WorldSBK: Bulega Tops Final Practice In Australia

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 20, 2026

WorldSBK: Bulega Tops Final Practice In Australia

Nicolò Bulega led FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 3 (FP3) Saturday morning at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Italian rider covered the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) track in 1:28.273 to lead the field of 21 riders.

Sam Lowes was second-best with a 1:28.575 on his ELF Marc VDS Ducati Panigale V4R.

Axel Bassani was third with a 1:28.722 on his Bimota by Kawasaki KB998 Rimini and his teammate Alex Lowes finished the session fourth with a lap tine of 1:28.742.

American Garrett Gerloff was fifth with a time of 1:28.743 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.

Danilo Petrucci was 9th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a time of 1:28.842.

wsbk fp3

More from a press release issued by Dorna:

Nicolo Bulega continued showing his pace in Australia as he topped Saturday morning’s FP3 session by more than three tenths.

The final practice session of the Australian Round concluded with Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) topping the times for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The #11 has topped every session from the Official Test and the three Free Practice sessions at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, as he finished ahead of Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) and Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team).

Bulega made it a hat-trick of session-topping times in Free Practice 3 as he finished three tenths clear of his rivals, while also showing his consistent pace once again. His best time was a 1’28.273s as he beat Sam Lowes, with the #14 putting in a late lap to move into second ahead of Bassani. The Italian had been quick out of the blocks to set a 1’28.722s and secure a top-three spot in FP3, putting him in good stead for this afternoon’s Tissot Superpole session.

Sam Lowes (14) during FP3 at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna

Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) ensured both Bimota riders were in the top four as he lapped just 0.020s slower than his teammate. All three Kawasaki-powered teams were in the top five, and all showing relatively similar pace. Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) claimed P5 with a 1’28.743s, exactly 0.001s slower than the #22 ahead. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) closed the gap to teammate Bulega in the 20-minute session as the #7 finished in sixth, less than half-a-second down on the #11.

Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) set a 1’28.788s as he finished in seventh, directly ahead of teammate Alvaro Bautista who was 0.050s away from Montella’s pace. Both BMW riders featured in the top ten in FP3. Danilo Petrucci (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was the faster of the pair as he set a 1’28.842s, but there was little to separate him from Miguel Oliveira. 0.007s was the difference, in Petrucci’s favour.

The top six from WorldSBK FP3, full results here:

1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’28.273s

2. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.302s

3. Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.449s

4. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.469s

5. Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) +0.470s

6. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.488s

Next up, Tissot Superpole! How will the first grid of 2026 look? Find out from 13:00 Local Time (UTC+11) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

MotoAmerica: Team Shocker Racing Adds 4th Rider For Daytona

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 20, 2026

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MotoAmerica: Team Shocker Racing Adds 4th Rider For Daytona

Team Shocker Racing is excited to announce the addition of Chris LaBuguen to their Daytona lineup. The #410 will be joining teammates #444, Chuck Burton IV, #888 Maxim Gulinsky and the #871 of Ethan Song.

TSR Co-Owner Aaron Gustafson stated: “So we started this project with the plan of running 3 bikes originally. But things escalated rather quickly and we decided it was the right choice to give Chris the opportunity to run with the boys.

“The right push from the right people brought us to the decision to put four bikes into the show.” Says TSR Co-Owner Matt Treske

All 4 TSR riders will be onboard Trickdaddy Performance Aprilla RS660s prepped by none other than TSR’s very own Aaron “Trickdaddy” Gustafson.

Chris LaBuguen adds: “It’s been so much fun working on this project with Aaron and Matt. The team is unbelievably lucky to have someone with Aaron’s talents and dedication. He’s been putting in countless hours at the shop making sure all four bikes are ready to go. I’m definitely stoked for the opportunity to join the rest of the team at Daytona!”

Team Shocker Racing would like to thank our Title Sponsors TLC Assisted Living and Icafe Companies for their continued support and the rest of our sponsors for pushing this program forward: Sharif Racing Leathers, KYT America, Trackside Suspension and Engineering, KClay Paint, Wood Products Corporation, HSBK Racing, Vortex Racing, Woodcraft, Vesrah Drippinwet.com, Hybrid Hero, 3Four Fabrication, Tony Dransfield First Weber Reality and Hacienda Real.

For more information about TSR visit us at: https://teamshockerracing.com/

ASBK: West Tops Practice at Phillip Island

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 20, 2026

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ASBK: West Tops Practice at Phillip Island

Anthony West has made a vibrant start to his new career as a Ducati rider in the Penrite Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli (ASBK), topping Friday practice in sublime conditions at Phillip Island.

Five months after the 44-year-old signed off from the last Phillip Island ASBK round with a maiden SW-Motech Superbike victory on a Yamaha, he’s continued his affinity with the 4.448km circuit – but now with more confidence than ever on the DesmoSport Ducati.

