Stapleford Shines in Thruxton Supersport Sprint

August 11, 2024

Saturday at Thruxton Circuit saw intense action in the Quattro Group British Supersport & GP2 / HEL Supersport Cup, with Luke Stapleford emerging as the day’s standout performer.

Qualifying: Stapleford Secures Pole

The qualifying session showcased the competitive nature of the field, with Luke Stapleford (Macadam Triumph Racing) claiming pole position with a blistering lap of 1:16.302. Jack Kennedy (Honda Racing UK) secured second place, just 0.480 seconds behind, while Carter Brown (Josh Davis Motorsport Yamaha) rounded out the front row.

The top 10 qualifiers were:

Luke Stapleford (Triumph) – 1:16.302
Jack Kennedy (Honda) – 1:16.782
Carter Brown (Yamaha) – 1:16.844
Benjamin Currie (Ducati) – 1:16.954
Dean Harrison (Honda) – 1:17.013
Eugene McManus (Ducati) – 1:17.033
Alastair Seeley (Yamaha) – 1:17.052
Luke Jones (Ducati) – 1:17.240
Cameron Dawson (Kawasaki) – 1:17.262
Rhys Irwin (Kawasaki) – 1:17.384

Sprint Race: Stapleford Converts Pole to Victory

The afternoon’s Sprint Race, run over a short distance of 5 laps, provided thrilling action for spectators. Luke Stapleford converted his pole position into a race win, but not without a fight from his rivals.

Race Results:

Luke Stapleford (Triumph) – 6:26.870
Jack Kennedy (Honda) – +0.229
Alastair Seeley (Yamaha) – +2.247
Benjamin Currie (Ducati) – +3.590
Eugene McManus (Ducati) – +4.064

Stapleford’s victory was hard-fought, with Jack Kennedy finishing just 0.229 seconds behind after 5 laps of intense racing. Alastair Seeley made an impressive charge from 7th on the grid to claim the final podium position.

Class Performances

In the GP2 class, Owen Jenner (Kramer Racing) took top honours, finishing 16th overall. Jack Nixon and Keo Walker rounded out the GP2 podium.

Mikey Hardie (ROKiT Rookies Kawasaki) claimed victory in the Supersport Cup category, finishing an impressive 14th overall.

Notable Performances and Incidents

Carter Brown, who qualified 3rd, dropped to 9th in the race, suggesting possible setup issues or a poor start.

TJ Toms made significant progress, moving from 12th on the grid to finish 7th.
James McManus and Adon Davie both received 2-second time penalties for course-cutting and unsafe re-joining, respectively.
The short race format led to close racing throughout the field, with many battles going down to the wire.

Looking Ahead

With Sunday’s feature race still to come, the riders and teams will be analysing data and making final adjustments overnight. The longer race distance will test both man and machine, particularly with Thruxton’s reputation for being tough on tires.

Luke Stapleford will be looking to repeat his Saturday success, while Jack Kennedy and the chasing pack will be determined to overturn the results. With such close competition evident in the Sprint Race, Sunday’s feature race promises to be an exciting spectacle for British Supersport fans.

Winners Earn Big Points Leads After Saturday Sweeps in MotoAmerica Mini Cup Finals

Frank Duggan

August 11, 2024

Perfect First Day For All Five Winners Going Into Sunday’s Championship Deciders At Road America

The first day of racing in the MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup By Motul National Final on Saturday witnessed great racing and the rising talent of some of America’s leading youth racers.

Riders raced two legs on Saturday and will race two more on Sunday on a different track layout at the Briggs & Statton Motorplex to determine the overall class champions. Saturday was a day of sweeps with all five winners scoring wins in both legs of their races in windy conditions.

There was some exciting action Saturday, on and off the track. In the GP 190 class leading qualifier Mahdi Salem almost missed race one and it was just by the luck of a red flag that he was able to race.
Mahdi’s machine blew a motor in qualifying and his is father installed a new engine and had it ready just before the drop of the green flag. Unfortunately, the screws on the cylinder head were not completely tight and oil was seeping out of Mahdi’s bike and onto the pavement. On the grid MotoAmerica officials made him pull off to the side of the track and the race started without him. But Lady Luck was on Mahdi’s side. There was a red flag that stopped the race and Mahdi’s dad was able to tighten the loose screws and he made the restart.

After taking the lead, Mahdi pulled away to a convincing victory over Kensei Matudaira. Mahdi also won the second leg, this time with little drama, to take a big points lead going into Sunday’s action.

The most exciting race of the day was Stock 50 race two where brothers Chase and Cooper Jazikoff battled for the lead in the middle laps of the race. Little brother Cooper made a mistake and nearly crashed in the closing laps, but recovered to finish fourth. Chase won and was later seen trying to cheer up his little brother.

Other winners on Saturday included Jase Dill, who scored two wins in GP 160, Gabriel Datis in Stock 110 and Cameron Jones in Street GP.

Tomorrow’s action promises to be hot and heavy and you can tune in to watch the racing on MotoAmerica Live+ with live streaming and video on-demand for Sunday’s race action with commentary from MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Roger Hayden and current Mission King Of The Baggers star James Rispoli. MotoAmerica Live+ will start streaming at 1 p.m. (central time) on Sunday and will conclude at 4:30 p.m. (central time).

Ryde Triumphs in Thruxton Thriller as BSB Serves Up a Saturday Spectacle

Matt Anthony

August 11, 2024

The Bennetts British Superbike Championship delivered an electrifying day of action at Thruxton Circuit, with Kyle Ryde emerging victorious in one of the closest races the series has witnessed in recent memory.

Free Practice 3: Kent Sets the Pace

The day began with Free Practice 3, where Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) laid down a marker with a blistering lap of 1:15.388. Charlie Nesbitt (MasterMac Honda) and Lewis Rollo (IN Competition / SENCAT Aprilia) rounded out the top three, setting the stage for a competitive qualifying session.

Qualifying: Ryde Claims Pole in Tight Session

The two-part qualifying session saw the field battling for prime grid positions. Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) secured pole position with a time of 1:14.592, narrowly edging out Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) by just 0.011 seconds. Billy McConnell (C&L Fairburn / Look Forward Racing Honda) completed the front row, with less than half a second covering the top 10 riders.

Race 1: A Nail-Biting Battle to the Finish

The opening race of the weekend provided some of the closest racing BSB has seen in years. Jason O’Halloran controlled much of the race from the start, but the lead changed hands multiple times in a thrilling conclusion.

Kyle Ryde ultimately emerged victorious, crossing the line just 0.168 seconds ahead of his teammate Ryan Vickers. Jason O’Halloran held on for third, completing a podium separated by a mere 0.502 seconds after 20 laps of intense racing.

The top 10 finishers were:

Kyle Ryde (Yamaha)
Ryan Vickers (Yamaha)
Jason O’Halloran (Kawasaki)
Tommy Bridewell (Honda)
Billy McConnell (Honda)
Leon Haslam (BMW)
Lee Jackson (Honda)
Max Cook (Kawasaki)
Christian Iddon (Ducati)
Peter Hickman (BMW)

Max Cook set the fastest lap of the race with a 1:16.168, demonstrating the blistering pace throughout the field.

Drama and Incidents

The race was not without its share of drama. Danny Kent and Andrew Irwin, both potential podium contenders, failed to finish the race. Most notably, Andrew Irwin suffered a monumental crash on the final corner, with his Honda Fireblade launching about 10 feet into the air and flipping several times. Thankfully, Irwin was able to walk away from the incident, a testament to the safety measures in place.

Championship Implications

With the results from this race, the championship standings are sure to have tightened. Kyle Ryde’s victory will boost his title aspirations, while consistent podium finishes for O’Halloran and Bridewell keep them firmly in the hunt.

Looking Ahead

As the paddock reflects on an extraordinary day of racing, attention now turns to Sunday’s two races. With such close competition and the high-speed nature of Thruxton, fans can expect more thrilling battles and potentially more surprises as the weekend concludes.

The level of competition displayed today serves as a reminder of why the Bennetts British Superbike Championship is considered one of the most exciting motorcycle racing series in the world. Tomorrow’s races promise to be unmissable as the riders once again tackle the fastest circuit on the calendar.

Herrera fights off stiff competition to snatch WorldWCR Race 1 win

Frank Duggan

August 10, 2024

Race 1 Highlights:
The first of the WorldWCR races making up the third Portuguese round ultimately rewarded championship leader Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) but she had to work hard for her prize today, beating fellow Spaniard Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) to the line by just 0.060 of a second.

The eleven-lap race, which ran in torrid conditions, quickly turned into a four-way battle for victory, with Herrera, Sanchez, Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team) and Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) breaking away from the rest of the field and continuously exchanging positions as they exploited the slip stream.

Carrasco ultimately got the better of Neila in the battle for third, the pair separated by just 0.009 of a second across the line.

The fastest lap time, a 1’53.691, was set by Sanchez on the very last lap as she went all out in an attempt to catch Herrera. Her Race 1 lap time means that Sara will start from pole in Sunday’s Race 2.

Pakita Ruiz (PS Racing Team 46+1) rounded out the top five, despite the best efforts of Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) and Jessica Howden (Team Trasimeno), who ultimately had to settle for sixth and seventh respectively.

The points scored today see Herrera extend her championship lead, leaving her closest rivals with everything to play for in Sunday’s Race 2.

Hanks-Elliott (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team), Kemmer (Bertl K. Racing Team), Bondi (YART Zelos Black Knights Team), Dobbs (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team) and Nadieieva (MPS.RT) all suffered crashes and were unable to complete the race.

Key Points:
Pole position: Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) – 1’54.609
Race 1 winner: Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team)
Race fastest lap: Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) – 1’53.691

P1 | Maria Herrera | Klint Forward Factory Team
“I expected this kind of close racing to be honest. Sara was very quick already in qualifying and so I knew we’d have a real battle on our hands today. The temperatures were high, so the grip dropped a little at the end of the race and I was losing a little time through the fast corners, but I was able to manage the situation. We’ll see what we can do tomorrow; I’ll be second on the grid which is a good position because there’s an opportunity to pass through the first corner if I can get away well. I want to analyse the data because I think I can do more in terms of my rhythm. If there’s a little less wind for Race 2, we can perhaps do a little better.”

P2 | Sara Sanchez | 511 Terra&Vita Racing Team
“I’m really happy, also because I made a really bad start that put me down in fourth. I knew I had to react fast and push so that the leaders didn’t get away. I was able to get back into second and then fight hard all the way to the line. I made a couple of mistakes on the very last lap as I pushed to try and reach Maria; it was close, but I couldn’t quite take the win. I was still able to set the fastest time on the last lap though, and we’re pleased to be on the podium again of course. Tomorrow I’ll start in pole, so let’s see if we can do a little more, especially if I can make a better start.”

P3 | Ana Carrasco | Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team
“Another great fight between the four of us. The pace was so fast compared to the times we were seeing yesterday, and I had to push really hard. I don’t know if I could have won today but I was in a good position up until about two laps from the end, after which I had a few gearing issues that caused me to lose a little. I really wanted to be on the podium and so I pushed hard to make up the ground and then hold off Neila to secure third. I’m pleased because despite the technical problem I was able to fight for victory and finish top three. Hopefully we can find a solution for tomorrow’s Race 2, which I imagine will see us involved in a similar battle.”

