MotoGP: Dorna Previews This Weekend’s Races in Argentina

David Swarts

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March 30, 2023

MotoGP: Dorna Previews This Weekend’s Races in Argentina

Reset. Reload. Race! Ready for Round 2?

Termas de Rio Hondo gears up to host the second round of a blockbuster 2023

There were thrills, there were spills, and there was some seriously close racing in Portimao. Now, we saddle up to do it all again as Termas de Rio Hondo prepares to host round two for the Gran Premio Michelin® de la Republica Argentina. Ready to get back in the ring?

DUCATI LENOVO TEAM

As one side of the garage enjoyed one of his best weekends ever, the other arguably endured one of his worst – and through no fault of his own. Enea Bastianini is sidelined this weekend due to that broken shoulder blade, so that means reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia will be flying solo – but he’s coming in on quite a high.

Taking the first ever Tissot Sprint win after piling the pressure on Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) was already quite an improvement on the start Bagnaia had last season, and it only got better. In the Grand Prix race there was more sublime speed too, and it proves a warning shot for the field. Bagnaia, and his fellow Ducati riders, also have chance to take the factory’s first win at Termas as it’s one of the three tracks they haven’t yet reigned. But can we expect those rivals from Portugal flip the form book?

APRILIA RACING

Speaking of “those rivals”, Maverick Viñales has now come within a few tenths of that win on a third different machine not once, but twice. He pushed Bagnaia all the way on Sunday and he’s arguably had the upper hand at Aprilia so far, including getting his elbows out in the Sprint with teammate Aleix Espargaro.

Now, we head for Argentina. It’s a venue the bike has already reigned with Espargaro last year as man and machine made history with their first wins – and one where Viñales also has a previous victory, back in 2017. That’s quite a combination. Can Espargaro stamp some authority on the weekend? Or has Viñales got another chance to edge away?

MOONEY VR46 RACING TEAM

The Sprint wasn’t the best start to the season for Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi, with Saturday afternoon proving a somewhat damp squib after strong pre-season showings. That turned round for Bezzecchi on Sunday in some style, however, as the sophomore sliced through to third, escaped the scuffle and didn’t look back – taking a second premier class podium. Is there more in the locker for Argentina? Marini, meanwhile, leaves Portimao with nil points, crashing out of the Sprint and the GP race. As one of three riders who suffered only a single DNF in 2022, his first aim in Argentina is likely to recapture that consistency and get those points.

PRIMA PRAMAC RACING

It was a weekend of two halves for both Johann Zarco and Jorge Martin in Portugal, and both will want a more balanced weekend Argentina. Zarco had a tougher Tissot Sprint before becoming the star of the show in that hard-fought battle for fourth on Sunday, and Martin crashed in the GP race after having lost out in the Marquez-Oliveira incident. On Saturday, however, the number 89 was close to that Sprint win – and was also very close to denying Aleix Espargaro and Aprilia their first Grand Prix win last year in Argentina.

Zarco remains on the hunt for a first MotoGP™ win, Martin has something to prove and the speed to do so… we can expect both at the front again this weekend.

RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING

SURPRISE! Or was it? After ending testing a little down the timesheets, Friday in Portugal felt like Jack Miller ripped the covers off a magic trick, but maybe it shouldn’t have. A lot of work has gone in, a lot of laps have been done and it seems like KTM are on their way. Miller too. What can we expect this weekend at a very different venue? The Austrian factory are missing a top five at Termas so that could be a first target.

Teammate Brad Binder, meanwhile, still somehow managed to stun on Sunday despite ongoing neck pain after a crash in testing. The South African got stuck in in that awesome fight for fourth, and with a few more days will hopefully be a little closer to feeling 100%. Both Miller and Binder at full pelt is quite a force to contend with…

GRESINI RACING MotoGP™

Friday and Saturday were a bit underwhelming for Alex Marquez after pre-season progress on his new Ducati, but Sunday was both a good result and a fantastic battle too. He’ll be buoyed by that and on the hunt for more in Argentina – where he’s won in Moto3™ and Moto2™. Fabio Di Giannantonio, meanwhile, needs to unlock the flashes of pace we’ve seen and take that step forward we’ve seen before.

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MotoGP™

Fabio Quartararo had a difficult start to 2023. After a tougher qualifying, contact from Mir then hampered his Sprint before he’d really got going, and then that grid position added another hurdle at the start of the Grand Prix race. But he did get in that big group fight late on. With some very different tracks now coming up, starting with Argentina, we’ll likely see Yamaha seriously hunker down on trying to figure out what they’re missing. Franco Morbidelli may well be doing the same himself after a tough opener too.

REPSOL HONDA TEAM

It was a rollercoaster season opener for Repsol Honda, with some glory, some drama and some mistakes. After that stunning Saturday for Marc Marquez, the error that saw him crash into Miguel Oliveira on Sunday leaves the number 93 on the sidelines for Argentina, having sustained a broken bone in his hand. His absence – given incredible speed at the venue in the past – takes one ace out of play.

That leaves Joan Mir heading into his second weekend with the team flying solo. He hasn’t got the best record at Termas but neither has he the worst, so more progress will be the name of the game.

LCR HONDA

The same is true for Alex Rins (LCR Honda Castrol) as he managed to finish top Honda. The mission continues for Rins and Mir to adapt, to learn, and to give quality feedback to Honda as the Japanese giant continue to push towards the front. For Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu), the mission is similar – but he also has to try and stay with the new recruits. Can he rediscover some form?

GASGAS FACTORY RACING Tech3

Did someone say first points? Rookie Augusto Fernandez took just those in Portugal, and he’ll want more from Argentina. It’s not a place he’s had much experience though, so that could make the mountain a little bigger this particular weekend. And we’ll be missing Pol Espargaro as he recovers from that Friday crash, with GASGAS also not replacing the injured Spaniard.

CRYPTODATA RNF MotoGP™ TEAM

Promise and then disappointment was RNF’s weekend in Portugal. But Miguel Oliveira certainly put on a great show for the home fans – despite feeling sore all weekend after a highside on Friday – until being crashed out of contention on Sunday. Now, he’ll miss the Argentina GP and Raul Fernandez races solo. The Spaniard had an underwhelming season opener and will need to start banking those points soon as the new bike, new team and second season of MotoGP™ are all opportunities to show that incredible pace we’ve seen in Moto2™.

