world’s most exciting sport, and there are no single sentence explanations to cover 25 laps of MotoGP™ on the rollercoaster. Martin won, and Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) chased him close all the way until a heartbreaking last lap technical issue. Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) came though to take second and his first podium of the year. Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech 3) made history as the third youngest podium finisher in premier class history with an incredible charge past Champions past and present. And?
11 World Championships went toe-to-toe, and all of them slid off into the runoff. Riders ok, but in one of the most dramatic incidents for some time, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) collided with only a handful of laps to go. The FIM MotoGP™ Stewards officially deem it a racing incident, but it seems a moment that will be debriefed for weeks, months, if not years to come.
But back to the start. It was a stunning launch from Martin to take the holeshot, with Bastianini slotting in behind as Bagnaia shot up a place. Viñales initially dropped to fourth then fought back, round the outside of the reigning Champion. Bastianini was then slightly wide and Viñales headed through, with the two Ducatis then shuffling. Marc Marquez tried his luck with a move through too, but it settled down slightly after the adrenaline spike with Martin leading Viñales, Bastianini, Bagnaia and Marc Marquez.
Martin looked to be trying to break, but Viñales responded to stay in touch, and likewise Bastianini. What was a seven tenth gap became five and then three as the Aprilia dug in. Bastianini was holding station in third ahead of Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, with an RC-16 war raging on their tail.
Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) led teammate Jack Miller led Acosta, but the gloves were off and the South African made his move as Miller was then sent a little wide at Turn 1. His teammate was through, and so was Acosta – before the rookie then also attacked Binder at the same place not long after. The charge to history was on.
From there, it was target lock on Marc Marquez. And he homed in and did the same with a brutal move at Turn 1, pitched perfectly to make his way past but not open the door enough to allow the eight-time World Champion to reply.
At the front, Martin marched on, and so did Viñales as he shadowed. Bastianini held station, close enough to be cooking something up, as behind another titanic battle erupted.
Acosta’s charge didn’t stop at Marc Marquez as the rookie homed in on the reigning Champion next. He chose Turn 1 again, but the rear slipped once, then twice, and he headed just wide enough getting it back under control to let Pecco back through. Not long after, Acosta was able to get past Bagnaia once again, and that left the reigning Champion to go toe-to-toe with Marc Marquez. And then came the drama.
Marquez went for one attempt but the door was shut. This time he wasn’t going to try and push it open a la Sprint, either. Four laps to go saw the Gresini remain an absolute shadow, but Bagnaia gained a little breathing space next time round. Just enough that when the #93 did strike, it was another absolute lunge – and it nearly did work. But Bagnaia is Bagnaia and the reigning Champion had anticipated, took back the inside line as tightly as possible… and that was that. The two diverged on the same space, and two into one doesn’t fit. Contact made, they both slid out as the crowd erupted.
Meanwhile, the rider sweeping past to take that fourth place? Acosta. But there was another twist in the tale for another rider up ahead, with fourth about to become premier class history.
Crossing the line for the last lap, Martin had enough in hand to bet on. But Viñales was suddenly slowing, hanging off the bike and then looking down as he headed into the run off. A late technical issue made it a heartbreaking end to the GP race for the Sprint winner, as he then crashed out as it said no more. And that put Acosta on the podium after his gung-ho charge for glory.
Up ahead, Bastianini was close to Martin, but not close enough to strike. The #89 achieved the 89th victory for Ducati in style, winning holeshot to flag despite the drama and the tension in the chase. Bastianini, after a tougher Qatar GP and Sprint in Portugal, gets that podium to begin his count for the season, and then comes Acosta.
The number #31 is the third youngest premier class podium finisher of all time, getting it done in only his second race to join an exclusive club. Acosta was also the first over the line of the trio of KTM/GASGAS RC16s, with Binder taking fourth and Miller fifth.
Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) took P6 and was able to stay ahead of Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™), who took P7 after a weekend getting straight through to Q2 too. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) managed to come through to P8, ahead of home hero Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing) in ninth. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) completed the top ten but by hundredths ahead of Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3). Find full results below.
So the dust settles on Sunday evening. Or does it? One incident can become a whole storyline, or a move re-calculated. Or just the calm, certain desire to make sure that when next time comes, you’re coming out on top. The best rivalries build between those on a level that enables them to take each other on – and still back themselves.
Next up? Next up it’s the Circuit of the Americas. Only three riders have ever won a MotoGP™ race in Austin, and only one of them has done it seven times. The rider who’ll most want to stop him making that eight is the same who defeated the eight-time World Champion on the way to his first ever MotoGP™ victory – and the only rider to take back-to-back MotoGP™ crowns alongside his mentor, Valentino Rossi, and that very same Marc Marquez. Join us for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas – hopefully we don’t need to ask twice.
MotoGP™: the biggest sporting event in Portugal
The 2024 Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal had some stunning racing and a dash (or two!) of drama, and a record crowd was there to witness it. A 41% increase in attendance on the 2023 edition saw over 170,000 fans flock to the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve across the weekend, making it MotoGP™’s best-attended event yet at the venue and confirming the Grand Prix as the biggest sporting event in Portugal.
Canet takes coveted first Moto2™ win as Aldeguer storms through for a comeback
Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) is a Moto2™ race winner! The Spaniard broke his victory drought with a stylish win by two seconds as the podium fight exploded behind him in Portugal. Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing Team) completed a brilliant weekend at Portimao to take second, fighting off polesitter Manuel Gonzalez (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) before Gonzalez had his own showdowns to secure that third place. Meanwhile, Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) had to do two long laps after jumping the start, leaving him down the order but still fast as ever as the new Ducati signing set off on a charge.
Aldeguer led into Turn 1, but soon teammate Alonso Lopez hit the front, launching an attack on his teammate even before Aldeguer served the first of his penalties. The #54 then took his first LLP on lap four, dropping down to 11th before the second on lap seven, dropping to 13th.
Canet set the pace early on, stealing the fastest lap of the race while sitting in second – setting sights on a first Moto2™ win. Polesitter Gonzalez sat in third position after finding a way through on the fast-charging Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI). Ogura’s fourth did not last long as Roberts and Albert Arenas (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) found a way through.