WorldWCR Race 1 Results
1. Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team)
2. Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) +0.060s
3. Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros. Racing Yamaha Team) +2.253s
4. Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +2.262s
5. Pakita Ruiz (PS Racing Team 46+1) +26.707s
6. Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) +26.919s

Championship Standings
1. Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) 113 points
2. Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros. Racing Yamaha Team) 97 points
3. Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) 88 points

History beckons for Toprak after his 11th consecutive win

Frank Duggan

August 10, 2024

Tissot Superpole Highlights
Toprak Razgatlioglu claimed his fourth consecutive Superpole success. The ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team rider ended the session with an advantage of just over one tenth of a second

Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) was Razgatlioglu’s nearest challenger. The Englishman claimed his second consecutive front row start

Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) made it three different manufacturers on the front row. He narrowly ousted Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) in the closing moments of the 15 minute sessions

Race 1 Highlights
Razgatlioglu became the third rider in WorldSBK history to win 11 races in a row. His run of success stretches back to the Dutch Round at Assen. The Turkish star will try to make history during tomorrow’s Tissot Superpole Race. Razgatlioglu now leads the championship by 80 points from Bulega

The 20 lap race saw a gaggle of riders fighting it out at the front throughout. Lowes led in the early stages having taken the holeshot before Petrucci led until the final third of the race. Razgatlioglu led eight laps and would eventually win by just eight tenths of a second after a race long battle at the front

From the second row of the grid Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) endured a difficult start to the 20 lap race and dropped to 13th position during the opening laps. The Spaniard recovered to come through the pack to finish second. This was his best result since Round 3 at Assen. The double World Champion is now 29 points behind his teammate Bulega in the standings

Petrucci led a WorldSBK for the first time and ultimately he converted a front row into his third podium of the season

Fourth position marked the best result of the season for Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) after the American rider came out on top of a four rider battle with Lowes, van der Mark and Bulega

Key Points:
Pole position: Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team)
Race 1 winner: Toprak Razgatlioglu
Race fastest lap: Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’40.612

P1 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team
“I’m really happy about this race. At the beginning we were fighting with Petrucci. In the last ten laps I just tried to push as hard as I could for a good lap time. We won again today and I’m really happy. It hasn’t been an easy weekend because everyone was pushing harder and the hot conditions also made it tough. We did a very good job. I need one more win for the new consecutive wins record and we’ll see tomorrow if I can do it!”

P2 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“We’ve struggled a lot this year in the Superpole but today we weren’t bad. I made my worst start of the season and lost a lot of positions on lap one so I had to push throughout the entire race. I couldn’t relax at any point during the race so I’m happy because, in the end, I managed to keep a good pace and catch up with the leading riders. I still need to do more to be at 100% but this is my 100th podium and I’m really happy about that. It’s always nice to celebrate these milestones with a win but this year has been difficult. The good thing is that we’re making progress, and I’m starting to feel much better on the bike. So I hope that tomorrow I can fight again for the podium and maybe even for the victory!”

P3 | Danilo Petrucci | Barni Spark Racing Team
“This was a really nice race! I’ve led a WorldSBK race for the first time and it’s something I’ve been trying to do for a while! During the race I was pushing at 90% because I knew it would be impossible to follow Toprak. I had a bit left at the end but Alvaro was a bit faster in the corners. It’s a podium though and that’s always nice. I want to say thanks to my crew because I really had a good bike today.”

WorldSBK Race 1 Results
1. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team)
2. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.780s
3. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) +1.450s
4. Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) +4.313s
5. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) +4.690s
6. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +4.963s

Championship Standings
1. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) 328 points
2. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 248 points
3. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 219 points

WorldSBK Tissot Superpole Results
1 Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) 1’39.783s
2. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) +0.104s
3. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.188s

For more info checkout our dedicated World Superbike News page World Superbike News

Or visit the official World Superbike website WorldSBK.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of WorldSBK.com

Montella ends Huertas winning streak

Frank Duggan

August 10, 2024

A first victory since the opening round of the year saw Yari Montella claw back five points on Adrian Huertas in the championship standings.

The Italian rider led every lap, set a new lap record and won the race on a perfect day for the Barni Spark Racing Team rider

Having started from pole position Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) dropped down the order in the early laps. A brave move on Manzi at Turn 9 saw him take second position but with a margin of three seconds to Montella there was too much ground to make up before the end of the 17 lap race

Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) came out on top of a last lap battle with Jorge Navarro (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) but Navarro was given some consolation with a front row start for Race 2 courtesy of his fast lap time during the race

Montella, Huertas and Navarro will make up the front row for Race 2 tomorrow

Key Points:
Pole position: Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) 1’43.352
Race 1 winner: Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team)
Race fastest lap: Yari Montella 1’43.246

P1 | Yari Montella | Barni Spark Racing Team
“Finally, it’s a win! Today was incredible because I felt stronger than ever. I enjoyed the entire race. My strategy was simply to push from the start because we saw that usually Huertas pushes from the start. In this race I tried to do the same. I understand that he didn’t have a great start so I was probably a bit lucky. In the end, I think we were the strongest today. We need to focus and understand this race to try to improve for tomorrow.”

WorldSSP Race 1 Results
1. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team)
2. Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) +3.241s
3. Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) +10.598s
4. Jorge Navarro (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) +12.169s
5. Federico Caricasulo (Motozoo ME AIR Racing) +14.868s
6. Valentin Debise (Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team) +15.811s

Championship Standings
1. Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) 256 points
2. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) 215 points
3. Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) 199 points

For more info checkout our dedicated World Supersport News page superbike-news.co.uk/world-supersport/

Or visit the official World Superbike website worldsbk.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of <WorldSBK.com/a>

First win of the season for Gennai

Frank Duggan

August 10, 2024

Mirko Gennai claimed his first victory on Kawasaki machinery after an action packed race at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.

Championship leader Inigo Iglesias (Fusport-RT Motorsport by SKM-Kawasaki) made a mistake on the final lap while fighting with his title rival, Loris Veneman. The Spaniard crashed at Turn 8 after hitting the rear wheel of Veneman but will start tomorrow’s race from the second row

Pole sitter Veneman took an early lead but was caught by the pack and eventually finished in fourth position. The MTM Kawasaki rider has closed the gap to Iglesias in the standings to ten points

Replacement rider Carter Thompson (Fusport-RT Motorsport by SKM-Kawasaki) claimed his second WorldSSP300 podium from two rounds. The Australian was just two thousands of a second ahead of Marc Garcia (KOVE Racing Team) when they crossed the line

Following a grid penalty Aldi Mahendra (Team BrCorse) started from the seventh row of the grid but was able to recover to finish in sixth position. The title contender is now nine points adrift of the championship leader

Key Points:
Pole position: Loris Veneman (MTM Kawasaki) 1’55.399
Race 1 winner: Mirko Gennai (MTM Kawasaki)
Race fastest lap: Matteo Vannucci (Pata Yamaha AG Motorsport Italia) – 1’54.862

P1 | Mirko Gennai | MTM Kawasaki
“Today was fantastic. To win again here in Portimao is special! I have the perfect feeling at this circuit; I love it. This win is for Victor Steeman who left us two years ago. I miss you, Victor. Regarding the race itself, I’m very happy because it was hot and fast. I’m also thrilled for the team. Tomorrow, I’ll try to break away at the front with my teammate, and we’ll aim for a fifth win!”

WorldSSP300 Race 1 Results
1. Mirko Gennai (MTM Kawasaki)
2. Carter Thompson (Fusport-RT Motorsport by SKM-Kawasaki) +0.893
3. Marc Garcia (KOVE Racing Team) +0.895
4. Loris Veneman (MTM Kawasaki) +0.971
5. Elia Bartolini (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSSP300 Team) +0.976
6. Aldi Satya Mahendra (Team BrCorse) +1.102

Championship Standings
1. Inigo Iglesias (Fusport-RT Motorsports by SKM-Kawasaki) 129 points
2. Aldi Satya Mahendra (Team BrCorse) 120 points
3. Loris Veneman (MTM Kawasaki) 119 points

For more info checkout our dedicated World Supersport 300 News page superbike-news.co.uk/world-supersport-300/

Or visit the official World Superbike website worldsbk.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of WorldSBK.com/

Red Plates Gajser And De Wolf Shine In Thrilling RAM Qualifying Races In Sweden

Frank Duggan

August 10, 2024

The steep slopes of the Glimminge Motorstadion near Uddevalla began a three-week run of racing for the MXGP World Motocross Championships today, with the RAM Qualifying Races producing some more stunning action in both classes as the amazing 2024 season continues!

The day began on a high note with an amazing and thrilling airplane show that captivated the fans and set the perfect tone for the action-packed event ahead.

The MXGP class saw a closely-fought victory for red plate holder Tim Gajser, who not only extended his Championship lead for Team HRC, but advanced to seven wins in RAM Qualifying Races this season, meaning that he is close to winning the RAM Driving Experience for the most Saturday wins on the year. His main title challenger, reigning World Champion Jorge Prado, was right on his tail across the finish line for Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing.

MX2 was witness to a brilliant battle at the front between Championship leader Kay de Wolf, who took his sixth RAM Qualifying Race victory of the year for Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing, and Dane Mikkel Haarup, who was close to his first race win for Monster Energy Triumph Racing.

Problems for Championship challengers Jeffrey Herlings and Lucas Coenen mean they have work to do to make up ground in tomorrow’s MXGP of Sweden!

Jeffrey Herlings showed his intent by topping the times for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in both Free Practice and Time Practice, leaving Gajser with the second gate pick ahead of Prado.

However, disaster struck for Herlings in the first corner, as he started on the fringe of the top ten but was unable to avoid a falling Calvin Vlaanderen, who slid to the floor on his Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP machine just as Fantic Factory Racing star Brian Bogers took the holeshot ahead of the warring Gajser and Prado, who swapped places twice on the first lap!

Herlings had to fight from way outside the top twenty, and started picking off several riders at a time to break into the top ten on lap six. Gajser, meanwhile, passed Bogers for the lead on lap four with a committed downhill leap, and Prado followed past a few turns later on the first cambered corner!

On a hard-packed, slippery circuit, Bogers then lost third to Kawasaki Racing Team star Romain Febvre, who would finish in that position. Bogers only kept fourth after a spirited attack from Isak Gifting, who wore a viking hat and Swedish flag on the sighting lap to stir up the crackling atmosphere, fell short as the home hero clipped the Fantic’s back wheel on the face of the finish line jump and hit the ground hard! The Swede did well to salvage two points for JK Yamaha Racing in ninth, just ahead of Bogers’ teammate Glenn Coldenhoff.

Herlings advanced to a respectable seventh after passing TEM JP253 Racing’s Jan Pancar, earning himself 4 points to keep him within 44 points of Gajser in the Championship. Ahead of them, Uddevalla winner of the last two years, Kawasaki Racing Team’s Jeremy Seewer, moved past fellow Swiss rider Valentin Guillod for fifth in the closing laps. The Team Ship to Cycle Honda Motoblouz SR rider stayed in sixth, his best RAM Qualifying Race finish of the season so far.

At the front, Prado snapped at Gajser’s heels but could not make a pass! The final margin of victory was just 0.902 of a second, and the Slovenian knows that the Spaniard will be a handful tomorrow! The Honda man owes his entire points lead to his results in the Saturday races, however, and can now defend a 25-point advantage going into tomorrow, when Herlings will also look to make amends for his Saturday of struggles! It’s gonna be a hot one!

Tim Gajser:” I had a good start and Brian (Bogers) was in the beginning riding good, you know. It was not easy to pass, so I tried to manage to make a quick pass on him and then when I passed him Jorge passed him quickly after, so he was behind me the whole race. Towards the end, when we started to get to the lappers it was not easy for sure. But I’m happy with the win and hopefully tomorrow we can do the same.”

MXGP – RAM Qualifying Race – Classification: 1. Tim Gajser (SLO, Honda), 24:13.179; 2. Jorge Prado (ESP, GASGAS), +0:00.902; 3. Romain Febvre (FRA, Kawasaki), +0:22.144; 4. Brian Bogers (NED, Fantic), +0:27.201; 5. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Kawasaki), +0:27.534; 6. Valentin Guillod (SUI, Honda), +0:31.525; 7. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), +0:47.276; 8. Jan Pancar (SLO, KTM), +0:48.518; 9. Isak Gifting (SWE, Yamaha), +0:51.681; 10. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, Fantic), +0:53.888

MXGP – World Championship Classification: 1. Tim Gajser (SLO, HON), 715 points; 2. Jorge Prado (ESP, GAS), 690 p.; 3. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), 671 p.; 4. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, YAM), 507 p.; 5. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, KAW), 485 p.; 6. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, FAN), 420 p.; 7. Romain Febvre (FRA, KAW), 413 p.; 8. Kevin Horgmo (NOR, HON), 317 p.; 9. Valentin Guillod (SUI, HON), 278 p.; 10. Pauls Jonass (LAT, HON), 274 pMain Photo: Jorge Prado

Lucas Coenen had set the best lap in Free Practice for Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing, but in Time Practice it was Kay de Wolf who beat him to the first gate pick, with Mikkel Haarup looking fast in both sessions to come to the line in third.