SHOWTIME

Friday’s two practice sessions decide entrants to Q2, before the MotoGP™ grid qualify on Saturday morning. The Tissot Sprint then gets in gear at 15:00 on Saturday, before Sunday puts on a stunner at 14:00. Don’t miss it!

Tissot Sprint: Saturday 15:00 (GMT -3)

Grand Prix Race: Sunday 14:00 (GMT -3)

See you there!

Can Acosta double down in Argentina?

Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) overcame two kinds of pressure in Portimao to leave with the first win of the season: the pressure of Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) chasing him all the way home, and that of the hype that has already risen to swirl around the number 37 again.

With a little less experience of Termas de Rio Hondo, can he keep the roll going? Can Canet hit back? Or will the very different venue belong to someone else entirely? We’ll find out at 12:15 (GMT -3) on Sunday!

Sophomore success leads Moto3™ into Argentina

The season opener saw Moto3™ sophomores lock out the podium, with Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3), David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) and Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI) pipping rookie Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo). Now the likes of veterans Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) and Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) will be looking to hit back… and Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) will be aiming for less of a mountain to climb. Tune in for more spectacular Moto3™ at 11:00 (GMT -3) on Sunday!

Isle Of Man TT: Health Concerns Force Hutchinson Out Of 2023 Event

David Swarts

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March 30, 2023

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Isle Of Man TT: Health Concerns Force Hutchinson Out Of 2023 Event

Editorial Note: Ian Hutchinson suffered a stroke recently while riding his bicycle in Spain.

MILWAUKEE BMW AND HUTCHY FORCED TO WITHDRAW FROM 2023 TT

TAS Racing and Ian Hutchinson have been forced to make the tough decision to sit out this year’s Isle of Man TT Races with Milwaukee BMW. In light of Ian’s well documented health scare earlier this month, his racing licence has been revoked for 12 months, which is standard protocol with racing’s governing body.

Ian’s day-to-day health is of paramount importance to all involved and while he is making a remarkable recovery, already given the all clear to drive his car – rules are rules and we must respect them. Ian is obviously bitterly disappointed after putting in the hard yards over the winter months, spinning many laps on a TAS Racing prepared Milwaukee BMW M 1000 RR Superstock specification machine in Spain.

Despite this major set-back, the team will be represented at the TT by our title partner Milwaukee, as they are also a leading event sponsor at the June showpiece. Ian will be on the Island representing both the team and Milwaukee during TT race week, so fans will get the chance to meet him on the Milwaukee stand in the main paddock area.

Milwaukee BMW will be at the International North West 200 in May however with Alastair Seeley, and Hutchy will be on the North Coast for a scheduled visit during race week as part of the team set-up and will no doubt be very well received.

Philip Neill

Milwaukee BMW Team Principal

“First and foremost our concerns are with Ian and we look forward to supporting him on his road to making a full recovery. Clearly we are disappointed to miss our first IOM TT in 23 years – aside from the Covid years of course. Everything was in place for this year’s event together with Milwaukee and our other valued partners. We now look forward to finalising our plans for the NW200 and another BSB season.”

Marc Marquez Penalty Appeal Referred To “MotoGP Court Of Appeal”

David Swarts

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March 30, 2023

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Marc Marquez Penalty Appeal Referred To “MotoGP Court Of Appeal”

DECISION OF THE FIM APPEAL STEWARDS

FIM APPEAL STEWARDS’ DECISION UPON THE APPEAL OF Mr. Marc Marquez and HRC – REPSOL HONDA TEAM on 29/03/2023

Mr. Marc Marquez and the team, HRC – REPSOL HONDA TEAM (Alberto Puig) lodged a written appeal on 29/03/2023 at 02h16 (am) to the FIM Appeal Stewards with the deposit for appeal of 1320 Euros.

The appeal is lodged against the application of the Sanction imposed on Marc Marquez, Rider #93, issued by the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel on 28 March 2023, in connection with the previous “Notification of Sanction”, issued on 26 March 2023.

The penalty notified by the FIM MotoGP- Stewards Panel on 26/03/2023 was a “Double Long Lap Penalty for the GRAN PREMIO MICHELIN® DE LA REPUBLICA ARGENTINA MotoGP- Race”

The application of the sanction imposed on Marc Marquez by the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel (“Application of the Sanction”) issued on 28/03/2023 was a “Double Long Lap Penalty“ to be applied at the next MotoGP Race in which the rider will be able to participate.

1. Composition of the FIM APPEAL STEWARDS

The Panel of the FIM Appeal Stewards is made up of:

• Paul King FIM Appeal Steward

• Armando Marques FIM Appeal Steward (nominated by FMP)

2. Procedure

The appeal was regularly lodged in due form, with the appropriate fee guaranteed and within time deadlines stated by the FIM Administration (within 24 hours counted from the previous e-mail sent by the Repsol Honda Team Manager (ie before 29 March 2023, 07:57 CEST)).

The FIM Appeal Stewards were convened electronically on 29/03/2023.

The following documents were submitted to the FIM Appeal Stewards:

– The notification of the FIM Sanction imposed by the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel on 26 March 2023.

– The “Application of the Sanction” issued by the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel on 28 March 2023.

– The Statement of Appeal edited by Mr. Marc Marquez and HRC – REPSOL HONDA TEAM.

3. The FIM Appeal Stewards’ s considerations:

The 2 elements mentioned by the appellant relate to:

1) The validity of the “Application of the Sanction” stated by the FIM Stewards Panel

2) A request for a stay of the provisional execution of the “Application of the Sanction”

Considering, the circumstances of the case and the legal issues raised by the appeal filed by Mr. Marc Marquez and HRC – REPSOL HONDA TEAM team, the FIM Appeal Stewards decide to refer the case to the MotoGP Court of Appeal for the adequate resolution of the case.

4. The decision

Based upon this information, the FIM Appeal Stewards decide:

• to receive the Appeal (art. 3.3.3.2)

• to refer the case to the MotoGP Court of Appeal (art. 3.3.3.2)

FIM Headquarter, Mies, 29/03/2023.

FIM Appeal Steward

Paul King

FMNR Appeal Steward

Armando Marques

MotoGP: Tendon Damage Forcing Oliveira To Miss Argentina

David Swarts

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March 29, 2023

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MotoGP: Tendon Damage Forcing Oliveira To Miss Argentina

Full focus on Raul Fernandez for round two of 2023

The CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team is looking forward to the Argentina Grand Prix this weekend, despite the rough setback with the absence of Miguel Oliveira. Nevertheless, the team is motivated to extend their full support to Raul Fernandez, who will be competing in CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team colors for the second time this weekend.

