WorldSBK welcomes Cremona Circuit as new venue for 2024
Round 10 of the 2024 World Championship will feature racing across three series: WorldSBK, WorldSSP, and the FIM Women’s Motorcycling World Championship. A five-year contract was signed between the Lombard circuit and Dorna WSBK Organization (DWO), which secures their place in the Championship from 2024 to 2028. It was designed by Jarno Zaffelli’s Studio Dromo, which has a reputation for its work on prominent racetracks.
Located just south of Milan, Cremona Circuit is now set to undergo the homologation process and is actively preparing for this significant event by implementing several important modifications and improvements, including:
Track Layout Enhancements: Changes to the layout of the track, with a notable focus on turns #11, #12, and #13.
High-Quality Resurfacing: Refurbishing specific areas of the track with quality materials to enhance the track’s condition.
Track Length Extension: An extension of approximately 90 meters to the track’s length to enrich racing dynamics.
Spectator Facilities Expansion: Construction of new grandstands and public areas to accommodate the ever-growing WorldSBK fan base.
Modern Race Direction Facilities: The addition of a contemporary structure to house offices for Race Direction and support staff to manage the entirety of the event effectively.
The Cremona Circuit, near Milan, Italy. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director:
“WorldSBK is thrilled to introduce Cremona Circuit to the 2024 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The addition of Cremona to our calendar marks a significant milestone and we’re fully committed to delivering top-quality racing experiences to our fans. This five-year agreement stands as a clear testament to that unwavering dedication as we’re looking forward propelling this venue onto the global scene.”
Alessandro Canevarolo, Cremona Circuit CEO:
“We are really happy, excited and hyped for this new great challenge. It will be an opportunity to take an extra, important step to grow, and with great satisfaction bring back the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship to Lombardy, missing for ten long years. After some negotiations, we immediately got to work to make the necessary changes for hosting this major event. Together with the management, the goal is to create an event that can showcase the area, the region and represent Italy in all its values. The goal has been clear ever since I started this adventure eight years ago. We started from afar, facing every moment with great spirit, passion, and dedication. Only in this way were we able to fulfil the big dream: seeing the Superbike World Championship race on the asphalt of our Cremona Circuit.”
Honda CR Electric Proto Shows Leading Pace in Valuable Debut Weekend
Team HRC completes a successful competitive debut for the CR Electric Proto
Trey Canard (41) leading the start of an All-Japan Motocross Championship moto on the Honda CR Electric Prototype. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
SAITAMA, Japan – After a successful qualifying run yesterday, Sunday’s race day brought mixed fortunes for Team HRC but a race-leading demonstration of pace of the new CR Electric Proto at round 8 of the All Japan Motocross Championship.
In the morning’s practice, Team Honda HRC advisor and test rider Trey Canard—racing as a wildcard entry—followed on seamlessly from his Saturday pace to go second-fastest on the all-electric #41, making its global competitive debut this weekend in the premier IA1 class against 450cc gas-powered machinery.
Then came the first-ever race for Honda’s new prototype machine, in the form of the first moto. The opening race was smooth, with Canard starting strongly, settling into a rhythm and crossing the line second aboard the CR Electric Proto. As learning, development and ultimately the pace continued to improve throughout the weekend, Canard closed to just 0.7 seconds off the fastest lap and was looking fast.
In the second moto, Canard again started well and looked to be set to keep building on the weekend’s momentum, but an early crash with moto 1 rival Jay Wilson unfortunately put him out of the race.
Returning for the third moto, Canard made best use of the Honda’s instant electric torque and again started strongly, taking the lead exiting the first corner. In fact, Canard took two of the three holeshots on CR Electric Proto.
Starting to stretch that lead from his weekend-long rival, the #27 of Wilson, it would have been the perfect culmination of the weekend’s learning and work on the CR Electric Proto to take the machine’s first win in its first-ever competitive weekend—but unfortunately, as the track continued to get ever more rutted, Canard crashed with 12 and a half minutes remaining of the 15-minute race.
Nonetheless, with the opportunity provided by racing to learn, develop and prove the prototype machine in the heat of battle for the first time, it has been a successful and encouraging debut for the CR Electric Proto—a weekend that has provided valuable data for ongoing development of Honda’s all-electric motocross initiative.
Trey Canard (41) and the Honda CR Electric Prototype in Japan. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Trey Canard
“This weekend was definitely a big challenge for me, but it was a great race for our development. Each time I was on the track, we improved the motorcycle and the CR Electric Proto team adapted to the challenge. We had some shines of brilliance as a team, the starts being one of them, with two of the three holeshots. There were also some sections on the track that were very impressive, and that makes me excited for the future of this motorcycle. I’m disappointed to not finish all of the motos after all of the hard work the team has put in, but I think we showed that the potential of the bike is quite high, especially for our very first attempt at racing. I’m grateful to be a part of this effort, and I’m very proud of each and every person who has worked so hard.”
Taichi Honda: Team HRC Team Manager
“First of all, I would like to thank the development team and everyone involved for preparing the CR Electric Proto to be ready for competition in such a short time. I would also like to thank Trey Canard for showing his potential, even though he has only had a few tests. We had three heats for the first time today, and we will take what we learned from each race and feed it back to the ongoing development of the CR Electric project.”
For All the Great Things You Gave Us. Thank you, Toprak
The final race weekend of the 2023 season was an emotional one for Yamaha as they acknowledged the parting of Toprak Razgatlıoğlu with several special nods to the title winning Turk – including a farewell video which has been released to sum up the best moments shared and sentiments felt.
The 27-year-old has taken 131 race starts with Yamaha in WorldSBK since 2020 and in this time he has achieved a remarkable 100 podiums, 37 wins and 12 pole positions with the brand, as well as a superb World Championship crown in 2021. Toprak not only brought success, celebrations and a supreme riding style to the blue corner, but his unique personality, humour and showmanship too. Naturally, all those who worked with him have fond and funny memories of their time with the #54 rider.
These were revealed in special interviews carried out with the Pata Yamaha Prometeon team and key figures from Yamaha Racing ahead of the final round, and they made for interesting viewing with a wide range of, sometimes surprising, answers.
“I’ll never forget it, in 2021 we were in Indonesia and we spent so much time talking about the championship, it was amazing. He was really excited and we were eating a pizza and French fries together and it was really fun, especially because he then became champion.” – Andrea Locatelli, team-mate
“All the way back to the start, our first race together. He was sick with the ‘flu, he was struggling, but Kenan Sofuoğlu (Toprak’s Manager) told us that he could win the race. That’s exactly what he did. From that moment everything moved forward. But the wider picture is what I’ll remember most; the rider he became with us and the friendships made that I hope will last long term.” – Paul Denning, Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK
“The first stoppie I saw him do was just massive, I was standing in pitlane thinking ‘what is this?’ There’s been lots of fun along the way. Winning the title was unbelievable, a total dream come true. He made that happen, it was really emotional.” – Russ Joyner, Chief Mechanic
“Standing on the podium with him after his first victory with Yamaha is a memory that will stay in my heart forever.” – Andrea Dosoli, Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager
When asked to describe Toprak in one word the simple yet powerful answers were testament to the talent and determination he’s shown during the past four seasons with Yamaha…
“Extraordinary”
“Incomparable”
“Relentless”
“Magic”
“Outstanding”
For the victories, the joys, the humour and the humility. For everything you gave us. Thank you, Toprak.
Drama in Jerez: Bautista claims victory as Razgatlioglu is penalised in WorldSBK Season Finale
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) crossed the finish line practically side-by-side with Dominique Aegerter (77) close behind in third at the end of Race Two. Photo courtesy Dorna.
In an unforgettable showdown, the top two contenders for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship engaged in a fierce duel at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) secured the win, with Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) initially crossing the finish line first but was promptly docked one position for stepping outside the track limits. Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK), aiming for a high note farewell with Kawasaki, was in the lead before an unfortunate crash on Lap 5.
In a day of highs for Yamaha, Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) achieved his second career podium, capping off a brilliant season for the GYTR GRT Yamaha team as his team mate Remy Gardner took fourth place. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) emerged as the top Independent rider in fifth position. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) secured sixth place, securing fifth overall in the Championship standings.
Bautista’s win at Jerez concluded his exceptional season, marked by consistent victories and his second World Championship title.
Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.