Haarup backed up his pace with a fine holeshot, his first of the year on a Saturday, and started to build a lead as De Wolf struggled to make his way past Simon Laengenfelder on the Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing machine. Liam Everts worked his way to fourth for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing but crashed on lap two and had to fight back to an eventual fifth. Lucas Coenen was also fighting from an average start and took until lap four to pass Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 pilot Rick Elzinga.

By lap three De Wolf was on Haarup’s case, but the Dane, in the closest thing he has to a home GP, was not giving up one bit, holding back the Championship leader with superb determination. On lap ten De Wolf, who had a stunning line over an uphill step-up that cleared a trough of deep ruts, finally succeeded in taking the lead with a pass at the end of the Pit Lane straight.

A lap later, Lucas Coenen fought past Laengenfelder, and the two who are disputing second in the series finished in third and fourth ahead of Everts and Team HRC’s Ferruccio Zanchi. Sacha Coenen took seventh for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, while his teammate Andrea Adamo grabbed the final point in tenth with a last lap pass on the other Monster Energy Triumph of Camden McLellan. Elzinga dropped to eighth, ahead of his Monster Energy Yamaha teammate Karlis Reisulis.

It wasn’t over for the lead, however, as Haarup picked up on De Wolf’s superior lines and used them, closing in on the red plate holder and nearly taking the lead back! They finished just 0.886 seconds apart, and there may be a few more Danish fans on the ferry to Uddevalla tomorrow morning!

The gap between the two Nestaan Husqvarna teammates is now 67 points in De Wolf’s favour, but if MX2 has taught us anything this season, it’s that the 2024 cast of characters can serve up any result possible! Don’t miss the Grand Prix races from Uddevalla, in front of a noisy and energetic crowd tomorrow afternoon!

Kay de Wolf: “Haarup was riding a really good race and yeah it was a fun one. The track is really technical at the moment so I really enjoy racing this track and it’s an amazing place. Really looking forward for tomorrow, hopefully we can have similar conditions on the track tomorrow and I’m sure we’re going to have an amazing day again.”

MX2 – RAM Qualifying Race – Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, Husqvarna), 24:23.503; 2. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, Triumph), +0:00.886; 3. Lucas Coenen (BEL, Husqvarna), +0:08.263; 4. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GASGAS), +0:25.912; 5. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), +0:31.297; 6. Ferruccio Zanchi (ITA, Honda), +0:33.263; 7. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KTM), +0:38.103; 8. Rick Elzinga (NED, Yamaha), +0:46.744; 9. Karlis Alberts Reisulis (LAT, Yamaha), +0:49.408; 10. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), +0:49.701

MX2 – World Championship Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 693 points; 2. Lucas Coenen (BEL, HUS), 626 p.; 3. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GAS), 613 p.; 4. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 562 p.; 5. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, TRI), 474 p.; 6. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), 458 p.; 7. Rick Elzinga (NED, YAM), 432 p.; 8. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KTM), 395 p.; 9. Ferruccio Zanchi (ITA, HON), 259 p.; 10. Oriol Oliver (ESP, KTM), 255 p

MXGP OF SWEDEN QUICK FACTS:

Circuit length: 1510m
Type of ground: Hard-Pack
Temperature: 20°
Weather conditions: Cloudy / Windy

TIMETABLE
SUNDAY: 09:45 EMX125 Race 2, 10:25 MX2 Warm-up, 10:45 MXGP Warm-up, 11:30 EMX250 Race 2, 13:15 MX2 Race 1, 14:15 MXGP Race 1, 16:10 MX2 Race 2, 17:10 MXGP Race 2.

For more news check out our dedicated MXGP/MX2 News page

Or visit the official MXGP website mxgp.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of www.mxgp.com

Cooper Commands Thruxton as Sportbike Class Heats Up

Matt Anthony

August 10, 2024

Richard Cooper (PHR Performance Triumph) dominated Friday’s practice sessions at Thruxton Circuit, as the Pirelli National Sportbike with Moneybarn Vehicle Finance series kicked off its seventh round of the 2024 season. The riders faced challenging conditions with high temperatures and Thruxton’s notoriously abrasive surface, providing a stern test of both skill and machine management in this diverse class.

Practice Sessions Breakdown

Free Practice 1

The morning session saw Richard Cooper set the early pace with a lap time of 1:20.780 on his Triumph Daytona 660. Thomas Strudwick (TS Racing Triumph) and Edoardo Colombi (Gradara Corse Asd Aprilia) rounded out the top three, showcasing the competitiveness of different manufacturers in the class.

Free Practice 2

As track conditions evolved in the afternoon, lap times improved marginally. Cooper further cemented his dominance by lowering his time to 1:20.653. Ash Barnes (Raceways Yamaha) made a significant jump to second, while Edoardo Colombi maintained his strong form in third, highlighting the tight competition and the riders’ adaptability to the challenging circuit.

Combined Practice Results

The combined classification from both sessions confirmed Richard Cooper’s supremacy, followed closely by Ash Barnes and Edoardo Colombi. Aaron Silvester (MIH Solutions / Macadam Racing Triumph) and Zak Shelton (XMT Racing Aprilia) completed the top five, underscoring the diverse manufacturer representation in the series.

Adapting to Thruxton’s Unique Challenges

Thruxton’s distinctive characteristics – its abrasive surface and long, high-speed sections – presented a significant challenge for riders and teams. The sessions saw them working diligently to find the optimal balance between outright speed and tyre preservation, crucial for success in the longer race distances.

Notable Performances

Zak Shelton showed remarkable improvement, jumping from 9th in FP1 to 5th in the combined standings, demonstrating the potential of the Aprilia RS660.
Finn Smart-Weeden (Definnitive Racing Aprilia) made significant progress, moving up from 12th in FP1 to 10th overall, highlighting ongoing development work.
Lennon Docherty (Symcirrus Motorsport Kawasaki) maintained consistent pace, finishing 11th overall and showcasing the competitiveness of the Kawasaki Ninja 650 package.
Jayden Martin (MIH Solutions / Macadam Racing Triumph) represented the international contingent well, finishing 16th overall as the sole Australian in the field.

Manufacturer Variety

The Sportbike class continues to showcase impressive manufacturer diversity, with Triumph, Yamaha, Aprilia, and Kawasaki all represented in the top 15. This variety adds an extra layer of intrigue to the competition, as each bike brings different strengths to the unique Thruxton layout.

Looking Ahead

With temperatures expected to remain high throughout the weekend, Saturday’s qualifying session and the subsequent races will test the riders’ ability to manage their machines and tyres over longer distances. The stage is set for an exciting battle for pole position, with Richard Cooper looking to convert his Friday dominance into a strong grid position for Sunday’s races.

As teams and riders analyse data and fine-tune their setups overnight, the Thruxton crowd can anticipate more thrilling Sportbike action as these skilled competitors tackle the challenges of this fast and flowing Hampshire circuit under the scorching sun.

Swann Swoops to the Top in Sweltering Thruxton Superstock Practice

Matt Anthony

August 10, 2024

Scott Swann (Swann Racing Honda) emerged as the pace-setter during Friday’s practice sessions at Thruxton Circuit, as the Pirelli National Superstock with Moneybarn Vehicle Finance series began its seventh round of the 2024 season. The riders faced challenging conditions with high temperatures and Thruxton’s notoriously abrasive surface, providing a stern test of both skill and machine management.

Practice Sessions Breakdown

Free Practice 1

The morning session saw Luke Mossey (Milenco by Padgetts Motorcycles Honda) set the early benchmark with a lap time of 1:15.954. Tom Oliver (Armada Marine Cables Racing Honda) and Scott Swann followed closely, with less than a second covering the top three.

Free Practice 2

As track conditions evolved in the afternoon, lap times improved significantly. Scott Swann leapt to the top of the timesheets with a blistering 1:15.688, while Luke Mossey maintained strong form in second. Davey Todd (Cheshire Mouldings BMW by TAS Racing) made a significant jump to third, showcasing the progress made in bike setup and adapting to the track conditions.

Combined Practice Results

The combined classification from both sessions confirmed Scott Swann’s supremacy, followed closely by Luke Mossey and Tom Oliver. Shaun Winfield (TAG Racing Honda) and Davey Todd completed the top five, highlighting the competitive nature of the Superstock field.

Adapting to Thruxton’s Unique Challenges

Notable Performances

Josh Owens (IN Competition / SENCAT Aprilia) showed strong improvement, jumping from 10th in FP1 to 7th in the combined standings, demonstrating the potential of the Aprilia package.

Joe Talbot (SAF INTRADISC Honda by JR Performance) maintained consistent pace, finishing 8th overall and showcasing his adaptability to the challenging circuit.
Kam Dixon (Kam Dixon Racing Yamaha) made significant progress, moving up from 13th in FP1 to 11th overall, highlighting the ongoing development work.
Sam Cox (Armada Marine Cables Racing) made a remarkable leap from 18th in FP1 to 10th in the combined standings, showing strong improvement as the day progressed.

Manufacturer Variety

While Honda dominated the top positions, the presence of BMW, Aprilia, and Yamaha in the top 15 underscores the competitive nature of the Superstock class and the different strengths each manufacturer brings to the unique Thruxton layout.

Looking Ahead

With temperatures expected to remain high throughout the weekend, Saturday’s qualifying session and the subsequent race will test the riders’ ability to manage their machines and tyres over longer distances. The stage is set for an exciting battle for pole position, with Scott Swann looking to convert his Friday dominance into a strong grid position for Sunday’s race.

As teams and riders analyse data and fine-tune their setups overnight, the Thruxton crowd can anticipate more thrilling Superstock action as these skilled competitors tackle the challenges of this fast and flowing Hampshire circuit under the scorching sun.

Morelli Masters Thruxton Heat in British Talent Cup Practice

Matt Anthony

August 10, 2024

Marco Morelli (Fibre Tec Honda) showcased his prowess during Friday’s practice sessions at Thruxton Circuit, as the R&G British Talent Cup kicked off its seventh round of the 2024 season. The young riders faced challenging conditions with high temperatures and Thruxton’s notoriously abrasive surface, providing an excellent test of skill and machine management.

Practice Sessions Breakdown

Free Practice 1

The morning session saw Marco Morelli set the early pace with a lap time of 1:23.343. Amanuel Brinton (Kovara Projects / RS Racing) and Julian Correa (Microlise Cresswell Racing) rounded out the top three, with less than two-tenths of a second separating them.

Free Practice 2

As track conditions improved in the afternoon, lap times tumbled. Morelli further cemented his dominance by significantly lowering his time to 1:22.158. Amanuel Brinton maintained his second position, while Ryan Frost (Fibre Tec Honda) made a leap to third, showcasing the progress made in bike setup and the evolving track conditions.

Combined Practice Results

The combined classification from both sessions reinforced Marco Morelli’s supremacy, followed closely by Amanuel Brinton and Ryan Frost. Filip Surowiak (Team City Lifting / RS Racing) and Lucas Brown (SENCAT Talent Team / Mortimer Racing) completed the top five, highlighting the competitive nature of the young talent in the series.

Adapting to Thruxton’s Challenges

Thruxton’s unique characteristics – its abrasive surface and long, high-speed sections – presented a significant challenge for the young riders. The sessions saw them working on finding the right balance between outright speed and preserving their tyres, crucial skills for their development as racers.

Notable Performances

Harrison Mackay (Wilson Racing / HMR) showed strong improvement, jumping from 7th in FP1 to 6th in the combined standings.
Clayton Edmunds (Team City Lifting / RS Racing) made significant progress, moving up from 9th in FP1 to 8th overall.
Julian Correa, despite leading the charge in FP1, ended up 7th in the combined standings, highlighting the competitive nature of the field.
Harley McCabe (McCabe Racing by Motorbike Buyers) broke into the top 10, showing promising pace on the challenging circuit.