That will provide plenty of food for thought for his Superbike opposition, although he was pushed all the way in practice by Harrison Voght (McMartin Racing Ducati) with just 0.005s separating the duo after the two 30-minute sessions.

Defending five-time champion Josh Waters (McMartin Racing Ducati) was third fastest on a circuit where he’s been dominant in recent times.

Hayden Nelson (BCperformance Kawasaki) and visiting Italian Roberto Tamburini (Addicted to Track Yamaha) topped qualifying in the Kawasaki-backed Supersport and Supersport Next Gen classes, while teen Riley Nauta (Champions Ride Days Kawasaki) uncorked a sizzling final lap to win a ripping Race and Road Supersport 300 opener.

The ASBK action will continue tomorrow – qualifying for Superbike and then one race apiece in all three classes – while in World Supersport Oli Bayliss (Triumph) has given himself an almighty chance to win his first race in the category after qualifying in second.

Bayliss’ fellow Aussie Remy Gardner (Yamaha) will also be front and centre in World Superbike race one, so plenty to cheer about for local fans.

Get your Phillip Island tickets here.

SW-MOTECH SUPERBIKE:

West certainly enjoyed his first official day in the Ducati bunker, with his best lap 1:31.492 in opening practice – one of four riders in the 91-second bracket alongside Voight, Waters and new Yamaha Racing Team signing Jonathan Nahlous.

“We had a good start to the weekend,” said West. “It’s our first time as a team working together under the pressure of a race weekend and everyone is really working together unreal.

“Track conditions changed a lot for FP2 and I was missing some rear grip to keep moving forward and missed some opportunities, but we learnt more and it gives me a lot of confidence heading into tomorrow.”

Jack Favelle (Addicted to Track Yamaha) was fifth fastest in practice from Cru Halliday (Stop and Seal Ducati), rookie Jacob Roulstone (Honda), Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team), Cameron Dunker (Blue Marlin Pools Racing Yamaha) and Glenn Allerton (Superbike Advocates Racing Ducati).

Marcus Hamod (Honda) crashed at turn 11 in FP1 and sat out the balance of the day, but he’s expected to line up for qualifying early on Saturday morning – where milder track conditions should make for some rapid lap times.

Harrison Voight is already a Phillip Island Superbike winner. Photo courtesy ASBK

KAWASAKI SUPERSPORT/SUPERSPORT NEXT GEN:

Nelson and Tamburini will lead the 21-rider field away in the combined and Kawasaki-backed Supersport and Supersport Next Gen race, with Tom Edwards alongside them on the second BCperformance Kawasaki.

Olly Simpson (DesmoSport Ducati) made up for lost time after electrical gremlins in practice to qualify in fourth from Jake Farnsworth (Yamaha) and Tom Toparis (Stop and Seal Ducati).

Behind lurks a gaggle of young guns and experienced riders, which sets the scene for a gripping race one at 9:25am on Saturday.

Friday fast men: Tamburini (left) and Nelson. Photo courtesy ASBK.

RACE AND ROAD SUPERSPORT 300:

If the first race ASBK race of the season – Race and Road Supersport 300 – has set the tone for the season, we’re in for a treat!

It was a beauty, with a leading pack of six constantly trading blows in the eight-lapper: Nauta, Tara Morrison (Kawasaki), Jordy Simpson (Yamaha), Tyler King (Yamaha), Phoenix O’Brien (Yamaha) and polesitter Orlando Peovitis (Kawasaki).

Nauta held the top spot for most of the time, albeit with wafer-thin margins, but then broke ranks on the final lap to win by nearly two seconds ahead of King, Simpson, O’Brien, Peovitis and Morrison.

A total of 28 riders saw the finish line, with race two at 8:50am on Saturday.

Nauta aborbed plenty of heat before pullling away in the final stages. Photo courtesy ASBK

For more information on the 2026 Penrite Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli:

Stuman Rides Video: Meet CVMA Racers

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 20, 2026

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By Stuart Smith:

I released a new video on my YouTube channel, StumanRides, today. In this video, I provide an overview of what happened at the past CVMA Race weekend (Round 5 2025-2026 Winter Series). I also interviewed a few racers in the pits prior to the races.

The video is live now at the following link: https://youtu.be/E0GlqGphd7w?si=V_M-R2O3kQdmzHVL

WorldSBK : Bulega Heads Friday Practice At Phillip Island

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 19, 2026

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WorldSBK : Bulega Heads Friday Practice At Phillip Island

Nicolo Bulega was quickest during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 2 Friday afternoon at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Italian covered the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) track in 1:29.101 to lead the field of 21 riders.

