Racer, TrackDaz owner, and CRA co-founder Dustin Coyner interviews MotoAmerica Superbike racer Cameron Petersen about his new ride on the Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha team.
© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
Isle Of Man TT: More On Live Streaming
THE ISLE OF MAN TT RACES GOES LIVE & ON DEMAND
The Isle of Man TT Races fueled by Monster Energy will roar back into action in just 100 days’ time, as racing returns to the world-famous TT Mountain Course for the first time in two years. With more ways to follow the event than ever before, fans around the world can now immerse themselves in all things TT with the launch of the TT’s own digital channel, delivering full live stream coverage and a raft of year-round behind-the-scenes content.
Launching this spring, the TT’s very own digital channel (TT+) will gift fans year-round access to the TT and its competitors. A full grid of brand-new free-to-access content will be delivered across the year, including an annual feature-length documentary (Autumn 2022) and a multi-episode docuseries (Spring 2023).
But it doesn’t stop there. Free-to-access original content will come thick and fast to TT+, with features, interviews and exclusive on-board action unlike anything seen previously. TT+ will also gift fans immediate access to 24 hours of archive race highlights from the recent history of the TT. Subscribers to TT+ will also gain free access to live events such as the TT Preview Show (April 2022) as well as coverage of the TT’s first Esports competition, coming in the near future.
In June TT+ will deliver uninterrupted live visual coverage for the first time in the TT’s 115-year history, bringing all the action, reaction, and insight straight to thousands of TT fans worldwide via the TT+ Live Pass. Available for a one-off payment of £14.99*, the TT+ Live Pass will reward fans with up to 40 hours of live qualifying and race coverage at TT 2022, including all the pre-race build up and post-race analysis that goes with it.
Isle of Man production company, Greenlight Television, is behind the live broadcast and have assembled a 200-strong production team to capture the TT like never before. With a significant uplift in the number of live-action cameras found around the course, the edge-of-your-seat experience of watching the TT in real time can now be enjoyed by anyone with an internet connection – no matter where they are in the world.
Covering the TT races live also means working from the air with the time trial format dictating the use of not one, but two, live cam helicopters. Operating each side of the Mountain Course, the two heli-cams are set to capture live the true-essence of TT racing: the lone rider slicing through the Manx countryside at speeds approaching 200mph.
Helping decipher the race as it unfolds will be a new on-screen graphics package, allowing fans to keep track of those all-important leader boards – as well as providing real-time updates on competitors circulating further down the running order.
Presenting the TT live broadcast is an experienced team, including TT regulars, Matt Roberts and Amy Williams, both hugely respected presenters thanks to their work in motorcycling and the Winter Olympics respectively. A new face to the TT, however, is Jennie Gow. The highly acclaimed journalist and broadcaster makes her debut covering the TT after a career spent working on the world’s biggest motorsport events such as Formula 1, MotoGP and Formula E.
Also joining the presenting team is regular BBC sport correspondent, Rick Faragher, who will be delving deep into the race awnings to bring you all the breaking news and behind-the-scenes developments.
The commentary team features TT regular, Dave Moore, who will be sharing the role of lead commentator with Andrew Coley, whose credits include FIA World Rally Cross, MotoGP and the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Joining Dave and Andrew as pundits are double TT winners Cameron Donald and Steve Plater.
Informing and entertaining fans since 1964, Radio TT will also make its return in 2022 with full live coverage of every qualifying session and race. The new-look radio team will have near-complete and continuous oversight of the whole course for the first time, thanks to the introduction of the live television broadcast.
Following in the footsteps of motorsport broadcasting icons such as Murray Walker, Peter Kneale and Geoff Cannell, the TT’s radio coverage will be anchored by the highly respected Steve Day, whose voice will already be known to fans of MotoGP and World Superbike. Joining Steve in the control tower as chief-analyst is Chris Boyde, who has been commentating on Manx motorsport for years and has an unrivalled knowledge of the facts and figures behind TT racing.
Reporting from pit lane will be Isle of Man radio personalities, Chris Kinley and Beth Espey. Chris will need no introduction to TT fans, having covered the event since 2003, while Beth is likely to be a new voice to race fans. An expert interviewer, she brings an instinctive understanding of how proud the Isle of Man is of its greatest event.
The TV and Radio broadcasts will also benefit from an expanded team of pundits who will be working across both platforms. Former TT competitors, Mark Miller, Horst Saiger, Jenny Tinmouth and Patrick Farrance, will be joined by leading journalist, John Hogan, and current TT competitor, Maria Costello MBE, with each providing some respective expert analysis and unique insight.
Jennie Gow – “It’s an exciting time for the Isle of Man TT Races as the introduction of live coverage brings international recognition to the greatest road race of all time. It’s been on my bucket list for a long time as a motorsport presenter and I can’t wait to join up with the team on site and bring you all the action. We all know how exciting the TT is and that’s why we all love it. To be able to share that with so many more people is incredible. We’ll be presenting more than just racing; we’ll be introducing all the incredible personalities, showcasing their talents and unique mind-set as they take on the challenging mountain course.
I’m genuinely thrilled to be part of the TT’s live broadcast team. I can’t wait to be on the Island and part of the action as the anticipation for the return of the legendary road racing event builds.”
Matt Roberts – “This isn’t the first time I’ve been part of the broadcasting team for the TT; however, thanks to the introduction of TT+, I would say it’s the most exciting year, with by far the most potential. The important thing for me is that we can come together as a broadcasting team and really immerse the viewers in the action and convey the raw energy and emotion that’s synonymous with the spectacular Isle of Man TT Races.
I’m confident there’ll be some real edge of your seat moments that will really grip the viewers. The use of heli-cam and curb-side cameras alone are going to drive the experience to a new level, and for motorsport fans around the world that haven’t yet experienced the TT. It’s going to blow their minds. It’s a huge prospect and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Cam Donald – “The Isle of Man TT Races have always been a massive part of my life, firstly as a competitor and now as a member of the broadcasting team and it’s hugely exciting. Although I have to say I’m not sure what I’m more nervous about: working on a live broadcast or hurtling down Bray Hill on a Superbike. They both get the adrenaline going and that’s what the TT is about, excitement.
Living in Australia, I’ve been able to experience first-hand the potential of international broadcasting. It’s hard to believe a love of the TT is already so deep rooted across Australia thanks to existing television highlight coverage, so live coverage via TT+ will really broaden the opportunities in a lot of countries. It’s going to take the event to the next level and I can’t wait to be part of it.”
For more information and more ways to follow, check out iomttraces.com/follow
WorldSBK: Honda Happy With Tests In Portugal
Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge complete fruitful tests at rollercoaster Portimão
Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge have completed two more days of testing in preparation for the 2022 Superbike World Championship season.
Two very important days for the Team HRC riders, who were able to ride their CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADES at the spectacular Portuguese circuit of Portimão for the first time. The undulating track is very different to that of Jerez, where the team completed its first three test sessions.
Particularly on day one, which brought sunny conditions and a maximum temperature of around 20°C, both Iker and Xavi were able to make the most of the available track time, working with their respective teams to both adapt to the new category and help develop their Honda bikes, work that continues at full speed.
With just enough to pack up, Team HRC will be back on track in a few days’ time, returning to the Andalusian track of Jerez de la Frontera for another test session scheduled to take place on 22-23 February.
Xavi Vierge 97
“I’m really happy with my feeling with the Honda at this track, having only tested at Jerez up until now. At the beginning I felt like I had never ridden at this track before. Lap after lap, I began to get used to the feeling, gain in confidence, and better understand the flow and the speed – I’ve really enjoyed it. We’ve started to try some different items and set-ups, focusing on the electronics and bike geometry. One very positive thing is that we have been able to improve with every exit we’ve made, smoothly and without delay. Today’s temperatures were a little colder than we expected after yesterday’s perfect weather, but we completed a long run and it was really useful for me and for the team to see how that went and how I felt during it. Over the two days we’ve completed a great deal of laps and collated so much information that will help the technicians to prepare for the next test. We need to continue like this because we are working well and in the right direction.”