International Flavour

The British Talent Cup continues to attract international talent, with riders from Argentina (Morelli), USA (Correa, Banish, Raymond Jr.), and Bermuda (Divine) mixing it up with the British contingent, adding an extra layer of competition and diversity to the series.

Looking Ahead

With temperatures expected to remain high throughout the weekend, Saturday’s qualifying session and the subsequent races will test the young riders’ ability to manage their machines and tyres over longer distances. The stage is set for an exciting battle for pole position, with Marco Morelli looking to convert his Friday dominance into a strong grid position for the weekend’s races.

As teams and riders analyse data and fine-tune their setups overnight, the Thruxton crowd can anticipate more thrilling British Talent Cup action as these future stars of motorcycle racing tackle the challenges of this fast and flowing Hampshire circuit under the scorching sun.

Stapleford Sets the Pace in Scorching Thruxton Supersport Practice

Matt Anthony

August 10, 2024

Luke Stapleford (Triumph – Macadam Triumph Racing) dominated Friday’s practice sessions at Thruxton Circuit, as the Quattro Group British Supersport & GP2 / HEL Supersport Cup commenced its seventh round of the 2024 season. The high temperatures and the circuit’s abrasive nature provided a stern test for riders and machines throughout the day.

Practice Sessions Breakdown

Free Practice 1

The morning session saw Luke Stapleford emerge as the early pacesetter, clocking a 1:17.636. Jack Kennedy (Honda Racing UK) and Luke Jones (Highsparks Ducati) rounded out the top three, showcasing the competitive nature of the field with three different manufacturers at the sharp end.

Free Practice 2

As track temperatures rose in the afternoon, so did the pace. Stapleford further cemented his dominance by lowering his time to 1:17.079. Jack Kennedy maintained his second position, while Alastair Seeley (Binch Pro Yamaha) made a significant jump to third, highlighting the evolving track conditions and the teams’ progress in setup.

Combined Practice Results

The combined classification from both sessions reinforced Luke Stapleford’s supremacy, followed closely by Jack Kennedy and Alastair Seeley. Benjamin Currie (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) and Cameron Dawson (Gearlink Kawasaki) completed the top five, underscoring the fierce competition with five different manufacturers represented.

Tyre Management Crucial

Thruxton’s unique characteristics – its abrasive surface and long, high-speed sections – put a premium on tyre management. Riders and teams dedicated significant time to finding the optimal balance between outright speed and preserving their rubber for the longer race distances.

Notable Performances

Carter Brown impressed on the Josh Davis Motorsport Yamaha, securing 6th overall and showing strong adaptability to the challenging circuit.
TJ Toms and Eugene McManus, on Yamaha and Ducati machinery respectively, demonstrated consistent pace to finish 7th and 8th in the combined standings.

In the GP2 class, Owen Jenner (Kramer Racing) led the way, finishing 21st overall and showcasing the potential of the Kramer chassis.
Mikey Hardie topped the Supersport Cup times, finishing an impressive 12th overall and first among the Cup contenders.

Looking Ahead

With temperatures expected to remain high throughout the weekend, Saturday’s qualifying session and the subsequent races will likely see strategies revolving around tyre preservation while maintaining competitive lap times. The stage is set for an exciting battle for pole position, with Luke Stapleford looking to convert his Friday dominance into a strong grid position for Sunday’s races.

As teams analyse data and fine-tune their setups overnight, the Thruxton crowd can anticipate more thrilling Supersport and GP2 action as the weekend unfolds under the scorching Hampshire sun.

Petrucci leads the way with 18 riders within one second

Frank Duggan

August 9, 2024

Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) led the way on the opening day of action at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.

The Ducati rider completed 34 laps on the opening day of action and set a fastest time of 1’40.681 in an action packed FP2 session

Blue skies and high track temperatures dominated the conditions and while it was picture postcard weather the wind played a role in the closing stages. The evening schedule saw the wind strength increase as the day wore on and Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) and Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Team Motocorsa Racing) both crashed in the closing stages

Championship leader Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) has won ten races in a row but this weekend looks to be more challenging. The Turkish rider was third fastest but more worrying was that he suffered reliability issues in both sessions today. He completed 31 laps today

Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) also suffered a technical issue today. The Ducati rider, second in the championship standings, lost all of FP1 due to a problem that sidelined him after one flying lap but recovered in FP2 to set the fourth fastest time

Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) covered the most mileage today. The Swiss rider’s 41 laps were consistent for his race simulation and he ended the session fifth fastest

Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) suffered a technical issue in FP2 to end the day 18th fastest. Despite his lack of running the Australian rider was within one second of the fastest time as WorldSBK gears up for a very competitive weekend.

P1 | Danilo Petrucci | Barni Spark Racing Team
“I’m quite surprised because I struggled here last year even though it’s always been one that I like. Today, I felt good on the bike and I was able to push and find a good rhythm. We made a few setting changes in the afternoon and I tried the new rear tyre. This tyre was a step forward and I felt good immediately. The tyre is grippy so I liked it! We also did something with the front end of the bike, and I have a good feeling there as well. I didn’t expect to finish the day with the fastest time so I’m surprised but also happy. I’m still recovering from my injuries and my right arm is a bit tired. I hope this result gives me some happiness and strength for tomorrow.”

P2 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati
“Physically, I feel okay. I have a bit of road rash but it’s no problem. The wind was the issue for the crash because it started to get stronger after the middle of FP2. In that corner the wind pushed me a lot. I had arrived at the corner a little faster than the lap before and I tried to brake at the same point but I lost the front. In general, I’m quite happy because, already this morning, I felt very similar to how I did in Most with the bike. That means it’s similar to last year as well. The memories I have from the winter test here weren’t good but today has been much better. The feeling with the bike is definitely better, so I’m happy about that. We also tried some different gearing to deal with the wind. This is the first weekend where we’ve left one track and come to a new one where the feeling has stayed the same. It’s been a positive day. We had a good weekend at Most, even if the result wasn’t great, and we’ve started well here. We need to keep building our confidence with the bike and aim for our best performance tomorrow.”

P3 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team
“I had a technical problem in FP2 and I had to return to the box. Unfortunately, I couldn’t ride the bike for the last ten minutes. Overall, my feeling wasn’t bad with the bike. Before the technical issue, I was using a used tyre, and I’m very happy with how the bike performed on it. This is positive for me because our pace was good and I did a very good job with the used tyre. After 18 laps, I was still able to do a 40.9 lap which is really good in these hot conditions. I started feeling some problems after 3-4 laps when I used the new tyre and I realised there was a technical issue. I had to return to the box, but very slowly. We’ll see how things go tomorrow but the first day is done and I’m very happy because not every session or race weekend goes perfectly. Now we’re starting a little differently this weekend but I’m feeling positive. I’m just waiting for tomorrow.”

WorldSBK Combined Results after FP2
1. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) 1’40.681s
2. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.023s
3. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +0.102s
4. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.130s
5. Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) +0.140s
6. Jonathan Rea (Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +0.255s

For more info checkout our dedicated World Superbike News page World Superbike News

Or visit the official World Superbike website WorldSBK.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of WorldSBK.com

Huertas edges Montella for pole position

Frank Duggan

August 9, 2024

Pole position was settled in the closing moments of the session in favour of Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team).

The championship leader set a time of 1’43.352 to top the times by two tenths of a second from his championship rival Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team)

Red flag for a high speed crash Bahattin Sofuoglu (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) at Turn 9. A concussion has ruled the Turkish rider out of action for the remainder of the weekend

Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) made it six consecutive front row starts but was over seven tenths of a second off the pace

Federico Caricasulo (Motozoo ME AIR Racing), Jorge Navarro (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) and Can Oncu (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) will line up on the second row of the grid

P1 | Adrian Huertas | Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team
“Our good form continues with this pole position! We are working really hard. Even during the holiday period we worked hard and we found something again. It’s good to start from pole position and we want to continue like this because the points have added up in the championship. During Free Practice sessions it doesn’t mean much to be first or to set a fast lap time because sometimes you are working on different things. I think working on your programme is more valuable than setting a fast time. We did our job today and we are ready for tomorrow. I think the high temperatures will be something to watch but I think we can manage it. Our strategy will be to try to win tomorrow.”

WorldSSP Tissot Superpole Results
1. Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) 1’43.352s
2. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.240s
3. Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) +0.739s
4. Federico Caricasulo (Motozoo ME AIR Racing) +0.804s
5. Jorge Navarro (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) +0.831s
6. Can Oncu (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) +1.013s

For more info checkout our dedicated World Supersport News page superbike-news.co.uk/world-supersport/

Or visit the official World Superbike website worldsbk.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of WorldSBK.com/

Back to back poles for Veneman

Frank Duggan

August 9, 2024

Loris Veneman (MTM Kawasaki) claimed back to back pole positions by dominating the Superpole session with a time of 1’55.399.

The Dutch rider was in great form today to top the times in both Practice and Superpole. Veneman, the winner of both races at the Czech Round, is aiming to become the first rider to win three consecutive WorldSSP300 races

The session was interrupted by a red flag five minutes into the session after a crash involving Ruben Bijman (Team Flembbo-PL Performances) and Dinis Borges (Speed Master Racing Team)

Prior to the red flag Jeffrey Buis (Freudenberg KTM-PALIGO Racing) crashed at Turn 5. The double World Champion finished the session 1.3s slower than the pole position and qualified 18th fastest

Championship leader Inigo Iglesias Bravo (Fusport-RT Motorsport by SKM-Kawasaki) also crashed at Turn 5 after the session resumed. The Kawasaki rider was able to qualify on the third row after his eventful session

P1 | Loris Veneman | MTM Kawasaki
“This was the best Friday I’ve ever had. I led Free Practice by almost half a second and I’ve taken pole position. It couldn’t be better. In qualifying, there was a lot of wind, so I had to find some riders to get a slipstream. In the end, it worked out. With this wind, it’s really hard to say what will happen tomorrow but the goal is always to win in WorldSSP300.”

WorldSSP300 Tissot Superpole Results
1. Loris Veneman (MTM Kawasaki) 1’55.399s
2. Mirko Gennai (MTM Kawasaki) +0.517s
3. Galang Hendra Pratama (ProGP NitiRacing) +0.563s
4. Aldi Satya Mahendra (Team BrCorse) +0.673s
5. Matteo Vannucci (Pata Yamaha AG Motorsport Italia) +0.684s
6. Marco Gaggi (Team BrCorse) +0.740s

For more info checkout our dedicated World Supersport 300 News page superbike-news.co.uk/world-supersport-300/

Or visit the official World Superbike website worldsbk.com

©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of WorldSBK.com/

Kent Blazes to the Top in Scorching Thruxton Friday Practice

Matt Anthony

August 9, 2024

Danny Kent (Yamaha – McAMS Racing) set the pace on a sweltering Friday at Thruxton Circuit, as the Bennetts British Superbike Championship kicked off its seventh round of the 2024 season. The abrasive nature of the high-speed Hampshire track, combined with soaring temperatures, presented a significant challenge for both riders and machines throughout the day’s practice sessions.

Practice Sessions Breakdown

Free Practice 1

The morning session saw Ryan Vickers (Yamaha – OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) top the timesheets with a lap of 1:16.037. Danny Kent and Kyle Ryde, both on Yamahas, rounded out the top three, showcasing the strength of the Iwata manufacturer’s machines at the fast and flowing circuit.

Free Practice 2

As temperatures climbed in the afternoon, so did the pace. Danny Kent stormed to the top of the timing screens with a blistering lap of 1:15.156, nearly a second quicker than the morning’s best time. Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) and Kyle Ryde followed closely, setting up what promises to be an intense battle for pole position in Saturday’s qualifying session.

Combined Practice Results

The combined classification from both sessions saw Danny Kent maintain his position at the top, followed by Tommy Bridewell and Kyle Ryde. The top five was completed by Christian Iddon (Ducati – Oxford Products Racing) and Peter Hickman (BMW – FHO Racing), emphasizing the competitive nature of the field with four different manufacturers represented.