As laps ticked down, Lopez maintained an advantage at the front until lap 11, when the race was blown wide open as the Spaniard lost the front at turn 13 – crashing out the lead. That promoted Canet to p1 and Roberts into second at the venue where the American claimed his first win in 2021.
All eyes were now on Canet in the lead and Aldeguer, who was carving through the field and back inside the top 10 in two laps. The Spaniard soon set the fastest lap, circulating quicker than Canet at the front of the field with 10 laps remaining.
Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) was having a ferocious battle with Jeremy Alcoba (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team) for seventh position, allowing Arenas to escape in front. They could not match the pace of Aldeguer on his mission to the front, as the #54 flew down the inside and remarkably entered fifth place.
It was beginning to build to be an incredible end to the race with a battle brewing inside the front group. Gonzalez found a way through on Roberts, trying to up the pace and catch Canet at the front.
Now with just three laps to go the gloves were off after Aldeguer launched a brave attack at turn three to pass Ogura briefly before the Japanese rider responded. Meanwhile, Roberts entered second position before Gonzalez quickly responded – putting pressure on the American.
Two laps remained as the dream began to look like a reality for Canet, crossing the line with a lead of almost two seconds with just 2.85 miles to go. You could cut the tension with a knife on the last lap of the race with Canet leading as an all-out battle for the final place on the podium was happening behind.
As the chequered flag loomed, Canet even celebrated round the final corner before finally becoming a Moto2™ race winner. Roberts continues to celebrate success In Portimao, finishing second ahead of Gonzalez, who finally got the better of Aldeguer after Ogura dropped to fifth on the final lap after a near highside on the exit of turn four battling the #54.
Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) battled to sixth place, in yet another impressive race from the Spaniard, ahead of Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo), Arenas, Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing Team) and Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) rounding out the top ten. Alcoba and Arbolino continued their battle to the line but dropped down to 11th and 12th at the end of 21 laps.
Now it’s destination: Texas for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, with another 25 points on the table. Who’s taking them? We’ll find out in a few weeks!
0.044 in it: Holgado & Rueda stage a duel to remember
Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) won a classic drag to the line finish at the stunning Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, staying ahead of Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) by just 0.044 as the two battled it out on the last lap. Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) completed the podium as the lead trio turned up the wick in the final few laps to escape former race leader David Alonso (CFMoto Gaviota Aspar Team).
Rueda took the holeshot and had his turn making a gap, managing to stay ahead of the group until 10 to go. Then Alonso made his move and looked to be trying to make a break as the gap extended. But not so, as Holgado and Rueda duo closed the CFMoto Aspar rider down, got past, and in a handful of laps had been able to make their own gap.
Onto the last lap, it seemed likely it would remain a duel. Holgado led over the line with Rueda for close company, with Ortola just off the back but forced to wait in the wings for any possible drama. Rueda went for a move at Turn 14 and was briefly ahead taking a tighter line, but the number 99 couldn’t keep it as Holgado pinned it and swept back into the lead. It all came down to the final corner and again, the Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 was able to stay ahead and gas it towards the line with just enough metres in hand to take his first Grand Prix win of the year – and the Championship lead.
Rueda may not have taken the win but it’s his best Grand Prix result yet, as well as only his second podium. Ortola completed the rostrum another seven tenths back, but managing to keep more than a second in hand over those on the chase: Alonso, Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) and Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) in that order.
Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA) took P7 ahead of top rookie Joel Esteban (CFMoto Gaviota Aspar Team), with David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) beating Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) and rookie Jacob Roulstone (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) in a close finish for P9.
After another classic Moto3™ encounter, the field now heads for Austin, TX for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas in a few weeks. Join us there for more!
Spaniard Alvaro Bautista won FIM Superbike World Championship Race Two Sunday at Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, the two-time and defending World Champion won the 20-lap race by 2.041 seconds.
Bautista’s teammate Nicolo Bulega was the runner-up, and Toprak Razgatlioglu placed third on his ROKiT BMW M 1000 RR.
American Garrett Gerloff finished 10th on his Bonovo Action BMW.
Alvaro Bautista (1) leads Andrea Iannone (29), Toprak Razgatlioglu (54), Nicolo Bulega (11), and the rest at Catalunya. Photo courtesy Dorna.
The first Aruba.it Racing – Ducati one-two of the season saw Alvaro Bautista claim the honours in Race 2 ahead of Nicolo Bulega
A third podium of the season sees Bulega extend his Championship lead to 12 points
Toprak Razgatlioglu claimed back to back race victories for ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team by winning the Tissot Superpole Race before taking third in Race 2
The final day of the Pirelli Catalunya Round saw a daring last corner move from Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK) surprise Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) to take the victory in the Tissot Superpole Race. The Turkish rider became the first BMW rider since Chaz Davies in 2013 to take back to back WorldSBK wins. Despite having to settle for a podium in Race 2 this was a superb weekend for Razgatlioglu who now sits fourth in the Championship standings.
The much touted battle of Alvaro Bautista versus Nicolo Bulega played out in Race 2. On this occasion it was double WorldSBK Champion Bautista who used his guile to win. The victory margin would eventually be just over two seconds with Bautista completing a weekend of podium finishes having dropped from the lead to third at the final corner of the Superpole Race.
Bulega, from pole position in the Superpole Race finished fourth before his second place finish in Race 2. The final race of the day also marked the first points of the season for Jonathan Rea (Pata Prometeon Yamaha) who finished in eighth position.
With four different winners from the opening six races of the season the 2024 WorldSBK season has started in style!More on worldsbk.com
P1 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“I feel really happy! It’s been a tough weekend for us. In Superpole we lost a lot of position on the grid and then we had the penalty too. Today we had to come back in both races. It was a great battle in the Superpole Race and then the afternoon was a different type of race. It was more about managing the tyre consumption. I made a good start but I didn’t want to push at the beginning. Nicolo overtook me because my pace was really slow. I thought that I could push a little bit more so I took the lead again and then I tried to focus on getting the maximum I could while not overusing the tyre. It’s been a long time since my last win so we’re going to celebrate!”
P2 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“I tried to do something different today compared to yesterday. Yesterday I was very fast in the beginning but I destroyed the tyre. I decided to follow Alvaro and copy him. At the end of this race my tyre life was better compared to yesterday but Alvaro was very fast today. Congratulations to him. Thanks to my team because our bike was good!”