Alex Lowes was the best of the rest with a 1:29.354 on his Bimota by Kawasaki KB998 Rimini and his teammate Axel Bassani was third-fastest with a 1:29.468.

American Garrett Gerloff was 9th with a time of 1:29.699 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.

Danilo Petrucci was 11th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a lap time of 1:29.834.

WSBK fp2

More from a press release issued by Dorna:

The #11 cemented his place at the top of the standings in Free Practice 2, although it was his FP1 time that was the fastest of the day.

Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) continued to top the times in the Australian Round for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The #11 finished in P1 in both FP1 and FP2 at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit as he laid down a gauntlet to the rest of the field, finishing half-a-second clear of Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) in second and Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in third.

BULEGA LEADS, BALDASSARRI IMPRESSES: A strong day one of 2026 for ‘Bulegas’

Like in FP1, Bulega started his session with a long run and put in some consistent lap times, culminating with a 1’29.131s to cement his place in P1. He improved in the second half of the session to a 1’29.101s, securing P1 in both sessions. During FP2, ‘Bulegas’ was being followed by new teammate Iker Lecuona as the #7 builds onto the Ducati Panigale V4R, with the Spanish rider finishing eighth overall, half-a-second down on his teammate. Sam Lowes had a disrupted FP2 after he fell in the first sector of the lap with around 20 minutes to go, although the #14 was still able to take second overall after setting a 1’29.382s in FP1. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) put in a late lap to claim fifth on the combined times as he set a 1’20.482s, exactly 0.002s ahead of Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) in sixth as ‘Balda’ continues to shine on his return. Tarran Mackenzie (MGM Racing Performance) finished in 13^th, directly ahead of rookie Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing), who was one of several crashers at the Turn 4 Miller Hairpin.

Alex Lowes (22) during FP2 at Philip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna.

BIMOTA IN THE MIX: Second and fourth for Alex Lowes and Bassani

Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was the first rider to improve their lap time compared to FP1 when he set a 1’29.354s, giving him a provisional P1 in FP2, and second overall, before Bulega demoted the #22. However, the Bimota rider did lose the last couple of minutes of FP2 after a Turn 4 lowside, although he was able to re-mount his bike. Teammate Axel Bassani confirmed Bimota’s pace as he finished a tenth behind Alex Lowes in FP2 with a 1’29.468s, and fourth overall.

IN THE TOP TEN AGAIN: Gerloff keeps the ZX-10RR in the top positions

American star Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) continued his strong visit to Australia as he secured a spot in the top ten. He finished ninth in the combined times after setting a 1’29.692s in FP1 and a 1’29.699s in FP2, with the #31 showing off his consistent pace throughout the day.

ADAPTATION ONGOING: Oliveira 10^th, Petrucci 12^th for BMW

Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was the lead BMW rider on Friday as he finished in tenth place. The Portuguese rider set a 1’29.746s as he finished inside the top ten, with his time set in FP1. Danilo Petrucci was two places behind after setting a 1’29.834s as the pair continue adapting to the M1000RR.

YAMAHA HOPING FOR GAINS: Vierge leads the blue charge in 11^th

Yamaha have endured a difficult start to the season, with Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) narrowly missing out on a top ten result. He finished 11^th as the lead rider for the Japanese manufacturer after posting a 1’29.806s. Teammate Andrea Locatelli was struggling with the bumps over the course of the two-day Official Test, and ‘Loka’ finished Friday down in 15^th place after posting a 1’30.060s. Stefano Manzi (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was more than a tenth clear of teammate Remy Gardner in 18^th and 19^th respectively, with the latter heading into his home round still recovering from a broken arm and dislocated shoulder he sustained in training late last year. Bahattin Sofuoglu (Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) was 20^th after he crashed at Turn 4 during FP2, with the #54 setting a 1’30.786s to beat teammate Mattia Rato; the Italian rounding out the WorldSBK field.

DIFFICULT DAY AT HONDA: Vickers 16^th, Nagashima 17^th

Honda have had a tricky start to the season, with new Honda HRC recruits Jake Dixon and Somkiat Chantra both missing from the grid due to respective injuries. There are still two CBR1000RR-R SP machines on the grid in the form of wildcard Ryan Vickers (Honda HRC) and Tetsuta Nagashima (Honda HRC), who finished in 16^th and 17^th respectively.

The top six from Friday’s WorldSBK action, full results here:

1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’28.858s

2. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.496s

3. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.524s

4. Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.610s

5. Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.624s

6. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) +0.626s

Tissot Superpole and the first race of 2026 await on Saturday! Catch all the action from 10:00 Local Time (UTC+11) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

WorldSSP : Masia Tops Superpole Qualifying In Australia

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 19, 2026

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WorldSSP : Masia Tops Superpole Qualifying In Australia

Jaume Masia topped FIM Supersport World Championship Superpole qualifying Friday at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Orelac Racing Verdnatura Ducati Panigale V2 on Pirelli control tires, Masia lapped the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) course in 1:32.115 to top the field of 28 riders and earn pole position.