P1 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“For sure it’s been a really good season. It wasn’t perfect because of course we made mistakes but it’s the best way to finish the season so far here in Jerez winning three races. Especially in Race 2, the battle was amazing. With Toprak we did a lot of overtakes, all were very special and agressive but at the same time we were correct between us. For sure, I enjoyed a lot this race, even more than the one of Portimao because here I had nothing to lose. The support here with the Spanish fans was incredible. I was so happy to end the season here.”
Razgatlioglu took second place, finishing runner-up in the Championship and leaving Yamaha with numerous remarkable performances.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) fought all the way to the finish. Michael Rinaldi (21) got sixth. Photo courtesy Dorna.
P2 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK
“I passed the chequered flag in P1, this is good for me. I touched the green for track limits, but I didn’t understand as I felt the bike sliding. Maybe, after sliding, I touched it. I didn’t gain an advantage, but rules are rules. For my last day with Yamaha, I just tried to finish in a good position. I needed to try to have good memories of my last race and winning with Yamaha. I’m a little bit sad, but I did a very good job. I gave more than 100% just like at Portimao; I am really fighting with him. I needed some luck because, in the last two races, I didn’t have luck. I’m sad but generally happy for my last race with Yamaha, because everybody could see I gave more than 100%.”
Rea’s season ended on a bittersweet note as he aimed for a high farewell with Kawasaki but suffered an unfortunate crash at Jerez.
Jonathan Rea crashed while leading Race Two, picked his bike up, and still finished 17th in his final race with Kawasaki. Photo courtesy Dorna.
P17 | Jonathan Rea | Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK
“Strange feelings overall to be honest, not from a performance or results side but because I’m leaving an incredible team. My last day in green and that’s what is strange. Obviously, not the result I wanted to finish off with for my team, they deserved a lot better. What we did prove was that the Ninja ZX-10RR still has potential and up until that point of the race, I felt quite in control with a really good rhythm. There were times when I was like ‘ooof, I’ve got a magic tyre’! The bike was hooking up well and going forwards. Pere made a bold decision to make an incredible change, something quite big on the bike that we wanted to try. We didn’t go down without a fight and it was really frustrating to lose the front. Potentially, I could have just gave up the corner a bit, I was a bit fast on entry but I tried to pull it down and with too much lean angle, I was down.
I wanted to finish the race as it would be too easy to pull in. My footpeg had broken off and my handlebar bent forward but I was still able to lap in the 1’41s. It makes me even more disappointed with what could’ve been but that was our race. It sums up the highs and lows we’ve had this year; some incredible highs but difficult moments but it can’t darken the moments I’ve had at KRT. It’s been a whirlwind journey and something I’ll never forget.”
Thrilling conclusion: Bulega’s dominance and Oncu’s return shine in WorldSSP Race 2
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Race 2 at Jerez marked a thrilling conclusion to the 2023 WorldSSP season. On Lap 3, Marcel Schroetter (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) crashed at Turn 13 with his bike hitting the fence on the exit of the corner, leading to a red flag and a race restart over a seven-lap distance due to safety conditions.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) capped off his season in style with a 16th win. Bulega’s remarkable season included a record-breaking 21 podiums. Stefano Manzi (Ten Kate Racing Yamaha) engaged in an intense battle for second place, marking his 22nd career podium, while Can Oncu (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) made a triumphant return to the podium in third.
Adrian Huertas (MTM Kawasaki) secured fourth, Federico Caricasulo (Althea Racing Team) took fifth, and Valentin Debise (GMT94 Yamaha) finished sixth.
The 2023 WorldSSP Champion continued his dominant form, securing a double victory at the Prometeon Spanish Round for his final WorldSSP race.
P1 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team
“It was an amazing season because we had many wins, a lot of fastest laps, and numerous pole positions. It was the best year of my life. When I came here two years ago, my team gave me everything I needed to bring out my talent and speed. Thanks to them for helping me a lot, and we worked hard to achieve these important results.
I will always remember this season because, as I said, it was the best season of my life. Now, we have to celebrate because a season like this doesn’t come around every year. So, it’s time to celebrate now! And yes, starting tomorrow, we begin from scratch. I want to continue giving my maximum, and we will see how I can adapt to the Superbike.”
Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:
Halfway through this season it seemed like Johann’s Zarco’s MotoGP career was over. The paddock rumor machine had VR46 rider Marco Bezzecchi gaining a promotion to Pramac Ducati for 2024, so he could have a latest-spec Desmosedici GP24 to ride alongside Jorge Martin, thus leaving no room for the Frenchman who has ridden Ducatis for the last four seasons, scoring many podiums, but no wins.
Most likely Ducati would demote Zarco to World Superbike, said the rumor machine. But life moves fast in the MotoGP paddock. Honda’s RC213V project is in meltdown, with Marc Marquez wanting to escape his 2024 contract and Alex Rins escaping his during August, quitting the LCR Honda team to ride a factory Yamaha next year, alongside Fabio Quartararo.So LCR owner Lucio Cecchinello contacted Zarco and asked, do you want to ride an RC213V next year?
“Johann Zarco: Can The Warrior Monk Save Honda?” by Mat Oxley
Johann Zarco joins Honda next year, after riding MotoGP’s best motorcycle for the last four seasons, so he could be Honda’s most useful asset in its fight back from the most disastrous period of its racing history. Or will Zarco’s second full-factory-team deal turn out to be another nightmare? Read MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley’s analysis in the latest issue of Roadracing World!
Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.
Alvaro Bautista won the restarted World Superbike Superpole Race Sunday morning at Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, in Spain. The newly crowned two-time World Champion won the eight-lap race by 1.487 seconds on his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R. It was his seventh Superpole Race win of the season.
Dominique Aegerter was the best of the rest on his GYTR GRT Yamaha YZF-R1, earning his first World Superbike podium finish. Jonathan Rea placed third on his factory Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR.
American Garrett Gerloff crashed out of the race in an incident that also saw Axel Bassani fall.
The original start of the Superbike Race was stopped when Aegerter suffered an engine failure that put fluid down on the track.
Waters and Herfoss all square heading into ASBK Superbike final round
Race One winner Cru Halliday (65). Photo courtesy ASBK.
It was a day of high drama and contrasting fortunes in the penultimate round of the 2023 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK), at Phillip Island on Sunday, October 29.
The premier Alpinestars Superbike class again produced tension and excitement aplenty, with the victories shared by Yamaha Racing Team’s Cru Halliday (YZF-R1) and Josh Waters (McMartin Racing with K-Tech Ducati V4R).
Waters now shares the championship lead with Troy Herfoss (Penrite Honda CBR1000RR-R) heading into the round final at The Bend Motorsport Park (SA) from December 1-3. Herfoss could only manage a 7-4 scorecard at Philip Island, while Waters’ 2-1 results were a massive shot in the arm for his championship aspirations.
Like Superbike, the Michelin Supersport class is another one that will go down to the wire at The Bend, with Cameron Dunker (GTR MotoStars Yamaha YZF-R6) and Olly Simpson (YZF-R6) galvanising for one final effort.
With the Phillip Island weather turning it on, the remaining ASBK classes – Supersport 300, Yamaha Finance R3 Cup, bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup and the booming Sureflight Superbike Masters – were able to put on a treat for the spectators and will all be ‘live’ rubbers at The Bend as well.
Alpinestars Superbike
The two 12-lap races were tough for tipsters, especially the opener where Halliday snapped his six-year – or 2254-day – drought since his last victory after outlasting early leader Waters in a tight finish, while Max Stauffer (GTR MotoStars Yamaha YZF-R1) was jubilant after finishing on a Superbike podium for the first time.
It was a disappointing race for Herfoss after he ran off at turn one on lap four – recovering to finish seventh – while Jones’ challenge – and his title defence – evaporated after he crashed out of the lead at turn four on lap 10.
Jones’ demise promoted Stauffer into third, where he had plenty to spare at the conclusion of proceedings over Glenn Allerton (GT Racing BMW M 1000 RR), who was in close company with Bryan Staring (MotoGo Yamaha YZF-R1).
Pole-sitter Broc Pearson (DesmoSport Ducati V4R) was sixth after a tardy getaway, with Herfoss, Ted Collins (Livson Racing M 1000 RR), Anthony West (Addicted to Track YZF-R1) and Arthur Sissis (Unitech Racing YZF-R1) completing the top 10.