P3 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team
“I am happy but the last race was very difficult. Ducati was very strong, especially in the last sector. At the start of the race I stayed with them but then the rear tyre started to spin a lot and I started to save my tyre. To take three podium places this weekend is incredible. My team worked very hard this weekend. We’re still not 100% but to win two races in Catalunya and another podium is really good. I’m looking forward to Assen, and I hope we’ll be fighting for the win there as well!”
Spaniard Aron Canet won the FIM Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Algarve International Circuit, in Portugal. Riding his Fantic Racing Kalex, Canet won the 21-lap race by 2.059 seconds.
American Joe Roberts was the runner-up on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex, and Manuel Gonzalez was a close third on his QJMOTOR Gresini Kalex.
Canet now leads the World Championship standings by two points over Roberts.
Toprak Razgatlioglu won the Superbike World Championship Superpole Race on Sunday at Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his ROKiT BMW M 1000 RR, the Turkish racer won the 10-lap sprint by 0.075 second.
Andrea Iannone was the runner-up on his Team GoEleven Ducati, and defending World Champion Alvaro Bautista was a very close third (0.260 second behind Razgatlioglu) on his Aruba.it Racing Ducati.
American Garrett Gerloff finished 17th on his Bonovo Action BMW.
Team Suzuki CN Challenge's special GSX-R1000R endurance racebike. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motorcycles Australia.
Editorial Note: This effort is being led by Shinichi Sahara, the former Suzuki MotoGP Project Leader.
Suzuki Motor Corporation will participate in the 45th Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race 2024 which will be held at the Suzuka Circuit as one of the 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC), from 19 to 21 July by using Sustainable Fuel and multiple sustainable items.
Suzuki will use the 40% bio-sourced Sustainable Fuel, certified by the FIM (International Motorcycling Federation). Since this is not the official fuel of the EWC, Suzuki will participate in the Experimental Class, a category set for experimental purposes. Besides Sustainable Fuel, development of new sustainable technologies will also take place including muffler, tires, oil, fairings, and brakes which will be provided by our sponsor partners, who have agreed with our challenge, involved in the development and supported this project.
The team is named “Team SUZUKI CN CHALLENGE” and is mainly composed of Suzuki employees. Yoshimura Japan is working together in a collaborative partnership. Additionally, along with all our partners, we will strive to overcome issues to achieve our goal.
The purpose of the participation is to accelerate development of environmental performance technologies through participating physically in the demanding conditions of the endurance racing. By verifying valuable information gathered through this participation, we will discover higher goals and promote feeding back of technologies to our future production models.
Team Suzuki CN Challenge is being led by former Suzuki MotoGP Project Leader Shinichi Sahara (left). Sahara is seen here at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show with Tsuyoshi Tanaka, Executive General Manager Motorcycle Operations (right). Photo courtesy Shinichi Sahara.
A 2024-model Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
2024 APRILIA RS 660 TROFEO AVAILABLE NOW FOR PURCHASE
PREPARED BY APRILIA RACING WITH ALL THE EXPERIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF THE FACTORY THAT HOLDS 54 WORLD TITLES, THE TRACK-ONLY EDITION RETURNS WITH A 2024 PRODUCTION, 28 TOTAL COMING TO THE USA AND CANADA
FROM THE PROVEN CAPABILITY OF THE STANDARD RS 660, RACE-FOCUSED WEIGHT PREPARATION AND POWER ARE THE FOCUS FOR PERFORMANCE ON TRACK
After its début on the track in the single-brand championship, the Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo was launched to the masses for any enthusiast who wants to have fun on the track with the category reference twin-cylinder sport bike from Noale. The limited production, which happens between race seasons, is made directly by the Aprilia Racing department as a part of the Factory Works program, and returns to the public in 2024, with a dedicated livery update, in a production of just 28 units for North America.
Already agile and lightweight in the street-legal version, the Trofeo transformation uses high-level components and exploits the perfect balanced between chassis architecture, engine, and electronics to the fullest. Like its street-legal sibling, it raises the bar in the category, representing the perfect sport twin-cylinder proposal, with an outstanding weight/power ratio and a leading electronics package for the segment.
Starting from the already high-performance standard RS 660, the upgrades begin with the electrical system, simplified by eliminating the ignition switch assembly and ABS. The braking system is simplified with independent lines. The ABS control unit, however, remains on the bike and connected to exploit the strategies of the integrated electronic system. The ECU is reprogrammed in Race version, with mapping (all “full power”) developed by Aprilia Racing and dedicated exclusively to track use, as well as being calibrated for the SC Project racing exhaust. The color TFT dashboard is reprogrammed and integrated by a dedicated button block on the left-hand side.
The suspension can count on a front fork with “Misano by Andreani” internal cartridge, adjustable in hydraulic compression and rebound damping and preload. The Öhlins AP948 rear shock absorber features hydraulic preload, compression, and rebound damping adjustment.
The chassis architecture is upgraded, with a lowered riding position thanks to the racing upper steering yoke and adjustable semi-handlebars. The footpegs are adjustable and dismountable so each rider can achieve optimum ergonomics. The fairing is in fiberglass.
The engine upgrades have brought power up to 105 HP, a record value for an inline twin-cylinder, whereas dry weight has dropped to 153 kg. The secondary air system and the thermostat are eliminated, whereas aluminum guards are installed for the clutch cover and alternator, as well as a specific Sprint Filter air filter. As always, working alongside Aprilia Racing in every one of its projects are top-level partners such as Castrol, Zanasi Group, Cruciata, Jetprime, Spider and Bike Lift.
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Stefano Manzi won restarted and red-flag-shortened FIM Supersport World Championship Race Two Sunday at Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing YZF-R6, the Italian rider won what ended up being a six-lap race by 0.086 second.
Marcel Schroetter was the runner-up on his MV Agusta Reparto Corsa F3 800 RR, and Lucas Mahias placed third, just 0.201 second behind Manzi, on his GMT94 Yamaha.
Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise finished fifth, just 0.714 second behind the race winner, on his Evan Bros. Racing Yamaha.