Oli Bayliss was the best of the rest with a 1:32.287 on his PTR Triumph Street Triple 765 RS, and Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise earned the third and final spot on the front row with a lap time of 1:32.439 on his ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bross 820RR.

wssp superpole

More from a press release issued by Dorna:

Four manufacturers in the top four as the WorldSSP season shoots out of the gate.

The 2026 FIM Supersport World Championship campaign is officially a go! The Australian Round saw the WorldSSP field throw down in this season’s first Tissot Superpole session, with Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) coming out on top to claim the season’s first pole position. The result is his second career pole in WorldSSP and has punched his ticket on Saturday to start from P1. Behind him, the front row will be comprised of to be tailed in P2 by home hero Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) and Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) in P3.

MASIA ON POLE TO START 2026: The Spanish sophomore will lead the pack in Race 1

Jaume Masia nailed the Superpole session after a dominant week of testing on the timesheets. The2023 Moto3 Champion makes it two career poles in WorldSSP as he continues to improve his case for title contender with a 1’32.115s lap. Oli Bayliss set the table for home weekend glory in his Tissot Superpole session. The Aussie rider set hot lap after hot lap to sit P1 early, doing enough to land P2 with his final time of 1’32.287s and his first WorldSSP front-row start. Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) started ZXMOTO’s WorldSSP story on a stunning note, his 1’32.439s time taking the new Chinese manufacturer to P3 to round out the front row.

Valentin Debise (53) during the Superpole in Australia. Photo courtesy Dorna

BOOTH-AMOS’S TIME HOLDS ON: Despite seeing the chequered flag from the medical centre, his time sees him to a P5 placement

Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) looked a step faster than what he had shown earlier in the week during testing, battling for the front row on the timesheet, but will have to settle for leading the second row from P4 with his time of 1’32.450 seeing him a third of a second off of P1 pace. Tom Booth-Amos was running as the latter of a Triumph one-two at the session’s midpoint until a Turn 11 highside crash caused a red flag and sent him to the medical centre to end his session. As faster times piled up, the Englishman and his 1’32.554s time fell to P5. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) hovered around P8 throughout the session, until he returned to the boxes with eight minutes left to make a final adjustment for one last stint. Those changes helped him to a 1’32.617s for an improved P6.

NO PROBLEMS ADAPTING: Arenas goes third-row in first-ever WorldSSP Superpole

Albert Arenas (AS BLU CRU Racing Team) looks to have found a step on Friday as he converted his Free Practice P5 into a Tissot Superpole P7. His 1’32.673s time will see him start his first WorldSSP race from the third row. Matteo Ferrari (WRP Racing) was the top finisher of the field’s inbound former MotoE riders. He took P8 on the back of his impressive 1’32.710s time. Ondrej Vostatek again showed his affinity for the Australian circuit as he and his Ducati Panigale V2 clocked a 1’32.819s time to earn P9. Mattia Casadei (D34G WorldSSP Racing Team) was the third rider to crash on the high-speed Turn 11 with just a minute to go. The Italian’s 1’32.827s time held on, however, to take P10.

TRICKY TURN 11: Three riders took a tumble on the fast corner

Oliver Konig’s (Compos Racing Team) tough day at the office on Friday continued after a tech issue that caused a red flag in Free Practice. In the Superpole session, he suffered a high-side crash on Turn 11, which sent him to the medical centre, where he was later ruled fit to continue. Roberto Garcia (GMT94 Yamaha) had a Turn 5 crash with 17 minutes left in the session, walking away unharmed.

The top six from the WorldSSP Tissot Superpole session: Full results here!

1. Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) 1’32.115s

2. Oli Bayliss (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) +0.172s

3. Valentin Debise (ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros Racing) +0.324s

4. Can Oncu (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) +0.335s

5. Tom Booth-Amos (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) +0.439s

6. Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) +0.502s

Lock in your spot to watch the first race of the WorldSSP season on Saturday live or OnDemand with the WorldSBK VideoPass!

WorldSBK : Bulega Tops Opening Practice At Phillip Island

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 19, 2026

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WorldSBK : Bulega Tops Opening Practice At Phillip Island

Nicolo Bulega was quickest during FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 1 Friday morning at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Pirelli-shod Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4R on the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) track, the Italian recorded a 1:28.858 to lead the field of 21 riders.

Sam Lowes was the best of the rest with a 1:29.382 on his ELF Marc VDS Ducati Panigale V4R.

Axel Bassani was third-fastest with a 1:29.547 on his Bimota by Kawasaki KB998 Rimini.