But this one was all about Halliday’s return to the Superbike top step.
“Everyone is riding really well, but of course I’m delighted to get the win,” said Halliday. “It was a bit of strange race, and the track has thrown us a bit of a curve ball by being so green.
“It’s really a matter of who can do what on an old tyre, slide it the most and bring it home.”
Waters, still clearly troubled by a number of injuries – broken right wrist, dislocated shoulder and fractured humerus – he sustained at the Suzuka 8 Hours world endurance race in late July, gritted his teeth in race two and led the whole way despite huge dollops of late pressure from Halliday and Jones.
However, the three-time Aussie Superbike champion kept the shutters down, with the trio flashing over the finish line just over half a second apart.
The scene is now set for a barnstorming finale in South Australia.
“I’m rapt to come away with the win there because I honestly didn’t think I’d win,” said Waters. “The conditions were tough in race two with the wind and we’ve had no grip all weekend, but everyone has been in the same boat.
“It’s great for the championship that we’re tied on points heading into the final round. I’ll be going in hard there.”
Herfoss picked his way through to fourth in race two, with Stauffer fifth from Pearson, Staring, Allerton, West and Collins.
Stauffer was third overall in round six, with Waters the victor on a countback over Halliday courtesy of a better finishing position in race two.
Michelin Supersport
Tom Toparis (Cube Racing YZF-R6) and Dunker were the two winners in the Michelin Superport program, but the day ended early for the former in race two after a nasty highside at turn 12 resulted in a broken wrist.
The race was red-flagged and, with Toparis out of action and Simpson frying a clutch in the restart, Dunker took full advantage to claim the spoils ahead of Jonathan Nahlous (YZF-R6) and Jake Farnsworth (YF-R6), followed by Ty Lynch (AMR Motorsports YZF-R6), Dallas Skeer (YZF-R6) and Scott Nicholson (Traction Control Motorsport YZF-R6).
Dunker’s maximum-point result and Simpson’s DNF saw him move into the championship lead on 196pts. Simpson (182pts), the former Red Bull Rookies rider, is still well and truly in touch, and takes extra comfort from knowing the final round will be held at his home circuit.
Lynch (180pts) is also lurking, in what is shaping as a nerve-wracking last-round battle of speed and temperament.
Dunker was delighted with his round six heroics, especially his race two victory. He said: “The race turned out very well, although the track was a bit more slippery.
“The championship has turned on its head with Olly (Simpson) not finishing the race, so I’m looking forward to the last round at The Bend.”
Earlier in the day, Toparis showed the field a clean pair of heels with a searing race-one victory.
Simpson tried his best to remain on Toparis’ tail early on before running wide at turn four, which allowed Dunker into second – and that was the top three carved in stone for the balance of the race. Nahlous, Lynch and Farnsworth saw out the top six.
“I was actually caught out by the start procedure, which is a little bit different to what I have been used to racing in the UK,” said Toparis. “But I settled and then really pushed on the first flyer by doing a 1:35.2, which was close to where I needed to be. After that, I worked into a nice rhythm and was really happy with my performance.”
Supersport 300 and Yamaha Finance R3 Cup
Another normal day of wonderfully entertaining rolling scrums at the sharp ends of the Yamaha Finance R3 Cup and Supersport 300 fields.
In the R3 Cup, Cameron Swain’s lead has been cut to 4pts (231 to 227) after a topsy-turvy round, with Brodie Gawith second ahead of Henry Snell (226) and Brandon Demmery (221). There will be fireworks at The Bend! Snell (2-1-1) was the overall winner at Phillip Island.
In Supersport 300, Snell (two wins) and Gawith (one) shared the honours across the weekend, and this one will also be a cliff-hanger to the very end with Snell (261pts) just ahead of Swain (260), Marcos Hamod (259) and Demmery (241).
bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup
After three doses of no-holds-barred racing, there’s a new leader in the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup with Archie Schmidt to take a 1pt (252 to 251) lead over Bodie Paige into The Bend.
Haydn Fordyce (2-4-1) claimed overall honours at Phillip Island, from Schmidt (5-1-5) and Valentino Knezovic (7-2-2).
Fordyce is third in the championship on 242pts, with Riley Nauta (220) still clinching to hope.
Sureflight Superbike Masters
The balance of the weekend’s Sureflight Superbike Masters Cup races delivered some great contests, with Ryan Taylor (Suzuki GSX-R1100) at the top of the mountain with his 3-1-1 scorecard, ahead of Keo Watson (Yamaha FZR1000) and Murray Clark (GSX-R1100).
Watson has a seemingly impenetrable lead with one round remaining and also holds an iron grip on the Period 6 Formula 1300 class. The other class leaders are Scott Webster (Suzuki XR69, Period 5 F1), Brad Phelan (Suzuki Katana, Period 5 Unlimited) and Robert Young (Ducati 888, Period 6 F750).
Jorge Martin won the MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Riding his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, Martin came out on top of a three-way fight that wasn’t decided until the 26th and final lap of the race. It was Martin’s fourth full-length race win of 2023.
Defending World Champion Francesco Bagnaia was scored second on his Lenovo Team Ducati, just 0.253 second behind Martin.
Red Bull KTM’s Brad Binder crossed the finish line second, but the South African was demoted one position after the race due to exceeding track limits on the final lap.
Instant classic: Martin beats Bagnaia and Binder in a battle to remember in Buriram
History-making margins decide the difference in Thailand as Martin gets the gloves off to cut the Championship gap to 13 points
Jorge Martin (89) held off Brad Binder (33) and Francesco Bagnaia (1) to win Sunday in Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Sunday, 29 October 2023
It’s turning out to be an absolute dog fight for the 2023 MotoGP™ Championship as the gap in the standings is reduced back down to just 13 points with three rounds remaining. How? Pure magic, with Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) coming out on top against Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) in a nail-biting, gloves off and all-out awesome battle for victory at Buriram. Martin won and Binder crossed the line in P2 but exceeded track limits on the final lap, so Bagnaia takes those sweet, sweet 20 points. And did we mention it was also the fourth closest premier class podium finish of all time? Just 0.253 covered the top three.
No holds barred on the opening laps
It was a tense affair as the riders lined up on the grid ready for battle in Buriram, with clouds looming but the skies staying dry as another 25 points went into play.
When the lights went out, Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) got the jump on Martin off the line, but the polesitter held firm into Turn 1 as he stuck it around the outside of the Italian. Bagnaia was fast-starting as well, in contrast to 24 hours earlier in the Sprint, as he got the launch that he needed to fly up from sixth on the grid to fourth.
The gloves were off in the opening laps as Martin led the way. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) pushed his way past Marini for second, whilst Binder was on an absolute mission further back. The South African lunged up the inside of Bagnaia for fourth as he sent the World Champion wide, that also allowing Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) to further demote the number-one-plated Ducati to sixth.
Martin didn’t bolt in the early stages as the Spaniard has done before. Instead, the elbows were out in the leading group as Bagnaia was under pressure and Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) soon joined the party, going wheel to wheel with the #1.
Some close exchanges were made between the two Champions as they battled it out for sixth, until Bagnaia ran the Repsol Honda to the edge of the circuit with his sights firmly set on the bikes ahead, message forcibly received as he was then able to start pulling away.
With 20 laps remaining the race began to calm slightly, albeit briefly, as Martin led the way from Binder. Behind, Alex Marquez had made his way into third but had Marini, Aleix Espargaro, Bagnaia, and Marc Marquez for company.
As Binder shadowed Martin, however, Bagnaia was getting in the groove. He proceeded to carve his way through the group as he set fastest lap after fastest lap, and by 17 laps remaining the reigning Champion had made his way back up to fourth, with Alex Marquez locked in his sights.
Bagnaia was making steady progress on third, but then it changed anyway. AM73’s glorious charge was done as he slid out, rider ok but that promoting Pecco to P3. All that lay up ahead was a KTM and one more Ducati.
Martin vs Binder vs Bagnaia
Binder waited until the final seven laps to show his first hand. He lunged his way through on the Spaniard, but couldn’t quite make it stick as Martin got the cutback. The two then proceeded to exchange paintwork over the course of the next lap. Bagnaia, meanwhile, had long since caught the duo and watched on.