Tyre Management Crucial

Thruxton’s unique characteristics – its abrasive surface and long, high-speed sections – put a premium on tyre management. Riders and teams spent much of Friday working on finding the right balance between outright pace and preserving their Pirelli rubber for the longer race distances.

Notable Performances

Lee Jackson and Andrew Irwin, both on Hondas, showed strong form by finishing 6th and 7th in the combined standings, respectively.

Max Cook impressed on the Kawasaki, securing 8th overall and demonstrating his growing comfort in the premier class.
Veteran riders Billy McConnell and Jason O’Halloran rounded out the top 10, proving that experience counts at this challenging circuit.

Looking Ahead

With temperatures expected to remain high throughout the weekend, Saturday’s qualifying session and the subsequent races will likely see strategies revolving around tyre preservation while maintaining competitive lap times. The stage is set for an exciting battle for pole position, with Danny Kent looking to convert his Friday pace into a strong grid position for Sunday’s races.

As the teams analyse data and fine-tune their setups overnight, the Thruxton crowd can anticipate more thrilling BSB action as the weekend unfolds in the scorching Hampshire heat.

Portimao pole for WorldWCR championship leader Herrera

Frank Duggan

August 9, 2024

Current WorldWCR championship leader Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) dominated Friday’s Superpole session at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal, setting a lap time eight tenths of a second quicker than her closest rival to secure pole for the second time this season.

27-year old Herrera battled both her rivals and the sweltering conditions to place first ahead of Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team) and Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team), who both picked up the pace to set their fastest times in the final moments of the action-packed qualifying phase.

Earning a spot on the second row of the grid, hot on the heels of the top three, are Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha), Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) and Austrian rider Lena Kemmer (Bertl K. Racing Team). South African Jessica Howden (Team Trasimeno) had originally qualified fifth but will start eighth after received a penalty for irresponsible riding.

Only the first five of the 23-strong field were able to duck under 1’57 in Friday’s challenging track conditions (air temp. 34°C, track temp. 47°C).

Friday morning’s free practice saw the same four Spanish riders rise to the top of the standings, with Pakita Ruiz (PS Racing Team 46+1) and Howden rounding out the top six.
More on worldsbk.com

P1 | María Herrera | Klint Forward Factory Team | 1’54.609
“Another good day for us. I think we started strong in free practice, and then I felt comfortable right from the start of Superpole. I was able to be relaxed in my riding and I’m pleased with the way we’re working as a team in preparation for the races. We’re strong over the flying lap but the race might be a different matter; the girls are fast and so I think tomorrow will be tough. My strategy will be to try and push hard in the early stages of the race, as I did at Donington, but we’ll have to wait and see what’s possible at this track and in these conditions.”

P2 | Ana Carrasco | Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team | 1’55.443
“I’m honestly happy with my performance today, because the others had a training day here a couple of weeks ago while I’ve not ridden here for over a year, so I thought I might be a little further off the pace. The lap times came quite easily already this morning and then I improved a lot in the afternoon’s session, despite the hot conditions and the wind along the main straight, which prevented me from even using sixth gear! We still have things to work on but I’m on the front row, which is always important, and if we can improve these aspects tomorrow then I think we can battle for victory.”

P3 | Sara Sanchez | 511 Terra&Vita Racing Team | 1’55.640
“We had a few problems this morning and I wasn’t totally convinced with the setting. We took a step for the Superpole but we still have a few small issues to resolve for tomorrow. We’re on the front row anyway, which is already an improvement on this morning and positive, so now we just need to focus on finding a solution that will allow us to be up there with the group in tomorrow’s race.”

WorldWCR Provisional Tissot Superpole Results
1. Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) 1’54.609
2. Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros. Racing Yamaha Team) +0.834s
3. Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) +1.031s
4. Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +1.524s
5. Jessica Howden (Team Trasimeno) +2.248s
6. Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) +2.587s

Roulstone to remain in Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 colors for 2025

Frank Duggan

August 9, 2024

Impressive Moto3™ rookie Jacob Roulstone will race with Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 for another season in 2025 after signing a contract to form part of the factory’s ranks in the category.

The team is extremely happy to be able to retain within its ranks the 19-year-old Australian for another season. The Aussie has shown great potential in the first half of his rookie year in the class. 8th being his best result so far, Roulstone already counts four top 10-finishes in 2024, and he has scored points in eight of the ten rounds already completed. The #12 currently stands second in the Rookie of the Year title chase, sixteen points from the leader but with another ten rounds left to win the coveted award.

The Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 squad is one of the leading teams in the Moto3™ division, and the initial stage of the company’s Grand Prix development. It is with great pride that the team accompanies young riders such as Jacob Roulstone, coming from the Red Bull MotoGP™ Rookies Cup, in their debuts in Grand Prix, to help them find their way to their ultimate goal, MotoGP™.

Jacob Roulstone: “I am really thankful to be riding for another season with Tech3, as well as continuing my pathway with Red Bull. I would like to say a huge thank you to Hervé Poncharal and to the entire Tech3 family. I could not be happier to be able to race another year with this incredibly supportive team, and I believe that we have great things to achieve together. I look forward to continuing growing as a racer with these amazing partners.”

Hervé Poncharal, Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 Team Principal: “It is a huge satisfaction for Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 to be able to continue the adventure with Jacob Roulstone next season. So far, Jacob clearly has met all the expectations you can have from a rider in his rookie season, and he has done a fantastic job with his crew. Not only is he a fast rider with great potential, but he is also a smart and hard-working young man, who understood from day one that results are not only coming from the race weekends, but also from the work you achieve between the races with your crew. He is still learning the Moto3 category for now, but we are confident that the work will pay off, and we are excited to see what we can achieve together next season.”

Triumph Scrambler 400X

Frank Duggan

August 9, 2024

In issue 26 of Modern Classic Motorcycle News we take a look at the Triumph Scrambler 400X

Read item by subscribing to latest issue of Modern Classic Motorcycle News info below:

Classic MGP promises an eclectic mix of bikes and close racing.

Richard radcliffe

August 8, 2024

With final course preparations being made, anticipation is rising ahead of the 2024 Manx Grand Prix meeting. The Classic Races have attracted a top quality line up of established and rising TT stars. The machinery to be ridden is an eclectic mix that should give huge interest to the connoisseurs who gather to watch the drama unfold.

29 times TT winner Michael Dunlop tops the list; he rides his own Honda in the Lightweight Race and will start as favourite in that race. He has produced a surprise in the Superbike Race. Having been associated with Suzukis for many years he has forsaken the GSXR XRAD machine that he rode to victory last year and switched to Ducati. The gorgeous 916 has achieved TT podium finishes in the hands of Ian Simpson and Michael Rutter. Last year Dean Harrison showed the Ducati’s potential with a lap at 124.767mph from a standing start. That gave him a slender lead from Michael Dunlop. The machine’s fragility is its Achilles’ heel; it expired on the mountain on lap 2. Fix the reliability issue and it could be good enough to beat the plethora of rapid Kawasaki and Suzuki machinery lined up against it.

Double Lightweight winner Mike Browne remains with the LayLaw team for the Lightweight and will be a potent challenger for Dunlop. Team principal Ian Lougher joins him on track for the race and could grab another podium. In the Superbike Race, Browne too has opted for a Ducati; in fact, the Key Racing machine ridden by Dean Harrison last year. Browne showed that he is class on Superbikes when setting the first 130mph by an Aprilia in this year’s TT on what was an experimental machine. In the Classic Senior Race, he is one of 3 riders for the New Zealand based Grantham Lodge team. Browne had his first classic ride for them in the 2022 Senior Classic Race in which he set the fastest ever lap (at that time) by a British single at 110.312mph; he finished third behind the Yamaha of Lee Johnston and the Paton of Stefano Bonetti. He led last year’s race, before being slowed by a minor mechanical issue to finish third. He will be aiming for the top step of the podium this year.

The other Grantham Lodge riders are Rhys Hardisty, a Pre-TT Classic race winner at Billown and Rob Hodson, a multiple winner at Billown, past MGP winner and winner of the Senior Classic MGP in 2022; he will be challenging for another podium place.

23 times TT winner john McGuinness has two rides for the first time. He will again campaign the Winfield Paton in the Senior; a race for which he is the lap record holder and a 3 times winner. He was second to Dean Harrison last year. He was rapid at the TT and NW200 this year and will be out to add another victory to has impressive tally. For the first time he will compete in the Junior (350cc) Race; his Steadplan Honda is a proven winner, so he must have a reasonable chance of victory.

Jamie Coward returns this year to reclaim the Ted Woof Norton ridden in his absence by Dean Harrison. Coward was the first man to lap at over 110mph on a British single and is more than capable of matching Harrison’s 111.395mph best lap. In the reintroduced Junior Race, he will ride a Craven Honda; he will start as favourite to repeat his win of 2019.

There are some other very notable returnees to the MGP fold this year. 16 times TT winner Ian Hutchinson makes his debut in the classic races. He was sensational in his debut in the MGP proper; winning the 2003 Newcomers’ Senior Race and setting the fastest lap of 116.66mph; this was the best newcomer’s lap of the course at the time (including TT newcomers). Ian will ride a Steadplan Kawasaki in the Superbike Race as he builds his pace towards a fully competitive assault on the TT next year. Conor Cummins returns after a 5 year hiatus. He does not have a Superbike; he finished second in the race in 2018 on a Suzuki and third on the gorgeous 500 Padgett’s Yamaha YZR GP machine in 2019. His sole ride this year is on a 500cc Steadplan Honda; this should see him inside the top 6. Lee Johnston has endured a torrid 15 months since his crash at the NW200 last year. His crash in testing this spring ruined his programme for this year. He is now fit and back on track. He is set to race the Reed Racing RC45 that he rode in 2022 (Nathan Harrison rode it last year) and an RS 250 also in their colours. The RC45 is not going to be the fastest machine the field; but it will be interesting to see if Lee can come close to Jim Moodie’s lap of 124.45mph. Lee won the Lightweight Race in 2018; but it would be too much to expect him to repeat that feat this year; but a top 6 finish should be his.

Greenall Racing have been staunch supporters of the Classic Superbike for many years. This year they have a strong trio in the team. 2022 winner Rob Hodson leads the team and will be looking for another podium finish. He is joined in the team by former Irish Champions Brian McCormack and Derek Shiels; both more than capable of taking a place in the top 6.

Mistral Racing have also been avid supporters, and this year have a quality four man team for the Classic Superbike. Leading the team is Davo Johnson; now fully recovered from his accident at the Conker Fields (Ballakillinghan) in the TT. A past winner, and runner-up to Michael Dunlop last year, Davo is a real contender for the top step of the podium. He is joined by two of the Emerald Isle’s top riders in the form of Paul Jordan and Michael Sweeney; both will be aiming for the top 6. The final member of the team is the sensation that is Joe Yeardsley. Winner of the Senior MGP, as a newcomer, last year at record pace (for it as a 600cc event); he led the Junior before retiring. He has excelled at Billown and made a fine debut in this year’s TT. He has a great team advising him and will be aiming for progression in his lap speed, rather pushing for a podium in the race this year.

Jordan’s best chance will come in the Senior Classic in which he has the race proven Davies Motorsport 500 Yamaha at his disposal. A podium finisher at the TT; Jordan has a real chance in this race and the Junior in which he rides the Davies 350cc Honda. Davies have young local rider Jorge Halliday as their rider on the Classic Superbike. Still a relative novice Jorge will gain valuable track time as he continues his impressive road racing development.

James Hind exploded onto the scene with an MGP Lightweight double in 2019 and was leading both Junior and Senior MGPs when forced to retire. Denied another victory when 3 miles from home in the 2022 Lightweight. If his DTR Yamaha lasts the distance, he will give Dunlop and Browne a tough battle. Hind also rides in the Classic Superbike; he joins Shaun Anderson in WizNorton Team to ride their 588cc rotary machines. These machines are not rapid enough to win but it will a joy to see and hear them on track and discover if either can come close to the great Steve Hislop’s famous 123.50mph lap from the 1992 TT Senior Race (the greatest ever?). Anderson also campaigns the team’s 294cc DKW in the Junior. It proved temperamental in the hands of (now Travelling Marshal) Richard Wilson but has definite promise.