American Garrett Gerloff finished the opening session 7th with a 1:29.692 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.

Danilo Petrucci was 12th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a lap time of 1:29.892.

Results wsbk fp1

More from a press release issued by Dorna:

The #11 started the weekend exactly as he’d have envisaged by leading the timesheets in the 45-minute FP1 session.

The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship kicked off at the iconic Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit with Free Practice 1 for the Australian Round, with Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) leading the way by 0.524s. ‘Bulegas’ put in a long run at the start of the session where he set his best time right at the end of the stint, firing a warning shot to his competitors about how strong he would be in Australia, with Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) and Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) his closest rivals.

Bulega started the weekend as he ended the Official Test, as the only rider in the 1’28s and putting in an impressive stint. He was finding pace with each lap that he completed during a long first stint of 11 representative lap times, with a 1’28.858s set on the penultimate lap of the run. That turned out to be his best lap time was he finished half-a-second clear of Sam Lowes in second, while the #14 was more than a tenth clear of Bassani in third as ‘El Bocia’ once again showed his pace after a strong test.

Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was another who was quick in the test and that carried on during FP1 as the #5 posted a 1’29.561s to claimed fourth place. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was fifth after lapping half-a-tenth down on Montella, and was 0.757s away from Bulega’s pacesetting time. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) looks to be in contention for a strong result on his WorldSBK return as he claimed sixth in the opening 45-minute session of the year.

Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) set a 1’29.962s as he finished in the top seven on his new ZX-10RR machine, beating Alvaro Bautista (Barni Spark Racing Team) by 0.018s as the Spaniard secured a top-ten spot. Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) finished in ninth, 0.888s slower than Bulega, as Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) rounded out the top ten as he beat former teammate Xavi Vierge (Pata Maxus Yamaha) by 0.050s; Vierge was the lead Yamaha rider.

The top six from WorldSBK FP1, full results here:

1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’28.858s

2. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.524s

3. Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.689s

4. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.703s

5. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.757s

6. Lorenzo Baldassarri (Team GoEleven) +0.811s

Free Practice 2 takes place at 16:00 Local Time (UTC+11) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

WorldSSP: Masia Quickest In Opening Practice In Australia

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 19, 2026

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WorldSSP: Masia Quickest In Opening Practice In Australia

Jaume Masia was quickest during FIM Supersport World Championship Free practice Friday morning at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Orelac Racing Verdnatura Ducati Panigale V2 on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard covered the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) road course in 1:32.120, topping the field of 28 riders.

Home hero, Oli Bayliss was the best of the rest with a 1:32.352 on his PTR Triumph Factory Racing Street Triple 765 RS.

Philip Oettl was third with a lap time of 1:32.370 on his Feel Racing Ducati Panigale V2.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was 6th with a 1:32.523 on his ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bross 820RR.

Results wssp fo

Vortex Racing & EK Chain Return As MotoAmerica Partners

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 19, 2026

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Vortex Racing & EK Chain Return As MotoAmerica Partners

Vortex Racing and EK Chain will continue their support of MotoAmerica in 2026, returning as Official Sponsors of North America’s premier motorcycle road racing championship.

Their continued sponsorship of the MotoAmerica series reinforces a shared commitment to competition, reliability, and development at the highest level of American road racing.

Vortex Racing, a long-time manufacturer of high-performance motorcycle components, and EK Chain, a global leader in drive-chain technology, bring decades of racing experience, acquired from the highest levels of competition, to the MotoAmerica Championship. Products from both companies, including sprockets, rearsets, clip-ons, and chains, are used broadly throughout the MotoAmerica paddock on every race weekend, in an unmatched test environment where durability and performance are critical.

The 2026 season marks another step in the ongoing relationship between MotoAmerica, Vortex Racing, and EK Chain reflecting the brands’ continued investment in American road racing and their support of teams and riders competing at the national level.

“MotoAmerica continues to be the most demanding and meaningful proving ground for our products, and we are proud to support a championship that consistently pushes teams, riders, and manufacturers to perform at the highest level,” said Steve Malone, VP of Operations at Vortex Racing and EK Chain. “We remain fully committed to the paddock, the people, and the competition that make this series what it is, and we are grateful to be part of a championship that continues to strengthen professional motorcycle road racing in the United States.”

MotoAmerica emphasized the value of long-term partners with a deep understanding of racing and its demands.

“Racing in MotoAmerica often separates champions from competitors by hundredths of a second,” said Lance Bryson, Director of Sponsorship for MotoAmerica. “Consistency in performance is non-negotiable, which is why companies like Vortex Racing and EK Chain are fixtures in our paddock with top performing teams. Their continued support reflects our commitment to strengthen the championship and push the level of our competition.”

