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MotoGP: More From Practice At Sepang International Circuit

Alex Marquez denies Martin, KTM give chase on Day 1

Gresini steal the show, Martin AND Bagnaia make it through to Q2 and Miller returns to the top three on Friday

Friday, 10 November 2023

It’s advantage Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) after the opening day of action at the PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia. The Spaniard was looking strong from the off and set a scintillating 1:57.823 in his late Practice time attack to take the top spot after falling just short of the all-time lap record. Marquez’s pace saw him deny title contender Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) a Friday clean-sweep. The ‘Martinator’ topped Practice 1 but was 0.174s back from his compatriot during the Friday afternoon time attack battle. Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), meanwhile, enjoyed a positive return to form as the Aussie had the bit between his teeth in Practice to take the final spot inside the top three.

 

Jorge Martin (89). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jorge Martin (89). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

A mad rush in Malaysia

With Friday afternoon’s Practice session deciding who goes through to Q2, the riders spent the majority of the session working on their race packages before engaging in full time-attack mode.

With rain clouds looming the riders put on the soft rubber with twenty minutes remaining and the hot laps came flying in. It was Alex Marquez who led the way after the first lot of time attacks. The session then quieted down as the clock ticked past the 10-minute mark, but it wasn’t over yet!

The red sectors came flying in once again and it was time for fireworks in the final three minutes of the session. Red sectors came in from Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing), Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), Miller, and Alex Marquez until Martin moved the goalposts with the first 1:57 of the weekend. Alex Marquez still had plenty left in his back pocket however and the Spaniard quickly responded to retake the top spot ahead of Martin and Miller.

 

Jack Miller (43). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jack Miller (43). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Fine margins make the difference…

Next up on the timesheets was Binder. The South African threatened the top spots throughout and finished the session just behind his teammate in P4, with Viñales just 0.005s behind him in 5th. Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) was another 0.022s back as he took a solid P6. 

It was a positive day in the Yamaha camp as both riders showed glimpses of promise during Friday’s running. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) was one of five riders in the 1:58.3 club as he kept himself in contention in P7 ahead of his 2022 title rival Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), as the World Championship leader bagged a very important Q2 spot in P8. 

Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) also showed decent potential in Sepang. The Italian picked up P9 ahead of Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing), the Frenchman claiming the final automatic Q2 spot in P10.

The Q1 battle

Q1 is set to be a tense affair as always with Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™ being the first rider to miss out on Q2. 

The Yamaha rider will have to battle it out with his compatriots Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), as well as both factory Honda and GASGAS Tech3 riders. 

The action has only just started at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. The title fight is on with MotoGP™ enjoying some of the closest racing in its history. Make sure you don’t miss a single detail as the action unfolds in Malaysia with qualifying and Tissot Sprint coming up on Saturday!

SHOWTIME

The stage is set for Qualifying and the Tissot Sprint! Make sure you tune in:

MotoGP™ FP2: 10:10

MotoGP™ Q1: 10:50

MotoGP™ Q2: 11:15

MotoGP™ Sprint: 15:00

 

Ai Ogura (79). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Ai Ogura (79). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 
Ogura beats Aldeguer to Day 1 honours

Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) is the rider to beat after the opening day of the PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia. Ogura’s 2:06.093 came from a late Practice 2 charge where the Team Asia rider became the only competitor to beat Fermin Aldeguer’s (Beta Tools SpeedUp) Practice 1 lap time. The latter topped Practice 1 with his 2:06.183, a time that held firm to consolidate 2nd place on the combined timings, as Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) made his presence known after his Practice 2 time attack saw the Spaniard sit just 0.100s back from the top spot in P3. 

Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) is also looking strong around the Sepang International Circuit. The Brit’s personal best times from P1 and P2 were within 0.003s of each other with his P1 time seeing him just miss out on the top three by 0.050s. Championship leader Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) rounded out the top five as he made positive steps forward in the afternoon to finish just ahead of Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing) and Sergio Garcia (Pons Wegow Los40). Acosta can wrap up the title this weekend if he finishes in the top four regardless of where Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) ends the Malaysian GP, and the Italian was P19 on Day 1.

Dennis Foggia (Italtrans Racing Team) put in an impressive performance to finish the day in 8th place overall. The Italian’s teammate Joe Roberts finished just behind him in P9 with Albert Arenas (Red Bull KTM Ajo) rounding out the top 10. 

Moto2™ will be back in action on Saturday for Practice 3 at 9:25 and qualifying at 13:45 local (GMT +8)!