Provisional Parts Unlimited AFT Singles Main Event (6 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Kody Kopp (KTM), 22 laps
2. Tom Drane (Yam), -1.522 seconds
3. Chase Saathoff (Hon), -2.726
4. Aidan RoosEvans (Yam), -3.662
5. Dalton Gauthier (KTM), -4.539
6. James Ott (Hus), -7.306
7. Hunter Bauer (Yam), -8.271
8. Trent Lowe (Hon), -8.898
9. Travis Petton (KTM), -8.971
10. Bradon Pfanders (KTM), -10.193
11. Tarren Santero (Hon), -10.716
12. Tyler Raggio (Hon), -11.365
13. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), -11.576
14. Evan Renshaw (Hon), -11.833
15. Landen Smith (KTM), -12.332
16. Logan Eisenhard (KTM), -13.748
17. Justin Jones (Hus), -13.791
18. Jared Lowe (Hon), -14.307
19. Chad Cose (KTM), -18.021
Provisional Mission SuperTwins Main Event (10 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Jared Mees (Ind), 36 laps
2. Dallas Daniels (Yam), -1.591 seconds
3. Brandon Robinson (Ind), -3.211
4. Briar Bauman (KTM), -3.371
5. Jarod VanDerKooi (Ind), -7.706
6. Johnny Lewis (Roy), -9.482
7. Brandon Price (Yam), -10.689
8. Davis Fisher (Ind), -11.984
9. Trevor Brunner (KTM), -17.031
10. Max Whale (Har), -17.191
11. Dan Bromley (Hon), -17.324
12. Ben Lowe (KTM), -17.720
13. Bronson Bauman (KTM), -17.930
14. Declan Bender (Ind), -18.432
15. Kolby Carlile (Yam), -1 lap
16. Cameron Smith (KTM), -1 lap, 9.245 seconds
17. Kevin Stollings (Kaw), -2 laps, -7.366
18. Michael Hill (Yam), -15 laps, DNF
More, from a press release issued by AFT:
Mees Responds with Statement Ride at Yamaha Senoia Short Track
Jared Mees (1) and Dallas Daniels (32) in action at Senoia Raceway. Photo by Tim Lester, courtesy AFT.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 24, 2024) – Reigning Mission SuperTwins champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) turned to his successful ‘23 script, once again rebounding from a quiet season opener with a statement performance in the Yamaha Senoia Short Track at Senoia Raceway in Senoia, Georgia, Round 3 of the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.
That said, Sunday’s ride didn’t exactly get underway as he’d originally envisioned. The factory Indian star was involved in a minor pre-race dispute and was forced to line up on the far outside of Row 1 after believing he could select the slot at the bottom. Even if it went against his wishes, the swap either gifted him the ideal position or the motivation required to make it work, as Mees promptly blasted into the lead once the race got underway.
Even with the benefit of that prime launch, Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) was quickly looking for a way by and slid underneath to steal away first less than a minute into the Main Event. But Mees had an answer, reclaiming the position a short two laps later and then went about steadily working his way to what proved to be a 1.591-second margin of victory.
Afterward Mees said, “I fast qualified earlier in the day, but I didn’t really feel good. I was making some decent laps but also making a lot of mistakes. In the (Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge), Dallas ate my lunch – I was really worried about him; he and his team were rolling really good. He was really consistent and could get the bike turned, and that’s where I was struggling all day. We made some changes and went a direction we’ve never gone before with some things. And the motorcycle was phenomenal. It turned great and rolled good. Everything I needed it to do all day, it finally came to me.”
The fight for third was a hard-fought three-way affair for much of the race, led for a long spell by Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) with Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) and Briar Bauman (No. 3 Rick Ware Racing/KTM/Parts Plus KTM 790 Duke) jammed up close behind.
Lewis did well to keep Robinson and Bauman corralled behind him for the majority of the contest, but their superior pace ultimately won out – at least once Bauman showed they could tap into the high line to find a path through.
Free of the Royal Enfield runner, Robinson then managed to keep two-time champion Bauman at bay by just over a tenth-of-a-second at the flag. Lewis, meanwhile, found himself also overtaken by a charging Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Ohio Indian FTR750), who secured the final spot in the top five after circulating as low as ninth in the early going.
The remainder of the top ten consisted of a pair of premier-class veterans – Brandon Price (No. 92 Memphis Shades/Corbin/OTBR Yamaha MT-07) and Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750) – and class rookies – Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Mission Foods/Zanotti Racing KTM 790 Duke) and Max Whale (No. 18 Latus Motors Racing/Liqui Moly Harley-Davidson XG750R).
Mees’ triumph elevated him from sixth to third in the points (54), but he continues to trail Daniels (64) and Robinson (61), the duo having upped their respective ‘24 podium streaks to a perfect three for three.
Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER
Reigning two-time Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER king Kody Kopp (No. 1 Rick Ware Racing/Parts Plus KTM 450 SX-F) continued to build his case as the most accomplished rider in class history, earning a record-tying sixth career Short Track win on Sunday afternoon.
While in the end, the victory proved a lonely one, that order first had to be forged in chaos.
Former class champion Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F) grabbed the holeshot with title fighters Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), Chase Saathoff (No. 88 JPG Motorsports Honda CRF450R), and Kopp running alongside while sorting out second in shadow.
In one fell swoop, that fight for second became one for the lead as Drane and Saathoff both went under Gauthier at the same moment Kopp ringed around the outside, all despite no obvious mistake on Gauthier’s part.
Kopp continued to work the high line, using it to both overhaul Drane and make his escape in relatively short order.
At that point, the top three broke apart, while Gauthier lost one final position to Aiden RoosEvans (No. 26 FRA Trust/ATV’s and More Yamaha YZ450F), who ran just removed from the lead pack for the entirety of the race.
“I’m happy to be up here and be able to spin laps like that,” Kopp said. “Hats off to Tom, Chase, and Dalton – those first few laps were chaos. I got a terrible start and tried to roll ‘em around the outside. Huge shout out to my Rick Ware Racing team and everybody that’s behind me. We’re ready to get on a roll now.”
2023 Senoia Short Track podium finisher James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) took sixth, followed by Hunter Bauer (No. 24 Vinson Construction/American Harley-Davidson, Yamaha YZ450F), Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Travis Petton IV (No. 82 ECG Racing/A.M Ortega KTM 450 SX-F).