Following the incident last Sunday, Miguel Oliveira went home to Lisbon to get some further checks on his body. An MRI conducted on Monday confirmed the suspicions the Portuguese hero had after his crash and revealed some tendon injuries to the external rotators of the right leg which cannot be treated with surgery. As a result, Oliveira needs to sit out the second round of the 2023 MotoGP World Championship in order to rest and recuperate with the hope of being fit for the third event of the season in Austin, Texas.

At the same time, Raul Fernandez was also struggling with his physical condition last Sunday in Portugal. The Spanish rider felt a numbness in his right arm from the second half of the race, which eventually led to his crash. Although he doesn’t know the reason behind it yet, he still feels it and will undergo further checking with the doctor. He is still eager to have a good weekend in Termas de Rio Hondo, a track, where he already developed good sensations on in his rookie year.

The second round of 2023 starts this Friday with Free Practice one at 10:45 local time (15:45 CET), followed by the new 60 minutes long second Free Practice at 15:00 local time (20:00 CET).

RAUL FERNANDEZ

“Argentina is a beautiful track, that I like a lot. I thank it can suit our bike well too. Last year, I did a good race in Termas de Rio Hondo, so I am very happy to come back. We did a decent job during the first race weekend of 2023 in Portugal last week and if we continue like this and improve the Qualifying, I think we can have a strong race.”

Razlan Razali, Founder and Team Principal CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team

“We arrive in Argentina feeling anger and frustration with the news that Miguel is not fit to compete in round two. It was something, that we expected in a way, because the incident in round one was massive and we did have some reservations that he may not be racing this week. Nevertheless, we will continue to focus on Raul, who also had his own fitness issues with his shoulder that lead to a numbness on the right side of his body, that in some ways contributed to his crash last week. Overall, we didn’t have a great start to the year, it was very frustrating. I further stress the need for the FIM stewards to take serious action with reckless racing. But we will have to continue, work hard and try to make a positive outcome for round two this weekend.”

Wilco Zeelenberg, Team Manager CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team

“First of all, I want to say that we are very excited to go to Argentina, especially because Aprilia won here last year. We hope to be able to do something similar with one of the Aprilia riders. We had great speed in Portimao and of course he has been very unlucky with the crash of Miguel, being in a very strong position, but only completing two laps in the main race, is obviously very disappointing. Looking forward to this weekend, Raul learned a lot last weekend following strong riders and having a good pace. Unluckily, he pushed a bit too hard trying to get a couple of extra points at the end of the race. But it’s all about the learning curve. He is on a good way and in a good flow. We have only Raul as a rider here in Argentina and hope Miguel will come back in Austin. Anyway, all doors are open in Argentina. Raul is quick and the Aprilia was very fast here last year, so we should try to keep the momentum, going forward, going faster and try to further improve in all areas.”

British Superbike: Brookes Best In Pre-Season Testing At Silverstone

David Swarts

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March 29, 2023

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British Superbike: Brookes Best In Pre-Season Testing At Silverstone

Brookes ends Silverstone test fastest as Bennetts BSB season opener now beckons

Double Bennetts British Superbike Champion Josh Brookes ended the final pre-season R&G Official Test at Silverstone by setting the pace for the FHO Racing BMW Motorrad team in the damp conditions, as the focus now turns to the opening round at the circuit on Easter weekend (April 7/8/9).

Brookes’ benchmark time was set on the opening day of the test, but the Australian still topped the times on day two in the damper conditions.

Brookes said: “It’s pretty obvious to say that finishing Silverstone on top of the times is pleasing for me, the team and everyone involved. We’ve been focusing mainly on the new engine as it reacts in a different way to the old one. Not that I have much understanding of the old one, but for the mechanics the BMW reacts differently with the new spec engine, so they have to go through a variety of changes to understand better how to set the engine braking, as well as the throttle with the way it feels as I accelerate out of a turn.

“There are some levels we have worked through to basically make the bike run efficiently and that’s more or less where we’ve spent most effort and time, and it’s those fundamentals of what we have to be able to progress later. So once we get this work done, and to a point where I’m happy we can then focus on suspension, chassis positions and fine tune the other bits.

“I guess luckily for us and the work we’ve had to do, you can do regardless of the weather and fortunately we’ve been able to make progress on this. We’ve improved the engine braking and the feeling of the throttle in my hand, which must be good, as we’ve gone fastest in what’s been very tricky conditions. As soon as we get some dry track, we can focus on more common changes such as suspension, but during the test we couldn’t really focus on anything else due to the conditions.”

Kyle Ryde was 0.816s adrift of his championship rival onboard the leading LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha after topping the opening two tests ahead of next week’s opening round.

Danny Buchan was third fastest on the timesheets despite crashing out unhurt in the final session of the test, but the SYNETIQ BMW rider’s time from yesterday put him narrowly ahead of McAMS Yamaha’s Jason O’Halloran on combined times.

Peter Hickman completed the top five on the second FHO Racing BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR with Christian Iddon holding sixth on the Oxford Products Racing Ducati.

Danny Kent’s time from the penultimate session moved him into seventh overall as the Lovell Kent Racing Honda team prepare for their debut races next weekend, just ahead of Ryan Vickers on the second LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha.

Honda Racing UK’s Andrew Irwin and Bennetts BSB rookie Tim Neave completed the top ten for McAMS Yamaha.

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, R&G Official Test, Silverstone, overall combined times:

Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) 56.155s
Kyle Ryde (LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha) +0.816s
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +2.123s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +2.249s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) +2.829s
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +2.875s
Danny Kent (Lovell Kent Racing Honda) +3.420s
Ryan Vickers (LAMI OMG Racing Yamaha) +3.716s
Andrew Irwin (Honda Racing UK) +3.741s
Tim Neave (McAMS Yamaha) +3.898s

For more information visit www.britishsuperbike.com

KTM North America Opens New $53 Million Facility In California

David Swarts

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March 29, 2023

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KTM North America Opens New $53 Million Facility In California

KTM NORTH AMERICA AND PIERER NEW MOBILITY NORTH AMERICA CELEBRATE BRAND NEW CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS WITH GRAND OPENING EVENT IN MURRIETA

Parent company, PIERER Mobility AG, showcases eight world-class brands under one roof

With $53 million dollars – biggest single investment in history of PIERER Mobility AG

Statement in direction of market and customers – North America is one of the most important sales markets

MURRIETA, Calif. – Tuesday afternoon marked a significant milestone for the KTM North America, Inc. and PIERER New Mobility North America organization as it celebrated the official grand opening of PIERER Mobility AG’s brand-new North American Headquarters in Murrieta, California.