 

Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 
Moto3™: Masia stamps some authority on the field in Malaysia

Championship leader Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) started his weekend at the PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia as he means to go on as the Spaniard’s 2:12.065 saw him top the pile on Day 1. Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was looking strong from the off as well and was closest to Masia in P2, looking to keep his title hopes alive. Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia), fresh from a maiden podium, also took well to the Petronas Sepang International Circuit and made a big step in Practice 2 to put himself into the top three on combined timings. 

Buriram winner and Championship contender David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) had another strong showing as the rookie found himself just 0.037s away from the top three in P4. Matteo Bertelle (Rivacvold Snipars Team) made it three Hondas in the top five as the Italian rounded out that top five ahead of title challenger Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3). 

The returning Romano Fenati (Rivacold Snipers Team) looked strong in Practice 1 and ended the day 7th overall ahead of title contender Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), as Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) and David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) rounded out the top 10.

Moto3™ action continues on Saturday, make sure not to miss any of the action with Practice 3 at 08:40 and qualifying at 12:50 local time (GMT +8)!

MotoAmerica: Jacobsen, Yaakov Riding For Rahal Ducati Moto

RAHAL DUCATI MOTO ANNOUNCES ALL-AMERICAN RIDER LINE-UP FOR 2024
 

PJ Jacobsen and Kayla Yaakov to pilot the No. 15 and No. 19 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2s
 
 
 

ZIONSVILLE, Ind., (11.10.2023) – The much-anticipated rider line up at Rahal Ducati Moto has been finalized as the team welcomes five-time race winner PJ Jacobsen and up-and-comer Kayla Yaakov to the organization. Jacobsen will pilot the No. 15 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2 in the MotoAmerica Supersport class, alongside Yaakov on the No. 19 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2.

“We are incredibly thrilled with the rider line up we have secured for our inaugural MotoAmerica season,” said team owner Graham Rahal. “PJ [Jacobsen] has shown incredible talent in his Supersport and Superbike career. We are grateful he was willing to bring his experience to our team to help set the bar as we (attempt to) contend for a championship (in our maiden/inaugural season). Kayla [Yaakov] is a young, talented rider and we are excited for her to showcase her potential during her rookie Supersport season. She will have both PJ and Ben [Spies] to look to for guidance and experience as she grows in her young career.

“We have a lot of work to do in the next few months as a new team to prepare, so we are eager to get the riders to the track to test with their new mechanics and on their new machines. We have high expectations going into the season and I truly believe we put together a line up to achieve and exceed the standards we have set for ourselves.”

PJ Jacobsen boasts a decorated Grand Prix resume having competed in several racing series around the globe, including the World Superbike Championship and World Supersport Championship. Among his accomplishments are earning the vice-champion title in the World Supersport Championship, securing a second-place finish in the Suzuka 8 Hour in 2018 and claiming second in the championship standings in the MotoAmerica Supersport class in 2019. Most recently, Jacobsen found a home in the MotoAmerica Superbike division where he finished third in the 2023 season championship. Jacobsen’s experience on the track will elevate the competitiveness the Rahal Ducati Moto team will bring in its 2024 debut season.

“I’m really looking forward to being a part of the Rahal Ducati Moto racing team,” said Jacobsen. “It’s great to be a part of this racing family and I think it’s very good for my future to be with this amazing group of people. Having Ben Spies back is going to be absolutely awesome to help with riding and the mechanics and strategy of the motorcycle racing. When I heard about the possibility of [Rahal Ducati Moto] coming to the paddock, my eyes lit up because they run such a professional team in car racing, and they will also have a great, professional team in motorcycle racing. It’s great for our sport to have people like this involved, and again, I’m very honored to get the call from them to be one of the riders to fight for wins and a championship. I’m super excited to get testing started and really, really motivated for the 2024 season – especially after having such a strong Superbike season in 2023. I feel very fit and in top-form in my career right now, and ready to fight for the top honors. Thank you to Graham and the people that truly believe in me. I’m really looking forward to a great 2024 season!”

 

Tytlers Cycle Racing's Kayla Yaakov (23). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle Racing.
Kayla Yaakov (19). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle Racing.

 

From an early age Kayla Yaakov had the drive to race. She started racing motorcycles at the young age of four and climbed her way through the ranks. In 2022, Yaakov became the first female to win a MotoAmerica race (Ridge Motorsports Park, Round 2), which was highlighted in her third-place finish in the Junior Cup Championship that year. After that first win, Yaakov found herself standing on the top step of the podium three additional times for a total of four wins and 11 collective podiums for the season. In 2023, the 16-year-old found herself in the Twins Cup Championship, finishing seventh in the championship, despite missing the first four races due to a pre-season injury. Yaakov, an inspiration for females aspiring to break into a male-dominated industry, will take on her debut MotoAmerica Supersport season for the team in 2024.