The final spot in the top ten was earned by Bradon Pfanders (No. 288 Pfanders Racing/Scott Powersports KTM 450 SX-F), who made an extremely impressive Progressive AFT debut immediately after becoming eligible by turning 16.
Kopp already boasts an early 17-point advantage over Gauthier (71-54) with Drane (51) and Saathoff (50) placed third and fourth and desperate to prevent the double defending champ from executing another championship runaway.
Next Up:
The Progressive American Flat Track tour will compete on a Half-Mile for the first time this season with the Mission Texas Half-Mile presented by Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda and Roof Systems of Dallas at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday, April 27. Please visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/texas-half-mile-86387 to secure your tickets today.
For those who can’t catch the action from the circuit, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at http://flosports.link/aft.
FOX Sports coverage of the Yamaha Senoia Short Track, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, March 31, at 12:30 p.m. ET (9:30 a.m. PT).
More, from a press release issued by Indian Motorcycle:
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RACING AND REIGHNING CHAMPION JARED MEESE SECURE FIRST VICTORY OF 2024 SEASON AT SENOIA SHORT TRACK
Mees Edges Out the Competition Aboard Indian FTR750, Moving into Third in Overall Standings
Fellow Indian FTR750 Rider Brandon Robinson Rounds out the Podium in Third
Minneapolis, MN. – Indian Motorcycle Racing had a stellar showing at round three of the 2024 American Flat Track series in Senoia, Georgia, for the Senoia Short Track. It was nine-time champion Jared Mees scoring his first victory of the year aboard his Indian FTR750, moving him into third in the championship. Fellow Indian Motorcycle-supported racer Brandon Robinson rounded out the top three aboard his Indian FTR750 privateer ride.
After a slow start to the season, Mees, the reigning champion, made a strong statement in Senoia that he’s still at the top of his game and the rider to beat. Despite an unwanted starting position, he used it as motivation to rocket his FTR750 off the line when the green flag waved to take over the lead quickly. Mees was overtaken a short time later but maintained his speed and stayed within striking distance to regain the lead a few laps later. Once out front, Mees didn’t look back throughout the remainder of the 36-lap race, taking the checkered flag and winning by 1.6 seconds.
“This was a solid showing for Jared and the Indian Motorcycle team, securing the win and keeping him within striking distance in the chase for his 10th-career championship,” said Gary Gray, Vice President of Racing & Service for Indian Motorcycle. “Although the weekend didn’t go completely how he’d like, it was important for him to get this win under his belt. There is still a lot of racing left this season, and this victory provide him and his team momentum going next month’s race in Texas.”
“It was a challenging start to the season so to come away with the win tonight is incredible,” said Mees. “I struggled throughout the day and during qualifying so was a little worried but after making some changes to the bike it performed phenomenally in the Main event. Everything I had been wanting it to do all day, finally came to me and it paid off. I can’t thank the Indian team enough for the support.
After three rounds, Mees sits third in the championship chase with 54 points, a mere 10 points off the lead. Currently tied with Scottie Parker with the most career championships, Mees is looking to secure his spot in the history books as the all-time greatest flat track racer with a 2024 championship, earning him 10-career titles. Of his nine-career championships, Mees has five while piloting the Indian FTR750, coming in 2017, 2018, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
The 2024 American Flat Track season continues on April 27 for the Texas Half-Mile in Fort Worth, TX.
For more information on Indian Motorcycle Racing, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, X and Instagram.
ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE
Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.
The track at Lumen Field formed deep, peg-dragging ruts after rains earlier in the week saturated the dirt. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports.
Cooper Webb Wins Seattle Supercross in Closest Finish of the Year
Levi Kitchen Tops Field in 250SX Class
Seattle, Wash., (March 23, 2024) Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb took a thrilling win at Lumen Field in Seattle to nab his third win of the season at Round 11 of the 2024 Monster Energy Supercross season. The win marked the slimmest margin of victory so far this season as 58,342 fans cheered Webb and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Chase Sexton to the finish line.
Chase Sexton led much of the race and put on an incredible final surge; he missed the win by less than one second to earn the runner-up spot. Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence pushed a strong pace early but a crash with Webb put him back; he finished in third place. In the Western Regional 250SX Class’ return to racing, Washington-native Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Levi Kitchen ran away with a huge win in what is his hometown Supercross.
Cooper Webb. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports.
“This is probably – we keep saying it every weekend – but by far the gnarliest track I’ve ridden. And it was really tough; we were all trying to push the pace, but you had to watch out for all the changing lines, the ruts, the lappers… I got arm pump pretty bad there at the end and it was just [a matter of] surviving, but I was able to hold on. Chase rode great, obviously made a few mistakes, then I’d make mistakes, and we’d go back and forth so, man, I’m stoked. I just want to give it up to the good Lord, want to give it up to the team; man, we’ve been dealt some adversity and we’re fighting through it, and it just feels amazing to win. It’s crazy, you know, you see Jett do it over and over and you just, you want to get that feeling again… I’m pumped.” – Cooper Webb.
“To be honest I didn’t even look at the pit board, so I had no idea [Webb was jumping the wall after the sand section]. I had [a] line late in the race where I was doubling into the pocket, but I never even thought of going outside [in the sand], so that’s on me not looking at the pit board. But overall, minus a few mistakes, I rode a really good race, even through[out] the whole race. I came back towards the end. I felt like I had really good speed. We made a change going into the heat race with my bike and it showed. I was really comfortable the whole night on such a gnarly track. And I gotta give it up to the team; they put a lot of work in to get me happy and we’re climbing that ladder… [when asked about stalling the engine during the night’s racing] …I got actually clipped that hay bail on this rhythm over here and bent my rear brake out, and I think that’s what happened when I stalled it over there. I caught my rear brake. So, just a few small hiccups, but overall it was a lot better race from me. This is the most I’ve fought all year, as far as [battling] close to the front, so we’re getting better.” – Chase Sexton, when asked if he saw that his mechanic was signaling him to double out of the sand and over the wall.