Special guests from all over the world were in attendance for Tuesday’s festivities, which included a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially unveil the world-class facilities dedicated to the company’s premium motorcycle brands KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles, GASGAS and MV Agusta; in addition to bicycle brands Husqvarna E-Bicycles, GASGAS Bicycles and FELT Bicycles and high-end components under the WP brand.

With global headquarters based in Austria, PIERER Mobility AG – parent company of the highly prominent two-wheeled brands – is Europe’s leading manufacturer of powered two-wheelers that has been an active player in the North American market since 1967. PIERER Mobility AG CEO, Stefan Pierer, and select members of the global Board of Directors were in attendance on Tuesday to celebrate the momentous occasion.

“This is an emotional day for me,” said Stefan Pierer, CEO of PIERER Mobility AG. “Exactly 30 years ago I started in the USA with only a dozen of employees. Today we are Europe’s leading Powered Two-Wheeler group, we’re selling approx. 100,000 units annually in the US market, so more than one billion dollars in sales. The most important success factor for us is racing, that is the driving force that pushed us over the years, even in the US market. Building our new North American headquarters in Murrieta was the biggest single investment we’ve ever made yet. We set a new standard for the whole US market.”

Stefan Pierer, CEO of PIERER Mobility AG, speaking March 28 in Murrieta, California. Photo courtesy KTM North America.

The new headquarters is part of KTM North America’s commitment to growing the sport of motorcycling through continuous investment in infrastructure, research and development, technical training, and continuing education for the company’s class-leading products and technology. Specifically, in North America, the organization has grown from 30 employees in 2009 to almost 360 employees in 2023 and this new building allows for further room to expand and grow to support its network of more than 1,000 independently owned small businesses across North America.

Some of the many racing accomplishments of KTM are on display in the lobby of the new KTM North America headquarters. Photo courtesy KTM North America.

CEO of KTM North America, Inc. and PIERER New Mobility North America, Inc., John Hinz, addressed the group on Tuesday afternoon, “Today marks a massive milestone in our company’s history. The campus and our facilities, this represents the single biggest investment by our company, so thank you to Mr. Pierer. We designed these buildings for our employees, race teams, athletes and truly for our dealers across North America to help support our brands and help support sales. This new campus showcases not only the facilities as a tool for our employees and dealers, but it’s our commitment, our dedication and our investment into the motorcycle and bicycle industry here in North America.”

John Hinz, CEO of KTM North America, Inc. and PIERER New Mobility North America, Inc.,, speaking March 28 in Murrieta, California. Photo courtesy KTM North America.

The development, which is situated on 20 acres of land adjacent to the French Valley Airport just off Winchester Road, was initially announced in August 2021 and the project officially broke ground in November of the same year. Following an extraordinary development phase over the past 15 months, the $53 million corporate campus is now operational with three state-of-the-art buildings that include over 130,000 square feet of space dedicated to the company’s technical development, administrative offices, media relations, dealer training, warehouse and world championship racing departments, with 12 additional acres set aside for future development.

The group’s purpose-built private motorsports facility – RD Field – sits one block south of the corporate campus, equipped with two supercross test tracks, hard enduro test track and a trials competition section for product testing and athlete training.

For more information on KTM, visit www.ktm.com.

American Flat Track: Can Anyone Beat JD Beach At The Arizona Super TT?

David Swarts

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March 29, 2023

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American Flat Track: Can Anyone Beat JD Beach At The Arizona Super TT?

Can Anyone Beat TT Superstar Beach at Arizona Super TT?

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season will jump right (and left) back into action this weekend with the ZO CBD Arizona Super TT presented by RideNow Powersports at Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park in Chandler, Arizona, on Saturday April 1.

While the first three rounds of the Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle title fight have seen points leader Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) and reigning champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Rogers Racing/SDI Racing FTR750) share top honors, JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) steps forward as the presumptive favorite heading into Saturday’s showdown.

Beach earned his maiden Mission SuperTwins win at this same event back in 2019. A little less than four years later, the Estenson Racing pilot now stands with victories in six of the most recent seven premier-class TTs. He’s repeatedly overcome the pressure of being the odds-on favorite through a combination of mental strength and sublime talent in a discipline that allows him to flex skills honed in both dirt track and road racing.

It’s worth recalling that Beach’s ‘19 Arizona Super TT win only came about, however, after chasing down runaway leader Briar Bauman (No. 3 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 890 Duke). Bauman has already flashed front-running speed despite still adapting to his developing Rick Ware Racing KTM 890 Duke and will be motivated to get his revenge in the rematch.

Mees and Daniels should be considered threats to topple Beach as well. Factory Indian ace Mees has racked up multiple wins and numerous podiums at TTs throughout his career. And while Daniels is still looking for his first premier-class TT victory, he owns a similar skillset to Beach and previously earned TT wins in both Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER and Mission Production Twins while landing on the box in last year’s Peoria TT as a rookie.

The versatile Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) – who boasts a background as one of the nation’s elite Supermoto riders – also stands a real chance to shine this weekend. Meanwhile, his teammate Ryan Wells (No. 94 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), earned a support-class podium at the venue in ‘19.

Per usual, an impressive lineup of independent riders will be up for the challenge, led by the likes of Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Indian FTR750), and Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750), all of whom have earned podium finishes already this season.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

Defending Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER champ Kody Kopp (No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) comes into the Arizona Super TT right where he’s grown accustomed to being – atop the points standings. However, while Kopp has demonstrated plenty of ability at TTs, none of his nine prior career class victories have come in the discipline.

Overcoming that hurdle will be made all the more difficult by the fact that his two closest championship rivals – Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F) and Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) – are two of the finest TTers in the business.

Fourth-ranked Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) should be expected to contend as well, while Brunner’s teammate, Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), has enormous potential considering his road racing accomplishments.

Meanwhile, Turner Racing’s talented trio of Chase Saathoff (No. 88 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) will be eager to come out swinging following a rare weekend in which none of the team’s riders finished in the top three.