“I am extremely excited to be joining the Rahal Ducati Moto team for the 2024 MotoAmerica Supersport season,” said Yaakov. “Being a part of a team with such an iconic backing is a privilege, not only with one of the most prolific motorcycle brands in the world, but also with the Rahal family. Also, having a world champion like Ben Spies in our corner is such an honor. After talking to him for several years, coming together in this team is going to be huge for my progression in this sport! Although it’s a new team that comes with a lot of pressure, I am extremely confident in the abilities of the team and myself for this 2024 season. I can’t wait to get rolling with this amazing crew and am thankful to everyone that has made this possible. I’ll see you on the high banks of Daytona!”

The duo will begin testing their new horses early next year in preparation for the 2024 season. The MotoAmerica Supersport division will begin competition at the Daytona 200 (a non-points race) March 7-9 followed by the regular season points races at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta (April 19-21), Barber Motorsports Park (May 17-19), Road America (May 31-June 2), Brainerd International Raceway (June 14-16), Ridge Motorsports Park (June 28-30), WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (July 12-14), Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (August 16-18), Circuit of the Americas (September 13-15) and New Jersey Motorsports Park (September 27-29).

For more information about the series or team, visit www.motoamerica.com and www.rahalducati.com.

MotoGP: Alex Marquez Close To Lap Record In FP2 At Sepang

Alex Marquez was fastest during MotoGP World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Gresini Racing Ducati, the Spaniard lapped the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) road course in 1:57.823, which was just shy of Jorge Martin’s 2022 All-Time Lap Record of 1:57.790.

Marquez’s countryman Martin was the best of the rest with a 1:57.997 on his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati.

Australian Jack Miller was third-quickest with a 1:58.232 on his Red Bull KTM RC16 and just ahead of his teammate Brad Binder (1:58.307). 

Maverick Vinales rounded out the top five with a 1:58.312 on his factory Aprilia.

 

MotoGP FP2

Moto2: Ogura On Top In FP2 At Sepang

Ai Ogura was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Idemitsu Honda Team Asia Kalex, the Japanese star navigated the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course in 2:06.093 to top the field of 32 riders.

Americans Joe Roberts (2:06.911) and Sean Dylan Kelly (2:08.795) were 11th and 29th, respectively, in the session.

 

moto2 FP2

Moto3: Furusato Fastest In FP2 At Sepang

Taiyo Furusato was fastest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. The Honda Team Asia pilot lapped the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) track in 2:12.518 to lead the field of 28 competitors.

 

Moto3 FP2

MotoGP: Martin Tops FP1 At Sepang

Jorge Martin topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Piloting his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, the Spaniard ripped up the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) road course in 1:59.513, which not only led the field of 23 riders it was quicker than Martin’s own Race Lap Record of 1:59.634 from 2022.

Alex Marquez was second-best with a 1:59.562 on his Gresini Racing Ducati, and Martin’s teammate Johann Zarco made it a Ducati sweep of the top three spots with a 1:59.914.

The quickest non-Ducati rider was Franco Morbidelli, who turned a fourth-fastest 2:00.055 on his Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1.

 

MotoGP FP1

 

Moto2: Aldeguer P1, Roberts P6, SDK P24 In FP1 At Sepang

Fermin Aldeguer topped Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Beta Tools SpeedUp Boscoscuro machine, the Spaniard covered the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course in 2:06.163 to lead the field of 32 riders.

American Joe Roberts was sixth in the session with a 2:06.760 on his Italtrans Racing Kalex.

American Sean Dylan Kelly (SDK) was back in action on the Forward Team racebike and turned a 2:08.994, which ranked him 24th in the session and five spots better than his teammate Alex Escrig (2:09.335).

 

Moto2 FP1

Moto3: Masia Under Race Lap Record In FP1 At Sepang

Jaume Masia was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Leopard Racing Honda, the Spaniard lapped the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) track in 2:12.065, which was quicker than Ayumu Sasaki’s Race Lap Record of 2:12.671 from 2022.

 

Moto3 FP1

CVMA Lands New Sponsors Ahead Of Round Two

CVMA Racing New Sponsors

Round Two of the CVMA 2023/2024 Winter Series is approaching as fast as some of our racers! Registration is open for the event which occurs over the weekend of November 18th and 19th so get signed up for some of the most competitive club racing in the country.

CVMA is happy to welcome several new sponsors for this upcoming event!