Eventually Binder did get the better of Martin as he replicated his Turn 8 move with five laps to go, this time leaving no room for Martin to bite back and taking the race lead. The roles were reversed, with the number 89 now piling on the pressure.
It stayed tense as close as ever until Turn 2 on the penultimate lap. Martin shot back through on Binder on the brakes, choosing his strategy for the final lap clearly enough: he would defend. And that as Bagnaia tried to sweep past both in one on the penultimate go round the final corner.
The final lap was tense as Martin dug in, but it was far from enough breathing space to relax. Binder was harrying the number 89 apex after apex, and Bagnaia was looking for his own gap. Streaming down into the final corner for the very final time, three machines dropped anchor and piled into the apex, but there was no open door, no quarter given, and no mistakes made from the trio.
Martin took the victory after soaking up that stunning amount of pressure, completing his fourth double of the season. Binder crossed the line second but his error had come earlier on the final lap with track limits biting him once again, demoting the South African to third. Still, he becomes the rider from South Africa with the most premier class podiums, taking his ninth.
Bagnaia takes that 20 points for second to keep his lead at 13 points, after once again getting his elbows out all the way home.
Fights up and down the field
Just two seconds back from the podium battle was Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team). The Italian was making some big moves as he climbed up to fourth place, including a mid-race battle with his teammate Marini which saw the pair exchanging paintwork corner after corner.
Marini faded in the latter stages and dropped down to seventh position, with Aleix Espargaro first to pick up the pieces as he crossed the line in 5th. A post-race penalty for a second tyre pressure offence demoted the Aprilia rider to eighth in the end however. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) and Marc Marquez therefore take fifth and sixth, and Quartararo vs Marc Marquez was also an electriyfing duel later in the race, and one the Frenchman won.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) was next across the line as he took ninth place, with Phillip Island victor Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) rounding out the top ten.
The OR Thailand Grand Prix marks the end of what has been an action-packed triple header, with title fight constantly evolving over the past three rounds. There are now just three to go as one more rush for glory awaits the field… and it all begins at Sepang. Do NOT miss it as MotoGP™ returns to Malaysia in two weeks!
Fermin Aldeguer (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Aldeguer outpaces Acosta as Chantra takes home podium to rapturous reception
Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) was simply unstoppable at the OR Thailand Grand Prix as he hit the front, hit the gas and didn’t look back – leaving Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) waiting for another shot at the crown in Malaysia as the number 37 was forced to settle for second in Buriram. Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) took the final spot on the podium as he put in a stunner on home turf, delighting the home crowd.
Polesitter Aldeguer took the holeshot, with Acosta holding second. Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing) had his elbows out as the lights went out, the Spaniard initially flying up to third from the second row.
Aldeguer put the hammer down right from the off, asking big questions of the Championship leader. Acosta did all he could to stick with the Boscoscuro, but Aldeguer began to sail away and from there, only one small mistake at the final corner denied the number 54 true perfection on his way to an incredible win.
Behind the top two, the home fans were enthralled as a tantalising battle for the podium began to emerge with the home hero Chantra putting Ramirez under pressure. The move came from Chantra with 17 laps remaining as a perfectly executed Turn 2 overtake ignited the home crowd.
There was drama elsewhere though, with Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) crashing out after making big contact with Celestino Vietti (Fantic Racing).
Meanwhile, Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) was a rider on a mission as the Italian was slowly picking his way through the pack, determined not to let his title rival seal the deal in Thailand. Ai Ogura (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) was also on a charge after a tough qualifying, slicing up through the order.
At the front though, Aldeguer couldn’t be stopped and took a stunning second GP win, with Acosta using his “head not heart” to settle for those very valuable 20 points for second. Chantra, meanwhile, had his own breathing space to control and the home hero did just that, bringing home a podium to a rapturous reception.
Arbolino fought his way through to fourth, and Ogura’s charge saw him get into the top five as Ramirez faded to a still notable sixth place finish.
The attention now turns to the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia as the next challenge on the GP calendar awaits the Moto2™ grid. If Acosta finishes in the top four, he is the World Champion. Join us there!
David Alonso (80) led a swarm of Moto3 riders across the finish line in Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Magic Alonso, milestones for Furusato & Veijer, an increased lead for Masia and heartbreak for Sasaki
The incredible Moto3™ action defies character limits in Buriram as the title fight takes another twist
David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) is now a four-time Grand Prix winner, the Moto3™ Rookie of the Year AND a serious contender for the 2023 Championship after the Colombian came out on top in an awesome showdown at the OR Thailand Grand Prix. The number 80 was able to just stay ahead of a three-way drag to the line to decide the podium positions behind him, with Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) and Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) taking second and third, respectively – awesome maiden podiums for both.
Championship leader Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) may not have taken a podium but he did increase his lead as disaster struck for Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) through no fault of his own, unable to avoid contact with David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) after an apparent mechanical for the Spaniard – and Sasaki rejoining before later retiring and taking home nil points.
As the lights went out, polesitter Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) took the holeshot before Sasaki sliced through, but Masia was the early big mover as he grabbed a handful of places off the line to take over in second. It was early doors though, with a huge group at the front – and big drama right around the corner.
What seemed to be a mechanical issue for Muñoz saw the BOE machine drop like a stone round Turn 4, and right on the racing line… with Sasaki the first rider who couldn’t avoid contact, along with Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) as the Spaniard was forced wide. Riders all ok, but Holgado rejoined in P27 and set off on an almighty charge, Muñoz later headed back out but was forced in, and Sasaki first carried on before being forced to retire in a huge title twist.
Back at the front, the gloves were off in a classic big leading group. But lap by lap it became a battle of five by the final five laps – until the elbows came out again, allowing those behind to close back in. Meanwhile on Holgado watch, the Spaniard was on an absolute charge up into P8 by two to go, as at the very front Veijer led Masia, Alonso and Furusato.
Onto the final lap, a bobble between Öncü and Holgado at the final corner created a small gap behind the leading four of Veijer, Alonso, Masia and Furusato, but soon they had closed back in.
Most of the front quartet headed a little wide with few moves, only Masia able to move through. Then it suddenly looked like Veijer was out of the fight for the win after a huge moment out the seat at the exit of Turn 4, leaving Alonso leading Furusato – with Masia shadowing the Japanese rider. But it wasn’t over. By the braking zone into the final corner, the Dutchman was right back into it.
Alonso retained the lead into that final corner, with Masia attacking Furusato just behind. The Championship leader got it done but then found Alonso on the apex and overcooked it, and that allowed Furusato to cut back up the inside – as did Veijer.
As Alonso took that magical fourth win of the year and confirmed himself the 2023 Rookie of the Year as well as a serious title threat, the fight for second became a drag to the line. And Furusato won it, taking his first Grand Prix podium in incredible style – the exact same phrase that can be said of Veijer as both hit a milestone.
Masia was forced to settle for fourth but with the disaster for Sasaki still increases his lead – now 17 points ahead of the Japanese rider. Alonso is now third, 25 points back and equal on points with Holgado in fourth after the Tech3 rider’s incredible comeback charge. Öncü took fifth in the race and is fifth in the Championship, now 39 off the top.
Behind Holgado in that impressive P6, Matteo Bertelle (Rivacold Snipers Team) beat Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse), Ryusei Yamanaka (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) and Kaito Toba (SIC58 Squadra Corse) as they completed the top ten just ahead of Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team), the final rider in that front group.
Now it’s destination Sepang for the final triple header of a blockbuster 2023. 25 points cover four riders, with Masia back ahead of the game by some margin. What awaits in Malaysia? Join us for more Moto3™ in two weeks to find out!
Fermin Aldeguer won the Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Riding his Beta Tools SpeedUp Boscoscuro machine, the Spaniard won the 22-lap race by 3.481 seconds.
Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Pedro Acosta expanded his Championship point lead by finishing second, and Thai star Somkiat Chantra thrilled the home crowd by taking third on his Idemitsu Honda Team Asia Kalex.
American Joe Roberts crashed his Italtrans Racing Kalex early in the race and Did Not Finish (DNF).
The Cremona Circuit near Milan, Italy, will host the Superbike World Championship this coming weekend. Photo courtesy Dorna.
