Health Issues Lead To Dissolution Of Westby Racing
Tulsa, OK – December 18, 2023 – Citing personal health issues, Tryg Westby, owner of Westby Racing, has made the difficult decision to dissolve the team, effective immediately. The announcement was made today by Westby himself.
“This is one of the toughest decisions I’ve had to make in my entire life,” Westby said. “I’ve been dealing with a lot of health issues over the past few years, and it’s been getting more and more difficult for me to get to the races. So, after a lot of careful thought, I’ve decided to conclude our long run as an AMA and MotoAmerica race team.
“I started this team with my son Dane, and after he passed, we continued to run the team as an answer to ‘WWDD?,’ which is ‘What Would Dane Do?’ Well, the answer to that was to keep racing because we had unfinished business that we started with Dane. But, now, due to my health, it’s time to close this chapter of the Westby legacy.
“I want to personally thank all the riders, crew members, staff members, sponsors, and team partners—especially Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.—who have worked with us over the years. We had a lot of success and good times together. I wish everyone well in their next endeavors, and I also want to thank MotoAmerica for allowing us to be part of their excellent road racing series.”
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
This new Arai Contour-X helmet is designed to deliver famous Arai safety and comfortable race-derived performance on the road. Positioned just below the Arai flagship Corsair-X model, the Contour-X is aimed at sport-touring long-distance riders with its Odor Resistant Brushed Nylon interior, increased ventilation, and stable aerodynamic performance offering high-speed comfort for the long haul. Retail pricing is $889.95 from Arai dealers, and more information is available from www.AraiAmericas.com.
The MotoAmerica insulated mechanic jacket has a diamond-stitch lining and an adjustable waistband, making it practical and fashionable. Rugged construction makes it durable, and its style is striking. It retails for $160, in navy blue. Available from MotoAmerica.com
MotoAmerica’s insulated mechanic jacket, as seen from the front. Photo courtesy MotoAmerica.
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
Ducati thrills the Unipol Arena in Bologna with “Campioni in Festa” celebration
Thousands of fans in the Unipol Arena in Bologna for the event with which Ducati celebrated its domination in the racing world, certified by triumphs in MotoGP, WorldSBK and WorldSSP
The city of Bologna, the Motor Valley and enthusiasts from all over Italy celebrate the successes of Ducati, a company rooted in the territory and at the same time an expression of “Made in Italy” that wins in the world
An exclusive series made of five limited-edition Panigale motorcycles pays homage to Ducati Corse’s record-breaking season with special liveries inspired by those of the Ducati Champions and dedicated components
Casalecchio di Reno (Bologna, Italy), 16 December 2023 – There was the atmosphere of the special occasions and a full house of fans in the Unipol Arena (Bologna, Italy) for “Campioni in Festa”, the event to celebrate Ducati’s domination in the world of racing in 2023, with triumphs in MotoGP, WorldSBK and WorldSSP.
The Unipol Arena and the streets around the renowned sports hall in Bologna were coloured red to welcome the fans and the stars of the evening: the Ducati Champions. The three 2023 World Champions took to the stage, Francesco Bagnaia (MotoGP World Champion with the Desmosedici GP of the Ducati Lenovo Team), Álvaro Bautista (WorldSBK Champion with the Panigale V4 R of the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team) and Nicolò Bulega (WorldSSP Champion with the Panigale V2 of Team Aruba.it Racing WSSP). With them there were the other two Ducati riders on the podium of the MotoGP 2023 season, Jorge Martín (Pramac Racing Team) and Marco Bezzecchi (VR46 Racing Team), completing an exceptional line-up, capable of conveying the superiority of the Ducati riders and bikes in the main two-wheel world racing competitions.
2023 MotoGP World Champion Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia rides into the Unipol Arena at the Campioni in Fiesta. Photo courtesy Ducati.
The five “Campioni in Festa” received a wave of affection from Ducatisti enthusiasts from all over the world, who could not miss out on this historic moment of celebration. The city of Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region with the Motor Valley celebrated together with Ducati the successes of a Company that draws strength every day from its history, strongly rooted in Borgo Panigale, and at the same time is honoured to be an ambassador of “Made in Italy” all over the world.
The “Campioni in Festa” show opened at 9.00 pm on Friday 15 December to the tune of Rockin’1000 music band, who for the occasion brought Power100, a selection of one hundred musicians from its international community to the stage. Some of the most iconic rock songs in history accompanied the moment of the show dedicated to the overview of the unforgettable 2023 racing season.