Del’s Flooring in Palm Desert (www.delsflooring.com) will be sponsoring the Formula Ultra Lightweight class for this round and the remainder of the series. Del’s Flooring is a second- & third-generation, family-owned business priding itself on quality working relationships and a high standard of flooring experience. Del’s will be providing a $600.00 purse for each remaining round. Payouts for both races (Saturday and Sunday) will be as follows:

1st – $150

2nd – $100

3rd – $50

Road Race City – Bridgestone Tires (www.roadracecity.com) will be sponsoring the Formula Twins class for the remainder of the season offering a $600 purse for each of the remaining rounds. Road Race City is a full-service motorcycle service center based out of Temple City, CA, and provides trackside tire sales and support for Bridgestone tires. Payouts for both races (Saturday and Sunday) will be as follows:

1St – $150

2nd – $100

3rd – $50

RideHVMC (www.ridehvmc.com) a premier track experience provider will be sponsoring the Amateur SuperSport Middleweight class. They are rewarding the winner of the class (most points for the weekend) a 1-on-1 training day at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway with 2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Corey Alexander. RideHVMC offers many services at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway including seasonal garage membership and equipment storage, rider training, bike rentals, trackside service, and group track events.

With Veterans Day closely preceding this next round of the series, the veteran-owned-and-operated Ryder Gear (www.ryder-gear.com) will be offering special Veterans Day pricing on gloves the entire race weekend.

The weather forecast is looking pretty awesome for our next round and we are super pumped to welcome racers from all over the country to the California sunshine and some of the most competitive racing you will find anywhere. Come on out and race with us!

CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur, and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from.

CVMA offers free reciprocity to encourage racers from other clubs to come out and compete. CVMA also offers a New Racers School for those starting out in racing on the Friday prior to each race weekend. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com to sign up or for more information.

Come on out and race with us on November 18th and 19th for our next round for some of the most competitive racing in the country!

CVMA. Built for racers by racers and offering the best racing experience around!

CVMA would also like to thank the 2023/2024 Winter Series Sponsors: SoCal Track Days, Apex Assassins, Ryder Gear, Racers Edge/Dunlop, The California Superbike School, CaliPhotography, Del’s Flooring, Ride HMVC, Road Race City/Bridgestone

NRS Sponsors: Alpinestars, 6D Helmets, Racer Gloves, and Racer’s Edge

MotoGP: Bautista Says “No Expectations” For Wild Card At Sepang

Bautista and the Ducati Desmosedici GP of the Aruba.it Racing team in Malaysia for the fascinating MotoGP wild card

There could not have been a more fascinating way to end the extraordinary 2023 season. After having been crowned Superbike World Champion for the second year in a row and having contributed to the “triple crown” conquered by the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team in WorldSBK, Alvaro Bautista landed to Malaysia where the Grand Prix of Malaysia will kick off tomorrow at the Sepang circuit.

The Spaniard will climb aboard the Ducati Desmosedici GP of the Aruba.it Racing team for the third wild card of the season in MotoGP, following the ones held by Michele Pirro in Italy, first at the Mugello Circuit and then at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.

Bautista therefore returns to MotoGP competition after last racing at Valencia in 2018.
Free practice for the Grand Prix of Malaysia will get underway tomorrow at 3.45 am CEST. Saturday’s schedule will see first qualifying (from 3.50 am CEST) then the Sprint Race (8.00 am CEST). On Sunday, finally, the Grand Prix of Malaysia (20 laps) will start at 8.00 am CEST.

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing #19)

“I am happy to be back racing in Malaysia also because Sepang is definitely one of my favorite circuits. Having the opportunity to ride the Desmosedici GP again after a few years means a lot to me: it is a great emotion. I’m sure it will be a good weekend, also because we arrive in Malaysia with no expectations but only with the desire to do a good job with the team from Friday. The aim is to find a good feeling with the bike as soon as possible, as in the light of the new format, the time available is not much. It won’t be easy, but I’ll try my best and have fun. This is a bonus that Ducati and Aruba.it have given me for the results obtained in WorldSBK and I’d like to make the most of it”.

MotoGP: More From Practice At Sepang International Circuit

Alex Marquez (73). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alex Marquez (73). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Alex Marquez denies Martin, KTM give chase on Day 1

Gresini steal the show, Martin AND Bagnaia make it through to Q2 and Miller returns to the top three on Friday

Friday, 10 November 2023

It’s advantage Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) after the opening day of action at the PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia. The Spaniard was looking strong from the off and set a scintillating 1:57.823 in his late Practice time attack to take the top spot after falling just short of the all-time lap record. Marquez’s pace saw him deny title contender Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) a Friday clean-sweep. The ‘Martinator’ topped Practice 1 but was 0.174s back from his compatriot during the Friday afternoon time attack battle. Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), meanwhile, enjoyed a positive return to form as the Aussie had the bit between his teeth in Practice to take the final spot inside the top three.