The 2026 MotoAmerica Championship will feature competition in seven classes and at 10 rounds across the United States, continuing the series’ role as the top level of professional motorcycle road racing in North America.

For more information about Vortex Racing and EK Chain, visit www.vortexracing.com

WSBK: Superbike Advocates Racing Confirms 2026 Entry

Mathilde Gasnier

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February 19, 2026

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WSBK: Superbike Advocates Racing Confirms 2026 Entry

The 2026 WorldSBK entry list is boosted with the arrival of Superbike Advocates Racing; the Australian-owned team will fully commit to the championship as of Round 2, taking to the tracks with rider Tommy Bridewell and the Ducati Panigale V4R.

In a late development, Superbike Advocates Racing announces its full-time entry to the 2026 FIM Superbike World Championship. Ready to field expert rider Tommy Bridewell and a 2026 spec Ducati Panigale V4R, this new-entry team will contest all eleven European championship rounds starting with the Portuguese round at Portimão (27-29 March) and will be the first Australian-owned team ever to do so.

Operating from its UK base, the squad originally intended to compete in British Superbike this season but has taken the bold step of accelerating its plans and will now debut in WorldSBK in 2026, a move originally envisaged for 2027. An ambitious project that is perfectly suited to a highly motivated and experienced rider like Bridewell.

Tommy is no stranger to Ducati; the British rider having secured the 2023 British Superbike Championship with the Panigale V4. A standout performance from bike and rider brought a total of 8 race wins and 10 additional podiums. Bridewell also powered his Ducati to top three in the 2019, 2021 and 2022 BSB seasons and scored WorldSBK points in 2019 while competing as a wildcard. Despite his extensive racing experience, Tommy essentially takes on the 2026 WorldSBK campaign as a rookie, a challenge the Brit relishes.

“It’s an opportunity I’ve never been given before” admits Bridewell. “We were testing at Portimão and when the bikes arrived – full WorldSBK spec – I made a jokey comment to the team to the effect of ‘wouldn’t it be nice to leave them like that and not have to remove all the electronics.’ I think this gave the team food for thought and before I knew it the entry was submitted and we were approved to compete in WorldSBK. A lastminute switch but I couldn’t be more excited.”

“I want to say a huge thankyou to the team for the opportunity” continues an enthusiastic Tommy. “I think it’s all coming together and we’re in for an exciting year. Sure, I’ve got a lot to learn – I’ve been racing for many years and am going into the season as prepared as I’ve ever been, but I feel a bit like a rookie! I’m really looking forward to it though. I just couldn’t turn down this chance, and I really hope the BSB fans can get to some of the races and support me and the other British riders. Let’s see how we do.”

Former BSB Champion Tommy Bridewell confirms full-time Ducati WorldSBK ride. Photo courtesy WorldSBK

It is also a rookie season for Superbike Advocates Racing, a project launched by Australian Lee Khouri. Wellknown in the automotive world as the founder of Supercar Advocates and an avid Ducati collector, Lee’s passion for the prestigious Italian brand left no doubt as to the machinery the team would field on track. Having cut its teeth in Australian Superbike with Glenn Allerton – and finishing the 2025 season a notable fifth overall – the team is excited to make the jump to the world championship.

“To officially step onto the WorldSBK grid in 2026 is an incredibly proud moment – not just for our team, but for Australia”, comments Team Owner, Lee Khouri. “Superbike Advocates Racing will be the first Australianowned team in the history of the Superbike World Championship, and that’s something that means a great deal to me personally. This project started with pure passion – passion for Ducati, for racing, and for building something that could compete at the highest level. What began in Australian Superbike has evolved into a world championship campaign much sooner than we originally planned, and that reflects the belief we have in the people around us.”

Structurally, the team can count on the expertise of several key figures, not least Alan Jackson, who takes the helm as team manager. The former TT winner has managed teams competing across BSB, Endurance and road racing and offers the kind of support and insight that only a former racer can. Mick Shanley comes aboard as technical director, bringing a wealth of experience from his many years of operation in WorldSBK and MotoGP. Together, Alan and Mick have hand-picked a group of expert technicians ready to support Bridewell during his rookie WorldSBK season.

“WorldSBK is one of the most competitive championships in global motorsport. We’re not entering to make up the numbers – we’re here to build, to learn quickly, and to fight”, Khouri concludes. “With Tommy’s experience, the Ducati Panigale V4R, and the strength of our technical structure, we believe we can establish ourselves as a serious and professional operation from day one. To represent Australia and the United Kingdom on the world stage in this way is something I’m extremely proud of. This is just the beginning.”

