Italian Yari Montella led FIM Supersport World Championship Free Practice (FP) Friday morning at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati Panigale V2, Montella lapped the 2.89-mile (4.66 km) track in 1:44.884 to lead the field of 34 riders.
Former MotoAmerica regular Valentin Debise finished the session 25th with a time of 1:47.145 on his Evan Bros. Yamaha.
WSS FP
Turkish rider Toprak Razgatlioglu reigned during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his ROKiT BMW M 1000 RR on the 2.89-mile (4.66 km) track, Razgatlioglu recorded a best lap time of 1:41.199 to lead the field of 23 competitors.
American Garrett Gerloff was 10th in FP1 with a time of 1:41.845 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.
The top 20 riders in FP1 were separated by just 1.551 seconds.
WSBK FP1
County of Monterey and Friends of Laguna Seca Celebrate Positive Settlement for Laguna Seca Recreation Area
Monterey, Calif. (March 22, 2024) – The County of Monterey Department of Public Works, Facilities, and Parks and Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) are pleased to announce the execution of a comprehensive settlement that ends the Laguna Seca Raceway lawsuit, Highway 68 Coalition vs. County of Monterey.
“We view this as a very favorable resolution for the County and its long-term partner at Laguna Seca, the nonprofit organization Friends of Laguna Seca,” stated Nick Pasculli, County Communications Director. “The future of the track and the amazing recreation area, which is a premier County Park, is bright. Laguna Seca is loved by local, national, and global car enthusiasts and also by the tens of thousands of people who enjoy the beauty of the recreation area.”
The settlement clarifies the long-term plans of FLS to conduct a previously planned sound impact assessment at the racetrack and carry out appropriate sound mitigation measures, all as part of being a good neighbor to the surrounding community.’
“FLS is pleased that the litigation was dealt with quickly and we’re looking forward to our next steps toward Laguna Seca’s long-term success for the benefit of the community of Monterey County and the entire racing world,” said Friends of Laguna Seca President Ross Merrill. “We know these improvements will take time, but we are committed to ensuring the success of Laguna Seca for decades to come.”
The County and Friends of Laguna Seca want to especially thank the loyal fans of the racetrack and the public who voiced their overwhelming support for the County in this lawsuit.
“I grew up watching races at Laguna Seca and have raced there since the late 1970s,” said Bruce Canepa, Vice President, Friends of Laguna Seca. “I have a lifetime passion for this facility and want to see it be preserved for future generations. With Friends of Laguna Seca, we’ve built a team of individuals who share the same passion, paired with business acumen, to make Laguna Seca the place we’ve always hoped it could be.”
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca has a rich history of hosting world-class racing events, and non-profit initiatives benefiting the community and driving prosperity for the region.
Italian Alessandro Zaccone led the opening FIM MotoE World Championship practice at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his Tech3 E-racing Ducati electric racebike, Zaccone lapped the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) circuit in 2:01.198 to lead the field of 18 riders.
MotoE P1
Real Steel Motorsports, with the support of Southern Honda Powersports and American Honda, are excited to announce that Hayden Gillim will return to defend his number-one plate in the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship on the Steel Commander/Comstock Energy/Southern Honda Powersports/American Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.
With a pedigree in racing that is second to none, Honda will expand its presence in the MotoAmerica paddock in 2024, with factory and dealer support of Gillim as he works to restake his claim to the Stock 1000 title. With Honda’s support and Gillim’s proven racecraft and dogged determination on the track, 2024 promises to be both exciting and rewarding as Gillim takes full advantage of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP’s potential.
Gillim stood tall in 2023, winning two coveted MotoAmerica championships—Steel Commander Stock 1000 and Mission King Of The Baggers. Returning this year, Gillim intends to go back-to-back in both series. “I’m very excited about this season,” Gillim said. “It’s been a long road to get where we are with this program. I feel with the backing from Comstock Energy, Steel Commander, Southern Powersports Honda, and American Honda, it’s going to be a great year. Learning the Honda and getting the most out of it, for me, will be a lot of fun, and it’s a great opportunity to back up the championship from last year.”
“The Southern Honda Powersports team is honored and excited to be supporting Hayden in this year’s Stock 1000 Championship run,” said David Carmody, General Manager of Southern Honda Powersports. “Working with a proven rider with Hayden’s talent and speed will be the perfect fit for featuring the Fireblade in the MotoAmerica series. We’re confident that he’ll be up front, fighting for the wins and the Championship aboard our CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.”
Brandon Wilson, Manager of Racing and Experiential Marketing at American Honda said, “All of us at American Honda are excited for the upcoming MotoAmerica season. Hayden’s talent, combined with the amazing CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, will certainly give Honda fans something to cheer about. A big thank you to Southern Honda Powersports for their efforts, and best of luck for a successful 2024 season.”