 

Jorge Martin (89). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jorge Martin (89). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

A mad rush in Malaysia

With Friday afternoon’s Practice session deciding who goes through to Q2, the riders spent the majority of the session working on their race packages before engaging in full time-attack mode.

With rain clouds looming the riders put on the soft rubber with twenty minutes remaining and the hot laps came flying in. It was Alex Marquez who led the way after the first lot of time attacks. The session then quieted down as the clock ticked past the 10-minute mark, but it wasn’t over yet!

The red sectors came flying in once again and it was time for fireworks in the final three minutes of the session. Red sectors came in from Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing), Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), Miller, and Alex Marquez until Martin moved the goalposts with the first 1:57 of the weekend. Alex Marquez still had plenty left in his back pocket however and the Spaniard quickly responded to retake the top spot ahead of Martin and Miller.

 

Jack Miller (43). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jack Miller (43). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Fine margins make the difference…

Next up on the timesheets was Binder. The South African threatened the top spots throughout and finished the session just behind his teammate in P4, with Viñales just 0.005s behind him in 5th. Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) was another 0.022s back as he took a solid P6. 

It was a positive day in the Yamaha camp as both riders showed glimpses of promise during Friday’s running. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) was one of five riders in the 1:58.3 club as he kept himself in contention in P7 ahead of his 2022 title rival Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), as the World Championship leader bagged a very important Q2 spot in P8. 

Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) also showed decent potential in Sepang. The Italian picked up P9 ahead of Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing), the Frenchman claiming the final automatic Q2 spot in P10.

The Q1 battle

Q1 is set to be a tense affair as always with Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™ being the first rider to miss out on Q2. 

The Yamaha rider will have to battle it out with his compatriots Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™), as well as both factory Honda and GASGAS Tech3 riders. 

The action has only just started at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. The title fight is on with MotoGP™ enjoying some of the closest racing in its history. Make sure you don’t miss a single detail as the action unfolds in Malaysia with qualifying and Tissot Sprint coming up on Saturday!

SHOWTIME

The stage is set for Qualifying and the Tissot Sprint! Make sure you tune in:

MotoGP™ FP2: 10:10

MotoGP™ Q1: 10:50

MotoGP™ Q2: 11:15

MotoGP™ Sprint: 15:00

 

Ai Ogura (79). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Ai Ogura (79). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 
Ogura beats Aldeguer to Day 1 honours

Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) is the rider to beat after the opening day of the PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia. Ogura’s 2:06.093 came from a late Practice 2 charge where the Team Asia rider became the only competitor to beat Fermin Aldeguer’s (Beta Tools SpeedUp) Practice 1 lap time. The latter topped Practice 1 with his 2:06.183, a time that held firm to consolidate 2nd place on the combined timings, as Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) made his presence known after his Practice 2 time attack saw the Spaniard sit just 0.100s back from the top spot in P3. 

Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) is also looking strong around the Sepang International Circuit. The Brit’s personal best times from P1 and P2 were within 0.003s of each other with his P1 time seeing him just miss out on the top three by 0.050s. Championship leader Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) rounded out the top five as he made positive steps forward in the afternoon to finish just ahead of Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing) and Sergio Garcia (Pons Wegow Los40). Acosta can wrap up the title this weekend if he finishes in the top four regardless of where Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) ends the Malaysian GP, and the Italian was P19 on Day 1.

Dennis Foggia (Italtrans Racing Team) put in an impressive performance to finish the day in 8th place overall. The Italian’s teammate Joe Roberts finished just behind him in P9 with Albert Arenas (Red Bull KTM Ajo) rounding out the top 10. 

Moto2™ will be back in action on Saturday for Practice 3 at 9:25 and qualifying at 13:45 local (GMT +8)!

 

Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 
Moto3™: Masia stamps some authority on the field in Malaysia

Championship leader Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) started his weekend at the PETRONAS Grand Prix of Malaysia as he means to go on as the Spaniard’s 2:12.065 saw him top the pile on Day 1. Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was looking strong from the off as well and was closest to Masia in P2, looking to keep his title hopes alive. Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia), fresh from a maiden podium, also took well to the Petronas Sepang International Circuit and made a big step in Practice 2 to put himself into the top three on combined timings. 

Buriram winner and Championship contender David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) had another strong showing as the rookie found himself just 0.037s away from the top three in P4. Matteo Bertelle (Rivacvold Snipars Team) made it three Hondas in the top five as the Italian rounded out that top five ahead of title challenger Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3). 