Historically, Progressive AFT’s TTs have often served as showcases for part-timers and TT specialists. Those looking for a non-title contender to root for this weekend might be wise to throw their support behind Hayden Gillim (No. Comstock Energy/Vance & Hines KTM 450 SX-F), a three-time Parts Unlimited AFT Singles TT Main Event winner.

There will be plenty to keep fans entertained off the track as well, including numerous vendors, plenty of food and beverage options, music, and extensive motorcycle parking.

General Admission tickets are just $40 (kids 12 and under just $5), while Reserved Grandstand tickets are $50 (all ages). A Premium Parking Upgrade (add-on only) can be acquired for an additional $10.

Pit Pass Upgrades are also available for purchase, providing all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.

Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/arizona-super-tt-62246 to purchase your tickets today!

Gates will open for fans at 2:00 p.m. ET/11:00 a.m. PT with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT).

For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FansChoice.tv is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at https://www.fanschoice.tv.

FOX Sports coverage of the ZO CBD Arizona Super TT presented by RideNow Powersports, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, April 9 at 1:30 p.m. ET (10:30 a.m. PT).

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

About Progressive American Flat Track

Progressive American Flat Track is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit us on the web, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on FOX Sports.

CVMA: Alexander Wins Stock 1000 Shootout (Updated)

David Swarts

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March 29, 2023

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CVMA: Alexander Wins Stock 1000 Shootout (Updated)

CVMA Racing Round 6 2022/2023 Winter Series

Chuckwalla Valley Raceway

The penultimate round of the CVMA 2022/2023 Winter Series kicked off under sunny skies and cool winter weather on Saturday morning [March 25], but things heated up quickly on track as qualifying and racing got underway. With super fast riders from all over the country converging on Chuckwalla Valley Raceway, the racing this past weekend was ultra-competitive in all classes.

On Friday, the New Racer School was very well attended and licensed twelve new racers that will be joining the CVMA amateur racer ranks.

During qualifying on Saturday morning Owen Williams was the fastest qualifier on an ultra-lightweight bike turning a 1:55.811 lap time. Justin Bordonaro was fastest on a lightweight bike with a 1:53.090 and Eric Stahl was fastest on an American twin with a 2:02.425 lap time. Corey Alexander set a blistering 1:46.646 lap time making him the fastest rider on an open class bike. David Kohlstaedt set the fastest time on a middleweight bike with a 1:47.634 lap.

Saturday [March 25]

Highlights from Saturday’s racing included Igor Sokolov setting a new lap record in the Formula 40 Class turning a 1:48.187 lap time. However, the lap record was short-lived as Rennie Scaysbrook reset the record on Sunday, turning a 1:47.165 lap time.

Owen Williams won two races on his ultra-lightweight bike and Justin Bordonaro also won two races on his lightweight bike. Dominik Gajda was the top amateur on an open class bike winning both open super sport and formula open amateur races and Dennis Bowers won both of the amateur middleweight races. David Kohlstaedt was dominant on his middleweight bike winning both races he entered in commanding fashion.

Sunday [March 26]

In the premier race of the day, the Stock 1000 Shootout, Corey Alexander got the hole shot from pole position and led from the start. At the stripe for the first lap, Alexander led with Anthony “Lug Nut” Norton second and Ben Smith third. The race was red-flagged six laps in and was then restarted as a four-lap sprint.

At the restart of the Stock 1000 Shootout, Alexander got the holeshot again, but this time Smith slotted into second and Norton third at the end of the first lap. Smith and Norton ran nose to tail for the entire race with Norton staying very close. On the last lap, Norton was able to pass Smith in the penultimate corner but lost drive onto the front straight and Smith was able to re-take second position at the line by .026 seconds. The finishing order was Alexander for the win, Smith second, and Norton third.

In the Formula Lightweight Twins Shootout, Justin Bordonaro got the hole shot from pole and led from start to finish. At the end of the first lap Bordonaro led followed by Ryan Smith and Cliff Ramsdell. Savannah Jaska was able to pass Ramsdell on the second lap and passed Smith on lap five to take over the second spot, setting the final finishing order. At the end, it was Bordonaro for the win, Jaska second, and Smith third.

Kreece Elliott got the Formula Ultra Lightweight Shootout hole shot followed by Owen Williams and Jayden Fernandez at the end of the first lap. Williams was able to take the lead on lap four as Elliott fell back two spots putting Jasmine Nichols in third. Elliott was able to retake second position on lap five demoting Nichols to third. The finishing order for the race was Williams for the win, Elliott second, Nichols third.

Kreece Elliott (49) leads Owen Williams (13), Jesse James Shedden (99), Jayden Fernandez (131), and Jasmine Nichols (825) during the Formula Ultra Lightweight Shootout. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy CVMA.

In the Supersport Middleweight Shootout, David Kohlstaedt got the hole shot and the win. On the first lap Kohlstaedt led followed by Nicholas Ciling and Edgar Zaragoza. Kohlstaedt and Ciling ran nose to tail the entire race with Zaragoza running a very lonely third. At the end, it was Kohlsteadt for the win, Ciling second, and Zaragoza third.

Full race results can be found on MYLAPS: https://speedhive.mylaps.com/Events/2142194

Our final round is just three short weeks away on April 15-16, come on out and race with us!

CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and 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 as a means of encouraging 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.

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

Series Sponsors: SoCal Track Days, Apex Assassins, Ryder Gear, and CaliPhotography

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

More, from a press release issued by Kreece Elliott Racing:

Kreece powers to podiums at Chuckwalla – confidence is high for MotoAmerica opener

Kreece Elliott's racebike and spoils. Photo Kreece Elliott Racing. — Kreece Elliott’s racebike and spoils. Photo Kreece Elliott Racing.

Colorado teen Kreece Elliott continued his preparations for the season ahead – in which he will contest the 2023 MotoAmerica Junior Cup championship – with another successful race weekend at Chuckwalla.

Consistently fast throughout the event, the #47 Kawasaki rider was on track in both the 500 Supersport and Formula Ultra Lightweight categories, achieving podiums in both in every race!

He also showcased his brand new Bilmola helmet, which he will sport during his 2023 campaign.