The best looking bike in the paddock will be the Bimota YB4 to be campaigned again by Stefano Bonetti. Bonetti has achieved podium finishes on the Mountain Course on Patons; he will not do so in this race; but it will a great joy to see the machine in action. Another machine certain to grab attention is the hub centre steering Flitwick Yamaha GTS 1000 that achieved a best TT finish of sixth for Steve Linsdell. The machine will be ridden by Adam McLean, who also rides one of the team’s rapid Enfield 500cc machines in the Senior Classic. McLean finished 5^th last year in the Senior Classic and now fully back into the groove will be aiming to improve upon that this year. Joe Yearsley won on the sister machine at the Pre-TT Classic in what was his first race on it. It may be too soon for him to challenge for a win on a still unfamiliar machine; but I fancy him to be in the top 6. Previous MGP Ultra-Lightweight winner Lancelot Unissart completes the Flitwick Racing team; he will ride in the Senior on an Enfield and on a Ducati in the Junior; the latter giving his best chance of a top 10 finish.

The Classic Races promise to give some close and exciting racing; all we need is dry and calm weather.

Classic Mgp Promises An Eclectic Mix Of Bikes And Close Racing. — Adam McLean at Schoolhouse 2023

Kawasaki confirms Puccetti for 2025 in WorldSBK

Frank Duggan

August 8, 2024

Ninja presence in WorldSBK paddock and on race grids maintained.

As an integral part of its ongoing global Ninja marketing and awareness strategy, Kawasaki has announced that Kawasaki Puccetti Racing will be responsible for continuing Kawasaki’s Ninja presence in WorldSBK next season with the race and Championship winning Ninja ZX-10RR package. Via this strategic action, Kawasaki will commit both the “bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team” and the “Ninja ZX-10RR” brands more than ever to the WorldSBK series, while continuing to entertain race fans worldwide.

Fielding the Ninja ZX-10RR machinery currently being raced by the Kawasaki Racing Team in WorldSBK represents a new milestone for Kawasaki Puccetti Racing in 2025. The Italian squad will be the official team to maintain a Ninja presence on the grid of a globally recognised racing series with a huge following and audience reach.

Celebrating twenty years of racing in association with the Kawasaki brand in 2024, the Reggio Emilia based team – who are currently competing in WorldSBK with rider Tito Rabat – are widely recognised as a driving force inWorldSSP and count significant European Stock 600 and Stock 1000 achievements, plus two WorldSSP titles, within their roll of honour. In addition the team has twenty three race wins in the WorldSSP class plus two race wins and sixteen podium places to date in WorldSBK.

Speaking of the upcoming season, an understandably delighted Manuel Puccetti reflected on the racing journey of his eponymous team: “On behalf of myself and my team – as well as my sponsors and my family – I would like to express what an honour and privilege this is. Since my first days in racing I personally appreciate the elements that make a rider or team successful.

I started racing on a 125cc production machine in an Italian cup race in the late 1990s and by 2002 I had taken the challenging step to become a team owner. Just one truck, some motorcycles and a loyal group of sponsors to start with. Yet, from these beginnings, we worked and worked to become what we are now; a team with World, European and National Championships to our credit and a success record that includes over 120 podiums.

In 2025, we will field current season KRT Ninja ZX-10RR machinery and I can only say this is a dream come true. Rest assured we will do our best to fulfil the ambitions of Ninja fans across the world in the coming season. We are truly honoured.”

Experienced American rider Garrett Gerloff will join the Kawasaki Puccetti Racing team on the Ninja ZX-10RR for 2025, bringing with him proven podium capability and a single-minded desire to achieve even greater results.

For Kawasaki, Shigemi Tanaka, General Manager, Marketing & Sales Division, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. explained the reasoning for the latest WorldSBK strategy:

“Manuel has a unique combination of experience, achievement and enthusiasm and his record of success is testament to his tenacity and professionalism. Already the Kawasaki Puccetti Racing team are working closely with KRT in the current WorldSBK Championship, so the channels of communication on WorldSBK issues are firmly established and productive.

For Kawasaki, it’s important to maintain a presence in WorldSBK with our Ninja brand. With our support for Kawasaki Puccetti and via the transfer on loan of our factory Ninja ZX-10RR race assets – we can publicly show our appreciation of Kawasaki Puccetti Racing and be confident that the Ninja brand will continue to play a significant role in the WorldSBK paddock.”

Scandinavia Welcomes MXGP to Uddevalla For The MXGP of Sweden

Frank Duggan

August 7, 2024

After a week’s break, the FIM Motocross World Championship fires into the first of its last three-week run, the MXGP of Sweden for round 15 at the Glimminge Motorstadion venue near Uddevalla on the south-western coast of the country.

Sweden was one of the original powerhouse nations of World Motocross, claiming eight of the first nine World Championships ever to be held, and only Belgium and France can boast more World Champions than the Nordic nation.

The Uddevalla circuit has one of the longest histories of any in the 2024 calendar, with the first World Championship Grand Prix being held there in 1958, won by home hero and future double World Champion Sten Lundin on a Swedish Monark machine! There have been 25 GPs at the venue over the years, with the record of 6 GP wins here being held jointly by the legends Stefan Everts and Antonio Cairoli.

From the current field of today’s riders, it’s Kawasaki Racing Team pilot Jeremy Seewer who has won the most here with three victories in total, including the last two events in MXGP, plus an MX2 win in 2017!

The MXGP class will see a continuation of the stellar three-way scrap for the title, as red plate holder Tim Gajser holds a 24-point advantage for Team HRC over Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Jorge Prado, while Jeffrey Herlings is only 14 points further back for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing after an incredible win at Lommel!

The MX2 class is getting more spaced out in the standings, with Kay de Wolf holding a 65-point lead over his Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing teammate Lucas Coenen, but the racing is still tough to predict, especially as last year’s winner Simon Laengenfelder is coming off a race win at Lommel for Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing and is hungry for his first overall GP victory of 2024!

The EMX250 European Championships will again be in action in Sweden, and Bud Racing Kawasaki’s Mathis Valin still leads by 13 points ahead of Gabriel SS24 KTM teamster Cas Valk, with Valerio Lata just five points further back for Beddini GASGAS Factory Juniors! Sweden’s best hopes of success lie with August Frisk, who has been in the top ten several times this season.

The EMX125 Presented by FMF Racing European Championship series returns from a near two-month break for the first of a three-week run, With Fantic Factory Racing EMX125 star Noel Zanocz leading the Championship by 14 points over Gyan Doensen for Racestore KTM Factory Rookies. Freddie Bartlett and Sandro Sols will fly the flag for Sweden after several top ten results this year!

None of the big three who are fighting for the world title in 2024 have got particularly good records around the Uddevalla circuit. Jeremy Seewer has taken the overall victory in each of the last two seasons, and would dearly love to continue that winning streak! Before that, it was current Fantic Factory Racing star Glenn Coldenhoff who won overall in 2019, although Gajser did take the second race win that day.

Current red plate holder Gajser took the overall back in 2017 in MXGP, as well as in his MX2 title year of 2015, while Herlings has to look back to his dominant MX2 years for victories in 2013 and 2014. A broken chain here in 2017 put paid to his world title hopes in his first MXGP season, and he hasn’t raced here since!

This is one of the few circuits on the calendar where Jorge Prado hasn’t won a GP, although he did win individual races in 2017 and ’19 in MX2 and last season’s first outing. Kawasaki Racing Team’s Romain Febvre took a double victory in 2015, plus a race win in 2017, as well as finishing second overall last year.

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP’s Calvin Vlaanderen is still fourth in the series, and he took an MX2 race win here in 2019, so he has good history here and is in good form despite a crash-ruined second race in Lommel. Sadly, his teammate Jago Geerts, MX2 winner here in 2022, will not be here after his return in Flanders did not go to plan.

JK Racing Yamaha rider Isak Gifting will be fit and is looking forward to his home GP after a frustrating sequence of races since Indonesia, while Alvin Ostlund will be looking for more points after scoring one at Lommel. The two Swedes are 17th and 19th in the Championship.

The lack of a clear form guide makes it difficult to guess who will come out on top in 2024, but with another big sand GP to come the week after, you can bet that Gajser will be particularly eager to get a result this weekend before they return to Herlings and Prado’s playground!

MXGP – World Championship Top 10 Classification: 1. Tim Gajser (SLO, HON), 705 Points; 2. Jorge Prado (ESP, GAS), 681 Points; 3. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), 667 Pts; 4. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, YAM), 507 Pts; 5. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, KAW), 479 Pts; 6. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, FAN), 419 Pts; 7. Romain Febvre (FRA, KAW), 405 Points; 8. Kevin Horgmo (NOR, HON), 317 Pts; 9. Pauls Jonass (LAT, HON), 274 Pts; 10. Valentin Guillod (SUI, HON), 273 Pts.

The MX2 World Championship saw a huge momentum swing towards Kay de Wolf at the MXGP of Flanders, but as always this season, the result is never a foregone conclusion and his teammate Lucas Coenen will be going all-out to make sure that the fight is not over!

Neither of them have particularly fond memories of Uddevalla, although Lucas did win an EMX250 race here in 2022. Last year, he crashed spectacularly in qualifying, while De Wolf was out injured. Kay had a so-so 7-7 scorecard here in 2022.

Ater his surprise win in race two at Lommel, Simon Laengenfelder could have high hopes for a great result this weekend, after finishing on the podium in each of the last two years here, including last year’s overall victory. He has just 12 points between himself and Lucas Coenen for second in the series, and he is the only rider in MX2 this year to have won a GP in Sweden.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s reigning World Champion Andrea Adamo won race two last year to claim third overall, with his teammate Liam Everts taking second overall with 2-3 finishes. Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 pilot Rick Elzinga scored his best race finish of the whole year with third in race one, and is on form after his best GP result yet at Lommel.

The top Swede in the series, Leopold Ambjörnson, had one of his best GPs yet at Lommel for Team Leoparden Racing, so will be keen to show his form on home ground, as will Young Motion Powered by Resa pilot Arvid Lüning, who scored top 15 in each race at Lommel for the first time this season.

MX2 – World Championship Top 10 Classification: 1. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 683 Points; 2. Lucas Coenen (BEL, HUS), 618 Pts; 3. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, GAS), 606 Points; 4. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 556 Pts; 5. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, TRI), 465 Pts; 6. Andrea Adamo (ITA, KTM), 457 Pts; 7. Rick Elzinga (NED, YAM), 429 Pts; 8. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KTM), 391 Pts; 9. Oriol Oliver (ESP, KTM), 255 Pts; 10. Ferruccio Zanchi (ITA, HON), 254 Pts.

TIMETABLE

SATURDAY: 7:15 EMX125 Group 1 Free practice, 7:45 EMX125 Group 1 Free practice, 08:15 EMX250 Group 1 Free practice, 8:45 EMX250 Group 2 Free practice, 09:15 EMX125 Group 1 Qualifying practice, 09:55 EMX125 Group 2 Qualifying Practice, 10:30 MX2 Free Practice, 11:00 MXGP Free Practice, 12:20 EMX250 Group 1 Qualifying practice, 13:00 EMX250 Group 2 Qualifying practice, 13:40 MX2 Time Practice, 14:15 MXGP Time Practice, 15:00 EMX125 Race 1, 15:45 EMX250 Race 1, 16:35 MX2 RAM Qualifying Race, 17:25 MXGP RAM Qualifying Race.

SUNDAY: 09:45 EMX125 Race 2, 10:25 MX2 Warm-up, 10:45 MXGP Warm-up, 11:30 EMX250 Race 2, 13:15 MX2 Race 1, 14:15 MXGP Race 1, 16:10 MX2 Race 2, 17:10 MXGP Race 2.