The stage is set and Superbike Advocates Racing is ready to perform – stay tuned as the team sets its sights on WorldSBK success!

https://www.superbikeadvocatesracing.com/

WorldSBK: Bulega Tops Final Practice In Australia

February 20, 2026

Nicolo Bulega (11) during FP3 at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna

Nicolò Bulega led FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice 3 (FP3) Saturday morning at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Australia. Riding his Aruba.It Racing – Ducati Panigale V4R on spec Pirelli tires, the Italian rider covered the 2.76-mile (4.45 km) track in 1:28.273 to lead the field of 21 riders.

Sam Lowes was second-best with a 1:28.575 on his ELF Marc VDS Ducati Panigale V4R.

Axel Bassani was third with a 1:28.722 on his Bimota by Kawasaki KB998 Rimini and his teammate Alex Lowes finished the session fourth with a lap tine of 1:28.742.

American Garrett Gerloff was fifth with a time of 1:28.743 on his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.

Danilo Petrucci was 9th on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team M1000RR with a time of 1:28.842.

wsbk fp3

More from a press release issued by Dorna:

Nicolo Bulega continued showing his pace in Australia as he topped Saturday morning’s FP3 session by more than three tenths.

The final practice session of the Australian Round concluded with Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) topping the times for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The #11 has topped every session from the Official Test and the three Free Practice sessions at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, as he finished ahead of Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) and Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team).

Bulega made it a hat-trick of session-topping times in Free Practice 3 as he finished three tenths clear of his rivals, while also showing his consistent pace once again. His best time was a 1’28.273s as he beat Sam Lowes, with the #14 putting in a late lap to move into second ahead of Bassani. The Italian had been quick out of the blocks to set a 1’28.722s and secure a top-three spot in FP3, putting him in good stead for this afternoon’s Tissot Superpole session.

Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) ensured both Bimota riders were in the top four as he lapped just 0.020s slower than his teammate. All three Kawasaki-powered teams were in the top five, and all showing relatively similar pace. Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) claimed P5 with a 1’28.743s, exactly 0.001s slower than the #22 ahead. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) closed the gap to teammate Bulega in the 20-minute session as the #7 finished in sixth, less than half-a-second down on the #11.

Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) set a 1’28.788s as he finished in seventh, directly ahead of teammate Alvaro Bautista who was 0.050s away from Montella’s pace. Both BMW riders featured in the top ten in FP3. Danilo Petrucci (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was the faster of the pair as he set a 1’28.842s, but there was little to separate him from Miguel Oliveira. 0.007s was the difference, in Petrucci’s favour.

The top six from WorldSBK FP3, full results here:

1. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’28.273s

2. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.302s

3. Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.449s

4. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.469s

5. Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) +0.470s

6. Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.488s

Next up, Tissot Superpole! How will the first grid of 2026 look? Find out from 13:00 Local Time (UTC+11) using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

MotoAmerica: Team Shocker Racing Adds 4th Rider For Daytona

February 20, 2026

Chris LaBuguen piloting his Aprila RS660 during the ASRA round at Ozarks International Raceway. Photo by Noiseless Productions / courtesy Team Shocker Racing

Team Shocker Racing is excited to announce the addition of Chris LaBuguen to their Daytona lineup. The #410 will be joining teammates #444, Chuck Burton IV, #888 Maxim Gulinsky and the #871 of Ethan Song.

TSR Co-Owner Aaron Gustafson stated: “So we started this project with the plan of running 3 bikes originally. But things escalated rather quickly and we decided it was the right choice to give Chris the opportunity to run with the boys.

“The right push from the right people brought us to the decision to put four bikes into the show.” Says TSR Co-Owner Matt Treske

All 4 TSR riders will be onboard Trickdaddy Performance Aprilla RS660s prepped by none other than TSR’s very own Aaron “Trickdaddy” Gustafson.

Chris LaBuguen adds: “It’s been so much fun working on this project with Aaron and Matt. The team is unbelievably lucky to have someone with Aaron’s talents and dedication. He’s been putting in countless hours at the shop making sure all four bikes are ready to go. I’m definitely stoked for the opportunity to join the rest of the team at Daytona!”

Team Shocker Racing would like to thank our Title Sponsors TLC Assisted Living and Icafe Companies for their continued support and the rest of our sponsors for pushing this program forward: Sharif Racing Leathers, KYT America, Trackside Suspension and Engineering, KClay Paint, Wood Products Corporation, HSBK Racing, Vortex Racing, Woodcraft, Vesrah Drippinwet.com, Hybrid Hero, 3Four Fabrication, Tony Dransfield First Weber Reality and Hacienda Real.

For more information about TSR visit us at: https://teamshockerracing.com/

ASBK: West Tops Practice at Phillip Island

February 20, 2026

Anthony West is relishing his switch to DesmoSport Ducati. Photo courtesy ASBK.

Anthony West has made a vibrant start to his new career as a Ducati rider in the Penrite Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli (ASBK), topping Friday practice in sublime conditions at Phillip Island.