Kreece Elliott: “It was really cold in qualifying but in Q1 I managed to finish P1. I got held up in Q2 but was still happy to make the front row in third. I was happy but disappointed, but I knew we would be able to mix it in the race. I made a good start in Race 1 and led into turn one. I led for a couple of laps and was in the fight at the front for the whole race. The rest of the races were also really good. I learned a lot and was able to make the podium in all the race which gives me a lot of confidence ahead of the first MotoAmerica race in Atlanta in a couple of weeks. I was also able to take some really cool shots of my new helmet which fits amazing and looks amazing. I am excited to race with the new design in MotoAmerica and want to thank Bilmola helmets, especially TJ for their support!”

British Superbike: BeerMonster Is New Title Sponsor Of PBM Ducati

David Swarts

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March 29, 2023

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British Superbike: BeerMonster Is New Title Sponsor Of PBM Ducati

PBM Serve Up BeerMonster As New Title Sponsor For 2023

Eight-times British Superbike Champions Paul Bird Motorsport (PBM) have unveiled a striking new look ahead of the 2023 season, revealing new title sponsor BeerMonster at Silverstone today.

The brand is an online discounted beer store – BeerMonster.com – offering savings of up to 60% on popular beer and cider brands, with new deals added on a weekly basis and including free home delivery.

The team are entitled BeerMonster Ducati and are now set for the opening round of the 2023 Bennetts British Superbike Championship at Silverstone this Easter (7/8/9 April) as Glenn Irwin and Tommy Bridewell begin their title campaign on the brand-new BeerMonster Ducati F23s.

Sam Higginson, Brand Director, BeerMonster: “We’re delighted to be involved with Paul Bird’s team again, we have had many successes via a long-standing association in the past and the new collaboration with BeerMonster, PBM and Ducati is an exciting prospect. Hopefully, the 2023 season is a successful one for both the team and us and we are looking forward to developing our product range through the medium of the British Superbike Championship whereby our new website will be rolled out prior to the opening BSB round at Silverstone.”

Paul Bird, Team Owner: “We’re thrilled to welcome BeerMonster as title sponsor for the 2023 British Superbike Championship season and it’s great to have the support of Martin and Sam Higginson again. We have always had a reputation of bringing new sponsors into the sport and this is the latest venture. We need to bounce back after a difficult season last year so this year, with a new bike, two new riders and an enthusiastic title sponsor, the plan is to win the title back which we last held three years ago.”

For further information on BeerMonster please visit https://beermonster.com and the new PBM website, www.pbmuk.net, both of which will be launched prior to the opening round of Bennetts BSB next week. For all details on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship, please visit www.britishsuperbike.com.

MotoGP: Repsol Honda Fighting Change To Marquez Penalty Application

David Swarts

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March 29, 2023

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MotoGP: Repsol Honda Fighting Change To Marquez Penalty Application

Repsol Honda Team Statement on FIM penalty modification

In relation to the sanction imposed by the FIM on Marc Marquez for the race incident that occurred at the Portuguese Grand Prix, the Repsol Honda Team considers that the modification of the penalty consisted of a change of criteria on when the penalty should be applied, and that this modification was issued by the FIM two days after the initial sanction was final and definitive, is not in line with the current regulations of the FIM for the MotoGP World Championship. For this reason, the Repsol Honda Team intends to use all the means of recourse offered by the regulations in force to defend its rights and legitimate interests, which it considers violated as a result of the latest resolution adopted, and in particular has duly submitted an Appeal before the FIM Appeal Stewards.

MotoGP: Dorna Previews This Weekend’s Races in Argentina

March 30, 2023

Termas de Rio Hondo, in Argentina. Photo courtesy Michelin.

Reset. Reload. Race! Ready for Round 2?

Termas de Rio Hondo gears up to host the second round of a blockbuster 2023

There were thrills, there were spills, and there was some seriously close racing in Portimao. Now, we saddle up to do it all again as Termas de Rio Hondo prepares to host round two for the Gran Premio Michelin® de la Republica Argentina. Ready to get back in the ring?

DUCATI LENOVO TEAM

As one side of the garage enjoyed one of his best weekends ever, the other arguably endured one of his worst – and through no fault of his own. Enea Bastianini is sidelined this weekend due to that broken shoulder blade, so that means reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia will be flying solo – but he’s coming in on quite a high.

Taking the first ever Tissot Sprint win after piling the pressure on Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) was already quite an improvement on the start Bagnaia had last season, and it only got better. In the Grand Prix race there was more sublime speed too, and it proves a warning shot for the field. Bagnaia, and his fellow Ducati riders, also have chance to take the factory’s first win at Termas as it’s one of the three tracks they haven’t yet reigned. But can we expect those rivals from Portugal flip the form book?

APRILIA RACING

Speaking of “those rivals”, Maverick Viñales has now come within a few tenths of that win on a third different machine not once, but twice. He pushed Bagnaia all the way on Sunday and he’s arguably had the upper hand at Aprilia so far, including getting his elbows out in the Sprint with teammate Aleix Espargaro.

Now, we head for Argentina. It’s a venue the bike has already reigned with Espargaro last year as man and machine made history with their first wins – and one where Viñales also has a previous victory, back in 2017. That’s quite a combination. Can Espargaro stamp some authority on the weekend? Or has Viñales got another chance to edge away?

MOONEY VR46 RACING TEAM

The Sprint wasn’t the best start to the season for Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi, with Saturday afternoon proving a somewhat damp squib after strong pre-season showings. That turned round for Bezzecchi on Sunday in some style, however, as the sophomore sliced through to third, escaped the scuffle and didn’t look back – taking a second premier class podium. Is there more in the locker for Argentina? Marini, meanwhile, leaves Portimao with nil points, crashing out of the Sprint and the GP race. As one of three riders who suffered only a single DNF in 2022, his first aim in Argentina is likely to recapture that consistency and get those points.

PRIMA PRAMAC RACING

It was a weekend of two halves for both Johann Zarco and Jorge Martin in Portugal, and both will want a more balanced weekend Argentina. Zarco had a tougher Tissot Sprint before becoming the star of the show in that hard-fought battle for fourth on Sunday, and Martin crashed in the GP race after having lost out in the Marquez-Oliveira incident. On Saturday, however, the number 89 was close to that Sprint win – and was also very close to denying Aleix Espargaro and Aprilia their first Grand Prix win last year in Argentina.

Zarco remains on the hunt for a first MotoGP™ win, Martin has something to prove and the speed to do so… we can expect both at the front again this weekend.

RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING

SURPRISE! Or was it? After ending testing a little down the timesheets, Friday in Portugal felt like Jack Miller ripped the covers off a magic trick, but maybe it shouldn’t have. A lot of work has gone in, a lot of laps have been done and it seems like KTM are on their way. Miller too. What can we expect this weekend at a very different venue? The Austrian factory are missing a top five at Termas so that could be a first target.