For more news check out our dedicated MXGP/MX2 News page

Or visit the official MXGP website mxgp.com

Ducati Corse and Fabio Di Giannantonio Together in 2025-2026

Frank Duggan

August 7, 2024

Ducati Corse is pleased to announce that it has signed a two-year agreement (2025-2026) with Fabio Di Giannantonio.

In 2025 and 2026, the rider from Rome will continue to race with Ducati’s factory-supported VR46 Racing Team aboard an official Desmosedici GP.

Born in Rome in 1998, Fabio made his MotoGP debut with the Gresini Racing team in 2022 on the Borgo Panigale-based constructor’s bike. In his first season of adaptation to the new category, Diggia scored an exciting first pole position in the Italian Grand Prix. In 2023, after an uphill first part of the season, Fabio finally put himself in the limelight by hitting his first podium in Australia (third) and then achieving his first premier-class success in Qatar in the year’s penultimate round.

At the end of this promising season, the Roman rider finally joined the VR46 Racing Team in 2024, with which he will continue to race for the next two years.

Luigi Dall’Igna (Ducati Corse General Manager):
“We are happy to have Fabio Di Giannantonio among our Ducati riders for the next two years. Diggia has always shown great confidence in our project, and his dedication and talent have led him to grow steadily in MotoGP. We are confident that together with the VR46 Racing Team and having an official Desmosedici GP, he will have even more opportunities to bring out his full potential. Welcome officially to the Ducati family, Fabio!”

Fabio Di Giannantonio (VR46 Racing Team):
“Being able to sign this contract was significant for me, and I am proud of it. I will be part of the Ducati family for two years and continue with my VR46 Racing Team. This represents a milestone and a significant starting point for my sporting growth. With Ducati’s support and having an official bike, we can continue to grow and achieve great things together. I want to thank Ducati for its trust, Claudio, Gigi, Mauro, and the VR46 Racing Team that believed in me last year during a difficult moment. So, a big thank you also to Vale, Uccio, Pablo, all the team members, and my staff because this whole journey would never have been possible without them.”

September Romney Marsh Ride-In Show

Frank Duggan

August 6, 2024

Ride-in show and all-motorcycle jumble returns to Kent on 15 Sept.
Rosettes are at the ready for the return of Elk Promotions’ popular Romney Marsh Ride-in Show and Bike Jumble, on 15th September 2024.
One of the best-established events in the classic calendar, Romney offers visitors the chance to scoop cash prizes – and the accolades of other enthusiasts – in the Ride-In show.
Spot-cash prizes of £25 will once again be up for grabs for the Best Classic (pre-1980) and Best Post-Classic machine. There’s no extra charge – just ride in, pay the regular entry fee and park in the designated area.
The show always attracts a fascinating mix of motorcycles, as the winners from the Summer Ride-In Show in June demonstrate;

Best Classic Bike went to Peter Denyer’s 1953 BSA C11, which he’s owned for the past 45 years.
Les Cook won Best Post Classic with his Honda CB100N.
Best Club Stand: VJMC (Kent & Surrey)

For those with ongoing projects, there will be the usual array of traders and jumble stalls offering parts, tools and expert advice aplenty. Plus refreshments from local vendors selected for their quality and value.

There are also many opportunities for classic bike enthusiasts and specialists to sell items.

Anyone wanting – or needing! – to declutter can book a Workshop Clear-Out stall at the bargain rate of just £15, which includes entry for two people

The Free BikeMart display-to-sell area allows visitors to buy and sell complete machines. Bikes can be dropped off or ridden into the event at no extra cost, with only an entry ticket required.

Pitches are also available for businesses selling new motorcycle parts, clothing and accessories too, providing an opportunity to engage with active classic motorcyclists.

The Romney Marsh Classic Bike Show and Bike Jumble takes place at Marsh Road, Hamstreet, Kent TN26 2JD, with easy access from the M20 motorway at Ashford.

Gates open to the public from 10am on the Sunday, and ticket prices have been held at the 2022 rates – just £5 for adults and £4 for seniors (age 65 and over). Accompanied children under 16 get in for free. Earlybird Admission, with entry from 8am, is £10.

Tickets are available online or visitors can pay by card or cash at the gate. Advance tickets, stall bookings and all other info can be found at www.elk-promotions.co.uk

Triumph donates £3,000 race-winning crankshaft to Wheels for Life

Frank Duggan

August 5, 2024

Triumph has donated a special crankshaft from a Moto2^TM race-winning Triumph engine as part of the 2024 Day of Champions Auction.

The crankshaft was from a Moto2^TM engine, ridden to victory by Joe Roberts, American Racing Team in the Moto2^TM race at Gran Premio D’Italia Brembo, Mugello, on 2 June 2024.

Sold at auction for £3,000, all proceeds were donated to Wheels for Life – the official charity partner of MotoGP^TM. Wheels for Life aims to ensure healthcare reaches those who need it most in remote parts of Africa through the support of the motorcycling community.

The Day of Champions Auction is an annual event as part of the British Grand Prix where racing stars come together to bid on unique memorabilia to support Wheels for Life.

Joe Roberts, American Racing Team Rider said, “This crankshaft is so special to me, I was seriously considering putting a bid on it myself. Instead, we settled for an autograph and some of my favourite memories of that race!

“I’m overwhelmed by the interest and it’s surreal to know that the proceeds of this auction will go directly to the good work that Wheels for Life do”.

The crankshaft features Joe Roberts’ signature, a bespoke plaque and certificate of authentication from Triumph and will be handed to the auction winner at Triumph’s Factory Visitor Experience in Hinckley, Leicestershire.

Checkout our dedicated Triumph Motorcycles News page Triumph Motorcycles News/

or head to the official Triumph Motorcycles website triumphmotorcycles.co.uk

New twin-zip Hunter boot from Oxford

Frank Duggan

August 5, 2024

Hunter Twin Zip Boots

Waterproof breathable Dry2Dry™ touring boot featuring comprehensive structural reinforcements and accordion stretch panels.
The CE-approved Oxford Hunter twin zip boot is a simple, streamlined microfibre touring boot designed for ride control and comfort in all weather conditions. The adjustable twin zippered opening allows quick and easy fitting. Reinforced with protective elements such as ankle protectors, PU reinforced toe and heel counters, and a PU footbed shank. The combination of high fit, internal membrane and waterproof opening system, offer peace of mind when in even extreme weather conditions.

RRP – £129.99

• CE certified level 2/2/2/1 (EN 13634)
– Height: level 2
– Abrasion resistance: level 2
– Impact cut: level 2
– Transverse rigidity: level 1
• PU reinforced toe and heel counter
• PU footbed shank for ride comfort and protection
• PU ankle protectors
• Waterproof membrane
• Microfibre upper
• Rubber anti-slip, motorcycle sole
• Twin zipper and hook & loop fastening system

More info on the Hunter Twin Zip Boots can be found here https://oxfordriderwear.com/product/hunter-twin-zip-boots/

For more Oxford Products news check out our new dedicated page

or head to the official Oxford Products website oxfordproducts.com/

Sergio García and Iván Ortolá unveil new Oxford-inspired MT helmet

Frank Duggan

August 5, 2024

Sergio García and Iván Ortolá unveil new Oxford-inspired MT helmet designs at Silverstone!.

The two Spanish riders from MT Helmets revealed their special MT KRE+ designs during Practice 2 of the British Grand Prix.

Silverstone is one of the most iconic tracks on the calendar. With over 60 years of history, it is a landmark in motorsport, and the MT Riders took the opportunity to showcase commemorative helmet designs.

Iván Ortolá’s MT KRE+ features clear references to Great Britain. The design includes the British flag on the top of the helmet and a shell painted in British Racing Green (BRG), a classic colour that gained popularity among British racing cars in the early 20th century and is still widely used today.

In contrast, Sergio García’s KRE+ has a different colour scheme. The Moto2 leader chose grey tones with red accents, representing the historic English distributor Oxford Products, an important client of MT Helmets and sponsor of the MT Helmets-MSi team.

MT KRE+ Two-time World Champion
The element that binds and gives meaning to the MT Helmets racing program is the MT KRE+, a helmet developed in competition and accessible to every rider.

The KRE+ is a helmet entirely made of carbon fibre. It stands out as one of the first three helmets globally to exceed FIM standards and sets a benchmark in terms of aerodynamics. Its top-level technical features and impressive achievements make it one of the best racing helmets in the world.

True to the philosophy of MT Helmets, it offers the best safety-price ratio, being a helmet available at a price that is hard to match for helmets with similar features.

Gear Up for September Bristol Bike Night

Frank Duggan

August 5, 2024

Calling all motorcycle enthusiasts! Mark your calendars for the final Bristol Bike Night of the season on Friday 6th September.

Hosted by Fowlers Motorcycles, this free, monthly event is the perfect way to kick off your weekend surrounded by fellow riders.

In addition to the regular attractions, one lucky rider will take home the coveted “Bike of the Season” title, picked from this year’s previous “Bike of the Night” winners.

Here’s what you can expect:

Mouth-watering food: Fuel up with freshly prepared burgers and hot dogs from Emma’s.
Pumping tunes: DJ Chunky will be spinning a rocking soundtrack to keep the good vibes rolling.
Connect with the community: Meet representatives from local riders’ groups like Blood Bikes, Bristol Advanced Motorcyclists, and DocBike.
Win big: Enter the free raffle with a chance to win quality bike-related prizes.
Capture the moments: Drop4gear photography will be there to record all the action and create lasting memories.

The details:

Date: Friday 6th September
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Fowlers Motorcycles, 2-12 Bath Road, Bristol BS4 3DR
Entry: Free, no booking required

Don’t miss out! Head down to Fowlers Motorcycles on September 6th and join the fun.

Website: www.fowlers.co.uk

Royal Enfield Launches Borderless Warranty Programme

Frank Duggan

August 5, 2024

First Indian Automotive brand to offer a global warranty, backed by a network of over 3000+ Royal Enfield authorised service touch points in 70+ countries.

Royal Enfield, the global leader in the mid-size (250-750cc) motorcycle segment, announces the launch of a first-of-its-kind consumer programme, ‘Borderless Warranty Programme’, offering riders unprecedented freedom to ride and conquer new horizons. Breaking barriers and redefining adventure, Royal Enfield becomes the first Indian automotive brand to introduce a global warranty initiative, encouraging Royal Enfield owners across the globe to rev up, ride more and explore without limits.

Designed to inspire worry-free travel and exploration, the Borderless Warranty program from Royal Enfield enables riders to avail the benefit across many countries, underscoring Royal Enfield’s commitment to rider satisfaction and, further amplifying the brand’s ‘pure motorcycling’ ethos.

With the Royal Enfield Borderless Warranty Programme, riders can now embark on their journeys with greater confidence, knowing that their Royal Enfield motorcycles are backed by an extensive warranty programme that transcends borders. This warranty programme is applicable for all the motorcycles currently under warranty and for all the new motorcycles purchased from Royal Enfield authorised stores across the globe. Backed by a network of 3000+ Royal Enfield authorised service touch points across 2605 cities in 70+ countries (including India), Royal Enfield encourages riders to explore new horizons, discover diverse cultures, and forge unforgettable memories on their Royal Enfield motorcycles, without the burden of maintenance concerns.

Commenting on the launch of the ‘Borderless Warranty’ programme, Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Chief Commercial Officer, Royal Enfield, said, “At Royal Enfield, we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant global community of riders who share our passion for exploration and adventure. With the introduction of the Royal Enfield Borderless Warranty Programme, we aim to redefine customer experience by offering unprecedented levels of support and assurance to riders across the world.“

The Borderless Warranty Programme reaffirms Royal Enfield’s position as a pioneering force in the global mid-size motorcycle industry, setting new standards for customer care and satisfaction. With this initiative, Royal Enfield continues to inspire riders worldwide to ride more, explore more, and embrace the spirit of adventure on their trusted Royal Enfield motorcycles.

For more details, please visit www.royalenfield.com/borderless-warranty/

For more Royal Enfield news check out our dedicated page Royal Enfield News

or head to the official Royal Enfield website royalenﬁeld.com/uk

Frost & Surowiak secure stunning victories at Silverstone

Frank Duggan

August 5, 2024

Two more outstanding showdowns unfold as the R&G British Talent Cup takes to the stage at the British GP.