“I had a good charge at the start [of the race], had a really good flow, and I think I just came in the sand here and was a little bit committed. I knew I was going to hit Cooper, I could have been mean and hit him harder and just committed to it, but I didn’t want to hit him, and then in that sand you don’t want to – it’s very hard to pull up. So yeah, I ended up kind of being nice and checking up, but I [ended up] clipping the back [of Cooper’s bike], got off balance [and crashed]. And then I stalled it here once, and also had a lapper stop on the wall jump in front of me [and hold me up]. So, I’m like, ‘You know, that’s enough signs that tonight’s not the night, so we’ll just try and bring it home in third.’”– Jett Lawrence
The Western Regional 250SX Class passed its season midpoint with Seattle marking Round 6 of 10 rounds. Levi Kitchen made the technical track look almost easy with a win margin of over twenty seconds. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire fought back from a mediocre start to claim second place. Team Honda HRC’s Jo Shimoda was blazing fast, recovering from a crash to lock down the third-place spot.
Levi Kitchen (47). Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports.
“I’ve been waiting for a night like this for a long time… I just finally rode like myself and, you know, to do that in front of the hometown is awesome. Man, I just felt good on my dirt bike, like finally completely myself… it wasn’t a pretty race, actually, if you were me; I got really frustrated a few times and just tried to stay with it and I just kept telling myself, ‘stay with it,’ and I find myself again. It was crazy, but yeah I can’t give it up [enough] to all my friends and family for coming out, and shout out to my sister and my newborn nephew and niece, and just everybody, man, I’m going to really enjoy this one. Yeah, I’m stoked, extending the points a little bit.” – Levi Kitchen
“I said in the beginning of the day [to] just kind of take what the night gives me. I had nothing for Levi all day, I mean, you’ve seen in the heat race – like, that was embarrassing… I didn’t have the speed, that’s just what it was. I had to settle down and then, I don’t know what happened off the start there; I felt like I had a really good jump, and [then] I must have spun or something. And those first couple laps are hectic. I made some good passes but, man, the track is brutal. I rode Indy a few times [but] I don’t think I rode a track like this. So coming from the East Coast, it’s definitely technical tonight… We said we want to be solid tonight, and that’s all we had, so we’ll take a second on the night and look forward to St. Louis.” – RJ Hampshire
“Oh my God, it was the gnarliest track I ever rode. Honestly, like, from the heat race, I just kept dragging my foot pegs, and that threw me off. I actually crashed on the rhythm [section in the Main Event] – same thing, just [coming] out of the rut [it] caught my peg and it threw me off to the side…. I just needed to really, really focus, I guess. But I’m stoked to be on the podium, and I just want to shout out my mechanic [and team]. Thank you so much, and it was tough one.” – Jo Shimoda
The series moves east for Round 12, which kicks off next Saturday inside The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis, Missouri. The round also pays points toward the SuperMotocross World Championship, seeding top racers from both Supercross and Pro Motocross into two Playoff races and a World Championship Final. zMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Texas Motor Speedway, and The Strip at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway will host the 2024 post-season rounds.
Every Monster Energy AMA Supercross and SuperMotocross League event is available live and on-demand at PeacockTV. Select rounds can also be found on NBC, USA Network, CNBC, NBCSports.com, and the NBC Sports app. CNBC airs next-day encore presentations of all 31 rounds of 2024 racing. For international coverage the SuperMotocross Video Pass (supermotocross.tv) provides live and on-demand coverage, in both English and Spanish.
The Seattle round continued to celebrate Supercross’ long-standing partnership with St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Fans are encouraged to support this great cause and wear their Love Moto Stop Cancer t-shirt, which is available with a donation. For more information go to stjude.org/supercross to text “SUPER” to 785-833.
Tickets are available for the remaining Monster Energy Supercross events. For tickets, video highlights, points standings, feature stories, and more information on streaming and broadcast airtimes please go to SupercrossLIVE.com.
Autodromo Internacional do Algarve (a.k.a. Algarve International Circuit) in Portimão, Portugal. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jorge Martin won the MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24, the Spaniard won the 25-lap race by 0.882 second.
Factory Ducati rider Enea Bastianini was the runner-up on his Lenovo-sponsored Desmosedici, and rookie sensation Pedro Acosta took his career-first MotoGP podium finish with third place on on his Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 machine.
The MotoGP World Championship races next on April 12-14 at Circuit of The Americas, in Austin, Texas.
Drama on the Algarve: Martin wins, Acosta makes history as Bagnaia and Marc Marquez collide
Headlines, history and adrenaline on the rollercoaster: Martin takes the Championship lead as the storylines overflow in Portugal
The start of the Portuguese Grand Prix. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Sunday, 24 March 2024
The 2024 Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal was a stunning lights to flag win for Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) as the number #89 took the victory and the Championship lead with it. But this is the world’s most exciting sport, and there are no single sentence explanations to cover 25 laps of MotoGP™ on the rollercoaster. Martin won, and Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) chased him close all the way until a heartbreaking last lap technical issue. Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) came though to take second and his first podium of the year. Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech 3) made history as the third youngest podium finisher in premier class history with an incredible charge past Champions past and present. And?
11 World Championships went toe-to-toe, and all of them slid off into the runoff. Riders ok, but in one of the most dramatic incidents for some time, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) collided with only a handful of laps to go. The FIM MotoGP™ Stewards officially deem it a racing incident, but it seems a moment that will be debriefed for weeks, months, if not years to come.
But back to the start. It was a stunning launch from Martin to take the holeshot, with Bastianini slotting in behind as Bagnaia shot up a place. Viñales initially dropped to fourth then fought back, round the outside of the reigning Champion. Bastianini was then slightly wide and Viñales headed through, with the two Ducatis then shuffling. Marc Marquez tried his luck with a move through too, but it settled down slightly after the adrenaline spike with Martin leading Viñales, Bastianini, Bagnaia and Marc Marquez.
Martin looked to be trying to break, but Viñales responded to stay in touch, and likewise Bastianini. What was a seven tenth gap became five and then three as the Aprilia dug in. Bastianini was holding station in third ahead of Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, with an RC-16 war raging on their tail.
Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) led teammate Jack Miller led Acosta, but the gloves were off and the South African made his move as Miller was then sent a little wide at Turn 1. His teammate was through, and so was Acosta – before the rookie then also attacked Binder at the same place not long after. The charge to history was on.