The hosting of the evening was entrusted to Barbara Pedrotti and Gianluca Gazzoli, italian TV hosts with great motorcycle passion. The first protagonist to take the stage at the Unipol Arena was Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali, followed by Ducati Corse General Manager Luigi Dall’Igna. Both spoke to the public about the magical moment that the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer is experiencing, highlighting the records achieved from both a corporate and sporting point of view and at the same time making it clear that the desire to grow and improve has no limits.
The culmination of the event was the celebration of the five heroes of the 2023 season. This segment was opened by the victories obtained from Ducati in the World Championships for production-derived bikes with Nicolò Bulega, who achieved his first world championship success in Supersport, and Álvaro Bautista, who totally dominated WorldSBK 2023. For Bautista and Bulega, the “Campioni in Festa” celebration was also their first appearance as teammates, given that the two will share the garage of Team Aruba.it Racing – Ducati in 2024.
The entry of Guido Meda, the unmistakable voice of MotoGP on Sky Italy, heralded the moment reserved for the celebration of the results achieved in the most important international racing competition, in which Ducati won the World Constructors’ Title with five races to spare and monopolized the podium in the overall classification. The warmth of the people at the Unipol Arena manifested itself in applause and chants for the presence of Marco Bezzecchi (VR46 Racing Team) and Jorge Martín (Pramac Racing Team), which became one big shout of joy when it was the turn of welcoming the two-time MotoGP World Champion Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia to the stage. The three 2023 World Champions – Bagnaia, Bautista and Bulega – took to the stage on their respective motorbikes, making the crowd of enthusiasts feel the roar of the fastest motorbikes in the world up close.
Finally, the Bologna-based manufacturer dedicated a moment of the show to the future and a historic new chapter in the world of racing competition: its entry into motocross, which will take shape with the debut in the 2024 Italian Motocross Championship. On the stage of the Unipol Arena were the next rider of Ducati team Alessandro Lupino, eight-time Italian Champion and winner of the 2021 Motocross of Nations, and nine-time MX World Champion Antonio Cairoli, who joined Ducati as high-performance test rider for the new racing program. Lupino and Cairoli joined the five Ducati Champions, Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team), Domenicali, Dall’Igna, and all the key people of Ducati Corse’s successes for final greetings and the much-awaited picture on stage.
After having retraced the emotions of this dream year, the time for music and fun began in the Unipol Arena with the DJ Set of an exceptional international guest like Martin Solveig, the composer of numerous great house music hits. The public was thus able to have fun until the end of the event.
During the press conference previewing the “Campioni in Festa” event a big surprise was also revealed. To pay homage to the record-breaking 2023 racing season, Ducati has created an exclusive series of motorcycles for collectors: five Ducati Panigale in a limited and numbered edition with a special livery inspired by that of the Ducati Champions and dedicated components.
The Panigale 2023 Replica bikes are made even more unique by the rider’s original autograph applied to the tank, protected with a layer of transparent varnish. The number of units of each limited series celebrates the number of the rider to whom it is dedicated: the Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2023 World Champion Replica, characterized by the livery in Giallo Ducati (Ducati Yellow) used by the Ducati Lenovo Team at Misano, will be produced in 263 units, the Panigale V4 Bautista 2023 World Champion Replica (also in Giallo Ducati) will be produced in 219 units, the Panigale V2 Bulega 2023 World Champion Replica will be produced in 111 units, the Panigale V4 Martín 2023 Racing Replica will be produced in 189 units, while the Panigale V4 Bezzecchi 2023 Racing Replica will be produced in 72 units.
The press conference was also an opportunity to announce the date of the presentation of the official Ducati Corse teams for the 2024 season. From 21 to 23 January 2024 the second edition of “Campioni in Pista” will be staged in Madonna di Campiglio (Italy), an event organized in collaboration with Trentino Marketing and the Madonna di Campiglio Tourist Board. On the Trentino snows Ducati will present the Ducati Lenovo Team, the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team and the team that will participate in the Italian Motocross Championship 2024.
Another possibility to celebrate this season’s successes is offered by the special edition t-shirts, which replicate those worn by the Ducati Lenovo Team in the Valencia garage for the celebrations of Bagnaia’s second MotoGP title and by the Aruba.it Racing Team – Ducati in the Jerez garage for the celebrations of Bautista’s WorldSBK title defence. The two t-shirts are available on the Ducati e-shop and will arrive in dealerships shortly.
John Owens’ & Kevin Cameron’s New Book, “Superbike: An Illustrated History”
This great book chronicles the 1970s transition from the twin-cylinder BMWs, Ducatis, and Moto Guzzis and the wobbling and weaving first-generation Japanese four-cylinders to a rapidly improving wave of race-worthy machines that led to the sportbike revolution. Owens shot the black-and-white photographs published in this beautifully designed and produced 192-page hardcover book at five of the tracks that dotted the U.S. motorcycle road racing landscape at the time: Daytona, Bryar (a.k.a. Loudon), Laguna Seca, Pocono, and Road America.
Eddie Lawson, Wayne Rainey and Freddie Spencer—three Americans who went on to win a combined 10 250cc and 500cc Grand Prix World Championship—figured prominently in this AMA Superbike era. Throughout the book, Cameron and Owens provide insights and images of riders, crew members, and machines. “The desire to go fast, brake, turn and accelerate isn’t that complicated,” Cameron writes in the opening pages. “In any given era, the dominant rider is the person who has most imaginatively exploited the new possibilities presented by constantly evolving chassis, suspension and tires.”
Available for $75 from MotoRacing Books and Superbikebook.com, and more information is available from [email protected] .
Titles, wins, podiums: BMW Motorrad Motorsport looks back on a successful 2023 season of customer racing.
BMW racers celebrate 16 titles in the most important international and national championships around the world.
A total of 153 wins plus 382 podiums for the BMW Motorrad Motorsport customer teams in various Superbike and Superstock classes.
Successes in the major road races: Peter Hickman wins on the Isle of Man and in Macau.
Uwe Geyer: “These successes reiterate that our M RR is a winning package.”
Munich. Customer racing has always been an important pillar of BMW Motorrad Motorsport’s activities. Year after year, privateer BMW riders and teams celebrate successes in a variety of championships around the world, and the 2023 season was no exception. In the most important international and national championships in Europe, North America and South America, Asia, and Australia, the BMW racers amassed no fewer than 16 championship titles this year. Then there is the equally impressive haul of 153 wins and 382 additional podiums in the various Superbike and Superstock classes. The privateer BMW teams receive global support from the BMW Motorrad Race Support network of experts. They also benefit from the experiences and advancements of BMW Motorrad Motorsport through the works entries in the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) and the FIM Endurance World Championship (FIM EWC).
“Congratulations to the successful privateer BMW teams and riders,” said Uwe Geyer, Head of BMW Motorrad Customer Racing. “We are very proud of the successes that they have brought home around the world. These successes reiterate that our M RR is a winning package. They show yet again that with our package, comprising the BMW M 1000 RR race version and the technical support that we offer around the world, as well as with our partner alpha Racing, we provide our customers with a strong foundation that can help them enjoy success in a wide variety of championships. This also proves that the strong focus on the development of racing components with our motorsport development department and our test team for WorldSBK was the right step, which ultimately benefits all our customers worldwide.”
Overview of the BMW Champions of 2023.
The BMW Motorrad Motorsport customer racing programme is a global success story. This is also demonstrated by the 16 championship titles that BMW teams brought home with their privateer entries on various continents. The BMW Champions of the 2023 season are:
FIM Asia Road Racing Championship – Markus Reiterberger (GER / ONEXOX BMW TKKR Racing Team)
French Superbike Championship – Kenny Foray (FRA / Tecmas Racing Team)
Spanish Superbike Championship – Ivo Lopes (POR / easyRace BMW Team)
Canadian Superbike Championship – Ben Young (CAN / Van Dolder’s Home Team)
MotoAmerica Superbike Cup – Nolan Lamkin (USA / Tom Wood Powersports BMW)
IDM Pro Superstock Cup – Kevin Orgis (GER / ORM)
Italian National Trophy 1000 – Gabriele Giannini (ITA / Pistard Racing)
French European Bikes Championship – Nelson Major (FRA / Tecmas Racing Team)
Portuguese Superbike Championship – Ivo Lopes (POR / easyRace BMW Team)
Alpe Adria Road Racing Championship STK – Milan Pawelec (POL / BMW Sikora M Motorsport Team)
Alpe Adria Road Racing Championship Cup 1000 – Luca Alessio (ITA)
FIM European Superstock 1000 Cup – Martin Tritscher (AUT)
SuperBike Brasil Pro Superbike – Maxi Gerardo (URU / Team BMW Rider Experience)
SuperBike Brasil Evo & Evo Pro – Raphael Santos (BRA / TRC Performance)
SuperBike Brasil Superbike Light – Peri Cunha (BRA / SE Racing Team)
BMW racers’ successes in the most important road races.
In international road racing, BMW riders and teams have also been among the absolute top favourites for many years. They lived up to this role in the 2023 season, notably Peter Hickman (GBR). At the most important road races of the year, the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy and the Macau Grand Prix, on the BMW M 1000 RR of the FHO Racing BMW team, he was the man to beat. At the Isle of Man TT in June, Hickman celebrated his third overall victory in the prestigious Senior TT, as well as wins in both Superstock TT races. These were the first Isle of Man triumphs for the new BMW M 1000 RR, which made its debut at the iconic road race this year. “Hicky” also set a new overall lap record as well as new lap records in the Senior TT and the Superbike TT.
At the North West 200 in Northern Ireland, Alastair Seeley (GBR) and the TAS Racing team were triumphant. Seeley was unbeatable on his SYNETIQ BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR in the two Superstock races – he finished first in both. On the Milwaukee BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR, Seeley also finished in second place in the second Superbike race of the event.
At the legendary Macau Grand Prix in mid-November, BMW racers pulled off a top-four lock-out for the BMW M 1000 RR. Hickman, who had set the pace with the FHO Racing BMW M 1000 RR in the practice sessions and in qualifying, claimed his fourth Macau victory in the race on the unique Guia Circuit. Davey Todd (GBR / Burrows Engineering / RK Racing) and David Datzer (GER / MTP Racing by ZERO UP Penz 13) secured second and third place on the podium. Hickman’s team-mate Josh Brookes (GBR) rounded off the success in fourth place.
Strong partner for customers: BMW Motorrad Race Support.
During their successful assignments at the racetrack, BMW racers have a strong partner at their side. With its race support, BMW Motorrad offers expert assistance to privateer racing customers around the world. The spectrum ranges from components developed in works racing, to on-site support during testing and racing action.
The race package that BMW Motorrad offers customers is developed in the Superbike World Championship and adapted to suit the needs of customers as well as the regulations of the respective championships. An important aspect is that the required racing components are made available to all customers without complications or waiting times.
“Customers can also benefit from the many years of experience in the field of motorcycle tuning,” said Uwe Geyer. “In terms of electronics, we make our own motorsport electronics available with the Race Calibration Kit. Here, we have experts in the markets who can help customers tune their electronics. And of course, we also have a wealth of experience when it comes to tuning, for example, in the areas of chassis, suspension or chassis settings, and that includes different tyre manufacturers. Customers can benefit from this because we share this data with them.”
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
Progressive AFT and Mission Foods® Announce Renewal of Expansive Partnership
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 15, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is pleased to announce a partnership renewal with Mission Foods® to continue its wide-ranging support of the series for a fourth-consecutive season in 2024.
Included as key features of the multifaceted partnership agreement, Mission Foods will again serve as the title sponsor for the premier Mission SuperTwins class and the associated Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, while remaining the Official Tortilla, Chip, and Salsa of Progressive AFT.
The nation’s top manufacturer of tortillas, tortilla chips, flatbreads, and other baked products, Mission Foods has been one of the most active and influential sponsors of Progressive American Flat Track since making its high-profile debut with the series in 2021. Its support has only expanded since, and it will again serve as the title sponsor for its home round, the Mission Texas Half-Mile at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday, April 27.
“We are proud to continue our partnership with American Flat Track as the title sponsor of the SuperTwins class and Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge for 2024,” said Juan Gonzalez, Mission Foods Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to keep connecting with fans on race weekends, and it further exemplifies our commitment to motorsports racing.”
Mission Foods has done much to raise the profile and awareness of Progressive AFT over the years of its partnership via in-store grocery displays across the nation featuring Mission-branded athletes. That practice will not only continue but increase with the addition of displays in stores on military bases in 2024. Mission will also maintain a large presence at the track with numerous fan-facing activations.
“Mission Foods is an exceptional partner, continually elevating the American Flat Track experience both on and off the track,” said Gene Crouch, Chief Executive Officer of AMA Pro Racing. “We’re truly grateful for their energy and enthusiasm in supporting our athletes and engaging with fans. We’re excited about this renewed collaboration and appreciate their continued efforts to bring the excitement of American Flat Track to a broader audience.”
Progressive AFT series merchandise is available via the official merchandise store at https://aftmerch.com/.
About Mission Foods
MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. Visit https://www.missionfoods.com/ for more information.
About Progressive American Flat Track
Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit us on the web, like us on Facebook, follow us on X, check us out on Instagram and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on FOX Sports.
Westby Racing owner Tryg Westby (right) with rider Mathew Scholtz (left). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Westby Racing.
Health Issues Lead To Dissolution Of Westby Racing
Tulsa, OK – December 18, 2023 – Citing personal health issues, Tryg Westby, owner of Westby Racing, has made the difficult decision to dissolve the team, effective immediately. The announcement was made today by Westby himself.
“This is one of the toughest decisions I’ve had to make in my entire life,” Westby said. “I’ve been dealing with a lot of health issues over the past few years, and it’s been getting more and more difficult for me to get to the races. So, after a lot of careful thought, I’ve decided to conclude our long run as an AMA and MotoAmerica race team.
“I started this team with my son Dane, and after he passed, we continued to run the team as an answer to ‘WWDD?,’ which is ‘What Would Dane Do?’ Well, the answer to that was to keep racing because we had unfinished business that we started with Dane. But, now, due to my health, it’s time to close this chapter of the Westby legacy.
“I want to personally thank all the riders, crew members, staff members, sponsors, and team partners—especially Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.—who have worked with us over the years. We had a lot of success and good times together. I wish everyone well in their next endeavors, and I also want to thank MotoAmerica for allowing us to be part of their excellent road racing series.”
Jonathan Rea returns to pit lane at Jerez, after his final race with Kawasaki. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
An Arai Contour-X helmet in Snake Red. Photo courtesy Arai.
This new Arai Contour-X helmet is designed to deliver famous Arai safety and comfortable race-derived performance on the road. Positioned just below the Arai flagship Corsair-X model, the Contour-X is aimed at sport-touring long-distance riders with its Odor Resistant Brushed Nylon interior, increased ventilation, and stable aerodynamic performance offering high-speed comfort for the long haul. Retail pricing is $889.95 from Arai dealers, and more information is available from www.AraiAmericas.com.
MotoAmerica's insulated mechanic jacket, as seen from the rear. Photo courtesy MotoAmerica.
MotoAmerica Insulated Jackets
The MotoAmerica insulated mechanic jacket has a diamond-stitch lining and an adjustable waistband, making it practical and fashionable. Rugged construction makes it durable, and its style is striking. It retails for $160, in navy blue. Available from MotoAmerica.com
MotoAmerica’s insulated mechanic jacket, as seen from the front. Photo courtesy MotoAmerica.
Jonathan Rea (65) at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
Ducati celebrated its 2023 World Championships with a "Campioni in Festa" at the Unipol Arena in Bologna, Italy. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Ducati thrills the Unipol Arena in Bologna with “Campioni in Festa” celebration
Thousands of fans in the Unipol Arena in Bologna for the event with which Ducati celebrated its domination in the racing world, certified by triumphs in MotoGP, WorldSBK and WorldSSP
The city of Bologna, the Motor Valley and enthusiasts from all over Italy celebrate the successes of Ducati, a company rooted in the territory and at the same time an expression of “Made in Italy” that wins in the world
An exclusive series made of five limited-edition Panigale motorcycles pays homage to Ducati Corse’s record-breaking season with special liveries inspired by those of the Ducati Champions and dedicated components
Casalecchio di Reno (Bologna, Italy), 16 December 2023 – There was the atmosphere of the special occasions and a full house of fans in the Unipol Arena (Bologna, Italy) for “Campioni in Festa”, the event to celebrate Ducati’s domination in the world of racing in 2023, with triumphs in MotoGP, WorldSBK and WorldSSP.
The Unipol Arena and the streets around the renowned sports hall in Bologna were coloured red to welcome the fans and the stars of the evening: the Ducati Champions. The three 2023 World Champions took to the stage, Francesco Bagnaia (MotoGP World Champion with the Desmosedici GP of the Ducati Lenovo Team), Álvaro Bautista (WorldSBK Champion with the Panigale V4 R of the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team) and Nicolò Bulega (WorldSSP Champion with the Panigale V2 of Team Aruba.it Racing WSSP). With them there were the other two Ducati riders on the podium of the MotoGP 2023 season, Jorge Martín (Pramac Racing Team) and Marco Bezzecchi (VR46 Racing Team), completing an exceptional line-up, capable of conveying the superiority of the Ducati riders and bikes in the main two-wheel world racing competitions.
2023 MotoGP World Champion Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia rides into the Unipol Arena at the Campioni in Fiesta. Photo courtesy Ducati.
The five “Campioni in Festa” received a wave of affection from Ducatisti enthusiasts from all over the world, who could not miss out on this historic moment of celebration. The city of Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region with the Motor Valley celebrated together with Ducati the successes of a Company that draws strength every day from its history, strongly rooted in Borgo Panigale, and at the same time is honoured to be an ambassador of “Made in Italy” all over the world.
The “Campioni in Festa” show opened at 9.00 pm on Friday 15 December to the tune of Rockin’1000 music band, who for the occasion brought Power100, a selection of one hundred musicians from its international community to the stage. Some of the most iconic rock songs in history accompanied the moment of the show dedicated to the overview of the unforgettable 2023 racing season.
The hosting of the evening was entrusted to Barbara Pedrotti and Gianluca Gazzoli, italian TV hosts with great motorcycle passion. The first protagonist to take the stage at the Unipol Arena was Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali, followed by Ducati Corse General Manager Luigi Dall’Igna. Both spoke to the public about the magical moment that the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer is experiencing, highlighting the records achieved from both a corporate and sporting point of view and at the same time making it clear that the desire to grow and improve has no limits.
The culmination of the event was the celebration of the five heroes of the 2023 season. This segment was opened by the victories obtained from Ducati in the World Championships for production-derived bikes with Nicolò Bulega, who achieved his first world championship success in Supersport, and Álvaro Bautista, who totally dominated WorldSBK 2023. For Bautista and Bulega, the “Campioni in Festa” celebration was also their first appearance as teammates, given that the two will share the garage of Team Aruba.it Racing – Ducati in 2024.
The entry of Guido Meda, the unmistakable voice of MotoGP on Sky Italy, heralded the moment reserved for the celebration of the results achieved in the most important international racing competition, in which Ducati won the World Constructors’ Title with five races to spare and monopolized the podium in the overall classification. The warmth of the people at the Unipol Arena manifested itself in applause and chants for the presence of Marco Bezzecchi (VR46 Racing Team) and Jorge Martín (Pramac Racing Team), which became one big shout of joy when it was the turn of welcoming the two-time MotoGP World Champion Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia to the stage. The three 2023 World Champions – Bagnaia, Bautista and Bulega – took to the stage on their respective motorbikes, making the crowd of enthusiasts feel the roar of the fastest motorbikes in the world up close.
Finally, the Bologna-based manufacturer dedicated a moment of the show to the future and a historic new chapter in the world of racing competition: its entry into motocross, which will take shape with the debut in the 2024 Italian Motocross Championship. On the stage of the Unipol Arena were the next rider of Ducati team Alessandro Lupino, eight-time Italian Champion and winner of the 2021 Motocross of Nations, and nine-time MX World Champion Antonio Cairoli, who joined Ducati as high-performance test rider for the new racing program. Lupino and Cairoli joined the five Ducati Champions, Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team), Domenicali, Dall’Igna, and all the key people of Ducati Corse’s successes for final greetings and the much-awaited picture on stage.
After having retraced the emotions of this dream year, the time for music and fun began in the Unipol Arena with the DJ Set of an exceptional international guest like Martin Solveig, the composer of numerous great house music hits. The public was thus able to have fun until the end of the event.
During the press conference previewing the “Campioni in Festa” event a big surprise was also revealed. To pay homage to the record-breaking 2023 racing season, Ducati has created an exclusive series of motorcycles for collectors: five Ducati Panigale in a limited and numbered edition with a special livery inspired by that of the Ducati Champions and dedicated components.
The Panigale 2023 Replica bikes are made even more unique by the rider’s original autograph applied to the tank, protected with a layer of transparent varnish. The number of units of each limited series celebrates the number of the rider to whom it is dedicated: the Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2023 World Champion Replica, characterized by the livery in Giallo Ducati (Ducati Yellow) used by the Ducati Lenovo Team at Misano, will be produced in 263 units, the Panigale V4 Bautista 2023 World Champion Replica (also in Giallo Ducati) will be produced in 219 units, the Panigale V2 Bulega 2023 World Champion Replica will be produced in 111 units, the Panigale V4 Martín 2023 Racing Replica will be produced in 189 units, while the Panigale V4 Bezzecchi 2023 Racing Replica will be produced in 72 units.
The press conference was also an opportunity to announce the date of the presentation of the official Ducati Corse teams for the 2024 season. From 21 to 23 January 2024 the second edition of “Campioni in Pista” will be staged in Madonna di Campiglio (Italy), an event organized in collaboration with Trentino Marketing and the Madonna di Campiglio Tourist Board. On the Trentino snows Ducati will present the Ducati Lenovo Team, the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team and the team that will participate in the Italian Motocross Championship 2024.
Another possibility to celebrate this season’s successes is offered by the special edition t-shirts, which replicate those worn by the Ducati Lenovo Team in the Valencia garage for the celebrations of Bagnaia’s second MotoGP title and by the Aruba.it Racing Team – Ducati in the Jerez garage for the celebrations of Bautista’s WorldSBK title defence. The two t-shirts are available on the Ducati e-shop and will arrive in dealerships shortly.
Tuner Rob Muzzy (far right) with Eddie Lawson (second from right). Photo by John Owens.
John Owens’ & Kevin Cameron’s New Book, “Superbike: An Illustrated History”
This great book chronicles the 1970s transition from the twin-cylinder BMWs, Ducatis, and Moto Guzzis and the wobbling and weaving first-generation Japanese four-cylinders to a rapidly improving wave of race-worthy machines that led to the sportbike revolution. Owens shot the black-and-white photographs published in this beautifully designed and produced 192-page hardcover book at five of the tracks that dotted the U.S. motorcycle road racing landscape at the time: Daytona, Bryar (a.k.a. Loudon), Laguna Seca, Pocono, and Road America.
Eddie Lawson, Wayne Rainey and Freddie Spencer—three Americans who went on to win a combined 10 250cc and 500cc Grand Prix World Championship—figured prominently in this AMA Superbike era. Throughout the book, Cameron and Owens provide insights and images of riders, crew members, and machines. “The desire to go fast, brake, turn and accelerate isn’t that complicated,” Cameron writes in the opening pages. “In any given era, the dominant rider is the person who has most imaginatively exploited the new possibilities presented by constantly evolving chassis, suspension and tires.”
Available for $75 from MotoRacing Books and Superbikebook.com, and more information is available from [email protected] .
Ben Young (1) repeated as Canadian Superbike Champion on his BMW M 1000 RR in 2023. Photo by Rob O'Brien, courtesy CSBK.
Titles, wins, podiums: BMW Motorrad Motorsport looks back on a successful 2023 season of customer racing.
BMW racers celebrate 16 titles in the most important international and national championships around the world.
A total of 153 wins plus 382 podiums for the BMW Motorrad Motorsport customer teams in various Superbike and Superstock classes.
Successes in the major road races: Peter Hickman wins on the Isle of Man and in Macau.
Uwe Geyer: “These successes reiterate that our M RR is a winning package.”
Munich. Customer racing has always been an important pillar of BMW Motorrad Motorsport’s activities. Year after year, privateer BMW riders and teams celebrate successes in a variety of championships around the world, and the 2023 season was no exception. In the most important international and national championships in Europe, North America and South America, Asia, and Australia, the BMW racers amassed no fewer than 16 championship titles this year. Then there is the equally impressive haul of 153 wins and 382 additional podiums in the various Superbike and Superstock classes. The privateer BMW teams receive global support from the BMW Motorrad Race Support network of experts. They also benefit from the experiences and advancements of BMW Motorrad Motorsport through the works entries in the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) and the FIM Endurance World Championship (FIM EWC).
“Congratulations to the successful privateer BMW teams and riders,” said Uwe Geyer, Head of BMW Motorrad Customer Racing. “We are very proud of the successes that they have brought home around the world. These successes reiterate that our M RR is a winning package. They show yet again that with our package, comprising the BMW M 1000 RR race version and the technical support that we offer around the world, as well as with our partner alpha Racing, we provide our customers with a strong foundation that can help them enjoy success in a wide variety of championships. This also proves that the strong focus on the development of racing components with our motorsport development department and our test team for WorldSBK was the right step, which ultimately benefits all our customers worldwide.”
Overview of the BMW Champions of 2023.
The BMW Motorrad Motorsport customer racing programme is a global success story. This is also demonstrated by the 16 championship titles that BMW teams brought home with their privateer entries on various continents. The BMW Champions of the 2023 season are:
FIM Asia Road Racing Championship – Markus Reiterberger (GER / ONEXOX BMW TKKR Racing Team)
French Superbike Championship – Kenny Foray (FRA / Tecmas Racing Team)
Spanish Superbike Championship – Ivo Lopes (POR / easyRace BMW Team)
Canadian Superbike Championship – Ben Young (CAN / Van Dolder’s Home Team)
MotoAmerica Superbike Cup – Nolan Lamkin (USA / Tom Wood Powersports BMW)
IDM Pro Superstock Cup – Kevin Orgis (GER / ORM)
Italian National Trophy 1000 – Gabriele Giannini (ITA / Pistard Racing)
French European Bikes Championship – Nelson Major (FRA / Tecmas Racing Team)
Portuguese Superbike Championship – Ivo Lopes (POR / easyRace BMW Team)
Alpe Adria Road Racing Championship STK – Milan Pawelec (POL / BMW Sikora M Motorsport Team)
Alpe Adria Road Racing Championship Cup 1000 – Luca Alessio (ITA)
FIM European Superstock 1000 Cup – Martin Tritscher (AUT)
SuperBike Brasil Pro Superbike – Maxi Gerardo (URU / Team BMW Rider Experience)
SuperBike Brasil Evo & Evo Pro – Raphael Santos (BRA / TRC Performance)
SuperBike Brasil Superbike Light – Peri Cunha (BRA / SE Racing Team)
BMW racers’ successes in the most important road races.
In international road racing, BMW riders and teams have also been among the absolute top favourites for many years. They lived up to this role in the 2023 season, notably Peter Hickman (GBR). At the most important road races of the year, the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy and the Macau Grand Prix, on the BMW M 1000 RR of the FHO Racing BMW team, he was the man to beat. At the Isle of Man TT in June, Hickman celebrated his third overall victory in the prestigious Senior TT, as well as wins in both Superstock TT races. These were the first Isle of Man triumphs for the new BMW M 1000 RR, which made its debut at the iconic road race this year. “Hicky” also set a new overall lap record as well as new lap records in the Senior TT and the Superbike TT.
At the North West 200 in Northern Ireland, Alastair Seeley (GBR) and the TAS Racing team were triumphant. Seeley was unbeatable on his SYNETIQ BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR in the two Superstock races – he finished first in both. On the Milwaukee BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR, Seeley also finished in second place in the second Superbike race of the event.
At the legendary Macau Grand Prix in mid-November, BMW racers pulled off a top-four lock-out for the BMW M 1000 RR. Hickman, who had set the pace with the FHO Racing BMW M 1000 RR in the practice sessions and in qualifying, claimed his fourth Macau victory in the race on the unique Guia Circuit. Davey Todd (GBR / Burrows Engineering / RK Racing) and David Datzer (GER / MTP Racing by ZERO UP Penz 13) secured second and third place on the podium. Hickman’s team-mate Josh Brookes (GBR) rounded off the success in fourth place.
Strong partner for customers: BMW Motorrad Race Support.
During their successful assignments at the racetrack, BMW racers have a strong partner at their side. With its race support, BMW Motorrad offers expert assistance to privateer racing customers around the world. The spectrum ranges from components developed in works racing, to on-site support during testing and racing action.
The race package that BMW Motorrad offers customers is developed in the Superbike World Championship and adapted to suit the needs of customers as well as the regulations of the respective championships. An important aspect is that the required racing components are made available to all customers without complications or waiting times.
“Customers can also benefit from the many years of experience in the field of motorcycle tuning,” said Uwe Geyer. “In terms of electronics, we make our own motorsport electronics available with the Race Calibration Kit. Here, we have experts in the markets who can help customers tune their electronics. And of course, we also have a wealth of experience when it comes to tuning, for example, in the areas of chassis, suspension or chassis settings, and that includes different tyre manufacturers. Customers can benefit from this because we share this data with them.”
Jonathan Rea (65) at MotorLand Aragon. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
2023 American Flat Track (AFT) Mission SuperTwins Champion Jared Mees. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy AFT.
Progressive AFT and Mission Foods® Announce Renewal of Expansive Partnership
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 15, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is pleased to announce a partnership renewal with Mission Foods® to continue its wide-ranging support of the series for a fourth-consecutive season in 2024.
Included as key features of the multifaceted partnership agreement, Mission Foods will again serve as the title sponsor for the premier Mission SuperTwins class and the associated Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, while remaining the Official Tortilla, Chip, and Salsa of Progressive AFT.
The nation’s top manufacturer of tortillas, tortilla chips, flatbreads, and other baked products, Mission Foods has been one of the most active and influential sponsors of Progressive American Flat Track since making its high-profile debut with the series in 2021. Its support has only expanded since, and it will again serve as the title sponsor for its home round, the Mission Texas Half-Mile at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday, April 27.
“We are proud to continue our partnership with American Flat Track as the title sponsor of the SuperTwins class and Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge for 2024,” said Juan Gonzalez, Mission Foods Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to keep connecting with fans on race weekends, and it further exemplifies our commitment to motorsports racing.”
Mission Foods has done much to raise the profile and awareness of Progressive AFT over the years of its partnership via in-store grocery displays across the nation featuring Mission-branded athletes. That practice will not only continue but increase with the addition of displays in stores on military bases in 2024. Mission will also maintain a large presence at the track with numerous fan-facing activations.
“Mission Foods is an exceptional partner, continually elevating the American Flat Track experience both on and off the track,” said Gene Crouch, Chief Executive Officer of AMA Pro Racing. “We’re truly grateful for their energy and enthusiasm in supporting our athletes and engaging with fans. We’re excited about this renewed collaboration and appreciate their continued efforts to bring the excitement of American Flat Track to a broader audience.”
Progressive AFT series merchandise is available via the official merchandise store at https://aftmerch.com/.
About Mission Foods
MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. Visit https://www.missionfoods.com/ for more information.
About Progressive American Flat Track
Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit us on the web, like us on Facebook, follow us on X, check us out on Instagram and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on FOX Sports.
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www.roadracingworld.com
November 14, 2026
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