Teammate Brad Binder, meanwhile, still somehow managed to stun on Sunday despite ongoing neck pain after a crash in testing. The South African got stuck in in that awesome fight for fourth, and with a few more days will hopefully be a little closer to feeling 100%. Both Miller and Binder at full pelt is quite a force to contend with…

GRESINI RACING MotoGP™

Friday and Saturday were a bit underwhelming for Alex Marquez after pre-season progress on his new Ducati, but Sunday was both a good result and a fantastic battle too. He’ll be buoyed by that and on the hunt for more in Argentina – where he’s won in Moto3™ and Moto2™. Fabio Di Giannantonio, meanwhile, needs to unlock the flashes of pace we’ve seen and take that step forward we’ve seen before.

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MotoGP™

Fabio Quartararo had a difficult start to 2023. After a tougher qualifying, contact from Mir then hampered his Sprint before he’d really got going, and then that grid position added another hurdle at the start of the Grand Prix race. But he did get in that big group fight late on. With some very different tracks now coming up, starting with Argentina, we’ll likely see Yamaha seriously hunker down on trying to figure out what they’re missing. Franco Morbidelli may well be doing the same himself after a tough opener too.

REPSOL HONDA TEAM

It was a rollercoaster season opener for Repsol Honda, with some glory, some drama and some mistakes. After that stunning Saturday for Marc Marquez, the error that saw him crash into Miguel Oliveira on Sunday leaves the number 93 on the sidelines for Argentina, having sustained a broken bone in his hand. His absence – given incredible speed at the venue in the past – takes one ace out of play.

That leaves Joan Mir heading into his second weekend with the team flying solo. He hasn’t got the best record at Termas but neither has he the worst, so more progress will be the name of the game.

LCR HONDA

The same is true for Alex Rins (LCR Honda Castrol) as he managed to finish top Honda. The mission continues for Rins and Mir to adapt, to learn, and to give quality feedback to Honda as the Japanese giant continue to push towards the front. For Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu), the mission is similar – but he also has to try and stay with the new recruits. Can he rediscover some form?

GASGAS FACTORY RACING Tech3

Did someone say first points? Rookie Augusto Fernandez took just those in Portugal, and he’ll want more from Argentina. It’s not a place he’s had much experience though, so that could make the mountain a little bigger this particular weekend. And we’ll be missing Pol Espargaro as he recovers from that Friday crash, with GASGAS also not replacing the injured Spaniard.

CRYPTODATA RNF MotoGP™ TEAM

Promise and then disappointment was RNF’s weekend in Portugal. But Miguel Oliveira certainly put on a great show for the home fans – despite feeling sore all weekend after a highside on Friday – until being crashed out of contention on Sunday. Now, he’ll miss the Argentina GP and Raul Fernandez races solo. The Spaniard had an underwhelming season opener and will need to start banking those points soon as the new bike, new team and second season of MotoGP™ are all opportunities to show that incredible pace we’ve seen in Moto2™.

SHOWTIME

Friday’s two practice sessions decide entrants to Q2, before the MotoGP™ grid qualify on Saturday morning. The Tissot Sprint then gets in gear at 15:00 on Saturday, before Sunday puts on a stunner at 14:00. Don’t miss it!

Tissot Sprint: Saturday 15:00 (GMT -3)

Grand Prix Race: Sunday 14:00 (GMT -3)

See you there!

Can Acosta double down in Argentina?

Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) overcame two kinds of pressure in Portimao to leave with the first win of the season: the pressure of Aron Canet (Pons Wegow Los40) chasing him all the way home, and that of the hype that has already risen to swirl around the number 37 again.

With a little less experience of Termas de Rio Hondo, can he keep the roll going? Can Canet hit back? Or will the very different venue belong to someone else entirely? We’ll find out at 12:15 (GMT -3) on Sunday!

Sophomore success leads Moto3™ into Argentina

The season opener saw Moto3™ sophomores lock out the podium, with Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Tech3), David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports) and Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI) pipping rookie Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo). Now the likes of veterans Jaume Masia (Leopard Racing) and Ayumu Sasaki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) will be looking to hit back… and Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Ajo) will be aiming for less of a mountain to climb. Tune in for more spectacular Moto3™ at 11:00 (GMT -3) on Sunday!

Isle Of Man TT: Health Concerns Force Hutchinson Out Of 2023 Event

March 30, 2023

Ian Hutchinson (4) in action during the 2010 Isle of Man TT, when he won five races - a record still unmatched to this day. Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.

Editorial Note: Ian Hutchinson suffered a stroke recently while riding his bicycle in Spain.

MILWAUKEE BMW AND HUTCHY FORCED TO WITHDRAW FROM 2023 TT

TAS Racing and Ian Hutchinson have been forced to make the tough decision to sit out this year’s Isle of Man TT Races with Milwaukee BMW. In light of Ian’s well documented health scare earlier this month, his racing licence has been revoked for 12 months, which is standard protocol with racing’s governing body.

Ian’s day-to-day health is of paramount importance to all involved and while he is making a remarkable recovery, already given the all clear to drive his car – rules are rules and we must respect them. Ian is obviously bitterly disappointed after putting in the hard yards over the winter months, spinning many laps on a TAS Racing prepared Milwaukee BMW M 1000 RR Superstock specification machine in Spain.

Despite this major set-back, the team will be represented at the TT by our title partner Milwaukee, as they are also a leading event sponsor at the June showpiece. Ian will be on the Island representing both the team and Milwaukee during TT race week, so fans will get the chance to meet him on the Milwaukee stand in the main paddock area.

Milwaukee BMW will be at the International North West 200 in May however with Alastair Seeley, and Hutchy will be on the North Coast for a scheduled visit during race week as part of the team set-up and will no doubt be very well received.

Philip Neill

Milwaukee BMW Team Principal

“First and foremost our concerns are with Ian and we look forward to supporting him on his road to making a full recovery. Clearly we are disappointed to miss our first IOM TT in 23 years – aside from the Covid years of course. Everything was in place for this year’s event together with Milwaukee and our other valued partners. We now look forward to finalising our plans for the NW200 and another BSB season.”