From there, it was target lock on Marc Marquez. And he homed in and did the same with a brutal move at Turn 1, pitched perfectly to make his way past but not open the door enough to allow the eight-time World Champion to reply.
At the front, Martin marched on, and so did Viñales as he shadowed. Bastianini held station, close enough to be cooking something up, as behind another titanic battle erupted.
Acosta’s charge didn’t stop at Marc Marquez as the rookie homed in on the reigning Champion next. He chose Turn 1 again, but the rear slipped once, then twice, and he headed just wide enough getting it back under control to let Pecco back through. Not long after, Acosta was able to get past Bagnaia once again, and that left the reigning Champion to go toe-to-toe with Marc Marquez. And then came the drama.
Marquez went for one attempt but the door was shut. This time he wasn’t going to try and push it open a la Sprint, either. Four laps to go saw the Gresini remain an absolute shadow, but Bagnaia gained a little breathing space next time round. Just enough that when the #93 did strike, it was another absolute lunge – and it nearly did work. But Bagnaia is Bagnaia and the reigning Champion had anticipated, took back the inside line as tightly as possible… and that was that. The two diverged on the same space, and two into one doesn’t fit. Contact made, they both slid out as the crowd erupted.
Meanwhile, the rider sweeping past to take that fourth place? Acosta. But there was another twist in the tale for another rider up ahead, with fourth about to become premier class history.
Crossing the line for the last lap, Martin had enough in hand to bet on. But Viñales was suddenly slowing, hanging off the bike and then looking down as he headed into the run off. A late technical issue made it a heartbreaking end to the GP race for the Sprint winner, as he then crashed out as it said no more. And that put Acosta on the podium after his gung-ho charge for glory.
Up ahead, Bastianini was close to Martin, but not close enough to strike. The #89 achieved the 89th victory for Ducati in style, winning holeshot to flag despite the drama and the tension in the chase. Bastianini, after a tougher Qatar GP and Sprint in Portugal, gets that podium to begin his count for the season, and then comes Acosta.
The number #31 is the third youngest premier class podium finisher of all time, getting it done in only his second race to join an exclusive club. Acosta was also the first over the line of the trio of KTM/GASGAS RC16s, with Binder taking fourth and Miller fifth.
Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) took P6 and was able to stay ahead of Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™), who took P7 after a weekend getting straight through to Q2 too. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) managed to come through to P8, ahead of home hero Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing) in ninth. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) completed the top ten but by hundredths ahead of Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3). Find full results below.
So the dust settles on Sunday evening. Or does it? One incident can become a whole storyline, or a move re-calculated. Or just the calm, certain desire to make sure that when next time comes, you’re coming out on top. The best rivalries build between those on a level that enables them to take each other on – and still back themselves.
Next up? Next up it’s the Circuit of the Americas. Only three riders have ever won a MotoGP™ race in Austin, and only one of them has done it seven times. The rider who’ll most want to stop him making that eight is the same who defeated the eight-time World Champion on the way to his first ever MotoGP™ victory – and the only rider to take back-to-back MotoGP™ crowns alongside his mentor, Valentino Rossi, and that very same Marc Marquez. Join us for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas – hopefully we don’t need to ask twice.
MotoGP™: the biggest sporting event in Portugal
The 2024 Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal had some stunning racing and a dash (or two!) of drama, and a record crowd was there to witness it. A 41% increase in attendance on the 2023 edition saw over 170,000 fans flock to the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve across the weekend, making it MotoGP™’s best-attended event yet at the venue and confirming the Grand Prix as the biggest sporting event in Portugal.
Canet takes coveted first Moto2™ win as Aldeguer storms through for a comeback
Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) is a Moto2™ race winner! The Spaniard broke his victory drought with a stylish win by two seconds as the podium fight exploded behind him in Portugal. Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing Team) completed a brilliant weekend at Portimao to take second, fighting off polesitter Manuel Gonzalez (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) before Gonzalez had his own showdowns to secure that third place. Meanwhile, Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) had to do two long laps after jumping the start, leaving him down the order but still fast as ever as the new Ducati signing set off on a charge.
Aldeguer led into Turn 1, but soon teammate Alonso Lopez hit the front, launching an attack on his teammate even before Aldeguer served the first of his penalties. The #54 then took his first LLP on lap four, dropping down to 11th before the second on lap seven, dropping to 13th.
Canet set the pace early on, stealing the fastest lap of the race while sitting in second – setting sights on a first Moto2™ win. Polesitter Gonzalez sat in third position after finding a way through on the fast-charging Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI). Ogura’s fourth did not last long as Roberts and Albert Arenas (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) found a way through.
As laps ticked down, Lopez maintained an advantage at the front until lap 11, when the race was blown wide open as the Spaniard lost the front at turn 13 – crashing out the lead. That promoted Canet to p1 and Roberts into second at the venue where the American claimed his first win in 2021.
All eyes were now on Canet in the lead and Aldeguer, who was carving through the field and back inside the top 10 in two laps. The Spaniard soon set the fastest lap, circulating quicker than Canet at the front of the field with 10 laps remaining.
Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) was having a ferocious battle with Jeremy Alcoba (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team) for seventh position, allowing Arenas to escape in front. They could not match the pace of Aldeguer on his mission to the front, as the #54 flew down the inside and remarkably entered fifth place.
It was beginning to build to be an incredible end to the race with a battle brewing inside the front group. Gonzalez found a way through on Roberts, trying to up the pace and catch Canet at the front.
Now with just three laps to go the gloves were off after Aldeguer launched a brave attack at turn three to pass Ogura briefly before the Japanese rider responded. Meanwhile, Roberts entered second position before Gonzalez quickly responded – putting pressure on the American.
Two laps remained as the dream began to look like a reality for Canet, crossing the line with a lead of almost two seconds with just 2.85 miles to go. You could cut the tension with a knife on the last lap of the race with Canet leading as an all-out battle for the final place on the podium was happening behind.
As the chequered flag loomed, Canet even celebrated round the final corner before finally becoming a Moto2™ race winner. Roberts continues to celebrate success In Portimao, finishing second ahead of Gonzalez, who finally got the better of Aldeguer after Ogura dropped to fifth on the final lap after a near highside on the exit of turn four battling the #54.
Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) battled to sixth place, in yet another impressive race from the Spaniard, ahead of Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo), Arenas, Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing Team) and Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) rounding out the top ten. Alcoba and Arbolino continued their battle to the line but dropped down to 11th and 12th at the end of 21 laps.
Now it’s destination: Texas for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, with another 25 points on the table. Who’s taking them? We’ll find out in a few weeks!
0.044 in it: Holgado & Rueda stage a duel to remember
Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) won a classic drag to the line finish at the stunning Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, staying ahead of Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) by just 0.044 as the two battled it out on the last lap. Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) completed the podium as the lead trio turned up the wick in the final few laps to escape former race leader David Alonso (CFMoto Gaviota Aspar Team).
Rueda took the holeshot and had his turn making a gap, managing to stay ahead of the group until 10 to go. Then Alonso made his move and looked to be trying to make a break as the gap extended. But not so, as Holgado and Rueda duo closed the CFMoto Aspar rider down, got past, and in a handful of laps had been able to make their own gap.
Onto the last lap, it seemed likely it would remain a duel. Holgado led over the line with Rueda for close company, with Ortola just off the back but forced to wait in the wings for any possible drama. Rueda went for a move at Turn 14 and was briefly ahead taking a tighter line, but the number 99 couldn’t keep it as Holgado pinned it and swept back into the lead. It all came down to the final corner and again, the Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 was able to stay ahead and gas it towards the line with just enough metres in hand to take his first Grand Prix win of the year – and the Championship lead.
Rueda may not have taken the win but it’s his best Grand Prix result yet, as well as only his second podium. Ortola completed the rostrum another seven tenths back, but managing to keep more than a second in hand over those on the chase: Alonso, Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) and Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) in that order.
Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA) took P7 ahead of top rookie Joel Esteban (CFMoto Gaviota Aspar Team), with David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) beating Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) and rookie Jacob Roulstone (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) in a close finish for P9.
After another classic Moto3™ encounter, the field now heads for Austin, TX for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas in a few weeks. Join us there for more!
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Spaniard Alvaro Bautista won FIM Superbike World Championship Race Two Sunday at Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, the two-time and defending World Champion won the 20-lap race by 2.041 seconds.
Bautista’s teammate Nicolo Bulega was the runner-up, and Toprak Razgatlioglu placed third on his ROKiT BMW M 1000 RR.
American Garrett Gerloff finished 10th on his Bonovo Action BMW.
Alvaro Bautista (1) leads Andrea Iannone (29), Toprak Razgatlioglu (54), Nicolo Bulega (11), and the rest at Catalunya. Photo courtesy Dorna.
The first Aruba.it Racing – Ducati one-two of the season saw Alvaro Bautista claim the honours in Race 2 ahead of Nicolo Bulega
A third podium of the season sees Bulega extend his Championship lead to 12 points
Toprak Razgatlioglu claimed back to back race victories for ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team by winning the Tissot Superpole Race before taking third in Race 2
The final day of the Pirelli Catalunya Round saw a daring last corner move from Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK) surprise Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) to take the victory in the Tissot Superpole Race. The Turkish rider became the first BMW rider since Chaz Davies in 2013 to take back to back WorldSBK wins. Despite having to settle for a podium in Race 2 this was a superb weekend for Razgatlioglu who now sits fourth in the Championship standings.
The much touted battle of Alvaro Bautista versus Nicolo Bulega played out in Race 2. On this occasion it was double WorldSBK Champion Bautista who used his guile to win. The victory margin would eventually be just over two seconds with Bautista completing a weekend of podium finishes having dropped from the lead to third at the final corner of the Superpole Race.
Bulega, from pole position in the Superpole Race finished fourth before his second place finish in Race 2. The final race of the day also marked the first points of the season for Jonathan Rea (Pata Prometeon Yamaha) who finished in eighth position.
With four different winners from the opening six races of the season the 2024 WorldSBK season has started in style!More on worldsbk.com
P1 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“I feel really happy! It’s been a tough weekend for us. In Superpole we lost a lot of position on the grid and then we had the penalty too. Today we had to come back in both races. It was a great battle in the Superpole Race and then the afternoon was a different type of race. It was more about managing the tyre consumption. I made a good start but I didn’t want to push at the beginning. Nicolo overtook me because my pace was really slow. I thought that I could push a little bit more so I took the lead again and then I tried to focus on getting the maximum I could while not overusing the tyre. It’s been a long time since my last win so we’re going to celebrate!”
P2 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“I tried to do something different today compared to yesterday. Yesterday I was very fast in the beginning but I destroyed the tyre. I decided to follow Alvaro and copy him. At the end of this race my tyre life was better compared to yesterday but Alvaro was very fast today. Congratulations to him. Thanks to my team because our bike was good!”
P3 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team
“I am happy but the last race was very difficult. Ducati was very strong, especially in the last sector. At the start of the race I stayed with them but then the rear tyre started to spin a lot and I started to save my tyre. To take three podium places this weekend is incredible. My team worked very hard this weekend. We’re still not 100% but to win two races in Catalunya and another podium is really good. I’m looking forward to Assen, and I hope we’ll be fighting for the win there as well!”
Autodromo Internacional do Algarve (a.k.a. Algarve International Circuit) in Portimão, Portugal. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Spaniard Aron Canet won the FIM Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Algarve International Circuit, in Portugal. Riding his Fantic Racing Kalex, Canet won the 21-lap race by 2.059 seconds.
American Joe Roberts was the runner-up on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex, and Manuel Gonzalez was a close third on his QJMOTOR Gresini Kalex.
Canet now leads the World Championship standings by two points over Roberts.
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Toprak Razgatlioglu won the Superbike World Championship Superpole Race on Sunday at Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his ROKiT BMW M 1000 RR, the Turkish racer won the 10-lap sprint by 0.075 second.
Andrea Iannone was the runner-up on his Team GoEleven Ducati, and defending World Champion Alvaro Bautista was a very close third (0.260 second behind Razgatlioglu) on his Aruba.it Racing Ducati.
American Garrett Gerloff finished 17th on his Bonovo Action BMW.
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Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