Iker Lecuona 7
“I’m really pleased because we’ve improved a lot over the two days, both in terms of my feeling with the bike and the bike’s overall performance. On Thursday we worked on the tyres and also tested some new items, taking a good step forward in the process and lapping very consistently. Today the weather was slightly less kind, colder and windier, and the asphalt was also a lot colder than yesterday. But we made some progress regardless, and that’s very good news. I’m also happy that my feeling with the bike has been similar both here and at Jerez, two very different tracks. The good points and the points we need to improve upon are essentially the same at both circuits, which means our direction is clear. Now we will turn our attentions to Jerez because we need to carry on in this way.”
Moto2: Three-Day Test Starts Saturday At Portimao
Moto2™ and Moto3™ take on Portimão for pre-season
The only official test for the intermediate and lightweight classes is about to get underway at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve
Friday, 18 February 2022
There have been a few private test days for many in the Moto2™ and Moto3™ classes so far, but now it’s time to get down to official business. The Autodromo Internacional do Algarve plays host and the field have three days on track, with each class given three 70-minute sessions per day. Moto3™ start first on Saturday, Moto2™ on Sunday and Moto3™ return to the first slot on Monday.
Action begins at 10:00 (GMT) on each day and finishes at 18:00.
Live Timing is available throughout the test on motogp.com, as well as round ups, interviews and a host of updates to stay on top of the action.
Moto2™
There will be keen interest surrounding Aki Ajo’s new-look Red Bull KTM Ajo, with reigning Moto3™ Champion Pedro Acosta joined by Augusto Fernandez in the Finn’s squad for the forthcoming season. They’ll be hoping they can keep the Moto2™ title within the ranks come the end of the season, but Remy Gardner and Raul Fernandez certainly set records that will take some beating. So far though in the circuit timing provided from private testing, Acosta has looked fast.
However, Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team), Aron Canet (Flexbox HP40) and Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) will have other ideas about another Red Bull KTM Ajo-dominated season, and they’ll be looking to blast out the blocks and maximise track time to get ready to race. The likes of Fermin Aldeguer (Speed Up Racing), already having impressed since he arrived mid-season last year, and Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team), looking for a turnaround after a largely tougher 2021, have also looked quick as well.
Cameron Beaubier (American Racing), meanwhile, is looking to consolidate his progress too, and he’s now joined by countryman Sean Dylan Kelly, who’ll be interesting to watch. Romano Fenati (Speed Up Racing) returns to the class, Jorge Navarro moves to Flexbox HP 40, Jake Dixon to GASGAS Aspar… Tony Arbolino will have high hopes for his new era at Elf Marc VDS Racing Team too. And how will the rookies fare? A good few familiar faces from Moto3™ make the move alongside Acosta, so the stage is set for an interesting outing on the Algarve.
Moto3™
In Moto3™, Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing), Sergio Garcia (GASGAS Aspar Team) and Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo) arrive into 2022 as the likely the riders to beat, with all three carrying considerable experience in the class and race-winning, Championship-challenging pedigree.
The experience and speed continues with the likes of Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Tech 3), John McPhee and teammate Ayumu Sasaki (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max), Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) and Tatsuki Suzuki (Leopard Racing), and they’ll all be gunning for glory in a packed field.
The lightweight class also sees the addition of some exciting names to the grid for 2022. Ana Carrasco (BOE SKX) returns to the class for the first time since 2015, while the likes of 2021 Moto3™ Junior World Champion Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and frontrunners Joel Kelso (CIP Green Power), Scott Ogden (VisionTrack Racing Team) and Mario Aji (Honda Team Asia) bolster the list of rookie riders with burgeoning potential. There’s also Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) to watch out for – he was undefeated on the way to the 2021 Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup crown, and won his first ever Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup race on a track he’d never ridden before. Can the Japanese rider hit the ground running?
Stay up to date with everything from testing as the Moto2™ and Moto3™ classes get ready to race!
“MotoGP Unlimited” Documentary Screened In Paris
MotoGP™ Unlimited: the premiere in Paris
Quartararo, Bagnaia and Rins walk the red carpet as two more episodes of MotoGP™ Unlimited are screened in Paris
Friday, 18 February 2022
On Wednesday it was Madrid, now, Paris. The Elysées Biarritz hosted the second premiere for MotoGP™ Unlimited, with two more episodes of the new docuseries about the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship screened on Thursday – less than a month ahead of the series’ worldwide launch on the 14th of March.
2021 MotoGP™ World Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) was joined at the event by Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar), with the three taking to the red carpet and then the stage. After a Q&A, it was time to sit back and enjoy the two episodes.
MotoGP™ Unlimited will launch exclusively on Prime Video in France, Italy, Spain, and more than 170 countries and territories worldwide – including the UK and U.S. – on the 14th of March. Produced by THE MEDIAPRO STUDIO in collaboration with Dorna Sports, the series comprises eight 50-minute episodes and follows a number of premier class stars, including riders and team managers.
The docuseries takes fans behind the scenes, allowing viewers an intimate and exclusive look at the challenges faced by riders and teams during the season, both on and off the track. The docuseries follows in the footsteps of other Prime Video sports content productions also produced by THE MEDIAPRO STUDIO, such as Fernando; following double Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso, Six Dreams, and the acclaimed series All or Nothing. The executive producers are Laura Fernández Espeso, Javier Méndez, and Bernat Elías, and the directors are Arnau Monràs and Jaume García.
Make sure to tune in on the 14th of March!
MotoGP™ Unlimited joins the thousands of TV shows and movies in the Prime Video catalogue. Prime members will be able to watch MotoGP™ Unlimited anywhere and anytime on the Prime Video app for compatible smart TVs, mobile devices, Fire TV, Fire TV stick, Fire tablets, Apple TV, and stream online on primevideo.com and on Bouygues Bbox Miami and BBox 4K, Freebox Delta, One, Mini 4K, POP, Revolution, La Box SFR Fibre, SFR Box Plus, SFR Box 8, and Orange STB 4 & 5 as well as Orange TV USB stick. Prime Video is available in France at no extra cost to a Prime membership for just 49€/year (or 5.99€/month). New customers can find out more at amazon.fr/prime and subscribe to a free 30-day trial.
European Talent Cup: American Kristian Daniel Jr. Signs With IGAX Team
Kristian Daniel Jr. has a new team 2022 but the same goal!
The young American rider signs with Valencia-based IGAX Team for his second season in the European Talent Cup.
The 2021 European Talent Cup season was one of the most competitive since the series’ inception in 2017, with 54 riders registered and lap times only 1.8 seconds off of the Moto3 World Championship lap times. Now that 13-year-old Los Angeles native Kristian Daniel Jr. has his rookie season out of the way, where he was the youngest on the grid, he’s prepared to make a big improvement in 2022.
Kristian Jr. will once again be the only American rider on the ETC grid, and he’s aiming to bring home some points for the USA. He made good progress in his rookie season with the AGR Team, his best finish being 28th out of 53 riders. It was not an easy process, as he had to come to grips with riding the Moto3 Honda NSR250 around historic MotoGP tracks all over Spain and Portugal at almost 150 mph (230 kph). He was set to qualify in the top 10 at the last round of the season but fell victim to mixed wet/dry conditions and crashed out of the last corner in Valencia during qualifying. Although he left the last round injured, his performance gave him a lot of confidence going into his 2nd season.
For the 2022 season, the young American has signed with the IGAX team. The Valencia-based team mainly focuses on grooming young riders, having a lot of experience in many of the junior classes like Moto4, Promo3 and Pre-Moto3, which all lead up to the European Talent Cup. With the new team, a more intensive winter training program, and a whole season under his belt, Kristian Jr. is ready to make an impact in 2022.
MotoAmerica: 4SR Posts Over $130,000 In Contingency
4SR To Offer More Than $130,000 In Contingency Support To MotoAmerica Racers
Racers Wearing 4SR Leathers Can Cash In During 2022 Season
IRVINE, CA (February 17, 2022) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce motorcycle clothing company 4SR USA Inc. not only as an official partner of the 2022 MotoAmerica Auto Parts 4 Less Championship, but also as a contingency sponsor with 4SR set to post almost $131,000 for the 2022 season.