WorldSBK welcomes Cremona Circuit as new venue for 2024
Round 10 of the 2024 World Championship will feature racing across three series: WorldSBK, WorldSSP, and the FIM Women’s Motorcycling World Championship. A five-year contract was signed between the Lombard circuit and Dorna WSBK Organization (DWO), which secures their place in the Championship from 2024 to 2028. It was designed by Jarno Zaffelli’s Studio Dromo, which has a reputation for its work on prominent racetracks.
Located just south of Milan, Cremona Circuit is now set to undergo the homologation process and is actively preparing for this significant event by implementing several important modifications and improvements, including:
Track Layout Enhancements: Changes to the layout of the track, with a notable focus on turns #11, #12, and #13.
High-Quality Resurfacing: Refurbishing specific areas of the track with quality materials to enhance the track’s condition.
Track Length Extension: An extension of approximately 90 meters to the track’s length to enrich racing dynamics.
Spectator Facilities Expansion: Construction of new grandstands and public areas to accommodate the ever-growing WorldSBK fan base.
Modern Race Direction Facilities: The addition of a contemporary structure to house offices for Race Direction and support staff to manage the entirety of the event effectively.
The Cremona Circuit, near Milan, Italy. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director:
“WorldSBK is thrilled to introduce Cremona Circuit to the 2024 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The addition of Cremona to our calendar marks a significant milestone and we’re fully committed to delivering top-quality racing experiences to our fans. This five-year agreement stands as a clear testament to that unwavering dedication as we’re looking forward propelling this venue onto the global scene.”
Alessandro Canevarolo, Cremona Circuit CEO:
“We are really happy, excited and hyped for this new great challenge. It will be an opportunity to take an extra, important step to grow, and with great satisfaction bring back the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship to Lombardy, missing for ten long years. After some negotiations, we immediately got to work to make the necessary changes for hosting this major event. Together with the management, the goal is to create an event that can showcase the area, the region and represent Italy in all its values. The goal has been clear ever since I started this adventure eight years ago. We started from afar, facing every moment with great spirit, passion, and dedication. Only in this way were we able to fulfil the big dream: seeing the Superbike World Championship race on the asphalt of our Cremona Circuit.”
Trey Canard (41) in action on the Honda CR Electric Prototype in Japan. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Honda CR Electric Proto Shows Leading Pace in Valuable Debut Weekend
Team HRC completes a successful competitive debut for the CR Electric Proto
Trey Canard (41) leading the start of an All-Japan Motocross Championship moto on the Honda CR Electric Prototype. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
SAITAMA, Japan – After a successful qualifying run yesterday, Sunday’s race day brought mixed fortunes for Team HRC but a race-leading demonstration of pace of the new CR Electric Proto at round 8 of the All Japan Motocross Championship.
In the morning’s practice, Team Honda HRC advisor and test rider Trey Canard—racing as a wildcard entry—followed on seamlessly from his Saturday pace to go second-fastest on the all-electric #41, making its global competitive debut this weekend in the premier IA1 class against 450cc gas-powered machinery.
Then came the first-ever race for Honda’s new prototype machine, in the form of the first moto. The opening race was smooth, with Canard starting strongly, settling into a rhythm and crossing the line second aboard the CR Electric Proto. As learning, development and ultimately the pace continued to improve throughout the weekend, Canard closed to just 0.7 seconds off the fastest lap and was looking fast.
In the second moto, Canard again started well and looked to be set to keep building on the weekend’s momentum, but an early crash with moto 1 rival Jay Wilson unfortunately put him out of the race.
Returning for the third moto, Canard made best use of the Honda’s instant electric torque and again started strongly, taking the lead exiting the first corner. In fact, Canard took two of the three holeshots on CR Electric Proto.
Starting to stretch that lead from his weekend-long rival, the #27 of Wilson, it would have been the perfect culmination of the weekend’s learning and work on the CR Electric Proto to take the machine’s first win in its first-ever competitive weekend—but unfortunately, as the track continued to get ever more rutted, Canard crashed with 12 and a half minutes remaining of the 15-minute race.
Nonetheless, with the opportunity provided by racing to learn, develop and prove the prototype machine in the heat of battle for the first time, it has been a successful and encouraging debut for the CR Electric Proto—a weekend that has provided valuable data for ongoing development of Honda’s all-electric motocross initiative.
Trey Canard (41) and the Honda CR Electric Prototype in Japan. Photo courtesy Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Trey Canard
“This weekend was definitely a big challenge for me, but it was a great race for our development. Each time I was on the track, we improved the motorcycle and the CR Electric Proto team adapted to the challenge. We had some shines of brilliance as a team, the starts being one of them, with two of the three holeshots. There were also some sections on the track that were very impressive, and that makes me excited for the future of this motorcycle. I’m disappointed to not finish all of the motos after all of the hard work the team has put in, but I think we showed that the potential of the bike is quite high, especially for our very first attempt at racing. I’m grateful to be a part of this effort, and I’m very proud of each and every person who has worked so hard.”
Taichi Honda: Team HRC Team Manager
“First of all, I would like to thank the development team and everyone involved for preparing the CR Electric Proto to be ready for competition in such a short time. I would also like to thank Trey Canard for showing his potential, even though he has only had a few tests. We had three heats for the first time today, and we will take what we learned from each race and feed it back to the ongoing development of the CR Electric project.”
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) catching air during testing at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Photo courtesy Dorna.
For All the Great Things You Gave Us. Thank you, Toprak
The final race weekend of the 2023 season was an emotional one for Yamaha as they acknowledged the parting of Toprak Razgatlıoğlu with several special nods to the title winning Turk – including a farewell video which has been released to sum up the best moments shared and sentiments felt.
The 27-year-old has taken 131 race starts with Yamaha in WorldSBK since 2020 and in this time he has achieved a remarkable 100 podiums, 37 wins and 12 pole positions with the brand, as well as a superb World Championship crown in 2021. Toprak not only brought success, celebrations and a supreme riding style to the blue corner, but his unique personality, humour and showmanship too. Naturally, all those who worked with him have fond and funny memories of their time with the #54 rider.
These were revealed in special interviews carried out with the Pata Yamaha Prometeon team and key figures from Yamaha Racing ahead of the final round, and they made for interesting viewing with a wide range of, sometimes surprising, answers.
“I’ll never forget it, in 2021 we were in Indonesia and we spent so much time talking about the championship, it was amazing. He was really excited and we were eating a pizza and French fries together and it was really fun, especially because he then became champion.” – Andrea Locatelli, team-mate
“All the way back to the start, our first race together. He was sick with the ‘flu, he was struggling, but Kenan Sofuoğlu (Toprak’s Manager) told us that he could win the race. That’s exactly what he did. From that moment everything moved forward. But the wider picture is what I’ll remember most; the rider he became with us and the friendships made that I hope will last long term.” – Paul Denning, Team Principal, Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK
“The first stoppie I saw him do was just massive, I was standing in pitlane thinking ‘what is this?’ There’s been lots of fun along the way. Winning the title was unbelievable, a total dream come true. He made that happen, it was really emotional.” – Russ Joyner, Chief Mechanic
“Standing on the podium with him after his first victory with Yamaha is a memory that will stay in my heart forever.” – Andrea Dosoli, Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager
When asked to describe Toprak in one word the simple yet powerful answers were testament to the talent and determination he’s shown during the past four seasons with Yamaha…
“Extraordinary”
“Incomparable”
“Relentless”
“Magic”
“Outstanding”
For the victories, the joys, the humour and the humility. For everything you gave us. Thank you, Toprak.
Drama in Jerez: Bautista claims victory as Razgatlioglu is penalised in WorldSBK Season Finale
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) crossed the finish line practically side-by-side with Dominique Aegerter (77) close behind in third at the end of Race Two. Photo courtesy Dorna.
In an unforgettable showdown, the top two contenders for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship engaged in a fierce duel at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) secured the win, with Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) initially crossing the finish line first but was promptly docked one position for stepping outside the track limits. Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK), aiming for a high note farewell with Kawasaki, was in the lead before an unfortunate crash on Lap 5.
In a day of highs for Yamaha, Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) achieved his second career podium, capping off a brilliant season for the GYTR GRT Yamaha team as his team mate Remy Gardner took fourth place. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) emerged as the top Independent rider in fifth position. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) secured sixth place, securing fifth overall in the Championship standings.
Bautista’s win at Jerez concluded his exceptional season, marked by consistent victories and his second World Championship title.
Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.