The returning Romano Fenati (Rivacold Snipers Team) looked strong in Practice 1 and ended the day 7th overall ahead of title contender Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP), as Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) and David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) rounded out the top 10.

Moto3™ action continues on Saturday, make sure not to miss any of the action with Practice 3 at 08:40 and qualifying at 12:50 local time (GMT +8)!

MotoAmerica: Jacobsen, Yaakov Riding For Rahal Ducati Moto

PJ Jacobsen (99). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
PJ Jacobsen (99). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

RAHAL DUCATI MOTO ANNOUNCES ALL-AMERICAN RIDER LINE-UP FOR 2024
 

PJ Jacobsen and Kayla Yaakov to pilot the No. 15 and No. 19 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2s
 
 
 

ZIONSVILLE, Ind., (11.10.2023) – The much-anticipated rider line up at Rahal Ducati Moto has been finalized as the team welcomes five-time race winner PJ Jacobsen and up-and-comer Kayla Yaakov to the organization. Jacobsen will pilot the No. 15 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2 in the MotoAmerica Supersport class, alongside Yaakov on the No. 19 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2.

“We are incredibly thrilled with the rider line up we have secured for our inaugural MotoAmerica season,” said team owner Graham Rahal. “PJ [Jacobsen] has shown incredible talent in his Supersport and Superbike career. We are grateful he was willing to bring his experience to our team to help set the bar as we (attempt to) contend for a championship (in our maiden/inaugural season). Kayla [Yaakov] is a young, talented rider and we are excited for her to showcase her potential during her rookie Supersport season. She will have both PJ and Ben [Spies] to look to for guidance and experience as she grows in her young career.

“We have a lot of work to do in the next few months as a new team to prepare, so we are eager to get the riders to the track to test with their new mechanics and on their new machines. We have high expectations going into the season and I truly believe we put together a line up to achieve and exceed the standards we have set for ourselves.”

PJ Jacobsen boasts a decorated Grand Prix resume having competed in several racing series around the globe, including the World Superbike Championship and World Supersport Championship. Among his accomplishments are earning the vice-champion title in the World Supersport Championship, securing a second-place finish in the Suzuka 8 Hour in 2018 and claiming second in the championship standings in the MotoAmerica Supersport class in 2019. Most recently, Jacobsen found a home in the MotoAmerica Superbike division where he finished third in the 2023 season championship. Jacobsen’s experience on the track will elevate the competitiveness the Rahal Ducati Moto team will bring in its 2024 debut season.

“I’m really looking forward to being a part of the Rahal Ducati Moto racing team,” said Jacobsen. “It’s great to be a part of this racing family and I think it’s very good for my future to be with this amazing group of people. Having Ben Spies back is going to be absolutely awesome to help with riding and the mechanics and strategy of the motorcycle racing. When I heard about the possibility of [Rahal Ducati Moto] coming to the paddock, my eyes lit up because they run such a professional team in car racing, and they will also have a great, professional team in motorcycle racing. It’s great for our sport to have people like this involved, and again, I’m very honored to get the call from them to be one of the riders to fight for wins and a championship. I’m super excited to get testing started and really, really motivated for the 2024 season – especially after having such a strong Superbike season in 2023. I feel very fit and in top-form in my career right now, and ready to fight for the top honors. Thank you to Graham and the people that truly believe in me. I’m really looking forward to a great 2024 season!”

 

Tytlers Cycle Racing's Kayla Yaakov (23). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle Racing.
Kayla Yaakov (19). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Tytlers Cycle Racing.

 

From an early age Kayla Yaakov had the drive to race. She started racing motorcycles at the young age of four and climbed her way through the ranks. In 2022, Yaakov became the first female to win a MotoAmerica race (Ridge Motorsports Park, Round 2), which was highlighted in her third-place finish in the Junior Cup Championship that year. After that first win, Yaakov found herself standing on the top step of the podium three additional times for a total of four wins and 11 collective podiums for the season. In 2023, the 16-year-old found herself in the Twins Cup Championship, finishing seventh in the championship, despite missing the first four races due to a pre-season injury. Yaakov, an inspiration for females aspiring to break into a male-dominated industry, will take on her debut MotoAmerica Supersport season for the team in 2024.

“I am extremely excited to be joining the Rahal Ducati Moto team for the 2024 MotoAmerica Supersport season,” said Yaakov. “Being a part of a team with such an iconic backing is a privilege, not only with one of the most prolific motorcycle brands in the world, but also with the Rahal family. Also, having a world champion like Ben Spies in our corner is such an honor. After talking to him for several years, coming together in this team is going to be huge for my progression in this sport! Although it’s a new team that comes with a lot of pressure, I am extremely confident in the abilities of the team and myself for this 2024 season. I can’t wait to get rolling with this amazing crew and am thankful to everyone that has made this possible. I’ll see you on the high banks of Daytona!”