Founded in 2007 in the Czech Republic, 4SR is well-established in European markets, including supporting riders in British Superbike, World Superbike and MotoGP. In 2018, 4SR USA began exclusively importing to the United States and has worked to establish itself as a worldwide clothing brand of all things motorcycle. From full racing suits to biker jeans, gloves, leather pants, back protectors and accessories, 4SR has just about everything for the casual motorcyclist, track-day rider and serious racer.
“Having 4SR on board with us again is great news,” MotoAmerica Director of Sponsorship Lance Bryson said. “And making their involvement in the series even better is the contingency program they are offering to MotoAmerica racers who wear 4SR leathers at our events.”
4SR offers a full line of racing leathers, from racing suits to replica suits, to custom leathers, 39 different jackets for both men and women, 13 different styles of riding pants, and much more. 4SR’s leathers are also compatible with most airbag systems.
“4SR USA is excited to be back as a sponsorship partner to MotoAmerica,” said Jerry Nickell, President of 4SR USA. “And we’re also happy to be able to offer a contingency program to racers taking part in Superbike, Stock 1000, Supersport, Twins Cup and the Daytona 200. We’re looking forward to what promises to be an exciting season of MotoAmerica racing.”
Racers participating in the contingency program can earn $1000 for winning a MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike race with 4SR, and also putting up $1000 for a victory in the Daytona 200. The other classes will pay $750 (Supersport) and $500 (Stock 1000 and Twins Cup) to the winner if he/she is wearing 4SR leathers. The contingency program pays back to fifth place in each class and totals $130,750 for the season.
For more information on 4SR USA, visit www.4srusa.com. Riders interested in participating in the 4SR contingency program should contact [email protected].
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
American Flat Track: 2022 Contingency Awards Exceed $3 Million
Progressive AFT Contingency Awards Top $3 Million for 2022 Season
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 17, 2022) – Progressive American Flat Track announced today a year-over-year increase of more than $800,000 in available contingency awards to set a new record total for the 2022 season. Combined, riders in all three Progressive AFT classes are eligible for more than $3,100,000 in contingency awards.
The Progressive American Flat Track Contingency Award Program is designed to reward teams and riders based on results in events and the championship with cash awards from companies with approved products.
The total funds available for each class are as follows:
$1,752,850 for Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle
$657,200 for Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines
$742,650 for Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER
“With more than $3,000,000 on the line in 2022, there is no doubt that the drama and excitement will be at an all-time high at every step of the 69th season of America’s Original Extreme Sport,” said Gene Crouch, COO of Progressive American Flat Track. “We’d like to thank all of the partners that have pledged their support for the paddock this year. Their support amounts to a direct investment in the teams and riders that put on the incredible racing each weekend, and for that we are truly thankful.”
The grand total of $3,152,700 is $810,050 more than was offered in 2021. This increase was achieved with class-by-class increases of more than $200,000 each, with riders in the premier Mission SuperTwins class enjoying a boost of over $300,000 alone.
OEMs participating in the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track Contingency Award Program include Harley-Davidson, Honda, Husqvarna, Indian Motorcycle, Kawasaki, KTM, and Yamaha.
Other participating brands include Arai Helmet, Dunlop Motorcycle Tires, S&S Cycle, Vance & Hines, Mission Foods, Parts Unlimited, Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda and Mobile View.
The contingency payout for the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track season can be viewed at https://members.amaproracing.com/xml/ft/AMAP-FT-25-ContingencyList.pdf. In addition to the payouts listed on the competitor page, riders are eligible for event and year-end bonuses for the Mission Production Twins Challenge, Mission #2Fast2Tasy Challenge, Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda Dash for Cash and Mobile View Rookie of the Year, totaling a combined $200,300.
To help riders take home as many contingency dollars as possible, Progressive AFT has created online Contingency Guidelines, which are available in the Competitor Information section on AFT’s website and can be accessed via the following links:
Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle Contingency Guidelines
Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines Contingency Guidelines
Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER Contingency Guidelines
Progressive AFT will kick off the 2022 season with the Mission Volusia Half-Mile I & II doubleheader during Daytona Bike Week on Thursday, March 10 and Friday, March 11 at Volusia Speedway Park. Secure your tickets to the season opener now at https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3666.
Catch the livestream of all the weekend’s racing activities free via Facebook up until Opening Ceremonies. Fans can then purchase access to watch Opening Ceremonies, Semis, Main Events and podium celebrations via Facebook Paid Online Events for $3.99 if purchased 24 hours or more in advance, or $4.99 if purchased on the day of the event. The Mission Volusia Half-Mile I & II will premiere back-to-back on FS1 on Sunday, March 20, starting at 11:00 a.m. ET/8:00 a.m. PT.
For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com. 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 Facebook are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2022 season, all 18 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. Viewers can watch livestream coverage of every round in the Facebook mobile app, Facebook desktop site or on the Facebook Watch mobile app. To watch the livestream on TV, fans can download the Facebook Watch TV app, or cast to a TV from the Facebook mobile app. Facebook Watch is available through Apple TV, Samsung Smart TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and Xbox One.
“MotoGP Unlimited” Documentary Premieres In Spain
MotoGP™ Unlimited premieres in Madrid
The first of two premieres paves the way for the new Prime Video documentary, coming on the 14th of March
It’s official! The new docuseries about the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship, MotoGP™ Unlimited, will launch exclusively on Prime Video in France, Italy, Spain, and more than 170 countries and territories worldwide – including the UK and U.S. – on the 14th of March. Produced by THE MEDIAPRO STUDIO in collaboration with Dorna Sports, the series comprises eight 50-minute episodes and follows a number of premier class stars, including riders and team managers.
On Wednesday, the first of two premieres took place as the Cine Capitol in Madrid played host for an exclusive screening of two episodes. MotoGP™ riders Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team), Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar), Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team), Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) and Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) were in attendance for the occasion, joined at the event by Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.
After some interview opportunities for the media present – and the prerequisite walk down the red carpet for the stars of the series, both on camera and off – the attendees settled in to watch two episodes of the ground-breaking new series.
MotoGP™ Unlimited is true to its name, allowing fans to see behind the scenes like never before, including exclusive footage of the riders’ day-to-day lives. For the first time, viewers will get an intimate, unique, and exclusive look at the challenges faced by riders and teams during the season, both on and off the track, and understand what it takes to form part of one of the most prestigious competitions in motorsport.
The docuseries follows in the footsteps of other Prime Video sports content productions also produced by THE MEDIAPRO STUDIO, such as Fernando; following double Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso, Six Dreams, and the acclaimed series All or Nothing. The executive producers are Laura Fernández Espeso, Javier Méndez, and Bernat Elías, and the directors are Arnau Monràs and Jaume García.
Thursday will see the Elysées Biarritz in Paris host the second premiere, with more familiar faces from the MotoGP™ grid set to attend the event and enjoy two more episodes of the MotoGP™ Unlimited – including reigning Champion Fabio Quartararo.
MotoGP™ Unlimited joins the thousands of TV shows and movies in the Prime Video catalogue. Prime members will be able to watch MotoGP™ Unlimited anywhere and anytime on the Prime Video app for compatible smart TVs, mobile devices, Fire TV, Fire TV stick, Fire tablets, Apple TV, and stream online on primevideo.com and on Bouygues Bbox Miami and BBox 4K, Freebox Delta, One, Mini 4K, POP, Revolution, La Box SFR Fibre, SFR Box Plus, SFR Box 8, and Orange STB 4 & 5 as well as Orange TV USB stick. Prime Video is available in France at no extra cost to a Prime membership for just 49€/year (or 5.99€/month). New customers can find out more at amazon.fr/prime and subscribe to a free 30-day trial.
Ducati Presents The XDiavel Nera Limited Edition
Ducati presents the limited and numbered XDiavel Nera edition: “Elegance. Unlimited.”
Made in Italy design and craftsmanship combine with technology and innovation in a motorcycle made by Ducati in partnership with Poltrona Frau’s Interiors in Motion Business Unit
The XDiavel Nera will be produced in a limited-edition numbered series of 500 units: it is characterized by the elegant “Black on Black” livery and by a special customizable saddle made of Pelle Frau®
The possibility to choose between five different colours for the saddle and the delivery of a key ring and a matching document holder enrich the personality of a motorcycle that makes individualization a distinctive feature
The XDiavel is Ducati’s techno-cruiser that expresses the power of opposites, combining the relaxed pace typical of the cruiser world with the sporty ride and thrilling performance of Ducati
Borgo Panigale (BO) / Tolentino (MC), Italy, 17 February 2022 – The partnership between two brand ambassadors of Made in Italy in the world like Ducati and Poltrona Frau has led to the creation of a fascinating project: the Ducati XDiavel Nera. The bike was presented to the public in the seventh episode of the Ducati World Première web series (direct link to the video here).
The XDiavel Nera project comes to life from the values shared by the two companies: the passion for design, craftsmanship tradition, the use of cutting-edge technologies and an aptitude for innovation. The result is a motorcycle that is unique in its character and aesthetics, which communicate Italian design, and it will be produced in a numbered edition limited to 500 units.
Andrea Ferraresi, Director of the Centro Stile Ducati: “The XDiavel Nera project was born from the encounter between two Italian excellences. Ducati and Poltrona Frau are two brands with a unique history, they share a passion for beauty and well-made objects, they are strongly Italian and make craftsmanship a distinctive element, always supporting it with sophisticated technological solutions and the use of high-quality materials. The XDiavel Nera perfectly summarizes the values that unite Ducati and Poltrona Frau. It is a unique motorcycle with an unmistakable identity, a splendid expression of the excellence of Made in Italy “.
Poltrona Frau is a leading company in high-end furniture and an ambassador of Italian excellence all over the world. The collaboration with Ducati, introduced with the Ducati Scrambler Club Italia project, benefits from the experience gained over the years by the Interiors in Motion area of Poltrona Frau. The Interiors in Motion Business Unit specializes in the creation, construction and supply of distinctive leather interiors in the premium automotive, aviation, rail transport and offshore navigation sectors.
Giovanni Maiolo, Poltrona Frau Interiors in Motion Business Unit Director: “There is great satisfaction for the work done together with Ducati on the XDiavel Nera. We are proud to be part of this 100% Italian project that has fascinated us from the very beginning and has given us the opportunity to once again demonstrate our know-how and our ability to design in co-design projects by combining innovation and craftsmanship.”
The new XDiavel Nera is characterized by the “Black on Black” livery in which gloss and matt black portions alternate. This livery makes the XDiavel even sportier and is also reflected in a dedicated jet helmet, which owners of XDiavel Nera can order together with the bike. The bike is also enriched by some style details that enhance its aesthetics, such as the brake calipers and engine head covers in Ducati Red colour and the lightened and fully machined forged rims, painted in gloss black.
The most recognizable part of the XDiavel Nera is the special seat made of Pelle Frau®: a soft natural leather saddled by hand, the result of years of research by Poltrona Frau. It is available in five different colours (Siam Red, Steel Blue, Cemento, India and Selva) and is customized with a series of “X” engraved through a sophisticated laser process, which recall the name of the bike.
Ducati XDiavel is a motorcycle with a strong personality that focuses heavily on the concept of individualization. In this project, the possibility of customization is expressed through the choice of preferred colour for the seat, to which are added a wider comfort saddle and a backrest, also in Pelle Frau® leather, suitable for travelling in two without sacrificing style.
The 500 Ducatisti enthusiasts who order XDiavel Nera will also receive an exclusive key ring and document holder made of Pelle Frau® leather in the matching colour to the one chosen for the saddle.
XDiavel is the result of a crossover between two apparently different and distant universes. On the one hand, the relaxed pace at low speed typical of the Cruiser world and on the other the sporty riding and exciting performance of Ducati. The perfect expression of this mix is given by the characteristics of the Testastretta DVT 1262 engine which, in combination with the final belt drive, ensures smooth delivery at low revs and a full curve up to the highest revs. The Testastretta DVT 1262, clearly visible in the centre of the bike, in Euro5 configuration delivers a maximum power output of 160 hp at 9,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 13.0 kgm at 5,000 rpm.
The chassis of the bike, the reduced height from the ground of the saddle (755 mm) and the forward position of the footpegs are designed to offer great riding ease and comfort when travelling at low speed in complete relaxation and, at the same time, maximum fun in sporty riding. The combination of the tubular steel trellis frame, the front and rear suspension and the chassis dimensions allows agility and controllability of the front axle, guaranteeing surprising handling.
XDiavel Nera is equipped at the rear with a 240 mm wide tyre mounted on a rim with an 8” channel that makes the bike easily recognizable from any angle, becoming a highly distinctive style element. The particular profile of the tyre also allows a maximum lean angle of 40°, an unthinkable value for a motorcycle of this type. The braking system is powerful and modular and is equipped, like the whole Ducati range, with ABS Cornering. At the front it features Brembo monobloc M50 calipers and two 320 mm discs, while at the rear we can find a single 265 mm disc.
The lighting system is full-LED with a DRL daytime running light system on the front that is easily recognizable and of great visual impact. XDiavel Nera is equipped with Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) which, by dynamically measuring the roll and pitch angles as well as the speed of the relative set-up variations, provides the information to ABS Cornering. This system, together with Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Riding Modes, Cruise Control and Ducati Power Launch (DPL), make the XDiavel Nera a technologically advanced, high-performance and safe motorcycle. The electronic equipment is completed by the two-level dashboard with colour animation TFT screen and dedicated key-on, in addition to the hands-free system, to be able to use the motorcycle with the key in your pocket or bag.
The individualization of the XDiavel also includes completely customizable ergonomics thanks to the adjustable footpegs in three positions, or through the choice of Ducati Performance accessories that best suit your needs, including handlebars of different shapes and rearward footpegs compared to the standard or centrally located ones.
The XDiavel Nera can already be ordered with the seat in the preferred colour and will be available in dealerships in the Ducati network starting from March 2022. It fits into the Ducati XDiavel range alongside the essential XDiavel Dark and the sporty XDiavel S.
#XDiavel #EleganceUnlimited
Poltrona Frau
Since 1912, Poltrona Frau has been a protagonist in the world of made in Italy furniture. The art of production and constructive rigor with raw materials of excellence, such as Pelle Frau®. High-end solutions for the home and office. Poltrona Frau also cultivates tradition and innovation in Interiors in Motion (cars, yachts, trains, airplanes) and Custom Interiors (auditoriums, theatres, airports, public spaces, shops / showrooms, yachting, offices and hotels), with collaborations with the greatest architects and international designers. The driving force is the Tolentino production site, in the Marche region, a knowledge factory rooted in the territory and always at the forefront of certification linked to environmental sustainability and the health and safety of employees.
Business Unit – Interiors in Motion
Born in the mid-1980s, the Interiors in Motion division of the Poltrona Frau group goes beyond the confines of residential living, specializing in the creation, production and supply of distinctive leather interiors in the premium automotive, air, rail transport and offshore navigation.
An ambitious challenge that is renewed with each project: transposing the Poltrona Frau spirit into an ever-changing context, interpreting the peculiar characteristics of the clients and the numerous constraints inherent in the different types, spaces and use of the same. Thanks to constant research in materials, shapes and processes, Interiors in Motion has gained a unique experience, capable of blending the great craftsmanship tradition and the attention to detail typical of Poltrona Frau with the most advanced and innovative trends in the sector.
In addition to numerous recent projects developed in collaboration with Ferrari, the IIM division includes other prestigious brands, including McLaren with Speed Tail, Porsche with Panamera, JLR with Range Rover Autobiography, or Lamborghini with the Sian Limited Edition.
In the nautical field, on the other hand, collaboration is worth mentioning with the most important brands in the sector such as Ferretti Yacht, Pershing, Wally and Riva, regarding the development and production of the helm station seats.
MotoAmerica: Video Interview With Cameron Petersen
Racer, TrackDaz owner, and CRA co-founder Dustin Coyner interviews MotoAmerica Superbike racer Cameron Petersen about his new ride on the Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha team.
Isle Of Man TT: More On Live Streaming
THE ISLE OF MAN TT RACES GOES LIVE & ON DEMAND
The Isle of Man TT Races fueled by Monster Energy will roar back into action in just 100 days’ time, as racing returns to the world-famous TT Mountain Course for the first time in two years. With more ways to follow the event than ever before, fans around the world can now immerse themselves in all things TT with the launch of the TT’s own digital channel, delivering full live stream coverage and a raft of year-round behind-the-scenes content.
Launching this spring, the TT’s very own digital channel (TT+) will gift fans year-round access to the TT and its competitors. A full grid of brand-new free-to-access content will be delivered across the year, including an annual feature-length documentary (Autumn 2022) and a multi-episode docuseries (Spring 2023).
But it doesn’t stop there. Free-to-access original content will come thick and fast to TT+, with features, interviews and exclusive on-board action unlike anything seen previously. TT+ will also gift fans immediate access to 24 hours of archive race highlights from the recent history of the TT. Subscribers to TT+ will also gain free access to live events such as the TT Preview Show (April 2022) as well as coverage of the TT’s first Esports competition, coming in the near future.
In June TT+ will deliver uninterrupted live visual coverage for the first time in the TT’s 115-year history, bringing all the action, reaction, and insight straight to thousands of TT fans worldwide via the TT+ Live Pass. Available for a one-off payment of £14.99*, the TT+ Live Pass will reward fans with up to 40 hours of live qualifying and race coverage at TT 2022, including all the pre-race build up and post-race analysis that goes with it.
Isle of Man production company, Greenlight Television, is behind the live broadcast and have assembled a 200-strong production team to capture the TT like never before. With a significant uplift in the number of live-action cameras found around the course, the edge-of-your-seat experience of watching the TT in real time can now be enjoyed by anyone with an internet connection – no matter where they are in the world.
Covering the TT races live also means working from the air with the time trial format dictating the use of not one, but two, live cam helicopters. Operating each side of the Mountain Course, the two heli-cams are set to capture live the true-essence of TT racing: the lone rider slicing through the Manx countryside at speeds approaching 200mph.
Helping decipher the race as it unfolds will be a new on-screen graphics package, allowing fans to keep track of those all-important leader boards – as well as providing real-time updates on competitors circulating further down the running order.
Presenting the TT live broadcast is an experienced team, including TT regulars, Matt Roberts and Amy Williams, both hugely respected presenters thanks to their work in motorcycling and the Winter Olympics respectively. A new face to the TT, however, is Jennie Gow. The highly acclaimed journalist and broadcaster makes her debut covering the TT after a career spent working on the world’s biggest motorsport events such as Formula 1, MotoGP and Formula E.
Also joining the presenting team is regular BBC sport correspondent, Rick Faragher, who will be delving deep into the race awnings to bring you all the breaking news and behind-the-scenes developments.
The commentary team features TT regular, Dave Moore, who will be sharing the role of lead commentator with Andrew Coley, whose credits include FIA World Rally Cross, MotoGP and the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Joining Dave and Andrew as pundits are double TT winners Cameron Donald and Steve Plater.
Informing and entertaining fans since 1964, Radio TT will also make its return in 2022 with full live coverage of every qualifying session and race. The new-look radio team will have near-complete and continuous oversight of the whole course for the first time, thanks to the introduction of the live television broadcast.
Following in the footsteps of motorsport broadcasting icons such as Murray Walker, Peter Kneale and Geoff Cannell, the TT’s radio coverage will be anchored by the highly respected Steve Day, whose voice will already be known to fans of MotoGP and World Superbike. Joining Steve in the control tower as chief-analyst is Chris Boyde, who has been commentating on Manx motorsport for years and has an unrivalled knowledge of the facts and figures behind TT racing.
Reporting from pit lane will be Isle of Man radio personalities, Chris Kinley and Beth Espey. Chris will need no introduction to TT fans, having covered the event since 2003, while Beth is likely to be a new voice to race fans. An expert interviewer, she brings an instinctive understanding of how proud the Isle of Man is of its greatest event.
The TV and Radio broadcasts will also benefit from an expanded team of pundits who will be working across both platforms. Former TT competitors, Mark Miller, Horst Saiger, Jenny Tinmouth and Patrick Farrance, will be joined by leading journalist, John Hogan, and current TT competitor, Maria Costello MBE, with each providing some respective expert analysis and unique insight.
Jennie Gow – “It’s an exciting time for the Isle of Man TT Races as the introduction of live coverage brings international recognition to the greatest road race of all time. It’s been on my bucket list for a long time as a motorsport presenter and I can’t wait to join up with the team on site and bring you all the action. We all know how exciting the TT is and that’s why we all love it. To be able to share that with so many more people is incredible. We’ll be presenting more than just racing; we’ll be introducing all the incredible personalities, showcasing their talents and unique mind-set as they take on the challenging mountain course.
I’m genuinely thrilled to be part of the TT’s live broadcast team. I can’t wait to be on the Island and part of the action as the anticipation for the return of the legendary road racing event builds.”
Matt Roberts – “This isn’t the first time I’ve been part of the broadcasting team for the TT; however, thanks to the introduction of TT+, I would say it’s the most exciting year, with by far the most potential. The important thing for me is that we can come together as a broadcasting team and really immerse the viewers in the action and convey the raw energy and emotion that’s synonymous with the spectacular Isle of Man TT Races.
I’m confident there’ll be some real edge of your seat moments that will really grip the viewers. The use of heli-cam and curb-side cameras alone are going to drive the experience to a new level, and for motorsport fans around the world that haven’t yet experienced the TT. It’s going to blow their minds. It’s a huge prospect and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Cam Donald – “The Isle of Man TT Races have always been a massive part of my life, firstly as a competitor and now as a member of the broadcasting team and it’s hugely exciting. Although I have to say I’m not sure what I’m more nervous about: working on a live broadcast or hurtling down Bray Hill on a Superbike. They both get the adrenaline going and that’s what the TT is about, excitement.
Living in Australia, I’ve been able to experience first-hand the potential of international broadcasting. It’s hard to believe a love of the TT is already so deep rooted across Australia thanks to existing television highlight coverage, so live coverage via TT+ will really broaden the opportunities in a lot of countries. It’s going to take the event to the next level and I can’t wait to be part of it.”
For more information and more ways to follow, check out iomttraces.com/follow
WorldSBK: Honda Happy With Tests In Portugal
Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge complete fruitful tests at rollercoaster Portimão
Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge have completed two more days of testing in preparation for the 2022 Superbike World Championship season.
Two very important days for the Team HRC riders, who were able to ride their CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADES at the spectacular Portuguese circuit of Portimão for the first time. The undulating track is very different to that of Jerez, where the team completed its first three test sessions.
Particularly on day one, which brought sunny conditions and a maximum temperature of around 20°C, both Iker and Xavi were able to make the most of the available track time, working with their respective teams to both adapt to the new category and help develop their Honda bikes, work that continues at full speed.
With just enough to pack up, Team HRC will be back on track in a few days’ time, returning to the Andalusian track of Jerez de la Frontera for another test session scheduled to take place on 22-23 February.
Xavi Vierge 97
“I’m really happy with my feeling with the Honda at this track, having only tested at Jerez up until now. At the beginning I felt like I had never ridden at this track before. Lap after lap, I began to get used to the feeling, gain in confidence, and better understand the flow and the speed – I’ve really enjoyed it. We’ve started to try some different items and set-ups, focusing on the electronics and bike geometry. One very positive thing is that we have been able to improve with every exit we’ve made, smoothly and without delay. Today’s temperatures were a little colder than we expected after yesterday’s perfect weather, but we completed a long run and it was really useful for me and for the team to see how that went and how I felt during it. Over the two days we’ve completed a great deal of laps and collated so much information that will help the technicians to prepare for the next test. We need to continue like this because we are working well and in the right direction.”
Iker Lecuona 7
“I’m really pleased because we’ve improved a lot over the two days, both in terms of my feeling with the bike and the bike’s overall performance. On Thursday we worked on the tyres and also tested some new items, taking a good step forward in the process and lapping very consistently. Today the weather was slightly less kind, colder and windier, and the asphalt was also a lot colder than yesterday. But we made some progress regardless, and that’s very good news. I’m also happy that my feeling with the bike has been similar both here and at Jerez, two very different tracks. The good points and the points we need to improve upon are essentially the same at both circuits, which means our direction is clear. Now we will turn our attentions to Jerez because we need to carry on in this way.”
Moto2: Three-Day Test Starts Saturday At Portimao
Moto2™ and Moto3™ take on Portimão for pre-season
The only official test for the intermediate and lightweight classes is about to get underway at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve
Friday, 18 February 2022
There have been a few private test days for many in the Moto2™ and Moto3™ classes so far, but now it’s time to get down to official business. The Autodromo Internacional do Algarve plays host and the field have three days on track, with each class given three 70-minute sessions per day. Moto3™ start first on Saturday, Moto2™ on Sunday and Moto3™ return to the first slot on Monday.
Action begins at 10:00 (GMT) on each day and finishes at 18:00.
Live Timing is available throughout the test on motogp.com, as well as round ups, interviews and a host of updates to stay on top of the action.
Moto2™
There will be keen interest surrounding Aki Ajo’s new-look Red Bull KTM Ajo, with reigning Moto3™ Champion Pedro Acosta joined by Augusto Fernandez in the Finn’s squad for the forthcoming season. They’ll be hoping they can keep the Moto2™ title within the ranks come the end of the season, but Remy Gardner and Raul Fernandez certainly set records that will take some beating. So far though in the circuit timing provided from private testing, Acosta has looked fast.
However, Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team), Aron Canet (Flexbox HP40) and Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) will have other ideas about another Red Bull KTM Ajo-dominated season, and they’ll be looking to blast out the blocks and maximise track time to get ready to race. The likes of Fermin Aldeguer (Speed Up Racing), already having impressed since he arrived mid-season last year, and Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team), looking for a turnaround after a largely tougher 2021, have also looked quick as well.
Cameron Beaubier (American Racing), meanwhile, is looking to consolidate his progress too, and he’s now joined by countryman Sean Dylan Kelly, who’ll be interesting to watch. Romano Fenati (Speed Up Racing) returns to the class, Jorge Navarro moves to Flexbox HP 40, Jake Dixon to GASGAS Aspar… Tony Arbolino will have high hopes for his new era at Elf Marc VDS Racing Team too. And how will the rookies fare? A good few familiar faces from Moto3™ make the move alongside Acosta, so the stage is set for an interesting outing on the Algarve.
Moto3™
In Moto3™, Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing), Sergio Garcia (GASGAS Aspar Team) and Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo) arrive into 2022 as the likely the riders to beat, with all three carrying considerable experience in the class and race-winning, Championship-challenging pedigree.
The experience and speed continues with the likes of Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Tech 3), John McPhee and teammate Ayumu Sasaki (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max), Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) and Tatsuki Suzuki (Leopard Racing), and they’ll all be gunning for glory in a packed field.
The lightweight class also sees the addition of some exciting names to the grid for 2022. Ana Carrasco (BOE SKX) returns to the class for the first time since 2015, while the likes of 2021 Moto3™ Junior World Champion Daniel Holgado (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and frontrunners Joel Kelso (CIP Green Power), Scott Ogden (VisionTrack Racing Team) and Mario Aji (Honda Team Asia) bolster the list of rookie riders with burgeoning potential. There’s also Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) to watch out for – he was undefeated on the way to the 2021 Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup crown, and won his first ever Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup race on a track he’d never ridden before. Can the Japanese rider hit the ground running?
Stay up to date with everything from testing as the Moto2™ and Moto3™ classes get ready to race!
“MotoGP Unlimited” Documentary Screened In Paris
MotoGP™ Unlimited: the premiere in Paris
Quartararo, Bagnaia and Rins walk the red carpet as two more episodes of MotoGP™ Unlimited are screened in Paris
Friday, 18 February 2022
On Wednesday it was Madrid, now, Paris. The Elysées Biarritz hosted the second premiere for MotoGP™ Unlimited, with two more episodes of the new docuseries about the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship screened on Thursday – less than a month ahead of the series’ worldwide launch on the 14th of March.
2021 MotoGP™ World Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) was joined at the event by Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar), with the three taking to the red carpet and then the stage. After a Q&A, it was time to sit back and enjoy the two episodes.
MotoGP™ Unlimited will launch exclusively on Prime Video in France, Italy, Spain, and more than 170 countries and territories worldwide – including the UK and U.S. – on the 14th of March. Produced by THE MEDIAPRO STUDIO in collaboration with Dorna Sports, the series comprises eight 50-minute episodes and follows a number of premier class stars, including riders and team managers.
The docuseries takes fans behind the scenes, allowing viewers an intimate and exclusive look at the challenges faced by riders and teams during the season, both on and off the track. The docuseries follows in the footsteps of other Prime Video sports content productions also produced by THE MEDIAPRO STUDIO, such as Fernando; following double Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso, Six Dreams, and the acclaimed series All or Nothing. The executive producers are Laura Fernández Espeso, Javier Méndez, and Bernat Elías, and the directors are Arnau Monràs and Jaume García.
Make sure to tune in on the 14th of March!
MotoGP™ Unlimited joins the thousands of TV shows and movies in the Prime Video catalogue. Prime members will be able to watch MotoGP™ Unlimited anywhere and anytime on the Prime Video app for compatible smart TVs, mobile devices, Fire TV, Fire TV stick, Fire tablets, Apple TV, and stream online on primevideo.com and on Bouygues Bbox Miami and BBox 4K, Freebox Delta, One, Mini 4K, POP, Revolution, La Box SFR Fibre, SFR Box Plus, SFR Box 8, and Orange STB 4 & 5 as well as Orange TV USB stick. Prime Video is available in France at no extra cost to a Prime membership for just 49€/year (or 5.99€/month). New customers can find out more at amazon.fr/prime and subscribe to a free 30-day trial.
European Talent Cup: American Kristian Daniel Jr. Signs With IGAX Team
Kristian Daniel Jr. has a new team 2022 but the same goal!
The young American rider signs with Valencia-based IGAX Team for his second season in the European Talent Cup.
The 2021 European Talent Cup season was one of the most competitive since the series’ inception in 2017, with 54 riders registered and lap times only 1.8 seconds off of the Moto3 World Championship lap times. Now that 13-year-old Los Angeles native Kristian Daniel Jr. has his rookie season out of the way, where he was the youngest on the grid, he’s prepared to make a big improvement in 2022.
Kristian Jr. will once again be the only American rider on the ETC grid, and he’s aiming to bring home some points for the USA. He made good progress in his rookie season with the AGR Team, his best finish being 28th out of 53 riders. It was not an easy process, as he had to come to grips with riding the Moto3 Honda NSR250 around historic MotoGP tracks all over Spain and Portugal at almost 150 mph (230 kph). He was set to qualify in the top 10 at the last round of the season but fell victim to mixed wet/dry conditions and crashed out of the last corner in Valencia during qualifying. Although he left the last round injured, his performance gave him a lot of confidence going into his 2nd season.
For the 2022 season, the young American has signed with the IGAX team. The Valencia-based team mainly focuses on grooming young riders, having a lot of experience in many of the junior classes like Moto4, Promo3 and Pre-Moto3, which all lead up to the European Talent Cup. With the new team, a more intensive winter training program, and a whole season under his belt, Kristian Jr. is ready to make an impact in 2022.
MotoAmerica: 4SR Posts Over $130,000 In Contingency
4SR To Offer More Than $130,000 In Contingency Support To MotoAmerica Racers
Racers Wearing 4SR Leathers Can Cash In During 2022 Season
IRVINE, CA (February 17, 2022) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce motorcycle clothing company 4SR USA Inc. not only as an official partner of the 2022 MotoAmerica Auto Parts 4 Less Championship, but also as a contingency sponsor with 4SR set to post almost $131,000 for the 2022 season.
Founded in 2007 in the Czech Republic, 4SR is well-established in European markets, including supporting riders in British Superbike, World Superbike and MotoGP. In 2018, 4SR USA began exclusively importing to the United States and has worked to establish itself as a worldwide clothing brand of all things motorcycle. From full racing suits to biker jeans, gloves, leather pants, back protectors and accessories, 4SR has just about everything for the casual motorcyclist, track-day rider and serious racer.
“Having 4SR on board with us again is great news,” MotoAmerica Director of Sponsorship Lance Bryson said. “And making their involvement in the series even better is the contingency program they are offering to MotoAmerica racers who wear 4SR leathers at our events.”
4SR offers a full line of racing leathers, from racing suits to replica suits, to custom leathers, 39 different jackets for both men and women, 13 different styles of riding pants, and much more. 4SR’s leathers are also compatible with most airbag systems.
“4SR USA is excited to be back as a sponsorship partner to MotoAmerica,” said Jerry Nickell, President of 4SR USA. “And we’re also happy to be able to offer a contingency program to racers taking part in Superbike, Stock 1000, Supersport, Twins Cup and the Daytona 200. We’re looking forward to what promises to be an exciting season of MotoAmerica racing.”
Racers participating in the contingency program can earn $1000 for winning a MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike race with 4SR, and also putting up $1000 for a victory in the Daytona 200. The other classes will pay $750 (Supersport) and $500 (Stock 1000 and Twins Cup) to the winner if he/she is wearing 4SR leathers. The contingency program pays back to fifth place in each class and totals $130,750 for the season.
For more information on 4SR USA, visit www.4srusa.com. Riders interested in participating in the 4SR contingency program should contact [email protected].
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
American Flat Track: 2022 Contingency Awards Exceed $3 Million
Progressive AFT Contingency Awards Top $3 Million for 2022 Season
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 17, 2022) – Progressive American Flat Track announced today a year-over-year increase of more than $800,000 in available contingency awards to set a new record total for the 2022 season. Combined, riders in all three Progressive AFT classes are eligible for more than $3,100,000 in contingency awards.
The Progressive American Flat Track Contingency Award Program is designed to reward teams and riders based on results in events and the championship with cash awards from companies with approved products.
The total funds available for each class are as follows:
$1,752,850 for Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle
$657,200 for Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines
$742,650 for Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER
“With more than $3,000,000 on the line in 2022, there is no doubt that the drama and excitement will be at an all-time high at every step of the 69th season of America’s Original Extreme Sport,” said Gene Crouch, COO of Progressive American Flat Track. “We’d like to thank all of the partners that have pledged their support for the paddock this year. Their support amounts to a direct investment in the teams and riders that put on the incredible racing each weekend, and for that we are truly thankful.”
The grand total of $3,152,700 is $810,050 more than was offered in 2021. This increase was achieved with class-by-class increases of more than $200,000 each, with riders in the premier Mission SuperTwins class enjoying a boost of over $300,000 alone.
OEMs participating in the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track Contingency Award Program include Harley-Davidson, Honda, Husqvarna, Indian Motorcycle, Kawasaki, KTM, and Yamaha.
Other participating brands include Arai Helmet, Dunlop Motorcycle Tires, S&S Cycle, Vance & Hines, Mission Foods, Parts Unlimited, Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda and Mobile View.
The contingency payout for the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track season can be viewed at https://members.amaproracing.com/xml/ft/AMAP-FT-25-ContingencyList.pdf. In addition to the payouts listed on the competitor page, riders are eligible for event and year-end bonuses for the Mission Production Twins Challenge, Mission #2Fast2Tasy Challenge, Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda Dash for Cash and Mobile View Rookie of the Year, totaling a combined $200,300.
To help riders take home as many contingency dollars as possible, Progressive AFT has created online Contingency Guidelines, which are available in the Competitor Information section on AFT’s website and can be accessed via the following links:
Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle Contingency Guidelines
Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines Contingency Guidelines
Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER Contingency Guidelines
Progressive AFT will kick off the 2022 season with the Mission Volusia Half-Mile I & II doubleheader during Daytona Bike Week on Thursday, March 10 and Friday, March 11 at Volusia Speedway Park. Secure your tickets to the season opener now at https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3666.
Catch the livestream of all the weekend’s racing activities free via Facebook up until Opening Ceremonies. Fans can then purchase access to watch Opening Ceremonies, Semis, Main Events and podium celebrations via Facebook Paid Online Events for $3.99 if purchased 24 hours or more in advance, or $4.99 if purchased on the day of the event. The Mission Volusia Half-Mile I & II will premiere back-to-back on FS1 on Sunday, March 20, starting at 11:00 a.m. ET/8:00 a.m. PT.
For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com. 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 Facebook are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2022 season, all 18 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. Viewers can watch livestream coverage of every round in the Facebook mobile app, Facebook desktop site or on the Facebook Watch mobile app. To watch the livestream on TV, fans can download the Facebook Watch TV app, or cast to a TV from the Facebook mobile app. Facebook Watch is available through Apple TV, Samsung Smart TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and Xbox One.
“MotoGP Unlimited” Documentary Premieres In Spain
MotoGP™ Unlimited premieres in Madrid
The first of two premieres paves the way for the new Prime Video documentary, coming on the 14th of March
It’s official! The new docuseries about the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship, MotoGP™ Unlimited, will launch exclusively on Prime Video in France, Italy, Spain, and more than 170 countries and territories worldwide – including the UK and U.S. – on the 14th of March. Produced by THE MEDIAPRO STUDIO in collaboration with Dorna Sports, the series comprises eight 50-minute episodes and follows a number of premier class stars, including riders and team managers.
On Wednesday, the first of two premieres took place as the Cine Capitol in Madrid played host for an exclusive screening of two episodes. MotoGP™ riders Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team), Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar), Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team), Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) and Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) were in attendance for the occasion, joined at the event by Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.
After some interview opportunities for the media present – and the prerequisite walk down the red carpet for the stars of the series, both on camera and off – the attendees settled in to watch two episodes of the ground-breaking new series.
MotoGP™ Unlimited is true to its name, allowing fans to see behind the scenes like never before, including exclusive footage of the riders’ day-to-day lives. For the first time, viewers will get an intimate, unique, and exclusive look at the challenges faced by riders and teams during the season, both on and off the track, and understand what it takes to form part of one of the most prestigious competitions in motorsport.
The docuseries follows in the footsteps of other Prime Video sports content productions also produced by THE MEDIAPRO STUDIO, such as Fernando; following double Formula 1 world champion Fernando Alonso, Six Dreams, and the acclaimed series All or Nothing. The executive producers are Laura Fernández Espeso, Javier Méndez, and Bernat Elías, and the directors are Arnau Monràs and Jaume García.
Thursday will see the Elysées Biarritz in Paris host the second premiere, with more familiar faces from the MotoGP™ grid set to attend the event and enjoy two more episodes of the MotoGP™ Unlimited – including reigning Champion Fabio Quartararo.
MotoGP™ Unlimited joins the thousands of TV shows and movies in the Prime Video catalogue. Prime members will be able to watch MotoGP™ Unlimited anywhere and anytime on the Prime Video app for compatible smart TVs, mobile devices, Fire TV, Fire TV stick, Fire tablets, Apple TV, and stream online on primevideo.com and on Bouygues Bbox Miami and BBox 4K, Freebox Delta, One, Mini 4K, POP, Revolution, La Box SFR Fibre, SFR Box Plus, SFR Box 8, and Orange STB 4 & 5 as well as Orange TV USB stick. Prime Video is available in France at no extra cost to a Prime membership for just 49€/year (or 5.99€/month). New customers can find out more at amazon.fr/prime and subscribe to a free 30-day trial.
Ducati Presents The XDiavel Nera Limited Edition
Ducati presents the limited and numbered XDiavel Nera edition: “Elegance. Unlimited.”
Made in Italy design and craftsmanship combine with technology and innovation in a motorcycle made by Ducati in partnership with Poltrona Frau’s Interiors in Motion Business Unit
The XDiavel Nera will be produced in a limited-edition numbered series of 500 units: it is characterized by the elegant “Black on Black” livery and by a special customizable saddle made of Pelle Frau®
The possibility to choose between five different colours for the saddle and the delivery of a key ring and a matching document holder enrich the personality of a motorcycle that makes individualization a distinctive feature
The XDiavel is Ducati’s techno-cruiser that expresses the power of opposites, combining the relaxed pace typical of the cruiser world with the sporty ride and thrilling performance of Ducati
Borgo Panigale (BO) / Tolentino (MC), Italy, 17 February 2022 – The partnership between two brand ambassadors of Made in Italy in the world like Ducati and Poltrona Frau has led to the creation of a fascinating project: the Ducati XDiavel Nera. The bike was presented to the public in the seventh episode of the Ducati World Première web series (direct link to the video here).
The XDiavel Nera project comes to life from the values shared by the two companies: the passion for design, craftsmanship tradition, the use of cutting-edge technologies and an aptitude for innovation. The result is a motorcycle that is unique in its character and aesthetics, which communicate Italian design, and it will be produced in a numbered edition limited to 500 units.
Andrea Ferraresi, Director of the Centro Stile Ducati: “The XDiavel Nera project was born from the encounter between two Italian excellences. Ducati and Poltrona Frau are two brands with a unique history, they share a passion for beauty and well-made objects, they are strongly Italian and make craftsmanship a distinctive element, always supporting it with sophisticated technological solutions and the use of high-quality materials. The XDiavel Nera perfectly summarizes the values that unite Ducati and Poltrona Frau. It is a unique motorcycle with an unmistakable identity, a splendid expression of the excellence of Made in Italy “.
Poltrona Frau is a leading company in high-end furniture and an ambassador of Italian excellence all over the world. The collaboration with Ducati, introduced with the Ducati Scrambler Club Italia project, benefits from the experience gained over the years by the Interiors in Motion area of Poltrona Frau. The Interiors in Motion Business Unit specializes in the creation, construction and supply of distinctive leather interiors in the premium automotive, aviation, rail transport and offshore navigation sectors.
Giovanni Maiolo, Poltrona Frau Interiors in Motion Business Unit Director: “There is great satisfaction for the work done together with Ducati on the XDiavel Nera. We are proud to be part of this 100% Italian project that has fascinated us from the very beginning and has given us the opportunity to once again demonstrate our know-how and our ability to design in co-design projects by combining innovation and craftsmanship.”
The new XDiavel Nera is characterized by the “Black on Black” livery in which gloss and matt black portions alternate. This livery makes the XDiavel even sportier and is also reflected in a dedicated jet helmet, which owners of XDiavel Nera can order together with the bike. The bike is also enriched by some style details that enhance its aesthetics, such as the brake calipers and engine head covers in Ducati Red colour and the lightened and fully machined forged rims, painted in gloss black.
The most recognizable part of the XDiavel Nera is the special seat made of Pelle Frau®: a soft natural leather saddled by hand, the result of years of research by Poltrona Frau. It is available in five different colours (Siam Red, Steel Blue, Cemento, India and Selva) and is customized with a series of “X” engraved through a sophisticated laser process, which recall the name of the bike.
Ducati XDiavel is a motorcycle with a strong personality that focuses heavily on the concept of individualization. In this project, the possibility of customization is expressed through the choice of preferred colour for the seat, to which are added a wider comfort saddle and a backrest, also in Pelle Frau® leather, suitable for travelling in two without sacrificing style.
The 500 Ducatisti enthusiasts who order XDiavel Nera will also receive an exclusive key ring and document holder made of Pelle Frau® leather in the matching colour to the one chosen for the saddle.
XDiavel is the result of a crossover between two apparently different and distant universes. On the one hand, the relaxed pace at low speed typical of the Cruiser world and on the other the sporty riding and exciting performance of Ducati. The perfect expression of this mix is given by the characteristics of the Testastretta DVT 1262 engine which, in combination with the final belt drive, ensures smooth delivery at low revs and a full curve up to the highest revs. The Testastretta DVT 1262, clearly visible in the centre of the bike, in Euro5 configuration delivers a maximum power output of 160 hp at 9,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 13.0 kgm at 5,000 rpm.
The chassis of the bike, the reduced height from the ground of the saddle (755 mm) and the forward position of the footpegs are designed to offer great riding ease and comfort when travelling at low speed in complete relaxation and, at the same time, maximum fun in sporty riding. The combination of the tubular steel trellis frame, the front and rear suspension and the chassis dimensions allows agility and controllability of the front axle, guaranteeing surprising handling.
XDiavel Nera is equipped at the rear with a 240 mm wide tyre mounted on a rim with an 8” channel that makes the bike easily recognizable from any angle, becoming a highly distinctive style element. The particular profile of the tyre also allows a maximum lean angle of 40°, an unthinkable value for a motorcycle of this type. The braking system is powerful and modular and is equipped, like the whole Ducati range, with ABS Cornering. At the front it features Brembo monobloc M50 calipers and two 320 mm discs, while at the rear we can find a single 265 mm disc.
The lighting system is full-LED with a DRL daytime running light system on the front that is easily recognizable and of great visual impact. XDiavel Nera is equipped with Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) which, by dynamically measuring the roll and pitch angles as well as the speed of the relative set-up variations, provides the information to ABS Cornering. This system, together with Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Riding Modes, Cruise Control and Ducati Power Launch (DPL), make the XDiavel Nera a technologically advanced, high-performance and safe motorcycle. The electronic equipment is completed by the two-level dashboard with colour animation TFT screen and dedicated key-on, in addition to the hands-free system, to be able to use the motorcycle with the key in your pocket or bag.
The individualization of the XDiavel also includes completely customizable ergonomics thanks to the adjustable footpegs in three positions, or through the choice of Ducati Performance accessories that best suit your needs, including handlebars of different shapes and rearward footpegs compared to the standard or centrally located ones.
The XDiavel Nera can already be ordered with the seat in the preferred colour and will be available in dealerships in the Ducati network starting from March 2022. It fits into the Ducati XDiavel range alongside the essential XDiavel Dark and the sporty XDiavel S.
#XDiavel #EleganceUnlimited
Poltrona Frau
Since 1912, Poltrona Frau has been a protagonist in the world of made in Italy furniture. The art of production and constructive rigor with raw materials of excellence, such as Pelle Frau®. High-end solutions for the home and office. Poltrona Frau also cultivates tradition and innovation in Interiors in Motion (cars, yachts, trains, airplanes) and Custom Interiors (auditoriums, theatres, airports, public spaces, shops / showrooms, yachting, offices and hotels), with collaborations with the greatest architects and international designers. The driving force is the Tolentino production site, in the Marche region, a knowledge factory rooted in the territory and always at the forefront of certification linked to environmental sustainability and the health and safety of employees.
Business Unit – Interiors in Motion
Born in the mid-1980s, the Interiors in Motion division of the Poltrona Frau group goes beyond the confines of residential living, specializing in the creation, production and supply of distinctive leather interiors in the premium automotive, air, rail transport and offshore navigation.
An ambitious challenge that is renewed with each project: transposing the Poltrona Frau spirit into an ever-changing context, interpreting the peculiar characteristics of the clients and the numerous constraints inherent in the different types, spaces and use of the same. Thanks to constant research in materials, shapes and processes, Interiors in Motion has gained a unique experience, capable of blending the great craftsmanship tradition and the attention to detail typical of Poltrona Frau with the most advanced and innovative trends in the sector.
In addition to numerous recent projects developed in collaboration with Ferrari, the IIM division includes other prestigious brands, including McLaren with Speed Tail, Porsche with Panamera, JLR with Range Rover Autobiography, or Lamborghini with the Sian Limited Edition.
In the nautical field, on the other hand, collaboration is worth mentioning with the most important brands in the sector such as Ferretti Yacht, Pershing, Wally and Riva, regarding the development and production of the helm station seats.