For the third time in 2024, Ryan Frost (Fibre Tec Honda – MLav Racing) claimed victory in the R&G British Talent Cup as we were treated to a phenomenal Race 1 at Silverstone. Less than half a second split the top five across the line, but it was Lucas Brown (SENCAT Talent Team / Mortimer Racing) and Julian Correa (Microlise Cresswell Racing) who bagged P2 and P3.

Frost grabbed the holeshot from P2 on the grid as a lead group of five formed at the front after the opening few laps of frantic action. Frost, Brown, Correa, Amanuel Brinton (Kovara Projects / RS Racing) and Harrison Mackay (Wilson Racing / HMR) were scrapping corner after corner, with the fight for victory going down to the wire.

Heading onto the Hangar Straight, Correa led after a brilliant move into Maggotts, but Frost grabbed a healthy dose of slipstream to carve his way into the lead at Stowe. From there, the #24 held onto the P1 baton to pocket the win by a tenth, as Brinton and Mackay were forced to settle for P4 and P5 – less than half a second shy of victory.

There was pre-race drama for Filip Surowiak (Team City Lifting / RS Racing) who had to wheel his bike off the grid just before lights out, but the #75 managed to salvage P13 from pit lane ahead of Race 2.

Race 2 on Sunday morning was an equally fascinating 10-lap battle. Filip Surowiak (Team City Lifting / RS Racing) was on pole after setting the fastest lap of the race in his Race 1 comeback, as nine riders all had a sniff of victory heading into the final couple of laps on Sunday morning.

Surowiak led onto the final lap, but Lucas Brown (SENCAT Talent Team / Mortimer Racing) pounced at Turn 3 to fire himself into P1. It was as you were on the approach to Maggotts and Becketts, as Julian Correa (Microlise Cresswell Racing) carved his way up to P2.

On the run down the Hangar Straight for the final time, Surowiak placed himself perfectly and parked his Honda into P1. The #75 fended off his rivals – despite the best efforts of Brown around the outside at Vale – to win for the second time in 2024, as Amanuel Brinton (Kovara Projects / RS Racing) beat Brown to P2. The latter and Cup leader picked up P3, while Race 1 winner Ryan Frost (Fibre Tec Honda – MLav Racing) and Correa earned P4 and P5 less than a second shy from victory.

Heading to Thruxton, Brown’s lead in the title race is now up to 25 points over Brinton. Join us at Round 6 for more incredible racing on the Road to MotoGP™!

For more info checkout our dedicated British Talent Cup News page

Or visit the official British Talent Cup website britishtalentcup.com

Bastianini bags British GP double as Martin reclaims title lead

Frank Duggan

August 4, 2024

The Italian becomes the 10th different winner in a row at Silverstone as Martin outpaces Bagnaia to claim the Championship lead.

After a dream Saturday, it was a stunning performance on a special Sunday for Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team), who capped off a historic weekend at the Monster Energy British Grand Prix with a win. The #23 became the 10th different rider to take victory at Silverstone in the last ten events at the track, storming through late on to put himself third in the title fight and only 49 points off the top. Meanwhile, the top of the standings once again belongs to Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) as the #89 led the majority of the Grand Prix before proving unable to deny Bastianini.

Reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) secured the final spot on the podium as he bounced back from a crash on Saturday, but the 16-point haul on Sunday puts him back behind Martin by three. It was his 43rd MotoGP™ podium, all on a Ducati, which makes him the rider with the most podiums taken with Ducati.

Once the lights went out it was a blast from the past from Bagnaia, who claimed the holeshot on the run to Turn 1 after a phenomenal launch, ahead of Bastianini and Martin. While it was a great start from the #1, it was a tougher opening lap from polesitter Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing), who dropped to fourth position after some shuffling, with Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) moving briefly past the Aprilia before being demoted to P5 once more.

Unfortunately, it was an early end to the Grand Prix for Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), who suffered an issue at the race start. Later on in the opening lap, Trackhouse Racing’s Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez races also came to an end, crashing out.

Bagnaia led from Bastianini, but Martin was quick to make his way past the #23. Bastianini soon dropped back to fourth too, with Espargaro finding a way through. Marc Marquez was also close on the chase as the top five started to break away, but Bagnaia was holding station at the front.

Further back, Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) began to battle for seventh position. Di Giannantonio found his way through on the #31 and then began to duel with Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) in sixth, with the two exchanging some paintwork and the VR46 rider even doing the Moto3™ classic: tapping the rear of the seat to say “follow me”.

Meanwhile at the front, tension was building as Martin homed in, looking for an opportunity to pounce on Bagnaia in the lead. He took over at the front for the first time on Lap 12, making the move stick on the entry to Turn 3. Behind the leading duo, Bastianini then found a gap in Espargaro’s armour – entering the provisional podium places.

However, Martin ran wide at Turn 13 one lap later, putting Bagnaia and Bastianini right back on his tail. The next move inside the top three came from Bastianini though, who overtook his teammate for second as Pecco suffered a front end moment. The ‘Beast’ immediately started to pull back the gap to Martin.

It was six laps to go and seven tenths up the road to Martin. Slowly but surely, that was creeping down. It was agonising progress though, with hundredths and tenths making the difference as the #23 edged further and further forward. By the penultimate lap he was there and suddenly Martin was wide once and then again at Turn 3, on second time of asking too wide to defend it. Bastianini was through and headed over the line in the lead as the final lap began.

In only one lap, Bastianini put together a fantastic end to the British Grand Prix, stretching out a magnificent gap to cross the line and create history ahead of Martin and teammate Bagnaia, who claimed the final spot on the podium.

Marc Marquez took fourth after a late charge at Pecco but unable to arrive, and he had his own closing gap to deal with as Di Giannantonio climbed from 10th on the grid to fifth at the chequered flag. Polesitter Espargaro took sixth and was being chased by Alex Marquez, with the #73 finishing a mere 0.227s behind.

Meanwhile, Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) took eighth ahead of Acosta in ninth. The rookie had another strong point-scoring finish and was ahead of Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing), who battled through the field to take the final spot inside the top 10 after his two Long Lap penalties after the incident on Saturday.

After an incredible weekend in vintage colours making a little more history, the world’s most exciting sport now returns in two weeks for the Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich. There are just three points in it and a new name in third overall as the ‘Beast’ starts to gain some momentum… so see you in Spielberg!

For more MotoGP info checkout our dedicated MotoGP News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website www.motogp.com

Dixon delivers historic home GP victory with last-lap move on Canet

Frank Duggan

August 4, 2024

Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) has become just the fourth British rider to win on home turf since 1977 after a last-lap pass on Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) sealed victory for the Silverstone crowd hero, as only 0.177s splits the duo at the chequered flag.

Celestino Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo) took P3 to pocket his first rostrum of the year, as drama unfolds in the Moto2™ title race.

Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) got a perfect getaway from pole position with Vietti (Red Bull KTM Ajo) getting ahead of Canet for P2 off the line. Dixon was getting his elbows out in the opening exchanges as the British rider climbed from P5 off the line to P3, with Canet quickly getting to the front of the field after losing a place at the start.

On Lap 3, Canet led by just over half a second from Dixon, with Ogura battling away with the fast-starting Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing Team) and Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team). Meanwhile, after dropping to P24 on Lap 1, Sergio Garcia (MT Helmets – MSI) recovered to P14 on Lap 4.

With 12 to go, Dixon had reeled in Canet, with Roberts passing Ogura for P3. Moreira’s strong showing ended at Turn 6 on Lap 5, and then, Roberts crashed out a lap later at Turn 2. This left Canet and Dixon with a 3.8s buffer to Albert Arenas (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™), with Ogura now P4 and Garcia up to P9.

As the battle for the final podium raged, 7.6s up the road was a fight for British GP victory between Canet and Dixon. Heading onto the last lap, Dixon pounced at Turn 1 – and it was a move that stuck. A small error from Canet cost him time and despite his best efforts, Dixon held onto the lead and crossed the line to become the first British rider to win on home soil since 2015. Canet settled for a close P2, with Vietti unleashing some great late-race pace to secure P3.

Garcia’s climb back through the field ended in the World Championship leader claiming a fantastic P4 to extend his Championship lead, with Manuel Gonzalez (QJMOTOR Gresini Moto2™) and Darryn Binder (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) completing the top six. Jeremy Alcoba (Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team), Arenas, Alonso Lopez (GT Trevisan SpeedUp) and Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) were also inside the top 10 as two title contenders – Fermin Aldeguer (GT Trevisan SpeedUp) and Ogura – come home in a disappointing P12 and P14 respectively.

Dixon etches his name into British GP folklore at Silverstone, as Garcia heads to Austria with an 18-point lead over Ogura.

For more Moto2 info checkout our dedicated Moto2 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

Ortola fends off Alonso and Veijer for vital victory

Frank Duggan

August 4, 2024

Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) claimed a phenomenal Monster Energy British Grand Prix victory as a fierce lightweight class battle plays out at Silverstone.

David Alonso (CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team) grabbed P2 as the fight for the win went down to the wire, with Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) rounding out a podium trio that was split by 0.103s at the chequered flag.

Joel Kelso (BOE Motorsports) pinched the holeshot from the front row as a Moto3™ freight train formed at the front. Unfortunately for the home crowd, Scott Ogden’s (Fibre Tec Honda – MLav Racing) British GP ended prematurely as the #19 couldn’t avoid Angel Piqueras’ stricken Leopard Racing Honda at Turn 18 on Lap 2.

Back at the front, Daniel Holgado (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) was one rider who had a turn at leading the race before heading into the final six laps, Ortola threatened to break clear. 0.4s was the #48’s gap, but after two laps, the chasers reeled the Spaniard back in.

What followed was a frantic scrap for positions in the closing two laps. It was elbows out and Moto3™ racing at its finest. On the last lap, Veijer held the P1 baton, with former race leader Alonso shoved to P4. The Colombian bagged a two-for-one deal at Brooklands on the final lap to pounce up to P2 though, before Ortola bit back at Copse.

From leading the race at the start of the lap, Veijer was P3 heading into the final sector as the race down the Hangar Straight saw Ortola just about hold onto P1, as he shut the door on title rival Alonso down at Stowe. The latter then expertly lunged up the inside of Veijer at Vale to pinch P2 off the Dutchman, with Ortola holding onto the race win despite running wide at Turn 16.

Holgado settled for P4, 0.107s away from the win, as Stefano Nepa (LEVELUP – MTA) closed out the top five to secure his best finish of 2024. Ryusei Yamanaka (MT Helmets – MSI) in sixth and Kelso in seventh were also less than a second away from the win, as Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing), Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Tatsuki Suzuki (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) were the riders to claim top 10s at Silverstone.

A spellbinding Silverstone outing sees Alonso head to the Red Bull Ring 53 points clear of Ortola in the Championship chase. What will unfold when we land in Austria?

For more Moto3 info checkout our dedicated Moto3 News page

Or visit the official MotoGP website motogp.com

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Perfect First Day For All Five Winners Going Into Sunday’s Championship Deciders At Road America

A first victory since the opening round of the year saw Yari Montella claw back five points on Adrian Huertas in the championship standings.

Mirko Gennai claimed his first victory on Kawasaki machinery after an action packed race at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.

Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) led the way on the opening day of action at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.

Pole position was settled in the closing moments of the session in favour of Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team).

Loris Veneman (MTM Kawasaki) claimed back to back pole positions by dominating the Superpole session with a time of 1’55.399.

Current WorldWCR championship leader Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) dominated Friday’s Superpole session at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal, setting a lap time eight tenths of a second quicker than her closest rival to secure pole for the second time this season.

Impressive Moto3™ rookie Jacob Roulstone will race with Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 for another season in 2025 after signing a contract to form part of the factory’s ranks in the category.

Ninja presence in WorldSBK paddock and on race grids maintained.

Ducati Corse is pleased to announce that it has signed a two-year agreement (2025-2026) with Fabio Di Giannantonio.