P1 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“For sure it’s been a really good season. It wasn’t perfect because of course we made mistakes but it’s the best way to finish the season so far here in Jerez winning three races. Especially in Race 2, the battle was amazing. With Toprak we did a lot of overtakes, all were very special and agressive but at the same time we were correct between us. For sure, I enjoyed a lot this race, even more than the one of Portimao because here I had nothing to lose. The support here with the Spanish fans was incredible. I was so happy to end the season here.”
Razgatlioglu took second place, finishing runner-up in the Championship and leaving Yamaha with numerous remarkable performances.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Alvaro Bautista (1) fought all the way to the finish. Michael Rinaldi (21) got sixth. Photo courtesy Dorna.
P2 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK
“I passed the chequered flag in P1, this is good for me. I touched the green for track limits, but I didn’t understand as I felt the bike sliding. Maybe, after sliding, I touched it. I didn’t gain an advantage, but rules are rules. For my last day with Yamaha, I just tried to finish in a good position. I needed to try to have good memories of my last race and winning with Yamaha. I’m a little bit sad, but I did a very good job. I gave more than 100% just like at Portimao; I am really fighting with him. I needed some luck because, in the last two races, I didn’t have luck. I’m sad but generally happy for my last race with Yamaha, because everybody could see I gave more than 100%.”
Rea’s season ended on a bittersweet note as he aimed for a high farewell with Kawasaki but suffered an unfortunate crash at Jerez.
Jonathan Rea crashed while leading Race Two, picked his bike up, and still finished 17th in his final race with Kawasaki. Photo courtesy Dorna.
P17 | Jonathan Rea | Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK
“Strange feelings overall to be honest, not from a performance or results side but because I’m leaving an incredible team. My last day in green and that’s what is strange. Obviously, not the result I wanted to finish off with for my team, they deserved a lot better. What we did prove was that the Ninja ZX-10RR still has potential and up until that point of the race, I felt quite in control with a really good rhythm. There were times when I was like ‘ooof, I’ve got a magic tyre’! The bike was hooking up well and going forwards. Pere made a bold decision to make an incredible change, something quite big on the bike that we wanted to try. We didn’t go down without a fight and it was really frustrating to lose the front. Potentially, I could have just gave up the corner a bit, I was a bit fast on entry but I tried to pull it down and with too much lean angle, I was down.
I wanted to finish the race as it would be too easy to pull in. My footpeg had broken off and my handlebar bent forward but I was still able to lap in the 1’41s. It makes me even more disappointed with what could’ve been but that was our race. It sums up the highs and lows we’ve had this year; some incredible highs but difficult moments but it can’t darken the moments I’ve had at KRT. It’s been a whirlwind journey and something I’ll never forget.”
Thrilling conclusion: Bulega’s dominance and Oncu’s return shine in WorldSSP Race 2
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Race 2 at Jerez marked a thrilling conclusion to the 2023 WorldSSP season. On Lap 3, Marcel Schroetter (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) crashed at Turn 13 with his bike hitting the fence on the exit of the corner, leading to a red flag and a race restart over a seven-lap distance due to safety conditions.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) capped off his season in style with a 16th win. Bulega’s remarkable season included a record-breaking 21 podiums. Stefano Manzi (Ten Kate Racing Yamaha) engaged in an intense battle for second place, marking his 22nd career podium, while Can Oncu (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) made a triumphant return to the podium in third.
Adrian Huertas (MTM Kawasaki) secured fourth, Federico Caricasulo (Althea Racing Team) took fifth, and Valentin Debise (GMT94 Yamaha) finished sixth.
The 2023 WorldSSP Champion continued his dominant form, securing a double victory at the Prometeon Spanish Round for his final WorldSSP race.
P1 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team
“It was an amazing season because we had many wins, a lot of fastest laps, and numerous pole positions. It was the best year of my life. When I came here two years ago, my team gave me everything I needed to bring out my talent and speed. Thanks to them for helping me a lot, and we worked hard to achieve these important results.
I will always remember this season because, as I said, it was the best season of my life. Now, we have to celebrate because a season like this doesn’t come around every year. So, it’s time to celebrate now! And yes, starting tomorrow, we begin from scratch. I want to continue giving my maximum, and we will see how I can adapt to the Superbike.”
Johann Zarco (5) battles Brad Binder (33) and Marco Bezzecchi (72) at COTA. Photo by Gigi Soldano/DPPI Media.
Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:
Halfway through this season it seemed like Johann’s Zarco’s MotoGP career was over. The paddock rumor machine had VR46 rider Marco Bezzecchi gaining a promotion to Pramac Ducati for 2024, so he could have a latest-spec Desmosedici GP24 to ride alongside Jorge Martin, thus leaving no room for the Frenchman who has ridden Ducatis for the last four seasons, scoring many podiums, but no wins.
Most likely Ducati would demote Zarco to World Superbike, said the rumor machine. But life moves fast in the MotoGP paddock. Honda’s RC213V project is in meltdown, with Marc Marquez wanting to escape his 2024 contract and Alex Rins escaping his during August, quitting the LCR Honda team to ride a factory Yamaha next year, alongside Fabio Quartararo.So LCR owner Lucio Cecchinello contacted Zarco and asked, do you want to ride an RC213V next year?
“Johann Zarco: Can The Warrior Monk Save Honda?” by Mat Oxley
Johann Zarco joins Honda next year, after riding MotoGP’s best motorcycle for the last four seasons, so he could be Honda’s most useful asset in its fight back from the most disastrous period of its racing history. Or will Zarco’s second full-factory-team deal turn out to be another nightmare? Read MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley’s analysis in the latest issue of Roadracing World!
Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.
Circuito de Jerez - Angel Nieto, in Spain. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista won the restarted World Superbike Superpole Race Sunday morning at Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, in Spain. The newly crowned two-time World Champion won the eight-lap race by 1.487 seconds on his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R. It was his seventh Superpole Race win of the season.
Dominique Aegerter was the best of the rest on his GYTR GRT Yamaha YZF-R1, earning his first World Superbike podium finish. Jonathan Rea placed third on his factory Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR.
American Garrett Gerloff crashed out of the race in an incident that also saw Axel Bassani fall.
The original start of the Superbike Race was stopped when Aegerter suffered an engine failure that put fluid down on the track.
Waters and Herfoss all square heading into ASBK Superbike final round
Race One winner Cru Halliday (65). Photo courtesy ASBK.
It was a day of high drama and contrasting fortunes in the penultimate round of the 2023 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK), at Phillip Island on Sunday, October 29.
The premier Alpinestars Superbike class again produced tension and excitement aplenty, with the victories shared by Yamaha Racing Team’s Cru Halliday (YZF-R1) and Josh Waters (McMartin Racing with K-Tech Ducati V4R).
Waters now shares the championship lead with Troy Herfoss (Penrite Honda CBR1000RR-R) heading into the round final at The Bend Motorsport Park (SA) from December 1-3. Herfoss could only manage a 7-4 scorecard at Philip Island, while Waters’ 2-1 results were a massive shot in the arm for his championship aspirations.
Like Superbike, the Michelin Supersport class is another one that will go down to the wire at The Bend, with Cameron Dunker (GTR MotoStars Yamaha YZF-R6) and Olly Simpson (YZF-R6) galvanising for one final effort.
With the Phillip Island weather turning it on, the remaining ASBK classes – Supersport 300, Yamaha Finance R3 Cup, bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup and the booming Sureflight Superbike Masters – were able to put on a treat for the spectators and will all be ‘live’ rubbers at The Bend as well.
Alpinestars Superbike
The two 12-lap races were tough for tipsters, especially the opener where Halliday snapped his six-year – or 2254-day – drought since his last victory after outlasting early leader Waters in a tight finish, while Max Stauffer (GTR MotoStars Yamaha YZF-R1) was jubilant after finishing on a Superbike podium for the first time.
It was a disappointing race for Herfoss after he ran off at turn one on lap four – recovering to finish seventh – while Jones’ challenge – and his title defence – evaporated after he crashed out of the lead at turn four on lap 10.
Jones’ demise promoted Stauffer into third, where he had plenty to spare at the conclusion of proceedings over Glenn Allerton (GT Racing BMW M 1000 RR), who was in close company with Bryan Staring (MotoGo Yamaha YZF-R1).