Five months after the 44-year-old signed off from the last Phillip Island ASBK round with a maiden SW-Motech Superbike victory on a Yamaha, he’s continued his affinity with the 4.448km circuit – but now with more confidence than ever on the DesmoSport Ducati.

That will provide plenty of food for thought for his Superbike opposition, although he was pushed all the way in practice by Harrison Voght (McMartin Racing Ducati) with just 0.005s separating the duo after the two 30-minute sessions.

Defending five-time champion Josh Waters (McMartin Racing Ducati) was third fastest on a circuit where he’s been dominant in recent times.

Hayden Nelson (BCperformance Kawasaki) and visiting Italian Roberto Tamburini (Addicted to Track Yamaha) topped qualifying in the Kawasaki-backed Supersport and Supersport Next Gen classes, while teen Riley Nauta (Champions Ride Days Kawasaki) uncorked a sizzling final lap to win a ripping Race and Road Supersport 300 opener.

The ASBK action will continue tomorrow – qualifying for Superbike and then one race apiece in all three classes – while in World Supersport Oli Bayliss (Triumph) has given himself an almighty chance to win his first race in the category after qualifying in second.

Bayliss’ fellow Aussie Remy Gardner (Yamaha) will also be front and centre in World Superbike race one, so plenty to cheer about for local fans.

Get your Phillip Island tickets here.

SW-MOTECH SUPERBIKE:

West certainly enjoyed his first official day in the Ducati bunker, with his best lap 1:31.492 in opening practice – one of four riders in the 91-second bracket alongside Voight, Waters and new Yamaha Racing Team signing Jonathan Nahlous.

“We had a good start to the weekend,” said West. “It’s our first time as a team working together under the pressure of a race weekend and everyone is really working together unreal.

“Track conditions changed a lot for FP2 and I was missing some rear grip to keep moving forward and missed some opportunities, but we learnt more and it gives me a lot of confidence heading into tomorrow.”

Jack Favelle (Addicted to Track Yamaha) was fifth fastest in practice from Cru Halliday (Stop and Seal Ducati), rookie Jacob Roulstone (Honda), Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team), Cameron Dunker (Blue Marlin Pools Racing Yamaha) and Glenn Allerton (Superbike Advocates Racing Ducati).

Marcus Hamod (Honda) crashed at turn 11 in FP1 and sat out the balance of the day, but he’s expected to line up for qualifying early on Saturday morning – where milder track conditions should make for some rapid lap times.

KAWASAKI SUPERSPORT/SUPERSPORT NEXT GEN:

Nelson and Tamburini will lead the 21-rider field away in the combined and Kawasaki-backed Supersport and Supersport Next Gen race, with Tom Edwards alongside them on the second BCperformance Kawasaki.

Olly Simpson (DesmoSport Ducati) made up for lost time after electrical gremlins in practice to qualify in fourth from Jake Farnsworth (Yamaha) and Tom Toparis (Stop and Seal Ducati).

Behind lurks a gaggle of young guns and experienced riders, which sets the scene for a gripping race one at 9:25am on Saturday.

RACE AND ROAD SUPERSPORT 300:

If the first race ASBK race of the season – Race and Road Supersport 300 – has set the tone for the season, we’re in for a treat!

It was a beauty, with a leading pack of six constantly trading blows in the eight-lapper: Nauta, Tara Morrison (Kawasaki), Jordy Simpson (Yamaha), Tyler King (Yamaha), Phoenix O’Brien (Yamaha) and polesitter Orlando Peovitis (Kawasaki).

Nauta held the top spot for most of the time, albeit with wafer-thin margins, but then broke ranks on the final lap to win by nearly two seconds ahead of King, Simpson, O’Brien, Peovitis and Morrison.

A total of 28 riders saw the finish line, with race two at 8:50am on Saturday.

For more information on the 2026 Penrite Australian Superbike Championship presented by Pirelli:

Stuman Rides Video: Meet CVMA Racers

February 20, 2026

Sawyer Lafayette (616) side by side with Nathan Gravelle (210) leading Anthony Estrada (107) (hidden) and Chris Binker (73) at the start of the CVMA Ultra Lightweight Shootout. Photo bu Caliphotography.

By Stuart Smith:

I released a new video on my YouTube channel, StumanRides, today. In this video, I provide an overview of what happened at the past CVMA Race weekend (Round 5 2025-2026 Winter Series). I also interviewed a few racers in the pits prior to the races.

The video is live now at the following link: https://youtu.be/E0GlqGphd7w?si=V_M-R2O3kQdmzHVL

WorldSBK : Bulega Heads Friday Practice At Phillip Island

February 19, 2026

Nicolo Bulega (11) during Free Practice 2 at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna