American Brandon Paasch, riding a VisionTrack Suzuki GSX-R1000R, finished 10th in the British Superstock race at Brands Hatch. Billy McConnell won the race on a Honda, and Davey Todd, who also rode a Honda, clinched the title before the finale.
Anthony Mazziotto, riding a Luxestar VIP/Affinity Kawasaki ZX-6R, finished 22nd in British Junior Superstock Race Two. Franco Bourne won Race Two on a Kawasaki, and Yamaha rider Max Cook clinched the title before coming to Brands Hatch.
Canadian and former MotoAmerica Junior Cup competitor Jack Roach, riding his Completely Motorbikes/Affinity Kawasaki Ninja 400, turned the fastest race lap and finished second in British Junior Supersport Race Two. Roach’s teammate Mikey Hardie won Race Two. Roach’s other teammate James McManus claimed the British Junior Supersport Championship.
MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up Gus Rodio finished seventh in British Junior Supersport Race Two on his Luxestar VIP/Symcirrus Kawasaki Ninja 400.
More, from a press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:
Ray crowned Bennetts BSB champion as Hickman becomes tenth different winner in 2022
Bradley Ray, the 2022 Bennetts British Superbike Champion. Photo courtesy MSVR.
Bradley Ray celebrated his Bennetts British Superbike Championship title on home soil at Brands Hatch this afternoon (Sunday). The 25-year-old was officially crowned today after sealing top honours in yesterday’s opening race, ending the season with nine race wins plus a further 14 podiums for the Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha team.
Ray finished fifth in Saturday’s eBay Sprint Race which was enough to secure a first title for both rider and team. Today, the new champion crashed out unhurt in the second race of the weekend before ending the season with a sixth place finish.
In the first of two races on the final day of the season, around the Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit, Peter Hickman became the tenth different race winner of the season. The FHO Racing BMW rider held off Danny Buchan and Saturday winner Glenn Irwin to secure a visit to the top step of the podium.
In the final race of 2022, Glenn Irwin was able to grab the lead when Buchan made a small mistake at Surtees. This meant that the Honda Racing UK rider started and ended the season with victories on his way to claiming the runner-up spot in the standings, his best championship finish.
Andrew Irwin was back on the podium with a strong second place in the final race, just ahead of Buchan. Fifth place for Hickman was enough for him end the season as the Bennetts BSB Riders Cup champion, finishing just ahead of his BMW rivals.
Tommy Bridewell’s season finished with a fourth place, which secured the Oxford Products Racing Ducati team third in the final standings. This means that three different teams and manufacturers completed the final championship top three.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch, Race 2 result:
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW)
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +0.622s
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) +2.702s
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +13.381s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +13.494s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +13.902s
Christian Iddon (Buildbase Suzuki) +15.181s
Charlie Nesbitt (Buildbase Suzuki) +16.426s
Josh Brookes (MCE Ducati) +18.912s
Tom Sykes (MCE Ducati) +20.511s
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch, Race 3 result:
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK)
Andrew Irwin (SYNETIQ BMW) +0.672s
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +1.956s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +5.474s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +5.679s
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +11.000s
Josh Brookes (MCE Ducati) 11.334s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +11.485s
Christian Iddon (Buildbase Suzuki) +17.652s
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +17.744s
Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 1192
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) 1171
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 1141
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Kawasaki) 1095
“It’s been unbelievable. If you’d said the results we would’ve got this season at the start of the year. And said, ‘you’re going to be British champion’, I would have bitten your hand off and took it. The whole team have grafted all year. It hasn’t been easy from the start, but we put a lot of work in.
“Pre-season was good and I knew that this would be my best chance to fight for the championship with Yamaha, with Rich Energy OMG. We just got our head down the whole season, took everything in our stride, maximised everything race by race and that allowed us to come to Brands Hatch and have a difficult round like we have.
“Obviously it would have been nicer to be fighting for victory and fighting for podiums [this weekend] but we’ve done enough work throughout the season to prove that we’re worthy champions. Just a big shout out to the team, family, friends and everyone who came out to Brands to support me this weekend.”
This is MotoGP™: Phillip Island delivers an instant classic as the title fight takes another twist
Rins wins one of the closest races of all time, Marquez takes his 100th premier class podium and Bagnaia secures third – taking the Championship lead as Quartararo crashes out
Alex Rins (42) leads Marc Marquez (93), Francesco Bagnaia (63), Marco Bezzecchi (72), and the rest of the MotoGP field to the checkered flag at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Sunday, 16 October 2022
The Animoca Brands Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix made a lot of headlines and a bit of history. The history was the top seven riders finishing, incredibly, within a single second – 0.884, to be exact. It’s also the second closest top ten ever. The headlines? Where do we begin…
It’s Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) who took an emotional win, the number 42 fighting at the front throughout and then fending off Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) on the final lap. Marquez, who was forced to settle for second but got back on the box, secured his 100th premier class podium. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), meanwhile, took third, and with it a fair margin of Championship lead as some serious dramas unfolded behind.
The first saw former points leader Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) run on and face a fight back from outside the top twenty, and his drama wouldn’t end there but the next was for home hero Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team). Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) overcooked it and made contact with the Australian, sending both down and after both had made stellar starts. With that Miller is out of the Championship hunt, and the title fight got another shake up not long after.
Trying to come back through and at least into the points at the time, Quartararo then suddenly slid out of contention at the Southern Loop, lowsiding off into the gravel in another huge twist. That left an open goal for the contenders still battling it out, with Bagnaia on course to claim the lead… but by how much?
The first leaders were polesitter Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) and Marquez, before Rins and Bagnaia reeled them in. As the laps ticked down the overtakes kept coming, and the troops were forming for the podium fight: Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) and teammate Luca Marini were arriving on the scene as Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) started to fade, watching the chance to capitalise on Quartararo’s error get a little smaller.
The opposite was true of Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) as the ‘Beast’ homed in on the fight at the front. As the final showdown started to commence, there were seven riders locked together: Bagnaia, Rins, Marquez, Bezzecchi, Marini, Martin and Bastianini. Who was going to take it?
Bagnaia led them onto the final lap but with ’20 out’ loud and clear on the pit board, the risk vs reward balance was something to consider. But not for Rins and Marquez. Marquez had passed Rins for second at the Southern Loop on the penultimate lap, but the Suzuki rider hit back straight away at Stoner Corner, and that was how they commenced Lap 27 of 27. Rins went a corner earlier this time with a move on Bagnaia for the lead, and Marquez followed to push Pecco down to third. Could the number 93 cook up one final attack?
In the end, Rins was unstoppable. The Suzuki rider kept the door closed to the line as Marquez hung in there looking for a way through, and right behind the focus shifted to Bezzecchi. Would the Italian, Ducati rider and VR46 Academy member launch a late attack on Bagnaia? He wouldn’t. Bagnaia held them off to secure another podium and homed in on Marquez in a big way on the drag to the line, just 0.224 off Rins’ by the flag.
Bezzechi’s fourth place secures him top Independent Team rider in the race and Rookie of the Year for 2022, as he was left to hold off Bastianini and did so – just. The ‘Beast’ was incredibly close by the flag, taking fifth ahead of Marini. Martin took seventh after leading early on from pole, and he creates the stat of the top seven within a second.
Next up came Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing), who had a comeback on his hands after a tough start but made his way through to an impressive eighth. Aleix Espargaro, on a day that could have paid a few more dividends, faded to ninth place, with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) rounding out the top ten after earlier having charged as far forward as seventh.
Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team) took P11 ahead of a solid comeback for Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). Cal Crutchlow (WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP™), after losing a few positions off the start, finished 13th and contributes a few more Constructors’ points, with rookie teammate Darryn Binder impressing just behind to take a couple of his own points. Speaking of rookies, home hero Remy Gardner (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing) scored on home turf too, taking P15.
After drama Down Under, it’s just a few days until the paddock heads to Sepang and the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia. Bagnaia now leads by a sizeable 14 points ahead of Quartararo, having pulled off that amazing, record-breaking comeback in the standings. Aleix Espargaro is now 27 back and Bastianini is the last contender after Miller’s 0, with the Italian facing a 42-point deficit with two to go. The first of those is contested next weekend, so tune in for more at Sepang for Bagnaia’s first match point!
MotoGP™ PODIUM
1 Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) – Suzuki – 40’50.654
2 Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) – Honda – +0.186
3 Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) – Ducati – +0.224
Alex Rins: “First of all, thanks to everyone who’s come to the Island to support us! Last time here with the Suzuki is special, I have the feeling and it’s amazing to go out with the victory. Thank you so much and see you next year, Phillip Island!”
Marc Marquez: “We chose the correct tyre with the soft rear tyre, I felt good and I was managing the race a lot in the beginning, then later on I was struggling a bit with grip but I enjoyed it a lot, that race. It doesn’t matter what position, I finished second and I tried to win. I gave everything, but Alex did a really good last lap. I gave everything I had, I enjoyed it a lot, so many overtakes. In some areas we still need to improve but Honda is working, and step by step we’re getting better and better.
“For me, the second place was so important, when I came back after the injury, the test in Misano, then the race in Japan, the race in Thailand. Why? Because it was important to understand that, inside me, the speed is there, and when I feel okay, the speed is there. But it’s true that now we need to work hard and the body needs to follow that speed, so step-by-step, it’s getting better and better. Here is a left circuit, so it helps a lot, and it’s true that it’s only two right corners where you push really hard – that is 4 and 10 – and in Malaysia, we will struggle more, I know. But, we will have time in winter so, step-by-step, we are getting better and it was the best way to keep the motivation for me, for the team, for Honda, because Honda is also in a difficult situation. They are working hard, as we see this weekend, and it’s getting better and better.”
On 100 premier class podiums:
“First of all, I’m really happy with this podium. It means a lot to me, it means a lot to the people who have helped me in this tough season, and to all the doctors, to all the physios that I work with. We are getting better and better, and Honda is working hard. Nothing has been gained now, but they are working really hard for 2023. This podium means a lot, to keep the motivation, to show to them that this rider that can win six titles with Honda is there.”
Francesco Bagnaia: “I had some difficulties to engage the front device, but in any case, the start wasn’t so good. Then I tried in the first laps to overtake many riders, and then when I saw on the pit board that Fabio was out, a win is ok but if they overtake me on the final lap, it’s ok. I’m very happy and we’re now leading the Championship… so keep going like this!
How do you feel about 91-point deficit to now, how are you different?
“For sure, it’s a Pecco that has learnt more lessons possible, and I said, there are 250 points remaining after the Sachsenring. I think we took a lot of that. Our bike is the same from Jerez and from that moment, we demonstrated that we were so competitive. So, keep going, keep going. I don’t want to think about the Championship now. Just focus on the main goal, which is doing good races, and then we’ll see. But, I don’t want to think about it.”
Fabio Quartararo: “I was struggling a lot at Turn 4 and I already made a mistake at the beginning of the race. Then I tried to push, I was quite far and I could overtake three riders but then I pushed too much in Turn 2 and I made a mistake. Let’s see how we can handle the next ones. I think Malaysia is a good track, I like it, so let’s see how we can do it.”
Is today the day where the championship really changed?
“Yeah, it has changed for him since the Sachsenring, so it can change also for us in the last two. I feel that we can have a great last two races. We need to be focused, to work well, and see, but it can be worse for both of us.”
What went wrong at Turn 4? Is it a move that you felt you should have made?
“No, it was not even a move, and I think there was a tailwind, so it pushed me quite fast, and I’ve made a mistake. But, in the end, I think it will be important to analyse it well – I think we already know what happened – and then go to Malaysia with full motivation.”
Will we see a change in strategy?
“A change of strategy is difficult but I think that, in the end, we need to do our best and, more than that, enjoy it. Because, in the recent races, I couldn’t really enjoy it, and I feel like we need to enjoy the last two races. That, for me, will be the most important thing, because I know that when I enjoy it, I feel like we can go fast!”
Aleix Espargaro: “I made a good start, I felt good, I felt I had the speed to fight for the podium but, suddenly in the middle of the race, the traction control started to cut so much power. I couldn’t accelerate, I couldn’t go forward, and it was very frustrating, because I lost a lot of ground in acceleration and tried to recover under brakes but it was impossible to stay with the leading group.”
Was it an issue with bike or electronics?
“I mean, we have the same tyre as most of the riders in the front group, so I guess it’s our problem. We have to understand what happened. Maverick had exactly the same problem, so it was very frustrating because it’s difficult to have the speed to fight for the victory but we had it today and we couldn’t really profit from it.”
Is the disappointment worse because of opportunity from Quartararo crash?
“Yes, for sure. I mean, he made a mistake and crashed, so we didn’t really profit from it and Pecco jumped onto the podium also, so now we are a bit far. It’s still possible but more difficult.”
27-point deficit; how do you look at last two races?
“The first thing is that I’m very proud to arrive at the last two races still with a chance of winning the title and this is fantastic, unbelievable. But, now it’s a little bit more difficult than before because with Pecco and Ducati’s form, and a one-race advantage, it’s not going to be easy, but anyway, everything can happen, so let’s keep fighting.”
Alonso Lopez (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alonso plays his ace for a stunning second win as drama hits for Fernandez
The SpeedUp rider proves unstoppable despite a Long Lap penalty, with Fernandez crashing out and Ogura salvaging 11th for the points lead
Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) played a figurative and literal ace at the Animoca Brands Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, escaping from the front row to pull out enough gap to serve his Long Lap penalty given in practice and still emerge in the lead – putting the hammer down from there on out to enjoy a track day experience at Phillip Island, winning with over 3.5 seconds in hand. Second went to Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo), another two-time rookie race winner this year, with Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) completing the podium after a comeback from P14 on the grid.
The huge headline beyond the podium saw former Championship leader Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) crash out from behind teammate Acosta. Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) is the therefore the new points leader, although the Japanese rider could only manage 11th and his advantage is therefore only 3.5 points with two races to go. There are also now only those two contenders remaining, as Aron Canet (Flexbox HP 40) is now 50 points back and without a win.
From lights out, Lopez was in charge as he bolted immediately, maintaining the plan to push at the limit from the off. That gave him enough advantage to dive in to take his Long Lap penalty and still emerge in the lead, and then he was gone.
After a crash out of podium contention for Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) and Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) fading back from the podium fight, the battle between Acosta and Fernandez was heating up. The rookie was ahead when his teammate suddenly slid out, losing the front and with it chance to create quite a gap. But rider ok and ultimately only losing four points.
Dixon gained the podium with that, but after having put in quite a comeback to slice through the pack from well outside the top ten. Behind him, Aldeguer held off an impressive charge from Manuel Gonzalez (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team), with Jeremy Alcoba (Liqui Moly Intact GP) and Cameron Beaubier (American Racing) for close company. Somkiat Chantra (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), Canet and Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team) completed the top ten ahead of Ogura.
After that drama on race day for Fernandez, Ogura now has chance to take the crown in Malaysia… but it’s only 3.5 points the Japanese rider in hand, and it looks like the battle may well go all the way to the wire. Tune in for the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia next weekend for another twist in the tale!
Moto2™ PODIUM
1 Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) – Boscoscuro – 39’14.947
Alonso Lopez: “To be honest I don’t know what I did, but yesterday I was working really hard on the data, I had bad luck because I missed out on pole because of a Red Flag and I knew I had the pace but today the track was completely different. I did my best with the Long Lap, I felt really comfortable. I want to thank my team and also Casey! It’s his birthday and I learned a lot from watching him. Thank you to all the sponsors, and thanks everyone!”
Izan Guevara, the 2022 Moto3 World Champion. Photo courtesy Dorna.
#1ZAN! Guevara seals the crown with a stylish, signature win on The Island
The Champion elect becomes the Champion confirmed after a four-way fight for the podium Down Under
Izan Guevara (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) attacked and pulled away in style on the last lap of the Animoca Brands Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, taking another impressive victory and with it, this time, the 2022 Moto3™ World Championship. Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Tech3) got back on the podium in second, ahead of Sergio Garcia (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) as the number 11 ceded the crown but got back on the rostrum.
Garcia took the early lead as polesitter Ayumu Sasaki (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team) lost a couple of positions from pole, but all eyes were on Guevara as the Championship leader had some distance to make up from Row 3. He got that done quickly though, slotting into a top six joined by Garcia, Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI), Sasaki, Öncü and home hero Joel Kelso (CIP Green Power). Bit by bit two riders on the chase were able to close in, too: John McPhee (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team) and Stefano Nepa (Angeluss MTA Team).
By 10 to go, four remained in the front group as Guevara, Sasaki, Öncü and Garcia pulled away, and there they stayed. On the start of the last lap, it was Öncü ahead over the line, but that didn’t last long as Guevara hit back to take the lead. From there, the number 28 got the hammer down and kept a few precious metres in hand to take what’s fast becoming a signature win, sealing the Championship in the process.
Sasaki was forced to settle for fourth, ahead of a tight group of Nepa, McPhee, Moreira and Kelso. Moreira and Kelso were separated by just 0.001, with video verification deployed.
Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing) headed up the next group after a tougher race for the Italian, who has fallen back to third overall, with Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse) completing the top ten. Close behind them in the group came David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports), Carlos Tatay (CFMoto Racing PrüstelGP) and front row starter Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team).
That’s a wrap Down Under, with a new World Champion crowned and the pressure now off in Malaysia. What will Sepang bring? We’ll find out next weekend, so come back for more at the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia!
Izan Guevara: “In the start of the race today it was really complicated with the slightly wet conditions, but the track dried quickly and I felt really comfortable. It was possible to push in the lead group with my pace, I’m so happy with this moment, this Championship… I’d like to thank my team, my family for the support, and all my friends.”
American Brandon Paasch, riding a VisionTrack Suzuki GSX-R1000R, was 12th in British Superstock qualifying Saturday at Brands Hatch.
Anthony Mazziotto, riding a Luxestar VIP/Affinity Kawasaki ZX-6R, finished 21st in British Junior Superstock Race One.
Canadian and former MotoAmerica Junior Cup competitor Jack Roach, riding his Completely Motorbikes/Affinity Kawasaki Ninja 400, finished third in British Junior Supersport Race One.
MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up Gus Rodio finished fourth in British Junior Supersport Race One on his Luxestar VIP/Symcirrus Kawasaki Ninja 400.
More, from a press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:
Ray claims first Bennetts British Superbike title victory in front of home crowd
Bradley Ray, the 2022 British Superbike Champion. Photo courtesy MSVR.
Bradley Ray sealed his first Bennetts British Superbike title with a fifth place in the eBay Sprint Race at Brands Hatch this afternoon, celebrating the championship victory for the Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha team at his home round.
Ray headed into his home round on the Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit with a 66-point lead, knowing that a seventh place would be enough to claim the crown for the first time. Ray’s fifth place in the eBay Sprint Race means he has an unassailable 52-point lead ahead of tomorrow’s final two races of the season.
The 25-year-old contender from Lydd made his Bennetts BSB debut in 2017, but it has been this season where he has delivered an imperious performance with a total of nine race wins and a further 14 podium finishes to consistently stay ahead of his title rivals.
It was Glenn Irwin who claimed a commanding race victory in the first race of the weekend, pushing hard from the start to bridge a gap over the chasing pack as he bids to end his campaign on a high for the Honda Racing UK team.
Glenn Irwin had a 1.374s advantage at the chequered flag, but behind there was a battle between Peter Hickman and Andrew Irwin as the pair diced for second place.
Hickman had the edge at the finish as he moves ahead in the Bennetts BSB Riders Cup battle with a second place as Andrew Irwin took his third podium finish of the season for SYNETIQ BMW.
Ray had only had to finish in the top seven to claim the title and he was forced to relinquish fourth place to Tommy Bridewell when the Oxford Products Racing Ducati made his move with three laps remaining.
Ray’s eventual fifth place was enough to be victorious in the title chase, just ahead of Jason O’Halloran and Danny Buchan. Danny Kent scored his best result of the season in eighth place for Buildbase Suzuki ahead of Kyle Ryde and Tom Sykes who competed the top ten.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch, eBay Sprint Race result:
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK)
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +1.374s
Andrew Irwin (SYNETIQ BMW) +1.808s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +5.105s
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +5.524s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +7.743s
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +9.895s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +13.358s
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +13.547s
Tom Sykes (MCE Ducati) +14.465s
Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 1182
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) 1130
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 1117
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Kawasaki) 1095
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
Bradley Ray
Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha
“It wasn’t easy let me tell you! I approached the start of the race as I would any other – I dug in at the start and tried to get as far up the field as possible. I started having a few small moments and a few slides, and to be honest I settled in and then into fourth and tried to catch Andy and Pete, but I couldn’t do it, so I was happy to sit where I needed to. I had to just carry on doing what I was doing.
“When Tommy passed me, I was fifth, so I knew that I’d be safe for the last few laps because seventh was what I needed. I wanted to get more, but I had to bring it home for the championship. I’m a little bit speechless but I’m sure it’ll sink in tonight over a nice glass of vino. I’m super proud.
“It’s super special, it’s something I used to dream of as a kid, becoming British champion. This is the closest I’ve ever been to doing it, so we had to dig in into the Showdown and do everything we could to be close enough coming into Brands Hatch.
“It was nice to come here with such a lead and it took a bit of pressure of my shoulders to perform, but it means the world to me to my close family, my close friends it’s a dream come true.
“I’m excited about tomorrow now; I will be going for the wins. The pressure is off so we’ll just go out, have fun and enjoy it.”
Provisional Mission Production Twins Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Cory Texter (Yam), 25 laps
2. Dan Bromley (Yam), -02.619 seconds
3. Cole Zabala (Yam), -04.024
4. James Rispoli (KTM), -09.347
5. Kolby Carlile (Har), -10.760
6. Michael Rush (Har), -10.858
7. Cameron Smith (Yam), -13.328
8. Jesse Janisch (Har), -15.036
9. Billy Ross (Har), -15.243
10. Cody Johncox (Yam), -16.048
11. Ryan Wells (Kaw), -16.901
12. Jeffery Lowery (Yam), -1 lap, -06.010
13. Mitch Harvat (KTM), -1 lap, -06.212
14. Jordan Harris (KTM), -1 lap, -07.639
15. Kasey Sciscoe (Har), -4 laps, DNF
16. Johnny Lewis (Roy), -17 laps, DNF
Provisional Parts Unlimited AFT Singles Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Dalton Gauthier (Hon), 25 laps
2. Kody Kopp (KTM), -00.196 seconds
3. Morgen Mischler (Hon), -00.285
4. Chase Saathoff (Hon), -01.379
5. Max Whale (KTM), -01.514
6. James Ott (KTM), -01.571
7. Trevor Brunner (Yam), -01.699
8. Trent Lowe (Hon), -01.936
9. Aidan RoosEvans (Hon), -02.940
10. Chad Cose (Hon), -02.973
11. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), -03.308
12. Jordan Jean (Hon), -04.485
13. Tarren Santero (Hon), -04.805
14. Tyler Raggio (Hon), -04.825
15. Jared Lowe (Hon), -04.969
16. Hunter Bauer (KTM), -05.154
17. Logan McGrane (KTM), -07.043
Provisional Mission SuperTwins Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 31 laps
2. Briar Bauman (Ind), -00.286 seconds
3. Jared Mees (Ind), -01.664
4. Dallas Daniels (Yam), -01.807
5. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), -05.239
6. Davis Fisher (Ind), -05.804
7. Brandon Price (Yam), -06.924
8. Jeffrey Carver (Har), -07.540
9. Dan Bromley (PT) (Yam), -13.709
10. James Rispoli (PT) (KTM), -14.225
11. JD Beach (Yam), -14.993
12. Robert Pearson (Ind), -15.079
13. Ben Lowe (Ind), -15.424
14. Cole Zabala (PT) (Yam), -16.110
15. Bronson Bauman (Har), -18.451
16. Shayna Texter-Bauman (Ind), -20.310
17. Cory Texter (PT) (Yam), -25 laps
More, from a press release issued by American Flat Track (AFT):
Mees Successfully Defends His Crown at Volusia Half-Mile Finale II
Jared Mees (1) captured his second consecutive AFT SuperTwins Championship. Photo by Tim Lester, courtesy AFT.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (October 15, 2022) – Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) put the finishing touches on his successful title defense as a thrilling 2022 Progressive American Flat Track season came to its conclusion with this evening’s Mission Volusia Half-Mile Finale II presented by Daytona Dodge and Zo CBD at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Florida.
The defending Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle king was well positioned to retain the #1 plate after outdueling his title rivals on Friday. As a result, he only needed to avoid catastrophe in order to add yet another premier-class crown to his already incredible résumé.
That near catastrophe came in the Semi when Mees made the save of the season – perhaps the save of his career – after hitting a bump and going airborne and sideways with his front wheel loft high in the air. Somehow he not only stayed up on two wheels but made a pass to take the checkered flag first.
With that drama out of the way, Mees basically just had to show up for the Main to win the title. Instead, he chose to fight, executing passes on the likes of Friday winner Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) and rookie hero Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) to finish on the podium in third.
Already firmly established as one of the greatest riders in the history of the sport, Mees now boasts a remarkable assortment of accomplishments, including the ’12, ‘14, ‘15, ’17, ’18, ‘21, and ‘22 Grand National Championships, the 2009 and 2011 GNC1 Twins Championships, and the 2012 GNC1 Singles Championship.
“They are all sweet, they are all awesome, and they are all a lot of hard work,” Mees said. “This one is a little different because of what we were up against at the beginning of the year. The Indian Motorcycle backed by Progressive was strong all year long. My team did a phenomenal job. We had no mechanical failures all year, and we were able to come into this last race with a nice cushion. I was able to go out there and race hard. I’ll be honest, I really wanted to cap off the year with a win.”
That win instead went to Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), who inherited the lead from JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) after Beach’s machine expired just prior to mid-distance with a potential Progressive Triple Crown victory within his reach.
Beach’s misfortune brought out the red flag, after which Robinson had to fight off Briar Bauman (No. 3 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) to claim his third win of ‘22.
Robinson said, “This is the perfect way to end the season, just knowing you are the baddest man in the last race of the year. And you get to sit on that all offseason. That’s a great feeling.”
Daniels finished close behind Mees in fourth, while fifth went to Vanderkooi. That was good enough for the VDK to add the $25,000 prize awarded for the Progressive Triple Crown to what was already destined to be an unforgettable weekend for the Ohioan.
Vanderkooi said, “I was nervous as can be – way more nervous than yesterday. This is just awesome.”
Sixth through tenth went to Davis Fisher (No. 67 Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750),Brandon Price (No. 92 G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing Yamaha MT-07), Jeffrey Carver Jr. (No. 23 Dodge Brothers Racing/Happy Trails Racing Harley-Davidson XR750), Dan Bromley (No. 62 Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats/Vinson Construction Yamaha MT-07) and James Rispoli (No. 43 Wally Brown Racing/Haversack KTM 890 Duke).
Beach, meanwhile, made the restart but could only advance to 11th after being forced to start from the back of the field. Despite falling from second to fourth in the final standings (266), ranking behind Mees (298), Bauman (276), and Daniels (267), the Estenson Yamaha pilot did end the year with the bragging rights for taking the most wins of any rider this season with four.
Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines
Similar to the situation of Mees in the premiere class, Jesse Janisch (No. 33 Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R) got the hard work out of the way prior to the Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines finale and only required a relatively modest result on Saturday to lock down his first-career Progressive AFT title.
Unlike Mees, Janisch was perfectly happy to put in that modest performance.
While running as high as fourth early, he didn’t offer any resistance when challenged in quick succession by James Rispoli (No. 43 Wally Brown Racing/Haversack KTM 890 Duke), Kolby Carlile (No. 36 KC36 Las Vegas Harley-Davidson XG750R), Mikey Rush (No. 15 Helipower Racing/Las Vegas Harley-Davidson XG750R), and finally Cameron Smith (No. 34 Thee Cathy Gray/Al Barker Yamaha MT-07), whom he gladly waved past before settling into a safe eighth.
And that’s where he’d finish to lock down that long elusive #1 plate.
“It’s amazing,” Janisch said. “Honestly, that race was kind of boring. I just had to maintain. It was pretty wild – I was up front early – I was around fifth and then it was just about moving over when everyone was coming through. I was just taking my happiness to the back.
“Shout out to the Vance & Hines team. Everything about this is from them. They gave me the opportunity last year to fill in, and they gave me a heck of an opportunity this year. We had a great season – seven wins and 14 podiums. This is good – I don’t know what else to say.”
Janisch was joined on the podium by Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats/Vinson Construction teammates Dan Bromley (No. 62 Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats/Vinson Construction Yamaha MT-07) and Cole Zabala (No. 51 Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats/Vinson Construction Yamaha MT-07).
For Bromley, the runner-up saw him successfully complete his perfect podium streak on the season, as he registered six seconds and two thirds in just eight starts. Meanwhile, it was Zabala’s second visit to the box after previously finishing third at Springfield.
And while he ultimately came up short in his quest for a third class crown, Cory Texter (No. 1 G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing Yamaha MT-07) went out like the champion he is. The two-time Mission Production Twins conqueror grabbed the holeshot and proceeded to dominate the final Main Event of his long and varied professional racing career.
Texter said, “First off, hats off to Jesse. I’m so proud of him. If I couldn’t win it, he’s a heck of a competitor, and it’s cool to see somebody else enjoy that moment. It was well deserved.
“Man, I’m going to miss it. It’s been a great ride. A long career – I’m burnt out and it’s been a lot of hard work – but to finish off with a win is great. I was really enjoying it, trying to soak it in while still trying to lead the race. Hats off to my team, G&G Racing. Without their help, none of my dreams would have come true. They gave me a shot four years ago when nobody else would, and we’ve had a really good run.”
Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER
Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) earned runner-up honors in the 2022 Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER standings in just about the most satisfying way possible, twice overhauling newly crowned champion Kody Kopp (No. 12 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) en route to the season’s final victory.
Less than a minute into the Main, Kopp threw a committed pass in on Chase Saathoff (No. 106 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) to take control of the race. Kopp then found himself in the sights of not only the rookie standout, but his experienced Turner Racing Honda teammates Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) and Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R).
But when an intra-team scrap for second broke out, Kopp appeared to have the perfect opportunity to make his escape at the front. That only proved effective until Gauthier fought his way up from fourth into second, as the ‘19 class champ clearly had the measure of Kopp once into the position
Following a temporary stoppage due to a red flag, Gauthier made his move up the inside of Kopp. A second red flag reverted the order, and Gauthier promptly pulled off the same pass yet again.
Kopp remained on Gauthier’s rear wheel but was unable to retaliate, crossing the stripe in second, 0.196 seconds short of obtaining a single-season record-equaling eighth victory. Mischler came home third, another 0.089 seconds back.
The win saw Gauthier (255) leapfrog both Mischler (250) and Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) (249) – who finished seventh on the night – to steal away second in the final rankings.
“That was the best win of the year for me,” Gauthier said. “I came into this last race of the year and just wanted to enjoy it. We definitely did that. I just played my cards right tonight. I was fourth at the beginning, got past my teammates and then worked on Kody. He was riding a flawless race, but I was just getting stupid good drives out of four, and it just ended up working out in my favor. I’m super stoked on this one.”
Saathoff finished fourth to add to the team’s joy, while two-time class runner-up Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) rounded out the top five.
The Mission Volusia Half-Mile Finale I will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, October 23, at 11:00 a.m. ET/8:00 a.m. PT, while the Mission Volusia Half-Mile Finale II will air one week later, on Sunday, October 30, at 10:30 a.m. ET/7:30 a.m. PT. Both broadcasts will include exclusive features, cutting-edge aerial drone and onboard footage, and expert commentary.
You can catch the livestream of every weekend’s racing activities on FansChoice.tv. FansChoice.tv provides free-to-view livestreaming of Practice and Qualifying. FansChoice.tv subscribers will then be able to watch the drama unfold from Opening Ceremonies through the Semis, Main Events, and podium celebrations. FansChoice.tv offers two subscription options, granting unlimited access to premium AFT content. Monthly subscriptions start at just $7.99, while a six-month subscription is available for $44.99.
To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.
How to Watch:
FOX Sports and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2022 season, all races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. FansChoice.tv provides livestreaming coverage of every Progressive AFT round at http://www.FansChoice.tv.
GMT94 Yamaha Step Up to WorldSBK with Lorenzo Baldassarri
Three-time FIM Endurance World Champions and FIM Supersport World Championship front-runners GMT94 Yamaha will step up to the FIM Superbike World Championship in 2023, fielding a latest-spec Yamaha R1 for Lorenzo Baldassarri to form the GMT94 Yamaha WorldSBK Team.
Having spent the last five seasons running the race winning Yamaha R6 in the intermediate class with Yamaha support, the GMT94 Yamaha team will now take on the premier category for the first time since 2009. Following his impressive first year in WorldSSP, Yamaha is delighted to sign Baldassarri for the 2023 season, during which he’ll race a Yamaha R1 for the French squad.
Meanwhile, GMT94 Yamaha will continue to contest the WorldSSP championship for a sixth consecutive season in 2023, with a single Yamaha R6 for French Supersport Champion Valentin Debise.
Founded in 1991, the GMT94 team has a long and successful history in motorcycle road racing, celebrating its first title in the 1998 French Superbike Championship, which was won by the team’s founder Christophe Guyot. In only their second EWC season, the team officially announced itself on the world stage, winning the 24 Hours of Oschersleben in 2000, and finishing second in the final standings.
In 2001, the team took its first of three 24 Hours of Le Mans victories, and after narrowly missing out on title success throughout its first five seasons, GMT94, now running Yamaha machinery, was crowned the 2004 EWC champions. By the time it bowed out of endurance racing in 2018, the GMT94 Yamaha team had racked up three world titles (adding 2014 and 2016-17 to its 2004 championship), 17 wins, including two Bol D’or victories, and 36 podiums.
It then embarked on the WorldSSP championship in 2018, going on to take seven victories with Jules Cluzel, as well as 24 podiums, the most recent of which came in the team’s home race at Magny-Cours this year.
Stepping up to WorldSBK with them, Baldassarri has shown incredible speed and consistency in 2022, winning four races including on his debut at Aragón, and 14 podiums. The Italian currently sits second in the standings, and with three rounds remaining is well in the hunt for the title.
Prior to this season, Baldassarri was well established inside the Grand Prix paddock. Having made his debut in the 2013 Moto3 season, his unquestionable talents earned him promotion to the Moto2 World Championship in 2014.
There, he soon became a regular top 10 finisher, and celebrated his maiden podium at the 2015 Australian round in Phillip Island. The following season he added two more rostrums to his tally, including a breakthrough victory at the San Marino GP, beating the likes of MotoGP riders Franco Morbidelli, Alex Rins, Takaaki Nakagami and Johann Zarco.
In 2018, Baldassarri took another victory, this time at the Spanish GP in Jerez, and finished fifth in the Moto2 standings. The following year, the #7 rider kicked off the season with three wins from four races, eventually ending the year seventh in the standings. ‘Balda’ left the GP paddock in 2021, entering the WorldSSP championship with his sights set on WorldSBK.
Andrea Dosoli
Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager
“It’s nice to see that our supported team from the WorldSSP championship is stepping up to WorldSBK. We have seen how successful this has been in the past with the GRT Yamaha team, and now we will be supporting GMT94 Yamaha in the same way. They are a team that knows what it takes to be competitive at the top level, and we expect a good performance straight away. Yamaha wanted to offer an opportunity to the best riders in WorldSSP, and with Lorenzo we have someone who’s clearly ready to make this step. From the first race, he has impressed us and to be in the title fight in such a competitive category is an incredible achievement in itself. We look forward to having the GMT94 Yamaha WorldSBK Team and Lorenzo on the grid in 2023.”
Lorenzo Baldassarri
GMT94 Yamaha WorldSBK Team
“I’m very happy, because I started this project with Yamaha in WorldSSP from Moto2, and my goal was always to be in WorldSBK. This year, we’ve had a very good season, we have grown together and I’m always improving. I’m ready for this step into the WorldSBK championship with Yamaha and the GMT94 Yamaha WorldSBK Team, so thanks to them for giving me this opportunity; I can’t wait to start this new challenge.”
2023 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship to Run June 14-20
American Flat Track to join the AMA at Du Quoin State Fairgrounds for a Grand National Mile during the week-long amateur event
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA announced today that the 2023 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship will take place June 14-20, 2023, at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, Ill.
As in 2022, the AMA will operate and promote the most prestigious amateur flat track event in the country — and the only race in the U.S. where you can earn an AMA National No. 1 plate in amateur flat track racing. Additions to the event will make 2023’s running bigger and better than ever, as well.
“The AMA looks forward to having Mission Foods back as the title sponsor for 2023,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant, “and we appreciate their continued support of flat track at the grassroots level. This year will be extra-special, too, with American Flat Track joining us to run a Grand National Championship Mile on Du Quoin’s legendary Magic Mile.”
Indeed, American Flat Track (AFT) — which will announce its full 2023 season schedule at this Sunday’s end-of-year awards banquet after the season finale double-header at the Volusia Half-Mile — is set to join the AMA at Du Quoin on Saturday, June 17.
“Some of the most incredible battles in Progressive AFT history have taken place on the Du Quoin Mile, and the 27th running of the American Flat Track National on June 17, 2023, is sure to be another one for the ages,” said Gene Crouch, COO of American Flat Track. “We’re also looking forward to beginning a new era of partnership with the AMA in support of the Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship, the pinnacle for amateur flat track racing in the United States. With the addition of a Progressive AFT National to the Father’s Day weekend event, American Flat Track will bring world-class safety deployments and operational support, FansChoice.tv will provide livestreaming coverage of the amateur races, and event promoter Track Enterprises will give fans another chance to see the top professional flat track racers in the world battle for the win on the Magic Mile.”
On either side of Saturday’s AFT Mile event, the week-long amateur competition will host different age groups across multiple racing classes, all of which will compete in the four dirt-track disciplines — Short Track, TT, Mile and Half-Mile.
Multiple AMA National No. 1 plates will be awarded at the conclusion of the event. Along with class championships, the Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award — given to the most promising amateur rider on the cusp of a professional career — will be one of the most coveted honors awarded at the event.
The Vet/Senior Racer of the Year and Youth Racer of the Year will also be determined at the event.
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Six-time FIM Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has added a further prestigious award to his impressive collection after he attended a ceremony at Buckingham Place in London to accept the Order of the British Empire (OBE) from The Princess Royal.
Having previously been recognised for his sporting prowess with the Member of the British Empire award, his OBE is further public recognition of his proven and ongoing success and contribution to the sport of motorcycle racing via the multi-layered United Kingdom honours system.
“I am truly humbled and honoured to be recognised yet again at this level for my achievements and contribution to motorcycling. It seems like only yesterday I was collecting my MBE from Prince William at the Palace, but to receive an OBE from The Princess Royal and be amongst so many amazing names and legends who have also received one, is beyond anything I could have imagined.”
The Northern Irishman attended the ceremony in the prestigious Blue Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace with his wife Tatia, sister Chloe and brother Richard who were all there to show their support and celebrate this remarkable achievement.
Jonathan Rea (right) receives his OBE from Princess Anne, the “Royal Princess.” Photo courtesy Jonathan Rea.
Jonathan continued, “It really is such a privilege for me to have been made an OBE in the late Queen Elizabeth’s New Year’s Honours and to collect this honour not just for myself, but on behalf of my family, the wider Kawasaki Racing Team, and my fans in Northern Ireland and across the world. What an amazing opportunity to shine a light on world class motorcycle racing and especially the talent we have that comes from my part of the world. It helps for me to stay focussed and fighting at the front in the World Superbike Championship.”
Jonathan’s next sporting challenge will be the Argentinian Round of the WorldSBK championship, which takes place between 21-23 October, at the San Juan Villicum circuit.
A scene from a previous Bennetts British Superbike event at Brands Hatch. Photo courtesy MSVR.
Editorial Notes:
American Brandon Paasch, riding a VisionTrack Suzuki GSX-R1000R, finished 10th in the British Superstock race at Brands Hatch. Billy McConnell won the race on a Honda, and Davey Todd, who also rode a Honda, clinched the title before the finale.
Anthony Mazziotto, riding a Luxestar VIP/Affinity Kawasaki ZX-6R, finished 22nd in British Junior Superstock Race Two. Franco Bourne won Race Two on a Kawasaki, and Yamaha rider Max Cook clinched the title before coming to Brands Hatch.
Canadian and former MotoAmerica Junior Cup competitor Jack Roach, riding his Completely Motorbikes/Affinity Kawasaki Ninja 400, turned the fastest race lap and finished second in British Junior Supersport Race Two. Roach’s teammate Mikey Hardie won Race Two. Roach’s other teammate James McManus claimed the British Junior Supersport Championship.
MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up Gus Rodio finished seventh in British Junior Supersport Race Two on his Luxestar VIP/Symcirrus Kawasaki Ninja 400.
More, from a press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:
Ray crowned Bennetts BSB champion as Hickman becomes tenth different winner in 2022
Bradley Ray, the 2022 Bennetts British Superbike Champion. Photo courtesy MSVR.
Bradley Ray celebrated his Bennetts British Superbike Championship title on home soil at Brands Hatch this afternoon (Sunday). The 25-year-old was officially crowned today after sealing top honours in yesterday’s opening race, ending the season with nine race wins plus a further 14 podiums for the Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha team.
Ray finished fifth in Saturday’s eBay Sprint Race which was enough to secure a first title for both rider and team. Today, the new champion crashed out unhurt in the second race of the weekend before ending the season with a sixth place finish.
In the first of two races on the final day of the season, around the Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit, Peter Hickman became the tenth different race winner of the season. The FHO Racing BMW rider held off Danny Buchan and Saturday winner Glenn Irwin to secure a visit to the top step of the podium.
In the final race of 2022, Glenn Irwin was able to grab the lead when Buchan made a small mistake at Surtees. This meant that the Honda Racing UK rider started and ended the season with victories on his way to claiming the runner-up spot in the standings, his best championship finish.
Andrew Irwin was back on the podium with a strong second place in the final race, just ahead of Buchan. Fifth place for Hickman was enough for him end the season as the Bennetts BSB Riders Cup champion, finishing just ahead of his BMW rivals.
Tommy Bridewell’s season finished with a fourth place, which secured the Oxford Products Racing Ducati team third in the final standings. This means that three different teams and manufacturers completed the final championship top three.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch, Race 2 result:
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW)
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +0.622s
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) +2.702s
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +13.381s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +13.494s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +13.902s
Christian Iddon (Buildbase Suzuki) +15.181s
Charlie Nesbitt (Buildbase Suzuki) +16.426s
Josh Brookes (MCE Ducati) +18.912s
Tom Sykes (MCE Ducati) +20.511s
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch, Race 3 result:
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK)
Andrew Irwin (SYNETIQ BMW) +0.672s
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +1.956s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +5.474s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +5.679s
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +11.000s
Josh Brookes (MCE Ducati) 11.334s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +11.485s
Christian Iddon (Buildbase Suzuki) +17.652s
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +17.744s
Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 1192
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) 1171
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 1141
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Kawasaki) 1095
“It’s been unbelievable. If you’d said the results we would’ve got this season at the start of the year. And said, ‘you’re going to be British champion’, I would have bitten your hand off and took it. The whole team have grafted all year. It hasn’t been easy from the start, but we put a lot of work in.
“Pre-season was good and I knew that this would be my best chance to fight for the championship with Yamaha, with Rich Energy OMG. We just got our head down the whole season, took everything in our stride, maximised everything race by race and that allowed us to come to Brands Hatch and have a difficult round like we have.
“Obviously it would have been nicer to be fighting for victory and fighting for podiums [this weekend] but we’ve done enough work throughout the season to prove that we’re worthy champions. Just a big shout out to the team, family, friends and everyone who came out to Brands to support me this weekend.”
This is MotoGP™: Phillip Island delivers an instant classic as the title fight takes another twist
Rins wins one of the closest races of all time, Marquez takes his 100th premier class podium and Bagnaia secures third – taking the Championship lead as Quartararo crashes out
Alex Rins (42) leads Marc Marquez (93), Francesco Bagnaia (63), Marco Bezzecchi (72), and the rest of the MotoGP field to the checkered flag at Phillip Island. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Sunday, 16 October 2022
The Animoca Brands Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix made a lot of headlines and a bit of history. The history was the top seven riders finishing, incredibly, within a single second – 0.884, to be exact. It’s also the second closest top ten ever. The headlines? Where do we begin…
It’s Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) who took an emotional win, the number 42 fighting at the front throughout and then fending off Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) on the final lap. Marquez, who was forced to settle for second but got back on the box, secured his 100th premier class podium. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), meanwhile, took third, and with it a fair margin of Championship lead as some serious dramas unfolded behind.
The first saw former points leader Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) run on and face a fight back from outside the top twenty, and his drama wouldn’t end there but the next was for home hero Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team). Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) overcooked it and made contact with the Australian, sending both down and after both had made stellar starts. With that Miller is out of the Championship hunt, and the title fight got another shake up not long after.
Trying to come back through and at least into the points at the time, Quartararo then suddenly slid out of contention at the Southern Loop, lowsiding off into the gravel in another huge twist. That left an open goal for the contenders still battling it out, with Bagnaia on course to claim the lead… but by how much?
The first leaders were polesitter Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) and Marquez, before Rins and Bagnaia reeled them in. As the laps ticked down the overtakes kept coming, and the troops were forming for the podium fight: Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) and teammate Luca Marini were arriving on the scene as Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing) started to fade, watching the chance to capitalise on Quartararo’s error get a little smaller.
The opposite was true of Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) as the ‘Beast’ homed in on the fight at the front. As the final showdown started to commence, there were seven riders locked together: Bagnaia, Rins, Marquez, Bezzecchi, Marini, Martin and Bastianini. Who was going to take it?
Bagnaia led them onto the final lap but with ’20 out’ loud and clear on the pit board, the risk vs reward balance was something to consider. But not for Rins and Marquez. Marquez had passed Rins for second at the Southern Loop on the penultimate lap, but the Suzuki rider hit back straight away at Stoner Corner, and that was how they commenced Lap 27 of 27. Rins went a corner earlier this time with a move on Bagnaia for the lead, and Marquez followed to push Pecco down to third. Could the number 93 cook up one final attack?
In the end, Rins was unstoppable. The Suzuki rider kept the door closed to the line as Marquez hung in there looking for a way through, and right behind the focus shifted to Bezzecchi. Would the Italian, Ducati rider and VR46 Academy member launch a late attack on Bagnaia? He wouldn’t. Bagnaia held them off to secure another podium and homed in on Marquez in a big way on the drag to the line, just 0.224 off Rins’ by the flag.
Bezzechi’s fourth place secures him top Independent Team rider in the race and Rookie of the Year for 2022, as he was left to hold off Bastianini and did so – just. The ‘Beast’ was incredibly close by the flag, taking fifth ahead of Marini. Martin took seventh after leading early on from pole, and he creates the stat of the top seven within a second.
Next up came Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing), who had a comeback on his hands after a tough start but made his way through to an impressive eighth. Aleix Espargaro, on a day that could have paid a few more dividends, faded to ninth place, with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) rounding out the top ten after earlier having charged as far forward as seventh.
Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team) took P11 ahead of a solid comeback for Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). Cal Crutchlow (WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP™), after losing a few positions off the start, finished 13th and contributes a few more Constructors’ points, with rookie teammate Darryn Binder impressing just behind to take a couple of his own points. Speaking of rookies, home hero Remy Gardner (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing) scored on home turf too, taking P15.
After drama Down Under, it’s just a few days until the paddock heads to Sepang and the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia. Bagnaia now leads by a sizeable 14 points ahead of Quartararo, having pulled off that amazing, record-breaking comeback in the standings. Aleix Espargaro is now 27 back and Bastianini is the last contender after Miller’s 0, with the Italian facing a 42-point deficit with two to go. The first of those is contested next weekend, so tune in for more at Sepang for Bagnaia’s first match point!
MotoGP™ PODIUM
1 Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) – Suzuki – 40’50.654
2 Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) – Honda – +0.186
3 Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) – Ducati – +0.224
Alex Rins: “First of all, thanks to everyone who’s come to the Island to support us! Last time here with the Suzuki is special, I have the feeling and it’s amazing to go out with the victory. Thank you so much and see you next year, Phillip Island!”
Marc Marquez: “We chose the correct tyre with the soft rear tyre, I felt good and I was managing the race a lot in the beginning, then later on I was struggling a bit with grip but I enjoyed it a lot, that race. It doesn’t matter what position, I finished second and I tried to win. I gave everything, but Alex did a really good last lap. I gave everything I had, I enjoyed it a lot, so many overtakes. In some areas we still need to improve but Honda is working, and step by step we’re getting better and better.
“For me, the second place was so important, when I came back after the injury, the test in Misano, then the race in Japan, the race in Thailand. Why? Because it was important to understand that, inside me, the speed is there, and when I feel okay, the speed is there. But it’s true that now we need to work hard and the body needs to follow that speed, so step-by-step, it’s getting better and better. Here is a left circuit, so it helps a lot, and it’s true that it’s only two right corners where you push really hard – that is 4 and 10 – and in Malaysia, we will struggle more, I know. But, we will have time in winter so, step-by-step, we are getting better and it was the best way to keep the motivation for me, for the team, for Honda, because Honda is also in a difficult situation. They are working hard, as we see this weekend, and it’s getting better and better.”
On 100 premier class podiums:
“First of all, I’m really happy with this podium. It means a lot to me, it means a lot to the people who have helped me in this tough season, and to all the doctors, to all the physios that I work with. We are getting better and better, and Honda is working hard. Nothing has been gained now, but they are working really hard for 2023. This podium means a lot, to keep the motivation, to show to them that this rider that can win six titles with Honda is there.”
Francesco Bagnaia: “I had some difficulties to engage the front device, but in any case, the start wasn’t so good. Then I tried in the first laps to overtake many riders, and then when I saw on the pit board that Fabio was out, a win is ok but if they overtake me on the final lap, it’s ok. I’m very happy and we’re now leading the Championship… so keep going like this!
How do you feel about 91-point deficit to now, how are you different?
“For sure, it’s a Pecco that has learnt more lessons possible, and I said, there are 250 points remaining after the Sachsenring. I think we took a lot of that. Our bike is the same from Jerez and from that moment, we demonstrated that we were so competitive. So, keep going, keep going. I don’t want to think about the Championship now. Just focus on the main goal, which is doing good races, and then we’ll see. But, I don’t want to think about it.”
Fabio Quartararo: “I was struggling a lot at Turn 4 and I already made a mistake at the beginning of the race. Then I tried to push, I was quite far and I could overtake three riders but then I pushed too much in Turn 2 and I made a mistake. Let’s see how we can handle the next ones. I think Malaysia is a good track, I like it, so let’s see how we can do it.”
Is today the day where the championship really changed?
“Yeah, it has changed for him since the Sachsenring, so it can change also for us in the last two. I feel that we can have a great last two races. We need to be focused, to work well, and see, but it can be worse for both of us.”
What went wrong at Turn 4? Is it a move that you felt you should have made?
“No, it was not even a move, and I think there was a tailwind, so it pushed me quite fast, and I’ve made a mistake. But, in the end, I think it will be important to analyse it well – I think we already know what happened – and then go to Malaysia with full motivation.”
Will we see a change in strategy?
“A change of strategy is difficult but I think that, in the end, we need to do our best and, more than that, enjoy it. Because, in the recent races, I couldn’t really enjoy it, and I feel like we need to enjoy the last two races. That, for me, will be the most important thing, because I know that when I enjoy it, I feel like we can go fast!”
Aleix Espargaro: “I made a good start, I felt good, I felt I had the speed to fight for the podium but, suddenly in the middle of the race, the traction control started to cut so much power. I couldn’t accelerate, I couldn’t go forward, and it was very frustrating, because I lost a lot of ground in acceleration and tried to recover under brakes but it was impossible to stay with the leading group.”
Was it an issue with bike or electronics?
“I mean, we have the same tyre as most of the riders in the front group, so I guess it’s our problem. We have to understand what happened. Maverick had exactly the same problem, so it was very frustrating because it’s difficult to have the speed to fight for the victory but we had it today and we couldn’t really profit from it.”
Is the disappointment worse because of opportunity from Quartararo crash?
“Yes, for sure. I mean, he made a mistake and crashed, so we didn’t really profit from it and Pecco jumped onto the podium also, so now we are a bit far. It’s still possible but more difficult.”
27-point deficit; how do you look at last two races?
“The first thing is that I’m very proud to arrive at the last two races still with a chance of winning the title and this is fantastic, unbelievable. But, now it’s a little bit more difficult than before because with Pecco and Ducati’s form, and a one-race advantage, it’s not going to be easy, but anyway, everything can happen, so let’s keep fighting.”
Alonso Lopez (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alonso plays his ace for a stunning second win as drama hits for Fernandez
The SpeedUp rider proves unstoppable despite a Long Lap penalty, with Fernandez crashing out and Ogura salvaging 11th for the points lead
Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) played a figurative and literal ace at the Animoca Brands Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, escaping from the front row to pull out enough gap to serve his Long Lap penalty given in practice and still emerge in the lead – putting the hammer down from there on out to enjoy a track day experience at Phillip Island, winning with over 3.5 seconds in hand. Second went to Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo), another two-time rookie race winner this year, with Jake Dixon (Inde GASGAS Aspar Team) completing the podium after a comeback from P14 on the grid.
The huge headline beyond the podium saw former Championship leader Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) crash out from behind teammate Acosta. Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) is the therefore the new points leader, although the Japanese rider could only manage 11th and his advantage is therefore only 3.5 points with two races to go. There are also now only those two contenders remaining, as Aron Canet (Flexbox HP 40) is now 50 points back and without a win.
From lights out, Lopez was in charge as he bolted immediately, maintaining the plan to push at the limit from the off. That gave him enough advantage to dive in to take his Long Lap penalty and still emerge in the lead, and then he was gone.
After a crash out of podium contention for Tony Arbolino (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) and Fermin Aldeguer (Beta Tools SpeedUp) fading back from the podium fight, the battle between Acosta and Fernandez was heating up. The rookie was ahead when his teammate suddenly slid out, losing the front and with it chance to create quite a gap. But rider ok and ultimately only losing four points.
Dixon gained the podium with that, but after having put in quite a comeback to slice through the pack from well outside the top ten. Behind him, Aldeguer held off an impressive charge from Manuel Gonzalez (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team), with Jeremy Alcoba (Liqui Moly Intact GP) and Cameron Beaubier (American Racing) for close company. Somkiat Chantra (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), Canet and Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team) completed the top ten ahead of Ogura.
After that drama on race day for Fernandez, Ogura now has chance to take the crown in Malaysia… but it’s only 3.5 points the Japanese rider in hand, and it looks like the battle may well go all the way to the wire. Tune in for the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia next weekend for another twist in the tale!
Moto2™ PODIUM
1 Alonso Lopez (Beta Tools SpeedUp) – Boscoscuro – 39’14.947
Alonso Lopez: “To be honest I don’t know what I did, but yesterday I was working really hard on the data, I had bad luck because I missed out on pole because of a Red Flag and I knew I had the pace but today the track was completely different. I did my best with the Long Lap, I felt really comfortable. I want to thank my team and also Casey! It’s his birthday and I learned a lot from watching him. Thank you to all the sponsors, and thanks everyone!”
Izan Guevara, the 2022 Moto3 World Champion. Photo courtesy Dorna.
#1ZAN! Guevara seals the crown with a stylish, signature win on The Island
The Champion elect becomes the Champion confirmed after a four-way fight for the podium Down Under
Izan Guevara (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) attacked and pulled away in style on the last lap of the Animoca Brands Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, taking another impressive victory and with it, this time, the 2022 Moto3™ World Championship. Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Tech3) got back on the podium in second, ahead of Sergio Garcia (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) as the number 11 ceded the crown but got back on the rostrum.
Garcia took the early lead as polesitter Ayumu Sasaki (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team) lost a couple of positions from pole, but all eyes were on Guevara as the Championship leader had some distance to make up from Row 3. He got that done quickly though, slotting into a top six joined by Garcia, Diogo Moreira (MT Helmets – MSI), Sasaki, Öncü and home hero Joel Kelso (CIP Green Power). Bit by bit two riders on the chase were able to close in, too: John McPhee (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team) and Stefano Nepa (Angeluss MTA Team).
By 10 to go, four remained in the front group as Guevara, Sasaki, Öncü and Garcia pulled away, and there they stayed. On the start of the last lap, it was Öncü ahead over the line, but that didn’t last long as Guevara hit back to take the lead. From there, the number 28 got the hammer down and kept a few precious metres in hand to take what’s fast becoming a signature win, sealing the Championship in the process.
Sasaki was forced to settle for fourth, ahead of a tight group of Nepa, McPhee, Moreira and Kelso. Moreira and Kelso were separated by just 0.001, with video verification deployed.
Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing) headed up the next group after a tougher race for the Italian, who has fallen back to third overall, with Riccardo Rossi (SIC58 Squadra Corse) completing the top ten. Close behind them in the group came David Muñoz (BOE Motorsports), Carlos Tatay (CFMoto Racing PrüstelGP) and front row starter Ivan Ortola (Angeluss MTA Team).
That’s a wrap Down Under, with a new World Champion crowned and the pressure now off in Malaysia. What will Sepang bring? We’ll find out next weekend, so come back for more at the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia!
Izan Guevara: “In the start of the race today it was really complicated with the slightly wet conditions, but the track dried quickly and I felt really comfortable. It was possible to push in the lead group with my pace, I’m so happy with this moment, this Championship… I’d like to thank my team, my family for the support, and all my friends.”
The start of a British Superbike race at Brands Hatch earlier this season. Photo courtesy MSVR.
Editorial Notes:
American Brandon Paasch, riding a VisionTrack Suzuki GSX-R1000R, was 12th in British Superstock qualifying Saturday at Brands Hatch.
Anthony Mazziotto, riding a Luxestar VIP/Affinity Kawasaki ZX-6R, finished 21st in British Junior Superstock Race One.
Canadian and former MotoAmerica Junior Cup competitor Jack Roach, riding his Completely Motorbikes/Affinity Kawasaki Ninja 400, finished third in British Junior Supersport Race One.
MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up Gus Rodio finished fourth in British Junior Supersport Race One on his Luxestar VIP/Symcirrus Kawasaki Ninja 400.
More, from a press release issued by MotorSport Vision Racing:
Ray claims first Bennetts British Superbike title victory in front of home crowd
Bradley Ray, the 2022 British Superbike Champion. Photo courtesy MSVR.
Bradley Ray sealed his first Bennetts British Superbike title with a fifth place in the eBay Sprint Race at Brands Hatch this afternoon, celebrating the championship victory for the Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha team at his home round.
Ray headed into his home round on the Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit with a 66-point lead, knowing that a seventh place would be enough to claim the crown for the first time. Ray’s fifth place in the eBay Sprint Race means he has an unassailable 52-point lead ahead of tomorrow’s final two races of the season.
The 25-year-old contender from Lydd made his Bennetts BSB debut in 2017, but it has been this season where he has delivered an imperious performance with a total of nine race wins and a further 14 podium finishes to consistently stay ahead of his title rivals.
It was Glenn Irwin who claimed a commanding race victory in the first race of the weekend, pushing hard from the start to bridge a gap over the chasing pack as he bids to end his campaign on a high for the Honda Racing UK team.
Glenn Irwin had a 1.374s advantage at the chequered flag, but behind there was a battle between Peter Hickman and Andrew Irwin as the pair diced for second place.
Hickman had the edge at the finish as he moves ahead in the Bennetts BSB Riders Cup battle with a second place as Andrew Irwin took his third podium finish of the season for SYNETIQ BMW.
Ray had only had to finish in the top seven to claim the title and he was forced to relinquish fourth place to Tommy Bridewell when the Oxford Products Racing Ducati made his move with three laps remaining.
Ray’s eventual fifth place was enough to be victorious in the title chase, just ahead of Jason O’Halloran and Danny Buchan. Danny Kent scored his best result of the season in eighth place for Buildbase Suzuki ahead of Kyle Ryde and Tom Sykes who competed the top ten.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch, eBay Sprint Race result:
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK)
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +1.374s
Andrew Irwin (SYNETIQ BMW) +1.808s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +5.105s
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +5.524s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +7.743s
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +9.895s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +13.358s
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +13.547s
Tom Sykes (MCE Ducati) +14.465s
Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 1182
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) 1130
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 1117
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Kawasaki) 1095
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
Bradley Ray
Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha
“It wasn’t easy let me tell you! I approached the start of the race as I would any other – I dug in at the start and tried to get as far up the field as possible. I started having a few small moments and a few slides, and to be honest I settled in and then into fourth and tried to catch Andy and Pete, but I couldn’t do it, so I was happy to sit where I needed to. I had to just carry on doing what I was doing.
“When Tommy passed me, I was fifth, so I knew that I’d be safe for the last few laps because seventh was what I needed. I wanted to get more, but I had to bring it home for the championship. I’m a little bit speechless but I’m sure it’ll sink in tonight over a nice glass of vino. I’m super proud.
“It’s super special, it’s something I used to dream of as a kid, becoming British champion. This is the closest I’ve ever been to doing it, so we had to dig in into the Showdown and do everything we could to be close enough coming into Brands Hatch.
“It was nice to come here with such a lead and it took a bit of pressure of my shoulders to perform, but it means the world to me to my close family, my close friends it’s a dream come true.
“I’m excited about tomorrow now; I will be going for the wins. The pressure is off so we’ll just go out, have fun and enjoy it.”
Provisional Mission Production Twins Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Cory Texter (Yam), 25 laps
2. Dan Bromley (Yam), -02.619 seconds
3. Cole Zabala (Yam), -04.024
4. James Rispoli (KTM), -09.347
5. Kolby Carlile (Har), -10.760
6. Michael Rush (Har), -10.858
7. Cameron Smith (Yam), -13.328
8. Jesse Janisch (Har), -15.036
9. Billy Ross (Har), -15.243
10. Cody Johncox (Yam), -16.048
11. Ryan Wells (Kaw), -16.901
12. Jeffery Lowery (Yam), -1 lap, -06.010
13. Mitch Harvat (KTM), -1 lap, -06.212
14. Jordan Harris (KTM), -1 lap, -07.639
15. Kasey Sciscoe (Har), -4 laps, DNF
16. Johnny Lewis (Roy), -17 laps, DNF
Provisional Parts Unlimited AFT Singles Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Dalton Gauthier (Hon), 25 laps
2. Kody Kopp (KTM), -00.196 seconds
3. Morgen Mischler (Hon), -00.285
4. Chase Saathoff (Hon), -01.379
5. Max Whale (KTM), -01.514
6. James Ott (KTM), -01.571
7. Trevor Brunner (Yam), -01.699
8. Trent Lowe (Hon), -01.936
9. Aidan RoosEvans (Hon), -02.940
10. Chad Cose (Hon), -02.973
11. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), -03.308
12. Jordan Jean (Hon), -04.485
13. Tarren Santero (Hon), -04.805
14. Tyler Raggio (Hon), -04.825
15. Jared Lowe (Hon), -04.969
16. Hunter Bauer (KTM), -05.154
17. Logan McGrane (KTM), -07.043
Provisional Mission SuperTwins Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 31 laps
2. Briar Bauman (Ind), -00.286 seconds
3. Jared Mees (Ind), -01.664
4. Dallas Daniels (Yam), -01.807
5. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), -05.239
6. Davis Fisher (Ind), -05.804
7. Brandon Price (Yam), -06.924
8. Jeffrey Carver (Har), -07.540
9. Dan Bromley (PT) (Yam), -13.709
10. James Rispoli (PT) (KTM), -14.225
11. JD Beach (Yam), -14.993
12. Robert Pearson (Ind), -15.079
13. Ben Lowe (Ind), -15.424
14. Cole Zabala (PT) (Yam), -16.110
15. Bronson Bauman (Har), -18.451
16. Shayna Texter-Bauman (Ind), -20.310
17. Cory Texter (PT) (Yam), -25 laps
More, from a press release issued by American Flat Track (AFT):
Mees Successfully Defends His Crown at Volusia Half-Mile Finale II
Jared Mees (1) captured his second consecutive AFT SuperTwins Championship. Photo by Tim Lester, courtesy AFT.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (October 15, 2022) – Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) put the finishing touches on his successful title defense as a thrilling 2022 Progressive American Flat Track season came to its conclusion with this evening’s Mission Volusia Half-Mile Finale II presented by Daytona Dodge and Zo CBD at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Florida.
The defending Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle king was well positioned to retain the #1 plate after outdueling his title rivals on Friday. As a result, he only needed to avoid catastrophe in order to add yet another premier-class crown to his already incredible résumé.
That near catastrophe came in the Semi when Mees made the save of the season – perhaps the save of his career – after hitting a bump and going airborne and sideways with his front wheel loft high in the air. Somehow he not only stayed up on two wheels but made a pass to take the checkered flag first.
With that drama out of the way, Mees basically just had to show up for the Main to win the title. Instead, he chose to fight, executing passes on the likes of Friday winner Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) and rookie hero Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) to finish on the podium in third.
Already firmly established as one of the greatest riders in the history of the sport, Mees now boasts a remarkable assortment of accomplishments, including the ’12, ‘14, ‘15, ’17, ’18, ‘21, and ‘22 Grand National Championships, the 2009 and 2011 GNC1 Twins Championships, and the 2012 GNC1 Singles Championship.
“They are all sweet, they are all awesome, and they are all a lot of hard work,” Mees said. “This one is a little different because of what we were up against at the beginning of the year. The Indian Motorcycle backed by Progressive was strong all year long. My team did a phenomenal job. We had no mechanical failures all year, and we were able to come into this last race with a nice cushion. I was able to go out there and race hard. I’ll be honest, I really wanted to cap off the year with a win.”
That win instead went to Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), who inherited the lead from JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) after Beach’s machine expired just prior to mid-distance with a potential Progressive Triple Crown victory within his reach.
Beach’s misfortune brought out the red flag, after which Robinson had to fight off Briar Bauman (No. 3 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) to claim his third win of ‘22.
Robinson said, “This is the perfect way to end the season, just knowing you are the baddest man in the last race of the year. And you get to sit on that all offseason. That’s a great feeling.”
Daniels finished close behind Mees in fourth, while fifth went to Vanderkooi. That was good enough for the VDK to add the $25,000 prize awarded for the Progressive Triple Crown to what was already destined to be an unforgettable weekend for the Ohioan.
Vanderkooi said, “I was nervous as can be – way more nervous than yesterday. This is just awesome.”
Sixth through tenth went to Davis Fisher (No. 67 Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750),Brandon Price (No. 92 G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing Yamaha MT-07), Jeffrey Carver Jr. (No. 23 Dodge Brothers Racing/Happy Trails Racing Harley-Davidson XR750), Dan Bromley (No. 62 Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats/Vinson Construction Yamaha MT-07) and James Rispoli (No. 43 Wally Brown Racing/Haversack KTM 890 Duke).
Beach, meanwhile, made the restart but could only advance to 11th after being forced to start from the back of the field. Despite falling from second to fourth in the final standings (266), ranking behind Mees (298), Bauman (276), and Daniels (267), the Estenson Yamaha pilot did end the year with the bragging rights for taking the most wins of any rider this season with four.
Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines
Similar to the situation of Mees in the premiere class, Jesse Janisch (No. 33 Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R) got the hard work out of the way prior to the Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines finale and only required a relatively modest result on Saturday to lock down his first-career Progressive AFT title.
Unlike Mees, Janisch was perfectly happy to put in that modest performance.
While running as high as fourth early, he didn’t offer any resistance when challenged in quick succession by James Rispoli (No. 43 Wally Brown Racing/Haversack KTM 890 Duke), Kolby Carlile (No. 36 KC36 Las Vegas Harley-Davidson XG750R), Mikey Rush (No. 15 Helipower Racing/Las Vegas Harley-Davidson XG750R), and finally Cameron Smith (No. 34 Thee Cathy Gray/Al Barker Yamaha MT-07), whom he gladly waved past before settling into a safe eighth.
And that’s where he’d finish to lock down that long elusive #1 plate.
“It’s amazing,” Janisch said. “Honestly, that race was kind of boring. I just had to maintain. It was pretty wild – I was up front early – I was around fifth and then it was just about moving over when everyone was coming through. I was just taking my happiness to the back.
“Shout out to the Vance & Hines team. Everything about this is from them. They gave me the opportunity last year to fill in, and they gave me a heck of an opportunity this year. We had a great season – seven wins and 14 podiums. This is good – I don’t know what else to say.”
Janisch was joined on the podium by Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats/Vinson Construction teammates Dan Bromley (No. 62 Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats/Vinson Construction Yamaha MT-07) and Cole Zabala (No. 51 Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats/Vinson Construction Yamaha MT-07).
For Bromley, the runner-up saw him successfully complete his perfect podium streak on the season, as he registered six seconds and two thirds in just eight starts. Meanwhile, it was Zabala’s second visit to the box after previously finishing third at Springfield.
And while he ultimately came up short in his quest for a third class crown, Cory Texter (No. 1 G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing Yamaha MT-07) went out like the champion he is. The two-time Mission Production Twins conqueror grabbed the holeshot and proceeded to dominate the final Main Event of his long and varied professional racing career.
Texter said, “First off, hats off to Jesse. I’m so proud of him. If I couldn’t win it, he’s a heck of a competitor, and it’s cool to see somebody else enjoy that moment. It was well deserved.
“Man, I’m going to miss it. It’s been a great ride. A long career – I’m burnt out and it’s been a lot of hard work – but to finish off with a win is great. I was really enjoying it, trying to soak it in while still trying to lead the race. Hats off to my team, G&G Racing. Without their help, none of my dreams would have come true. They gave me a shot four years ago when nobody else would, and we’ve had a really good run.”
Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER
Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) earned runner-up honors in the 2022 Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER standings in just about the most satisfying way possible, twice overhauling newly crowned champion Kody Kopp (No. 12 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) en route to the season’s final victory.
Less than a minute into the Main, Kopp threw a committed pass in on Chase Saathoff (No. 106 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) to take control of the race. Kopp then found himself in the sights of not only the rookie standout, but his experienced Turner Racing Honda teammates Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) and Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R).
But when an intra-team scrap for second broke out, Kopp appeared to have the perfect opportunity to make his escape at the front. That only proved effective until Gauthier fought his way up from fourth into second, as the ‘19 class champ clearly had the measure of Kopp once into the position
Following a temporary stoppage due to a red flag, Gauthier made his move up the inside of Kopp. A second red flag reverted the order, and Gauthier promptly pulled off the same pass yet again.
Kopp remained on Gauthier’s rear wheel but was unable to retaliate, crossing the stripe in second, 0.196 seconds short of obtaining a single-season record-equaling eighth victory. Mischler came home third, another 0.089 seconds back.
The win saw Gauthier (255) leapfrog both Mischler (250) and Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) (249) – who finished seventh on the night – to steal away second in the final rankings.
“That was the best win of the year for me,” Gauthier said. “I came into this last race of the year and just wanted to enjoy it. We definitely did that. I just played my cards right tonight. I was fourth at the beginning, got past my teammates and then worked on Kody. He was riding a flawless race, but I was just getting stupid good drives out of four, and it just ended up working out in my favor. I’m super stoked on this one.”
Saathoff finished fourth to add to the team’s joy, while two-time class runner-up Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) rounded out the top five.
The Mission Volusia Half-Mile Finale I will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, October 23, at 11:00 a.m. ET/8:00 a.m. PT, while the Mission Volusia Half-Mile Finale II will air one week later, on Sunday, October 30, at 10:30 a.m. ET/7:30 a.m. PT. Both broadcasts will include exclusive features, cutting-edge aerial drone and onboard footage, and expert commentary.
You can catch the livestream of every weekend’s racing activities on FansChoice.tv. FansChoice.tv provides free-to-view livestreaming of Practice and Qualifying. FansChoice.tv subscribers will then be able to watch the drama unfold from Opening Ceremonies through the Semis, Main Events, and podium celebrations. FansChoice.tv offers two subscription options, granting unlimited access to premium AFT content. Monthly subscriptions start at just $7.99, while a six-month subscription is available for $44.99.
To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.
How to Watch:
FOX Sports and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2022 season, all races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. FansChoice.tv provides livestreaming coverage of every Progressive AFT round at http://www.FansChoice.tv.
Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager Andrea Dosoli (left) with Lorenzo Baldassarri (right). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
GMT94 Yamaha Step Up to WorldSBK with Lorenzo Baldassarri
Three-time FIM Endurance World Champions and FIM Supersport World Championship front-runners GMT94 Yamaha will step up to the FIM Superbike World Championship in 2023, fielding a latest-spec Yamaha R1 for Lorenzo Baldassarri to form the GMT94 Yamaha WorldSBK Team.
Having spent the last five seasons running the race winning Yamaha R6 in the intermediate class with Yamaha support, the GMT94 Yamaha team will now take on the premier category for the first time since 2009. Following his impressive first year in WorldSSP, Yamaha is delighted to sign Baldassarri for the 2023 season, during which he’ll race a Yamaha R1 for the French squad.
Meanwhile, GMT94 Yamaha will continue to contest the WorldSSP championship for a sixth consecutive season in 2023, with a single Yamaha R6 for French Supersport Champion Valentin Debise.
Founded in 1991, the GMT94 team has a long and successful history in motorcycle road racing, celebrating its first title in the 1998 French Superbike Championship, which was won by the team’s founder Christophe Guyot. In only their second EWC season, the team officially announced itself on the world stage, winning the 24 Hours of Oschersleben in 2000, and finishing second in the final standings.
In 2001, the team took its first of three 24 Hours of Le Mans victories, and after narrowly missing out on title success throughout its first five seasons, GMT94, now running Yamaha machinery, was crowned the 2004 EWC champions. By the time it bowed out of endurance racing in 2018, the GMT94 Yamaha team had racked up three world titles (adding 2014 and 2016-17 to its 2004 championship), 17 wins, including two Bol D’or victories, and 36 podiums.
It then embarked on the WorldSSP championship in 2018, going on to take seven victories with Jules Cluzel, as well as 24 podiums, the most recent of which came in the team’s home race at Magny-Cours this year.
Stepping up to WorldSBK with them, Baldassarri has shown incredible speed and consistency in 2022, winning four races including on his debut at Aragón, and 14 podiums. The Italian currently sits second in the standings, and with three rounds remaining is well in the hunt for the title.
Prior to this season, Baldassarri was well established inside the Grand Prix paddock. Having made his debut in the 2013 Moto3 season, his unquestionable talents earned him promotion to the Moto2 World Championship in 2014.
There, he soon became a regular top 10 finisher, and celebrated his maiden podium at the 2015 Australian round in Phillip Island. The following season he added two more rostrums to his tally, including a breakthrough victory at the San Marino GP, beating the likes of MotoGP riders Franco Morbidelli, Alex Rins, Takaaki Nakagami and Johann Zarco.
In 2018, Baldassarri took another victory, this time at the Spanish GP in Jerez, and finished fifth in the Moto2 standings. The following year, the #7 rider kicked off the season with three wins from four races, eventually ending the year seventh in the standings. ‘Balda’ left the GP paddock in 2021, entering the WorldSSP championship with his sights set on WorldSBK.
Andrea Dosoli
Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager
“It’s nice to see that our supported team from the WorldSSP championship is stepping up to WorldSBK. We have seen how successful this has been in the past with the GRT Yamaha team, and now we will be supporting GMT94 Yamaha in the same way. They are a team that knows what it takes to be competitive at the top level, and we expect a good performance straight away. Yamaha wanted to offer an opportunity to the best riders in WorldSSP, and with Lorenzo we have someone who’s clearly ready to make this step. From the first race, he has impressed us and to be in the title fight in such a competitive category is an incredible achievement in itself. We look forward to having the GMT94 Yamaha WorldSBK Team and Lorenzo on the grid in 2023.”
Lorenzo Baldassarri
GMT94 Yamaha WorldSBK Team
“I’m very happy, because I started this project with Yamaha in WorldSSP from Moto2, and my goal was always to be in WorldSBK. This year, we’ve had a very good season, we have grown together and I’m always improving. I’m ready for this step into the WorldSBK championship with Yamaha and the GMT94 Yamaha WorldSBK Team, so thanks to them for giving me this opportunity; I can’t wait to start this new challenge.”
Action from the 2022 AMA Flat Track Grand Championship. Photo by Annaleice Birdsong, courtesy AMA.
2023 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship to Run June 14-20
American Flat Track to join the AMA at Du Quoin State Fairgrounds for a Grand National Mile during the week-long amateur event
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA announced today that the 2023 Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship will take place June 14-20, 2023, at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, Ill.
As in 2022, the AMA will operate and promote the most prestigious amateur flat track event in the country — and the only race in the U.S. where you can earn an AMA National No. 1 plate in amateur flat track racing. Additions to the event will make 2023’s running bigger and better than ever, as well.
“The AMA looks forward to having Mission Foods back as the title sponsor for 2023,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant, “and we appreciate their continued support of flat track at the grassroots level. This year will be extra-special, too, with American Flat Track joining us to run a Grand National Championship Mile on Du Quoin’s legendary Magic Mile.”
Indeed, American Flat Track (AFT) — which will announce its full 2023 season schedule at this Sunday’s end-of-year awards banquet after the season finale double-header at the Volusia Half-Mile — is set to join the AMA at Du Quoin on Saturday, June 17.
“Some of the most incredible battles in Progressive AFT history have taken place on the Du Quoin Mile, and the 27th running of the American Flat Track National on June 17, 2023, is sure to be another one for the ages,” said Gene Crouch, COO of American Flat Track. “We’re also looking forward to beginning a new era of partnership with the AMA in support of the Mission Foods AMA Flat Track Grand Championship, the pinnacle for amateur flat track racing in the United States. With the addition of a Progressive AFT National to the Father’s Day weekend event, American Flat Track will bring world-class safety deployments and operational support, FansChoice.tv will provide livestreaming coverage of the amateur races, and event promoter Track Enterprises will give fans another chance to see the top professional flat track racers in the world battle for the win on the Magic Mile.”
On either side of Saturday’s AFT Mile event, the week-long amateur competition will host different age groups across multiple racing classes, all of which will compete in the four dirt-track disciplines — Short Track, TT, Mile and Half-Mile.
Multiple AMA National No. 1 plates will be awarded at the conclusion of the event. Along with class championships, the Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award — given to the most promising amateur rider on the cusp of a professional career — will be one of the most coveted honors awarded at the event.
The Vet/Senior Racer of the Year and Youth Racer of the Year will also be determined at the event.
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Jonathan Rea, as seen on the WorldSBK podium in Portugal. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea Receives Another Honour
Six-time FIM Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has added a further prestigious award to his impressive collection after he attended a ceremony at Buckingham Place in London to accept the Order of the British Empire (OBE) from The Princess Royal.
Having previously been recognised for his sporting prowess with the Member of the British Empire award, his OBE is further public recognition of his proven and ongoing success and contribution to the sport of motorcycle racing via the multi-layered United Kingdom honours system.
“I am truly humbled and honoured to be recognised yet again at this level for my achievements and contribution to motorcycling. It seems like only yesterday I was collecting my MBE from Prince William at the Palace, but to receive an OBE from The Princess Royal and be amongst so many amazing names and legends who have also received one, is beyond anything I could have imagined.”
The Northern Irishman attended the ceremony in the prestigious Blue Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace with his wife Tatia, sister Chloe and brother Richard who were all there to show their support and celebrate this remarkable achievement.
Jonathan Rea (right) receives his OBE from Princess Anne, the “Royal Princess.” Photo courtesy Jonathan Rea.
Jonathan continued, “It really is such a privilege for me to have been made an OBE in the late Queen Elizabeth’s New Year’s Honours and to collect this honour not just for myself, but on behalf of my family, the wider Kawasaki Racing Team, and my fans in Northern Ireland and across the world. What an amazing opportunity to shine a light on world class motorcycle racing and especially the talent we have that comes from my part of the world. It helps for me to stay focussed and fighting at the front in the World Superbike Championship.”
Jonathan’s next sporting challenge will be the Argentinian Round of the WorldSBK championship, which takes place between 21-23 October, at the San Juan Villicum circuit.
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