“The entire Steel Commander Corp. family is buzzing with enthusiasm as we back Hayden in his quest for the Stock 1000 Championship,” stated Shawn Fisher, President and CEO of Steel Commander. “With his exceptional skillset and our cutting-edge Fireblade, we’re poised for success with Honda on the MotoAmerica circuit. We’re fully confident in Hayden’s ability to showcase the speed and precision of our CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, and we’ll be cheering him on every step of the way. We also look forward to working with Comstock Energy, Southern Powersports, and American Honda in a combined effort to take home the Stock 1000 Championship.”
Also joining the team as sponsors for 2024 are Vesrah, Maxima Racing Oils, Orient Express, GB Racing, K-Tech, Dunlop, Moto Liberty, RS Taichi, and Arai.
“This track is insane!”: Thursday talking points from Portugal
Thursday, 21 March 2024
After a showstopping start in Qatar, we’re already back on track this weekend for the Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal, with the stunning Autodromo Internacional do Algarve playing host.
The week started with news that Fermin Aldeguer would be moving up to MotoGP™ next season with Ducati, so the current Beta Tools SpeedUp rider joined the second press-conference line-up on Thursday.
Once the podcast had welcomed Enea Bastianini, the first press conference saw reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) joined by Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), aka the current top three in the Championship.
Then, after news earlier this week that Fermin Aldeguer would be moving up to MotoGP™ next season with Ducati, the current Beta Tools SpeedUp rider joined the second press-conference, alongside Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), rookie Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) and Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing).
Here are some photos and quotes from the opening day on the Algarve.
PECCO BAGNAIA
How much confidence do you bring into this weekend?
“First of all, I want to say I love this track, it is one of my favourites with a lot of up and downhill sections. It is a mix of Mugello and Sachsenring and I love to ride here. Last year was a perfect start to the season like it was in Qatar, so I am quite confident as I think with the 2024 bike we can be more competitive in some areas of the track, so I am looking forward to starting the weekend.”.
BRAD BINDER
How high are expectations after round one?
“Obviously, it went well in Qatar it was fantastic to start the season with two podiums. Coming here is really exciting for me as it where last year that we started to find our bearings and if we have a look at what we ran here last year and where we finished the season it was two worlds apart so I am really keen to go out for FP1 to see where our base is and see how everything works. This track is insane, it is so up and down and flowing in some places, and stop and go in others, and it is something that you need a different bike for. I think our bike will be strong here as Jack showed last year and I think this year we stand a chance of being even stronger.”
JORGE MARTIN
You said in Qatar you weren’t 100% with the GP24, how do you see your potential here?
“Well, let’s see. It is difficult to say now but for sure it’s a track I enjoy, last year I was strong, I had some issues in the race but I think the pace was really good to battle. Let’s see I feel I am in a good condition so let’s see if I can feel better with the bike, but I think I am finding the way.”
MARC MARQUEZ
What do you expect this weekend?
“Of course, the approach for the weekend is the exact same as Qatar and obviously we will have a new factor which is we will head to a circuit straight into a race weekend. This changes our planning as straight away in FP1 you need to have a lap time and be fast and that was the most difficult thing in Malaysia and Qatar, that first day I was struggling a bit so let’s see if here in Portimao I can start in the top 10 positions straight away to jump into Q2. That is the main target but let’s see where we are in a completely different race track.”
On Acosta’s overtake:
“As I said last year and I reconfirm that he will be one of the guys in the future for MotoGP and the present because as he showed in Qatar he has enough talent and before the race, I already said that you are fast with any type of bike and he was super fast on those laps. I am sure he will learn to manage tyres and he will be much better in the next races.”
And his save earlier in the Qatar GP
“I already said it was a good one, you really need to believe in the bike to do that. That one was a good one, he has a really good riding style and when they jump from Moto2 they have super good corner speed. When I followed Pedro for the two laps during the race he was super fast in the fast corners and made the difference.”
PEDRO ACOSTA
How much are you looking forward to riding a MotoGP bike around Portimao?
“For sure I want it to be a nice weekend, Portimao is one of my favourite circuits on the calendar, with Australia. Like Marc said it is going to be difficult as it’s the first track that we’ve come to with a MotoGP bike without testing, so this will be tricky. We will have all the support from the Factory Team and all the engineers for this so let’s try and make a consistent weekend.”
How did it feel to overtake Marc?
“It was a super nice race because the first lap was tricky for me after the moment with Jack at the start. The feeling of the bike was amazing, as since Moto3™ I have not had this feeling with the front tyre to brake at the last moment and go down the inside. The overtake was nice but he managed the whole race better so we don’t have to think too much about the overtake.”
On that Qatar GP save:
“I’ve seen many races on the TV and I’ve seen many of Marc’s saves like this. It was a good save but also it is normal in FP1 with all of the sand that is always in Qatar. Like I said it is a track I know more or less the grip and the tyres. Now we come to a track with different asphalt and also different tyre compounds compared to Qatar. We need to start from zero with our feet on the ground and just not think too much about the Qatar race as it was unreal.”