Pole-sitter Broc Pearson (DesmoSport Ducati V4R) was sixth after a tardy getaway, with Herfoss, Ted Collins (Livson Racing M 1000 RR), Anthony West (Addicted to Track YZF-R1) and Arthur Sissis (Unitech Racing YZF-R1) completing the top 10.
But this one was all about Halliday’s return to the Superbike top step.
“Everyone is riding really well, but of course I’m delighted to get the win,” said Halliday. “It was a bit of strange race, and the track has thrown us a bit of a curve ball by being so green.
“It’s really a matter of who can do what on an old tyre, slide it the most and bring it home.”
Waters, still clearly troubled by a number of injuries – broken right wrist, dislocated shoulder and fractured humerus – he sustained at the Suzuka 8 Hours world endurance race in late July, gritted his teeth in race two and led the whole way despite huge dollops of late pressure from Halliday and Jones.
However, the three-time Aussie Superbike champion kept the shutters down, with the trio flashing over the finish line just over half a second apart.
The scene is now set for a barnstorming finale in South Australia.
“I’m rapt to come away with the win there because I honestly didn’t think I’d win,” said Waters. “The conditions were tough in race two with the wind and we’ve had no grip all weekend, but everyone has been in the same boat.
“It’s great for the championship that we’re tied on points heading into the final round. I’ll be going in hard there.”
Herfoss picked his way through to fourth in race two, with Stauffer fifth from Pearson, Staring, Allerton, West and Collins.
Stauffer was third overall in round six, with Waters the victor on a countback over Halliday courtesy of a better finishing position in race two.
Michelin Supersport
Tom Toparis (Cube Racing YZF-R6) and Dunker were the two winners in the Michelin Superport program, but the day ended early for the former in race two after a nasty highside at turn 12 resulted in a broken wrist.
The race was red-flagged and, with Toparis out of action and Simpson frying a clutch in the restart, Dunker took full advantage to claim the spoils ahead of Jonathan Nahlous (YZF-R6) and Jake Farnsworth (YF-R6), followed by Ty Lynch (AMR Motorsports YZF-R6), Dallas Skeer (YZF-R6) and Scott Nicholson (Traction Control Motorsport YZF-R6).
Dunker’s maximum-point result and Simpson’s DNF saw him move into the championship lead on 196pts. Simpson (182pts), the former Red Bull Rookies rider, is still well and truly in touch, and takes extra comfort from knowing the final round will be held at his home circuit.
Lynch (180pts) is also lurking, in what is shaping as a nerve-wracking last-round battle of speed and temperament.
Dunker was delighted with his round six heroics, especially his race two victory. He said: “The race turned out very well, although the track was a bit more slippery.
“The championship has turned on its head with Olly (Simpson) not finishing the race, so I’m looking forward to the last round at The Bend.”
Earlier in the day, Toparis showed the field a clean pair of heels with a searing race-one victory.
Simpson tried his best to remain on Toparis’ tail early on before running wide at turn four, which allowed Dunker into second – and that was the top three carved in stone for the balance of the race. Nahlous, Lynch and Farnsworth saw out the top six.
“I was actually caught out by the start procedure, which is a little bit different to what I have been used to racing in the UK,” said Toparis. “But I settled and then really pushed on the first flyer by doing a 1:35.2, which was close to where I needed to be. After that, I worked into a nice rhythm and was really happy with my performance.”
Supersport 300 and Yamaha Finance R3 Cup
Another normal day of wonderfully entertaining rolling scrums at the sharp ends of the Yamaha Finance R3 Cup and Supersport 300 fields.
In the R3 Cup, Cameron Swain’s lead has been cut to 4pts (231 to 227) after a topsy-turvy round, with Brodie Gawith second ahead of Henry Snell (226) and Brandon Demmery (221). There will be fireworks at The Bend! Snell (2-1-1) was the overall winner at Phillip Island.
In Supersport 300, Snell (two wins) and Gawith (one) shared the honours across the weekend, and this one will also be a cliff-hanger to the very end with Snell (261pts) just ahead of Swain (260), Marcos Hamod (259) and Demmery (241).
bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup
After three doses of no-holds-barred racing, there’s a new leader in the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup with Archie Schmidt to take a 1pt (252 to 251) lead over Bodie Paige into The Bend.
Haydn Fordyce (2-4-1) claimed overall honours at Phillip Island, from Schmidt (5-1-5) and Valentino Knezovic (7-2-2).
Fordyce is third in the championship on 242pts, with Riley Nauta (220) still clinching to hope.
Sureflight Superbike Masters
The balance of the weekend’s Sureflight Superbike Masters Cup races delivered some great contests, with Ryan Taylor (Suzuki GSX-R1100) at the top of the mountain with his 3-1-1 scorecard, ahead of Keo Watson (Yamaha FZR1000) and Murray Clark (GSX-R1100).
Watson has a seemingly impenetrable lead with one round remaining and also holds an iron grip on the Period 6 Formula 1300 class. The other class leaders are Scott Webster (Suzuki XR69, Period 5 F1), Brad Phelan (Suzuki Katana, Period 5 Unlimited) and Robert Young (Ducati 888, Period 6 F750).
Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jorge Martin won the MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Riding his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati, Martin came out on top of a three-way fight that wasn’t decided until the 26th and final lap of the race. It was Martin’s fourth full-length race win of 2023.
Defending World Champion Francesco Bagnaia was scored second on his Lenovo Team Ducati, just 0.253 second behind Martin.
Red Bull KTM’s Brad Binder crossed the finish line second, but the South African was demoted one position after the race due to exceeding track limits on the final lap.
Instant classic: Martin beats Bagnaia and Binder in a battle to remember in Buriram
History-making margins decide the difference in Thailand as Martin gets the gloves off to cut the Championship gap to 13 points
Jorge Martin (89) held off Brad Binder (33) and Francesco Bagnaia (1) to win Sunday in Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Sunday, 29 October 2023
It’s turning out to be an absolute dog fight for the 2023 MotoGP™ Championship as the gap in the standings is reduced back down to just 13 points with three rounds remaining. How? Pure magic, with Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) coming out on top against Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) in a nail-biting, gloves off and all-out awesome battle for victory at Buriram. Martin won and Binder crossed the line in P2 but exceeded track limits on the final lap, so Bagnaia takes those sweet, sweet 20 points. And did we mention it was also the fourth closest premier class podium finish of all time? Just 0.253 covered the top three.
No holds barred on the opening laps
It was a tense affair as the riders lined up on the grid ready for battle in Buriram, with clouds looming but the skies staying dry as another 25 points went into play.
When the lights went out, Luca Marini (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) got the jump on Martin off the line, but the polesitter held firm into Turn 1 as he stuck it around the outside of the Italian. Bagnaia was fast-starting as well, in contrast to 24 hours earlier in the Sprint, as he got the launch that he needed to fly up from sixth on the grid to fourth.
The gloves were off in the opening laps as Martin led the way. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) pushed his way past Marini for second, whilst Binder was on an absolute mission further back. The South African lunged up the inside of Bagnaia for fourth as he sent the World Champion wide, that also allowing Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) to further demote the number-one-plated Ducati to sixth.
Martin didn’t bolt in the early stages as the Spaniard has done before. Instead, the elbows were out in the leading group as Bagnaia was under pressure and Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) soon joined the party, going wheel to wheel with the #1.
Some close exchanges were made between the two Champions as they battled it out for sixth, until Bagnaia ran the Repsol Honda to the edge of the circuit with his sights firmly set on the bikes ahead, message forcibly received as he was then able to start pulling away.
With 20 laps remaining the race began to calm slightly, albeit briefly, as Martin led the way from Binder. Behind, Alex Marquez had made his way into third but had Marini, Aleix Espargaro, Bagnaia, and Marc Marquez for company.
As Binder shadowed Martin, however, Bagnaia was getting in the groove. He proceeded to carve his way through the group as he set fastest lap after fastest lap, and by 17 laps remaining the reigning Champion had made his way back up to fourth, with Alex Marquez locked in his sights.
Bagnaia was making steady progress on third, but then it changed anyway. AM73’s glorious charge was done as he slid out, rider ok but that promoting Pecco to P3. All that lay up ahead was a KTM and one more Ducati.
Martin vs Binder vs Bagnaia
Binder waited until the final seven laps to show his first hand. He lunged his way through on the Spaniard, but couldn’t quite make it stick as Martin got the cutback. The two then proceeded to exchange paintwork over the course of the next lap. Bagnaia, meanwhile, had long since caught the duo and watched on.
Eventually Binder did get the better of Martin as he replicated his Turn 8 move with five laps to go, this time leaving no room for Martin to bite back and taking the race lead. The roles were reversed, with the number 89 now piling on the pressure.
It stayed tense as close as ever until Turn 2 on the penultimate lap. Martin shot back through on Binder on the brakes, choosing his strategy for the final lap clearly enough: he would defend. And that as Bagnaia tried to sweep past both in one on the penultimate go round the final corner.
The final lap was tense as Martin dug in, but it was far from enough breathing space to relax. Binder was harrying the number 89 apex after apex, and Bagnaia was looking for his own gap. Streaming down into the final corner for the very final time, three machines dropped anchor and piled into the apex, but there was no open door, no quarter given, and no mistakes made from the trio.
Martin took the victory after soaking up that stunning amount of pressure, completing his fourth double of the season. Binder crossed the line second but his error had come earlier on the final lap with track limits biting him once again, demoting the South African to third. Still, he becomes the rider from South Africa with the most premier class podiums, taking his ninth.
Bagnaia takes that 20 points for second to keep his lead at 13 points, after once again getting his elbows out all the way home.
Fights up and down the field
Just two seconds back from the podium battle was Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team). The Italian was making some big moves as he climbed up to fourth place, including a mid-race battle with his teammate Marini which saw the pair exchanging paintwork corner after corner.
Marini faded in the latter stages and dropped down to seventh position, with Aleix Espargaro first to pick up the pieces as he crossed the line in 5th. A post-race penalty for a second tyre pressure offence demoted the Aprilia rider to eighth in the end however. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) and Marc Marquez therefore take fifth and sixth, and Quartararo vs Marc Marquez was also an electriyfing duel later in the race, and one the Frenchman won.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) was next across the line as he took ninth place, with Phillip Island victor Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) rounding out the top ten.
The OR Thailand Grand Prix marks the end of what has been an action-packed triple header, with title fight constantly evolving over the past three rounds. There are now just three to go as one more rush for glory awaits the field… and it all begins at Sepang. Do NOT miss it as MotoGP™ returns to Malaysia in two weeks!
Fermin Aldeguer (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Aldeguer outpaces Acosta as Chantra takes home podium to rapturous reception
Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) was simply unstoppable at the OR Thailand Grand Prix as he hit the front, hit the gas and didn’t look back – leaving Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) waiting for another shot at the crown in Malaysia as the number 37 was forced to settle for second in Buriram. Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) took the final spot on the podium as he put in a stunner on home turf, delighting the home crowd.
Polesitter Aldeguer took the holeshot, with Acosta holding second. Marcos Ramirez (OnlyFans American Racing) had his elbows out as the lights went out, the Spaniard initially flying up to third from the second row.
Aldeguer put the hammer down right from the off, asking big questions of the Championship leader. Acosta did all he could to stick with the Boscoscuro, but Aldeguer began to sail away and from there, only one small mistake at the final corner denied the number 54 true perfection on his way to an incredible win.
Behind the top two, the home fans were enthralled as a tantalising battle for the podium began to emerge with the home hero Chantra putting Ramirez under pressure. The move came from Chantra with 17 laps remaining as a perfectly executed Turn 2 overtake ignited the home crowd.
There was drama elsewhere though, with Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) crashing out after making big contact with Celestino Vietti (Fantic Racing).
Meanwhile, Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) was a rider on a mission as the Italian was slowly picking his way through the pack, determined not to let his title rival seal the deal in Thailand. Ai Ogura (IDEMITSU Honda Team Asia) was also on a charge after a tough qualifying, slicing up through the order.
At the front though, Aldeguer couldn’t be stopped and took a stunning second GP win, with Acosta using his “head not heart” to settle for those very valuable 20 points for second. Chantra, meanwhile, had his own breathing space to control and the home hero did just that, bringing home a podium to a rapturous reception.
Arbolino fought his way through to fourth, and Ogura’s charge saw him get into the top five as Ramirez faded to a still notable sixth place finish.
The attention now turns to the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia as the next challenge on the GP calendar awaits the Moto2™ grid. If Acosta finishes in the top four, he is the World Champion. Join us there!
David Alonso (80) led a swarm of Moto3 riders across the finish line in Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Magic Alonso, milestones for Furusato & Veijer, an increased lead for Masia and heartbreak for Sasaki
The incredible Moto3™ action defies character limits in Buriram as the title fight takes another twist
David Alonso (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) is now a four-time Grand Prix winner, the Moto3™ Rookie of the Year AND a serious contender for the 2023 Championship after the Colombian came out on top in an awesome showdown at the OR Thailand Grand Prix. The number 80 was able to just stay ahead of a three-way drag to the line to decide the podium positions behind him, with Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) and Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) taking second and third, respectively – awesome maiden podiums for both.
Championship leader Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) may not have taken a podium but he did increase his lead as disaster struck for Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) through no fault of his own, unable to avoid contact with David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) after an apparent mechanical for the Spaniard – and Sasaki rejoining before later retiring and taking home nil points.
As the lights went out, polesitter Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) took the holeshot before Sasaki sliced through, but Masia was the early big mover as he grabbed a handful of places off the line to take over in second. It was early doors though, with a huge group at the front – and big drama right around the corner.
What seemed to be a mechanical issue for Muñoz saw the BOE machine drop like a stone round Turn 4, and right on the racing line… with Sasaki the first rider who couldn’t avoid contact, along with Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3) as the Spaniard was forced wide. Riders all ok, but Holgado rejoined in P27 and set off on an almighty charge, Muñoz later headed back out but was forced in, and Sasaki first carried on before being forced to retire in a huge title twist.
Back at the front, the gloves were off in a classic big leading group. But lap by lap it became a battle of five by the final five laps – until the elbows came out again, allowing those behind to close back in. Meanwhile on Holgado watch, the Spaniard was on an absolute charge up into P8 by two to go, as at the very front Veijer led Masia, Alonso and Furusato.
Onto the final lap, a bobble between Öncü and Holgado at the final corner created a small gap behind the leading four of Veijer, Alonso, Masia and Furusato, but soon they had closed back in.
Most of the front quartet headed a little wide with few moves, only Masia able to move through. Then it suddenly looked like Veijer was out of the fight for the win after a huge moment out the seat at the exit of Turn 4, leaving Alonso leading Furusato – with Masia shadowing the Japanese rider. But it wasn’t over. By the braking zone into the final corner, the Dutchman was right back into it.
Alonso retained the lead into that final corner, with Masia attacking Furusato just behind. The Championship leader got it done but then found Alonso on the apex and overcooked it, and that allowed Furusato to cut back up the inside – as did Veijer.
As Alonso took that magical fourth win of the year and confirmed himself the 2023 Rookie of the Year as well as a serious title threat, the fight for second became a drag to the line. And Furusato won it, taking his first Grand Prix podium in incredible style – the exact same phrase that can be said of Veijer as both hit a milestone.
Masia was forced to settle for fourth but with the disaster for Sasaki still increases his lead – now 17 points ahead of the Japanese rider. Alonso is now third, 25 points back and equal on points with Holgado in fourth after the Tech3 rider’s incredible comeback charge. Öncü took fifth in the race and is fifth in the Championship, now 39 off the top.
Behind Holgado in that impressive P6, Matteo Bertelle (Rivacold Snipers Team) beat Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse), Ryusei Yamanaka (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) and Kaito Toba (SIC58 Squadra Corse) as they completed the top ten just ahead of Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team), the final rider in that front group.
Now it’s destination Sepang for the final triple header of a blockbuster 2023. 25 points cover four riders, with Masia back ahead of the game by some margin. What awaits in Malaysia? Join us for more Moto3™ in two weeks to find out!
Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Fermin Aldeguer won the Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Chang International Circuit, in Buriram, Thailand. Riding his Beta Tools SpeedUp Boscoscuro machine, the Spaniard won the 22-lap race by 3.481 seconds.
Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Pedro Acosta expanded his Championship point lead by finishing second, and Thai star Somkiat Chantra thrilled the home crowd by taking third on his Idemitsu Honda Team Asia Kalex.
American Joe Roberts crashed his Italtrans Racing Kalex early in the race and Did Not Finish (DNF).
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