Marc Marquez Penalty Appeal Referred To “MotoGP Court Of Appeal”

March 30, 2023

DECISION OF THE FIM APPEAL STEWARDS

FIM APPEAL STEWARDS’ DECISION UPON THE APPEAL OF Mr. Marc Marquez and HRC – REPSOL HONDA TEAM on 29/03/2023

Mr. Marc Marquez and the team, HRC – REPSOL HONDA TEAM (Alberto Puig) lodged a written appeal on 29/03/2023 at 02h16 (am) to the FIM Appeal Stewards with the deposit for appeal of 1320 Euros.

The appeal is lodged against the application of the Sanction imposed on Marc Marquez, Rider #93, issued by the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel on 28 March 2023, in connection with the previous “Notification of Sanction”, issued on 26 March 2023.

The penalty notified by the FIM MotoGP- Stewards Panel on 26/03/2023 was a “Double Long Lap Penalty for the GRAN PREMIO MICHELIN® DE LA REPUBLICA ARGENTINA MotoGP- Race”

The application of the sanction imposed on Marc Marquez by the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel (“Application of the Sanction”) issued on 28/03/2023 was a “Double Long Lap Penalty“ to be applied at the next MotoGP Race in which the rider will be able to participate.

1. Composition of the FIM APPEAL STEWARDS

The Panel of the FIM Appeal Stewards is made up of:

• Paul King FIM Appeal Steward

• Armando Marques FIM Appeal Steward (nominated by FMP)

2. Procedure

The appeal was regularly lodged in due form, with the appropriate fee guaranteed and within time deadlines stated by the FIM Administration (within 24 hours counted from the previous e-mail sent by the Repsol Honda Team Manager (ie before 29 March 2023, 07:57 CEST)).

The FIM Appeal Stewards were convened electronically on 29/03/2023.

The following documents were submitted to the FIM Appeal Stewards:

– The notification of the FIM Sanction imposed by the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel on 26 March 2023.

– The “Application of the Sanction” issued by the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel on 28 March 2023.

– The Statement of Appeal edited by Mr. Marc Marquez and HRC – REPSOL HONDA TEAM.

3. The FIM Appeal Stewards’ s considerations:

The 2 elements mentioned by the appellant relate to:

1) The validity of the “Application of the Sanction” stated by the FIM Stewards Panel

2) A request for a stay of the provisional execution of the “Application of the Sanction”

Considering, the circumstances of the case and the legal issues raised by the appeal filed by Mr. Marc Marquez and HRC – REPSOL HONDA TEAM team, the FIM Appeal Stewards decide to refer the case to the MotoGP Court of Appeal for the adequate resolution of the case.

4. The decision

Based upon this information, the FIM Appeal Stewards decide:

• to receive the Appeal (art. 3.3.3.2)

• to refer the case to the MotoGP Court of Appeal (art. 3.3.3.2)

FIM Headquarter, Mies, 29/03/2023.

FIM Appeal Steward

Paul King

FMNR Appeal Steward

Armando Marques

MotoGP: Tendon Damage Forcing Oliveira To Miss Argentina

March 29, 2023

Miguel Oliveira, after getting taken out by Marc Marquez. Photo courtesy RNF MotoGP Team.

Full focus on Raul Fernandez for round two of 2023

The CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team is looking forward to the Argentina Grand Prix this weekend, despite the rough setback with the absence of Miguel Oliveira. Nevertheless, the team is motivated to extend their full support to Raul Fernandez, who will be competing in CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team colors for the second time this weekend.

Following the incident last Sunday, Miguel Oliveira went home to Lisbon to get some further checks on his body. An MRI conducted on Monday confirmed the suspicions the Portuguese hero had after his crash and revealed some tendon injuries to the external rotators of the right leg which cannot be treated with surgery. As a result, Oliveira needs to sit out the second round of the 2023 MotoGP World Championship in order to rest and recuperate with the hope of being fit for the third event of the season in Austin, Texas.

At the same time, Raul Fernandez was also struggling with his physical condition last Sunday in Portugal. The Spanish rider felt a numbness in his right arm from the second half of the race, which eventually led to his crash. Although he doesn’t know the reason behind it yet, he still feels it and will undergo further checking with the doctor. He is still eager to have a good weekend in Termas de Rio Hondo, a track, where he already developed good sensations on in his rookie year.

The second round of 2023 starts this Friday with Free Practice one at 10:45 local time (15:45 CET), followed by the new 60 minutes long second Free Practice at 15:00 local time (20:00 CET).

RAUL FERNANDEZ

“Argentina is a beautiful track, that I like a lot. I thank it can suit our bike well too. Last year, I did a good race in Termas de Rio Hondo, so I am very happy to come back. We did a decent job during the first race weekend of 2023 in Portugal last week and if we continue like this and improve the Qualifying, I think we can have a strong race.”

Razlan Razali, Founder and Team Principal CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team

“We arrive in Argentina feeling anger and frustration with the news that Miguel is not fit to compete in round two. It was something, that we expected in a way, because the incident in round one was massive and we did have some reservations that he may not be racing this week. Nevertheless, we will continue to focus on Raul, who also had his own fitness issues with his shoulder that lead to a numbness on the right side of his body, that in some ways contributed to his crash last week. Overall, we didn’t have a great start to the year, it was very frustrating. I further stress the need for the FIM stewards to take serious action with reckless racing. But we will have to continue, work hard and try to make a positive outcome for round two this weekend.”

Wilco Zeelenberg, Team Manager CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team

“First of all, I want to say that we are very excited to go to Argentina, especially because Aprilia won here last year. We hope to be able to do something similar with one of the Aprilia riders. We had great speed in Portimao and of course he has been very unlucky with the crash of Miguel, being in a very strong position, but only completing two laps in the main race, is obviously very disappointing. Looking forward to this weekend, Raul learned a lot last weekend following strong riders and having a good pace. Unluckily, he pushed a bit too hard trying to get a couple of extra points at the end of the race. But it’s all about the learning curve. He is on a good way and in a good flow. We have only Raul as a rider here in Argentina and hope Miguel will come back in Austin. Anyway, all doors are open in Argentina. Raul is quick and the Aprilia was very fast here last year, so we should try to keep the momentum, going forward, going faster and try to further improve in all areas.”

British Superbike: Brookes Best In Pre-Season Testing At Silverstone

March 29, 2023

Josh Brookes (25). Photo courtesy MSVR. — Josh Brookes (25) on the wet second day of pre-season BSB testing at Silverstone. Photo courtesy MSVR.