MIGUEL OLIVEIRA
What’s possible this weekend?
“It is a different situation as I know to come from an average result like in Qatar to come here and say I am ready to challenge for the victory is maybe too ambitious but I know what I am capable of doing. Nowadays the grid in MotoGP™ is very particular, you can be from 12th to first in a split second. Everything is possible and I don’t want to create any limitations or too much expectations. I am still adapting to the bike but I feel I am making steps in the right direction and hopefully this weekend straight away on Friday we can show we have the speed for the top 10. Then obviously the complexity of Qualifying well and doing the race, we need to overcome those challenges of terms of results on Saturday and Sunday.”
FERMIN ALDEGUER
How special is it to know you’ll be racing Pedro, Marc, and Miguel in MotoGP™ next year?
“I am really happy to announce my jump to MotoGP™ in 2025 but now it is time to stay focused in the Moto2™ class. In Qatar, I felt pressure from people saying I am the favourite rider but I have to manage this pressure. My season will start here in Portimao with a good feeling, but I am very happy to be going to MotoGP with Ducati.”
Los Angeles, California-based Stock 1000 team Motorsport Exotica will field two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion rider Andrew Lee in the 2024 MotoAmerica season.
Lee will be piloting a 2024 BMW M 1000 RR built and backed by the Motorsport Exotica team.
“We are very excited for this season and this build,” says Team Owner and Principal Jarred Fixler. “We are very versed with this platform as we have been able to clinch #1 plates as well as overall organization title records all last season in regionals with Wyatt Farris and debuted in MotoAmerica in 2022 with Ezra Beaubier on a similar bike.
“Our program, while not as big as some of our competitors, will be as focused and as aggressive as the big boys. We are working with some of the best in the industry in our opinion, and are looking forward to this season’s battles. Andrew is a seasoned veteran of this class and we truly feel we have a great team in place to support him.”
Andrew Lee has appeared in MotoAmerica occasionally over the past few seasons and has done some wildcard rides, but he has proven time and time again that he is a champion and a force to be reckoned with.
Motorsport Exotica would like to thank all of its sponsors: BST Vodka, CTML, M/A Racing, Southern Pride Performance, Pasadena Private Financial, Capit, SBS Brakes, DriveSystems/Superlite, Lieto Factory and all others who have supported us over the years.
CSBK adds Constructors Championship for Pro Sport Bike in 2024
Hamilton, ON – The Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship will expand upon one of its most prestigious award battles in 2024, adding a Constructors Championship table to the Pro Sport Bike class.
Introduced to the feature GP Bikes Pro Superbike category in 2021, the Constructors Championship (or “manufacturers” title) has quickly become an integral part of the season story while also diversifying the grid, as just four brands scored points in 2020 compared to a high of seven in 2022.
The championship sees the top two scorers for each manufacturer in each race contribute points to the season standings, matching the exact total of race points each of those riders scored. For example, if the top two BMW riders in the final classification finished first (25 points) and fourth (13), they would score 38 points in that race.
BMW has been the most successful Superbike brand since its adoption, winning back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023 after rivals Suzuki snatched the inaugural crown in 2021.
While that matches up with class champions Alex Dumas (Suzuki) in 2021 and then Ben Young (BMW) in each of the last two seasons, the true difference makers thus far have been the additional riders behind them, evidenced by Sam Guerin’s efforts a year ago.
As for its expansion into the middleweight Pro Sport Bike class, the Constructors Championship should be even closer than in the feature category, as four different brands won Sport Bike races last season compared to just two in Superbike.
Kawasaki would have been the Constructors champions had the award existed in 2023, and while that success was headlined again by class champion David MacKay, an impressive six different riders would have contributed to the season total, the most of any brand.
Those efforts would have paced Suzuki by 87 points and Yamaha by 92, with the former relying heavily on 2021 champion Sebastien Tremblay and veteran Marco Sousa while the latter scored majority of their points with class runner-up Matt Simpson and round one winner Brad Macrae.
The favourite for the inaugural 2024 crown isn’t immediately clear, however, as MacKay is set to graduate to the Superbike class and Simpson remains without a ride, while Macrae was injured at the Daytona 200 and could miss the opening rounds.
That leaves Tremblay and Suzuki as the de facto frontrunners, though Ducati’s Elliot Vieira will surely be a title contender for the Panigale brand alongside Nathan Playford, while John Laing and Alex Michel take over lead duties for Kawasaki.
The biggest wildcard could be 18-year-old sensation Mavrick Cyr, who is expected to do the heavy lifting for former class champions Triumph in his first pro season. Yamaha will be left to rely on rookie Bryce DeBoer in Macrae’s absence, while Honda remains without any projected entries heading into round one.
The addition of the Constructors Championship to the Pro Sport Bike class is just the latest boost to Bridgestone CSBK’s most unpredictable category, with nine different winners in the last 17 races dating back to the start of 2022.
The middleweight tier is slated for another 12 races in 2024, featuring doubleheaders at each of the six rounds spanning Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Alberta. The action will begin at Shannonville Motorsport Park just east of Belleville, Ontario from May 17-19.
Thom Duma Fine Jewelers To Award Custom Jewelry To 2024 MotoAmerica Champions
Champions In All Classes To Receive Custom TDFJ Jewelry
IRVINE, CA (March 21, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that Thom Duma Fine Jewelers (TDFJ) is now an official supporting partner of the MotoAmerica Championship with TDFJ to award custom jewelry to each of the 2024 class champions.
Owned and operated by former AMA flat track racer Thom Duma Jr., TDFJ has been in the Duma family for almost 75 years with Thom Jr. taking over the business from his father following his successful career as a racer.
TDFJ has since been providing the Mahoning Valley in Ohio with fine jewelry, including engagement rings, wedding rings, and luxury watches. Now TDFJ is proud to add MotoAmerica Championship rings to the mix.
Thom Duma Fine Jeweler’s unique ties that connect racing and jewelry are not reserved for MotoAmerica champions alone. For fans, TDFJ offers a full line of top jewelry designers in fashion and bridal with diamonds sourced from around the world and fine Swiss timepieces. The complete line is available for purchase online at www.TDFJ.com, and you can contact Duma personally via email at [email protected]
TDFJ will make custom championship rings for those earning the titles in Steel Commander Superbike, Mission King Of The Baggers and Supersport. The rest of the classes will get custom pendants, including smaller scale pendants for Mission Mini Cup By Motul championship winners.
For the rings to be truly custom, TDFJ will work with the newly crowned champions once their titles are decided with the riders choosing between several designs, including the color of gold and the gemstones with a retail value of between $12,000 to $15,000.
“We’re excited that Thom has come on board with MotoAmerica to produce what are really cool and unique rings and pendants for our class champions this year,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “Honoring the athletes with this jewelry is a unique way of celebrating their championships. They are nice awards the winners can either wear or display in their trophy cases.”
“It is an honor to be named the Official Supporting Jewelry Partner to MotoAmerica for the 2024 season,” said Duma. “Being a former dirt track racer at the professional level and a road racer at the amateur level, I understand what it takes to put together a winning season and what better way to remember that success than with a piece of fine jewelry that will last a lifetime.”
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on demand service, MotoAmerica Live+
$48,000 Dunlop Dollars Up For Grabs In ASRA!
Rancho Cucamonga, CA: Dunlop Motorcycle Tires is proud to announce nearly $50,000 in contingency for the American Superbike Racing Association (ASRA) National Endurance/Team Challenge Series. Racers using Dunlop tires who finish 10th or better in the Heavyweight and Middleweight classes are eligible to earn Dunlop Dollars! *Dunlop sponsored racers are eligible for contingency.
“ASRA is excited to partner with Dunlop for the 2024 season for the ASRA Endurance and Team Challenge Series. Having Dunlop step up and provide contingency for our endurance series will be a welcomed incentive for our racers and program,” stated Alex Spellman, Partner at ASRA.
The 2024 ASRA National Endurance/Team Challenge Series will commence April 6-7 at Carolina Motorsports Park, then head to Summit Point on May 25-27, take a brief summer break, then be back on July 6-7 at NCBIKE, followed by Pittsburgh International Race Complex on August 16-18, then head to New Jersey Motorsports Park on August 31-Sept 1 and then conclude on the banks of Daytona International Speedway October 17-19.
“We are grateful for the partnership with ASRA and the opportunity to give back to the riders who choose Dunlop in an increasingly competitive market,” said Cori Maynard, Amateur Road Race Support Manager and Motorsports Logistics Coordinator for Dunlop Motorcycle Tires.
To be eligible, competitors simply must use the approved Dunlop tires both front and rear, display a minimum 10-inch Dunlop decal on each side of the motorcycle (fairing) and a vertical Dunlop decal on each side of the front fender. In addition, competitors must wear Dunlop patches on their leathers, one on each side of their shoulder and one large patch on their lower back.
All awards will be paid as Dunlop Tire Certificates to be used for the purchase of Dunlop Motorcycle Tires. Certificates will only be issued when races have a minimum of eight starters. Certificates will be issued by Dunlop only on receipt of official results from ASRA. *Expired or lost certificates will not be honored or replaced.
The new Sportmax Slick is available now in multiple sizes and compounds from dunlopracing.com or from your local trusted Dunlop trackside vendor.
About Dunlop Motorcycle Tires:
Dunlop is the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement motorcycle tires in the U.S.A. For more information, visit www.DunlopMotorcycleTires.com. Follow @ridedunlop on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and X for the latest Dunlop news. Use #RideDunlop and/or #RaceDunlop to share your Dunlop moments.
Italian Yari Montella led FIM Supersport World Championship Free Practice (FP) Friday morning at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati Panigale V2, Montella lapped the 2.89-mile (4.66 km) track in 1:44.884 to lead the field of 34 riders.
Former MotoAmerica regular Valentin Debise finished the session 25th with a time of 1:47.145 on his Evan Bros. Yamaha.
WSS FP
Turkish rider Toprak Razgatlioglu reigned during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuito de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his ROKiT BMW M 1000 RR on the 2.89-mile (4.66 km) track, Razgatlioglu recorded a best lap time of 1:41.199 to lead the field of 23 competitors.
American Garrett Gerloff was 10th in FP1 with a time of 1:41.845 on his Bonovo Action BMW M 1000 RR.
The top 20 riders in FP1 were separated by just 1.551 seconds.
WSBK FP1
County of Monterey and Friends of Laguna Seca Celebrate Positive Settlement for Laguna Seca Recreation Area
Monterey, Calif. (March 22, 2024) – The County of Monterey Department of Public Works, Facilities, and Parks and Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) are pleased to announce the execution of a comprehensive settlement that ends the Laguna Seca Raceway lawsuit, Highway 68 Coalition vs. County of Monterey.
“We view this as a very favorable resolution for the County and its long-term partner at Laguna Seca, the nonprofit organization Friends of Laguna Seca,” stated Nick Pasculli, County Communications Director. “The future of the track and the amazing recreation area, which is a premier County Park, is bright. Laguna Seca is loved by local, national, and global car enthusiasts and also by the tens of thousands of people who enjoy the beauty of the recreation area.”
The settlement clarifies the long-term plans of FLS to conduct a previously planned sound impact assessment at the racetrack and carry out appropriate sound mitigation measures, all as part of being a good neighbor to the surrounding community.’
“FLS is pleased that the litigation was dealt with quickly and we’re looking forward to our next steps toward Laguna Seca’s long-term success for the benefit of the community of Monterey County and the entire racing world,” said Friends of Laguna Seca President Ross Merrill. “We know these improvements will take time, but we are committed to ensuring the success of Laguna Seca for decades to come.”
The County and Friends of Laguna Seca want to especially thank the loyal fans of the racetrack and the public who voiced their overwhelming support for the County in this lawsuit.
“I grew up watching races at Laguna Seca and have raced there since the late 1970s,” said Bruce Canepa, Vice President, Friends of Laguna Seca. “I have a lifetime passion for this facility and want to see it be preserved for future generations. With Friends of Laguna Seca, we’ve built a team of individuals who share the same passion, paired with business acumen, to make Laguna Seca the place we’ve always hoped it could be.”
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca has a rich history of hosting world-class racing events, and non-profit initiatives benefiting the community and driving prosperity for the region.
Italian Alessandro Zaccone led the opening FIM MotoE World Championship practice at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Riding his Tech3 E-racing Ducati electric racebike, Zaccone lapped the 2.85-mile (4.59 km) circuit in 2:01.198 to lead the field of 18 riders.
MotoE P1
Real Steel Motorsports, with the support of Southern Honda Powersports and American Honda, are excited to announce that Hayden Gillim will return to defend his number-one plate in the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship on the Steel Commander/Comstock Energy/Southern Honda Powersports/American Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.
With a pedigree in racing that is second to none, Honda will expand its presence in the MotoAmerica paddock in 2024, with factory and dealer support of Gillim as he works to restake his claim to the Stock 1000 title. With Honda’s support and Gillim’s proven racecraft and dogged determination on the track, 2024 promises to be both exciting and rewarding as Gillim takes full advantage of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP’s potential.
Gillim stood tall in 2023, winning two coveted MotoAmerica championships—Steel Commander Stock 1000 and Mission King Of The Baggers. Returning this year, Gillim intends to go back-to-back in both series. “I’m very excited about this season,” Gillim said. “It’s been a long road to get where we are with this program. I feel with the backing from Comstock Energy, Steel Commander, Southern Powersports Honda, and American Honda, it’s going to be a great year. Learning the Honda and getting the most out of it, for me, will be a lot of fun, and it’s a great opportunity to back up the championship from last year.”
“The Southern Honda Powersports team is honored and excited to be supporting Hayden in this year’s Stock 1000 Championship run,” said David Carmody, General Manager of Southern Honda Powersports. “Working with a proven rider with Hayden’s talent and speed will be the perfect fit for featuring the Fireblade in the MotoAmerica series. We’re confident that he’ll be up front, fighting for the wins and the Championship aboard our CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.”
Brandon Wilson, Manager of Racing and Experiential Marketing at American Honda said, “All of us at American Honda are excited for the upcoming MotoAmerica season. Hayden’s talent, combined with the amazing CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, will certainly give Honda fans something to cheer about. A big thank you to Southern Honda Powersports for their efforts, and best of luck for a successful 2024 season.”
“The entire Steel Commander Corp. family is buzzing with enthusiasm as we back Hayden in his quest for the Stock 1000 Championship,” stated Shawn Fisher, President and CEO of Steel Commander. “With his exceptional skillset and our cutting-edge Fireblade, we’re poised for success with Honda on the MotoAmerica circuit. We’re fully confident in Hayden’s ability to showcase the speed and precision of our CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, and we’ll be cheering him on every step of the way. We also look forward to working with Comstock Energy, Southern Powersports, and American Honda in a combined effort to take home the Stock 1000 Championship.”
Also joining the team as sponsors for 2024 are Vesrah, Maxima Racing Oils, Orient Express, GB Racing, K-Tech, Dunlop, Moto Liberty, RS Taichi, and Arai.
“This track is insane!”: Thursday talking points from Portugal
Thursday, 21 March 2024
After a showstopping start in Qatar, we’re already back on track this weekend for the Grande Premio Tissot de Portugal, with the stunning Autodromo Internacional do Algarve playing host.
The week started with news that Fermin Aldeguer would be moving up to MotoGP™ next season with Ducati, so the current Beta Tools SpeedUp rider joined the second press-conference line-up on Thursday.
Once the podcast had welcomed Enea Bastianini, the first press conference saw reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) joined by Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing), aka the current top three in the Championship.
Then, after news earlier this week that Fermin Aldeguer would be moving up to MotoGP™ next season with Ducati, the current Beta Tools SpeedUp rider joined the second press-conference, alongside Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), rookie Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) and Miguel Oliveira (Trackhouse Racing).
Here are some photos and quotes from the opening day on the Algarve.
PECCO BAGNAIA
How much confidence do you bring into this weekend?
“First of all, I want to say I love this track, it is one of my favourites with a lot of up and downhill sections. It is a mix of Mugello and Sachsenring and I love to ride here. Last year was a perfect start to the season like it was in Qatar, so I am quite confident as I think with the 2024 bike we can be more competitive in some areas of the track, so I am looking forward to starting the weekend.”.
BRAD BINDER
How high are expectations after round one?
“Obviously, it went well in Qatar it was fantastic to start the season with two podiums. Coming here is really exciting for me as it where last year that we started to find our bearings and if we have a look at what we ran here last year and where we finished the season it was two worlds apart so I am really keen to go out for FP1 to see where our base is and see how everything works. This track is insane, it is so up and down and flowing in some places, and stop and go in others, and it is something that you need a different bike for. I think our bike will be strong here as Jack showed last year and I think this year we stand a chance of being even stronger.”
JORGE MARTIN
You said in Qatar you weren’t 100% with the GP24, how do you see your potential here?
“Well, let’s see. It is difficult to say now but for sure it’s a track I enjoy, last year I was strong, I had some issues in the race but I think the pace was really good to battle. Let’s see I feel I am in a good condition so let’s see if I can feel better with the bike, but I think I am finding the way.”
MARC MARQUEZ
What do you expect this weekend?
“Of course, the approach for the weekend is the exact same as Qatar and obviously we will have a new factor which is we will head to a circuit straight into a race weekend. This changes our planning as straight away in FP1 you need to have a lap time and be fast and that was the most difficult thing in Malaysia and Qatar, that first day I was struggling a bit so let’s see if here in Portimao I can start in the top 10 positions straight away to jump into Q2. That is the main target but let’s see where we are in a completely different race track.”
On Acosta’s overtake:
“As I said last year and I reconfirm that he will be one of the guys in the future for MotoGP and the present because as he showed in Qatar he has enough talent and before the race, I already said that you are fast with any type of bike and he was super fast on those laps. I am sure he will learn to manage tyres and he will be much better in the next races.”
And his save earlier in the Qatar GP
“I already said it was a good one, you really need to believe in the bike to do that. That one was a good one, he has a really good riding style and when they jump from Moto2 they have super good corner speed. When I followed Pedro for the two laps during the race he was super fast in the fast corners and made the difference.”
PEDRO ACOSTA
How much are you looking forward to riding a MotoGP bike around Portimao?
“For sure I want it to be a nice weekend, Portimao is one of my favourite circuits on the calendar, with Australia. Like Marc said it is going to be difficult as it’s the first track that we’ve come to with a MotoGP bike without testing, so this will be tricky. We will have all the support from the Factory Team and all the engineers for this so let’s try and make a consistent weekend.”
How did it feel to overtake Marc?
“It was a super nice race because the first lap was tricky for me after the moment with Jack at the start. The feeling of the bike was amazing, as since Moto3™ I have not had this feeling with the front tyre to brake at the last moment and go down the inside. The overtake was nice but he managed the whole race better so we don’t have to think too much about the overtake.”
On that Qatar GP save:
“I’ve seen many races on the TV and I’ve seen many of Marc’s saves like this. It was a good save but also it is normal in FP1 with all of the sand that is always in Qatar. Like I said it is a track I know more or less the grip and the tyres. Now we come to a track with different asphalt and also different tyre compounds compared to Qatar. We need to start from zero with our feet on the ground and just not think too much about the Qatar race as it was unreal.”
MIGUEL OLIVEIRA
What’s possible this weekend?
“It is a different situation as I know to come from an average result like in Qatar to come here and say I am ready to challenge for the victory is maybe too ambitious but I know what I am capable of doing. Nowadays the grid in MotoGP™ is very particular, you can be from 12th to first in a split second. Everything is possible and I don’t want to create any limitations or too much expectations. I am still adapting to the bike but I feel I am making steps in the right direction and hopefully this weekend straight away on Friday we can show we have the speed for the top 10. Then obviously the complexity of Qualifying well and doing the race, we need to overcome those challenges of terms of results on Saturday and Sunday.”
FERMIN ALDEGUER
How special is it to know you’ll be racing Pedro, Marc, and Miguel in MotoGP™ next year?
“I am really happy to announce my jump to MotoGP™ in 2025 but now it is time to stay focused in the Moto2™ class. In Qatar, I felt pressure from people saying I am the favourite rider but I have to manage this pressure. My season will start here in Portimao with a good feeling, but I am very happy to be going to MotoGP with Ducati.”
Los Angeles, California-based Stock 1000 team Motorsport Exotica will field two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion rider Andrew Lee in the 2024 MotoAmerica season.
Lee will be piloting a 2024 BMW M 1000 RR built and backed by the Motorsport Exotica team.
“We are very excited for this season and this build,” says Team Owner and Principal Jarred Fixler. “We are very versed with this platform as we have been able to clinch #1 plates as well as overall organization title records all last season in regionals with Wyatt Farris and debuted in MotoAmerica in 2022 with Ezra Beaubier on a similar bike.
“Our program, while not as big as some of our competitors, will be as focused and as aggressive as the big boys. We are working with some of the best in the industry in our opinion, and are looking forward to this season’s battles. Andrew is a seasoned veteran of this class and we truly feel we have a great team in place to support him.”
Andrew Lee has appeared in MotoAmerica occasionally over the past few seasons and has done some wildcard rides, but he has proven time and time again that he is a champion and a force to be reckoned with.
Motorsport Exotica would like to thank all of its sponsors: BST Vodka, CTML, M/A Racing, Southern Pride Performance, Pasadena Private Financial, Capit, SBS Brakes, DriveSystems/Superlite, Lieto Factory and all others who have supported us over the years.
CSBK adds Constructors Championship for Pro Sport Bike in 2024
Hamilton, ON – The Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship will expand upon one of its most prestigious award battles in 2024, adding a Constructors Championship table to the Pro Sport Bike class.
Introduced to the feature GP Bikes Pro Superbike category in 2021, the Constructors Championship (or “manufacturers” title) has quickly become an integral part of the season story while also diversifying the grid, as just four brands scored points in 2020 compared to a high of seven in 2022.
The championship sees the top two scorers for each manufacturer in each race contribute points to the season standings, matching the exact total of race points each of those riders scored. For example, if the top two BMW riders in the final classification finished first (25 points) and fourth (13), they would score 38 points in that race.
BMW has been the most successful Superbike brand since its adoption, winning back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023 after rivals Suzuki snatched the inaugural crown in 2021.
While that matches up with class champions Alex Dumas (Suzuki) in 2021 and then Ben Young (BMW) in each of the last two seasons, the true difference makers thus far have been the additional riders behind them, evidenced by Sam Guerin’s efforts a year ago.
As for its expansion into the middleweight Pro Sport Bike class, the Constructors Championship should be even closer than in the feature category, as four different brands won Sport Bike races last season compared to just two in Superbike.
Kawasaki would have been the Constructors champions had the award existed in 2023, and while that success was headlined again by class champion David MacKay, an impressive six different riders would have contributed to the season total, the most of any brand.
Those efforts would have paced Suzuki by 87 points and Yamaha by 92, with the former relying heavily on 2021 champion Sebastien Tremblay and veteran Marco Sousa while the latter scored majority of their points with class runner-up Matt Simpson and round one winner Brad Macrae.
The favourite for the inaugural 2024 crown isn’t immediately clear, however, as MacKay is set to graduate to the Superbike class and Simpson remains without a ride, while Macrae was injured at the Daytona 200 and could miss the opening rounds.
That leaves Tremblay and Suzuki as the de facto frontrunners, though Ducati’s Elliot Vieira will surely be a title contender for the Panigale brand alongside Nathan Playford, while John Laing and Alex Michel take over lead duties for Kawasaki.
The biggest wildcard could be 18-year-old sensation Mavrick Cyr, who is expected to do the heavy lifting for former class champions Triumph in his first pro season. Yamaha will be left to rely on rookie Bryce DeBoer in Macrae’s absence, while Honda remains without any projected entries heading into round one.
The addition of the Constructors Championship to the Pro Sport Bike class is just the latest boost to Bridgestone CSBK’s most unpredictable category, with nine different winners in the last 17 races dating back to the start of 2022.
The middleweight tier is slated for another 12 races in 2024, featuring doubleheaders at each of the six rounds spanning Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Alberta. The action will begin at Shannonville Motorsport Park just east of Belleville, Ontario from May 17-19.
Thom Duma Fine Jewelers To Award Custom Jewelry To 2024 MotoAmerica Champions
Champions In All Classes To Receive Custom TDFJ Jewelry
IRVINE, CA (March 21, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce that Thom Duma Fine Jewelers (TDFJ) is now an official supporting partner of the MotoAmerica Championship with TDFJ to award custom jewelry to each of the 2024 class champions.
Owned and operated by former AMA flat track racer Thom Duma Jr., TDFJ has been in the Duma family for almost 75 years with Thom Jr. taking over the business from his father following his successful career as a racer.
TDFJ has since been providing the Mahoning Valley in Ohio with fine jewelry, including engagement rings, wedding rings, and luxury watches. Now TDFJ is proud to add MotoAmerica Championship rings to the mix.
Thom Duma Fine Jeweler’s unique ties that connect racing and jewelry are not reserved for MotoAmerica champions alone. For fans, TDFJ offers a full line of top jewelry designers in fashion and bridal with diamonds sourced from around the world and fine Swiss timepieces. The complete line is available for purchase online at www.TDFJ.com, and you can contact Duma personally via email at [email protected]
TDFJ will make custom championship rings for those earning the titles in Steel Commander Superbike, Mission King Of The Baggers and Supersport. The rest of the classes will get custom pendants, including smaller scale pendants for Mission Mini Cup By Motul championship winners.
For the rings to be truly custom, TDFJ will work with the newly crowned champions once their titles are decided with the riders choosing between several designs, including the color of gold and the gemstones with a retail value of between $12,000 to $15,000.
“We’re excited that Thom has come on board with MotoAmerica to produce what are really cool and unique rings and pendants for our class champions this year,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “Honoring the athletes with this jewelry is a unique way of celebrating their championships. They are nice awards the winners can either wear or display in their trophy cases.”
“It is an honor to be named the Official Supporting Jewelry Partner to MotoAmerica for the 2024 season,” said Duma. “Being a former dirt track racer at the professional level and a road racer at the amateur level, I understand what it takes to put together a winning season and what better way to remember that success than with a piece of fine jewelry that will last a lifetime.”
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on demand service, MotoAmerica Live+
$48,000 Dunlop Dollars Up For Grabs In ASRA!
Rancho Cucamonga, CA: Dunlop Motorcycle Tires is proud to announce nearly $50,000 in contingency for the American Superbike Racing Association (ASRA) National Endurance/Team Challenge Series. Racers using Dunlop tires who finish 10th or better in the Heavyweight and Middleweight classes are eligible to earn Dunlop Dollars! *Dunlop sponsored racers are eligible for contingency.
“ASRA is excited to partner with Dunlop for the 2024 season for the ASRA Endurance and Team Challenge Series. Having Dunlop step up and provide contingency for our endurance series will be a welcomed incentive for our racers and program,” stated Alex Spellman, Partner at ASRA.
The 2024 ASRA National Endurance/Team Challenge Series will commence April 6-7 at Carolina Motorsports Park, then head to Summit Point on May 25-27, take a brief summer break, then be back on July 6-7 at NCBIKE, followed by Pittsburgh International Race Complex on August 16-18, then head to New Jersey Motorsports Park on August 31-Sept 1 and then conclude on the banks of Daytona International Speedway October 17-19.
“We are grateful for the partnership with ASRA and the opportunity to give back to the riders who choose Dunlop in an increasingly competitive market,” said Cori Maynard, Amateur Road Race Support Manager and Motorsports Logistics Coordinator for Dunlop Motorcycle Tires.
To be eligible, competitors simply must use the approved Dunlop tires both front and rear, display a minimum 10-inch Dunlop decal on each side of the motorcycle (fairing) and a vertical Dunlop decal on each side of the front fender. In addition, competitors must wear Dunlop patches on their leathers, one on each side of their shoulder and one large patch on their lower back.
All awards will be paid as Dunlop Tire Certificates to be used for the purchase of Dunlop Motorcycle Tires. Certificates will only be issued when races have a minimum of eight starters. Certificates will be issued by Dunlop only on receipt of official results from ASRA. *Expired or lost certificates will not be honored or replaced.
The new Sportmax Slick is available now in multiple sizes and compounds from dunlopracing.com or from your local trusted Dunlop trackside vendor.
About Dunlop Motorcycle Tires:
Dunlop is the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement motorcycle tires in the U.S.A. For more information, visit www.DunlopMotorcycleTires.com. Follow @ridedunlop on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and X for the latest Dunlop news. Use #RideDunlop and/or #RaceDunlop to share your Dunlop moments.