The duo will begin testing their new horses early next year in preparation for the 2024 season. The MotoAmerica Supersport division will begin competition at the Daytona 200 (a non-points race) March 7-9 followed by the regular season points races at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta (April 19-21), Barber Motorsports Park (May 17-19), Road America (May 31-June 2), Brainerd International Raceway (June 14-16), Ridge Motorsports Park (June 28-30), WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (July 12-14), Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (August 16-18), Circuit of the Americas (September 13-15) and New Jersey Motorsports Park (September 27-29).

For more information about the series or team, visit www.motoamerica.com and www.rahalducati.com.

MotoGP: Alex Marquez Close To Lap Record In FP2 At Sepang

Alex Marquez (73). Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Alex Marquez (73). Photo by Kohei Hirota.

Alex Marquez was fastest during MotoGP World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Gresini Racing Ducati, the Spaniard lapped the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) road course in 1:57.823, which was just shy of Jorge Martin’s 2022 All-Time Lap Record of 1:57.790.

Marquez’s countryman Martin was the best of the rest with a 1:57.997 on his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati.

Australian Jack Miller was third-quickest with a 1:58.232 on his Red Bull KTM RC16 and just ahead of his teammate Brad Binder (1:58.307). 

Maverick Vinales rounded out the top five with a 1:58.312 on his factory Aprilia.

 

MotoGP FP2

Moto2: Ogura On Top In FP2 At Sepang

Ai Ogura (79). Photo courtesy Idemitsu Honda Team Asia.
Ai Ogura (79). Photo courtesy Idemitsu Honda Team Asia.

Ai Ogura was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Idemitsu Honda Team Asia Kalex, the Japanese star navigated the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course in 2:06.093 to top the field of 32 riders.

Americans Joe Roberts (2:06.911) and Sean Dylan Kelly (2:08.795) were 11th and 29th, respectively, in the session.

 

moto2 FP2

Moto3: Furusato Fastest In FP2 At Sepang

Taiyo Furusato (72). Photo courtesy Honda Team Asia.
Taiyo Furusato (72). Photo courtesy Honda Team Asia.

Taiyo Furusato was fastest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. The Honda Team Asia pilot lapped the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) track in 2:12.518 to lead the field of 28 competitors.

 

Moto3 FP2

MotoGP: Martin Tops FP1 At Sepang

Jorge Martin (89). Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Jorge Martin (89). Photo by Kohei Hirota.

Jorge Martin topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Piloting his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, the Spaniard ripped up the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) road course in 1:59.513, which not only led the field of 23 riders it was quicker than Martin’s own Race Lap Record of 1:59.634 from 2022.

Alex Marquez was second-best with a 1:59.562 on his Gresini Racing Ducati, and Martin’s teammate Johann Zarco made it a Ducati sweep of the top three spots with a 1:59.914.

The quickest non-Ducati rider was Franco Morbidelli, who turned a fourth-fastest 2:00.055 on his Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1.

 

MotoGP FP1

 

Moto2: Aldeguer P1, Roberts P6, SDK P24 In FP1 At Sepang

Fermin Aldeguer (54). Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Fermin Aldeguer (54). Photo by Kohei Hirota.

Fermin Aldeguer topped Moto2 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Beta Tools SpeedUp Boscoscuro machine, the Spaniard covered the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course in 2:06.163 to lead the field of 32 riders.

American Joe Roberts was sixth in the session with a 2:06.760 on his Italtrans Racing Kalex.

American Sean Dylan Kelly (SDK) was back in action on the Forward Team racebike and turned a 2:08.994, which ranked him 24th in the session and five spots better than his teammate Alex Escrig (2:09.335).

 

Moto2 FP1

Moto3: Masia Under Race Lap Record In FP1 At Sepang

Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jaume Masia (5). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Jaume Masia was quickest during Moto3 World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Sepang International Circuit, in Malaysia. Riding his Leopard Racing Honda, the Spaniard lapped the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) track in 2:12.065, which was quicker than Ayumu Sasaki’s Race Lap Record of 2:12.671 from 2022.

 

Moto3 FP1

CVMA Lands New Sponsors Ahead Of Round Two

RideHVMC's Corey Alexander (23) leads David Anthony (25) and Anthony Norton (2) in the Stock 1000 Shootout. Photo by Caliphotography.com, courtesy CVMA.
RideHVMC's Corey Alexander (23) leads David Anthony (25) and Anthony Norton (2) in the Stock 1000 Shootout. Photo by Caliphotography.com, courtesy CVMA.

CVMA Racing New Sponsors

Round Two of the CVMA 2023/2024 Winter Series is approaching as fast as some of our racers! Registration is open for the event which occurs over the weekend of November 18th and 19th so get signed up for some of the most competitive club racing in the country.

CVMA is happy to welcome several new sponsors for this upcoming event!

Del’s Flooring in Palm Desert (www.delsflooring.com) will be sponsoring the Formula Ultra Lightweight class for this round and the remainder of the series. Del’s Flooring is a second- & third-generation, family-owned business priding itself on quality working relationships and a high standard of flooring experience. Del’s will be providing a $600.00 purse for each remaining round. Payouts for both races (Saturday and Sunday) will be as follows:

1st – $150

2nd – $100

3rd – $50

Road Race City – Bridgestone Tires (www.roadracecity.com) will be sponsoring the Formula Twins class for the remainder of the season offering a $600 purse for each of the remaining rounds. Road Race City is a full-service motorcycle service center based out of Temple City, CA, and provides trackside tire sales and support for Bridgestone tires. Payouts for both races (Saturday and Sunday) will be as follows:

1St – $150

2nd – $100

3rd – $50

RideHVMC (www.ridehvmc.com) a premier track experience provider will be sponsoring the Amateur SuperSport Middleweight class. They are rewarding the winner of the class (most points for the weekend) a 1-on-1 training day at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway with 2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Corey Alexander. RideHVMC offers many services at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway including seasonal garage membership and equipment storage, rider training, bike rentals, trackside service, and group track events.

With Veterans Day closely preceding this next round of the series, the veteran-owned-and-operated Ryder Gear (www.ryder-gear.com) will be offering special Veterans Day pricing on gloves the entire race weekend.

The weather forecast is looking pretty awesome for our next round and we are super pumped to welcome racers from all over the country to the California sunshine and some of the most competitive racing you will find anywhere. Come on out and race with us!

CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur, and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from.

CVMA offers free reciprocity to encourage racers from other clubs to come out and compete. CVMA also offers a New Racers School for those starting out in racing on the Friday prior to each race weekend. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com to sign up or for more information.

Come on out and race with us on November 18th and 19th for our next round for some of the most competitive racing in the country!

CVMA. Built for racers by racers and offering the best racing experience around!

CVMA would also like to thank the 2023/2024 Winter Series Sponsors: SoCal Track Days, Apex Assassins, Ryder Gear, Racers Edge/Dunlop, The California Superbike School, CaliPhotography, Del’s Flooring, Ride HMVC, Road Race City/Bridgestone

NRS Sponsors: Alpinestars, 6D Helmets, Racer Gloves, and Racer’s Edge

MotoGP: Bautista Says “No Expectations” For Wild Card At Sepang

Alvaro Bautista's (19) test on a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike at Misano was very thorough. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Alvaro Bautista (19) testing a Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP racebike at Misano. Photo courtesy Ducati.

Bautista and the Ducati Desmosedici GP of the Aruba.it Racing team in Malaysia for the fascinating MotoGP wild card

There could not have been a more fascinating way to end the extraordinary 2023 season. After having been crowned Superbike World Champion for the second year in a row and having contributed to the “triple crown” conquered by the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team in WorldSBK, Alvaro Bautista landed to Malaysia where the Grand Prix of Malaysia will kick off tomorrow at the Sepang circuit.

The Spaniard will climb aboard the Ducati Desmosedici GP of the Aruba.it Racing team for the third wild card of the season in MotoGP, following the ones held by Michele Pirro in Italy, first at the Mugello Circuit and then at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.

Bautista therefore returns to MotoGP competition after last racing at Valencia in 2018.
Free practice for the Grand Prix of Malaysia will get underway tomorrow at 3.45 am CEST. Saturday’s schedule will see first qualifying (from 3.50 am CEST) then the Sprint Race (8.00 am CEST). On Sunday, finally, the Grand Prix of Malaysia (20 laps) will start at 8.00 am CEST.

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing #19)

“I am happy to be back racing in Malaysia also because Sepang is definitely one of my favorite circuits. Having the opportunity to ride the Desmosedici GP again after a few years means a lot to me: it is a great emotion. I’m sure it will be a good weekend, also because we arrive in Malaysia with no expectations but only with the desire to do a good job with the team from Friday. The aim is to find a good feeling with the bike as soon as possible, as in the light of the new format, the time available is not much. It won’t be easy, but I’ll try my best and have fun. This is a bonus that Ducati and Aruba.it have given me for the results obtained in WorldSBK and I’d like to make the most of it”.