MotoGP 2026 Round 18 Report | Phillip Island’s Last Big Drama!

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October 25, 2026

The last MotoGP round at The Island has shaken up the title fight, Marc Marquez snatched Tissot Sprint glory in an epic battle with Jorge Martin, then the lack of a medi chopper due to weather cancelled all of Sunday’s events! Report: Ed Stratmann/MotoGP Press

Martin arrived on Saturday as the Championship leader but crashed at Turn 8 on Lap 8, handing the #93 a clear path to victory and the lead in the standings. Sunday’s Grand Prix was later cancelled due to poor weather conditions, ensuring the Sprint result stood as the weekend’s defining moment.

Friday Practice and Saturday Qualifying
MotoGP

MotoGP’s thunder Down Under brought with it plenty of drama in the afternoon as two red flags, late crashes and big improvements gave a very interesting complexion going to Saturday. Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing #72) went from early faller to Friday fastest in a topsy-turvy day at Phillip Island but the Italian’s 1’26.775 late on went untouched. Four Aprilias were in the top five, and with Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) in the middle of it all in third, just behind was Raul Fernandez (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team #25), as the fight was set to ignite ahead of Sprint Saturday.

1.494s. The biggest pole position margin since the 2019 Czech Grand Prix. It was Marc Marquez back then, and despite a Turn 4 crash, the Ducati Lenovo Team star took pole again as the reigning World Champion sailed to a phenomenal Saturday morning P1 on a damp, tricky Phillip Island. Running the #93 closest in a Q2 thriller was Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP #73), and 1.503s away from Marc Marquez’s 1:34.203 in P3 was Q1 graduate Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR #5), as World Championship leader Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) spearheaded the second row ahead of an unmissable Tissot Sprint in Australia.

Moto2
A 1:30.016 was good enough for current hat-trick hero Izan Guevara (BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2 #28) to beat home hero Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP #81) by a slender 0.018s in Moto2 Practice at Phillip Island, while David Alonso (CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team #80) rounded out a top three covered by 0.272s.

Manuel Gonzalez (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP #18) could hardly have scripted the start to his 100th Grand Prix any better. With the Moto2 title fight hotting up, and Phillip Island serving up a frantic, yellow flag-filled Q2, the Championship leader produced a 1:30.122 when it mattered most to claim pole position for the first time since the Italian GP.

Moto3
Continuing to chase his first Grand Prix victory, Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo #83) got off on the right foot to lead the Moto3 charge on day one at the Australian GP. Seeking redemption after his Indonesian GP DNF, Carpe was hoping to replicate his podium performance of 12 months ago and started strongly on Friday. Just behind, the home crowd was cheering for Joel Kelso (GRYD Racing #66) as the Australian came home in second place in Practice.

Veda Pratama (Honda Team Asia #9) produced the lap of his life at Phillip Island to snatch a sensational maiden Moto3 pole position, becoming the first Indonesian rider to start from pole after a rain-tinged qualifying showdown in Australia.

Saturday
Tissot Sprint

In one of the most pivotal Sprints of the year, Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) snatched Tissot Sprint gold and reigned supreme in an epic battle against Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) at Phillip Island. The Martinator led coming into Saturday but crashed at Turn 8 on Lap 8 to hand the #93 a path to victory and the Championship lead. Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) came home in a close second and thanks to Fabio Di Giannantonio’s (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team #49) fine P3 Ducati locked out the Saturday podium, while Martin’s crash cruelly resulted in a weekend-ending injury.

The #93 got a perfect launch and snatched the holeshot, but it was a fast-starting Martin who blasted through from row two to P2. It was an action-packed opening lap, but it was Lap 2 where it all ignited as Alex Marquez got ahead of Martin into Turn 10. Martin fought straight back with a spectacular pass back on the 2025 runner-up at Turn 1, whilst Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) had a front-row seat in P4.

Martinator wasn’t finished either as he set off after the #93 at the front and attacked into Turn 4 on Lap 3 but couldn’t pull it down, giving the reigning World Champion the upper hand. Then, an attack into Turn 10 from Martin, this time good enough to hold P1. The battle rumbled on, but Zarco’s front-row seat had been handed to Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing #37) and Alex Marquez whilst the Frenchman’s Sprint was over all together with a technical issue taking him out of P5.

We were in for a real treat, though, as the top two in the Championship duked it out. Martin’s lead didn’t last long, however, as he made a mistake at Turn 4 on Lap 5, allowing Marquez back under him. Into Turn 1 on Lap 6, Martin got him back but couldn’t hold the line into Turn 2, giving the #93 the high ground. The same repeated itself a couple of laps later on Lap 8 but with the same initial outcome. However, this time Martin had an answer at Turn 4, another attempt at a block pass, but still he couldn’t pull it down.

Martin was on the ragged edge and it showed; taking the inside kerb at Turn 7, he was unsettled as he hit Turn 8 and tucked the front. Despite trying his best to dig in to save the crash, there was nothing that could’ve been done, and the #89 was sent tumbling through the gravel. It was now a Marquez 1-2, with Marc leading Alex and Di Giannantonio ghosting his way into the podium places.

In the closing stages, it was Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) who was on a charge; he had initially lost ground at the start and went from P9 on the grid to P12 at the end of Lap 1 but had picked his way through into fifth before grabbing fourth off Acosta into Turn 1 with four laps to go.

Despite drops of rain and late charges from Alex and Diggia, there was nothing that could halt Marc Marquez from taking a ninth Sprint win of the year ahead of his brother and Di Giannantonio. Bezzecchi’s fightback brought the Italian a hard-earned fourth ahead of Acosta, whilst Ogura took sixth at the line but was soon under investigation regarding his tyre pressure.

“It was a title battle. I gave everything, and I was aggressive, and he was faster than me. I just tried to defend in the best way possible, nice overtakes, and both of us were riding on the limit. Both of us deserved the victory because we are pushing a lot, but racing is like this, and today was on my side,” Marquez said.

Tissot Sprint Race Results

Marc Marquez Ducati Lenovo
Alex Marquez BK8 Gresini Ducati (+0.323s)
Fabio Di Giannantonio Pertamina VR46 Ducati (+0.590s)
Marco Bezzecchi Aprilia Racing (+1.074s)
Pedro Acosta Red Bull KTM (+3.689s)

Sunday
MotoGP

Due to limited visibility affecting the operation of the medical helicopter at the Red Bull Grand Prix of Australia, the MotoGP Grand Prix race was cancelled. That has its own effect on the title fight after a dramatic Saturday in the standings too, with Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) crashing out of the Sprint when battling now-Championship leader Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team). 25 points less have now been tabled.

With no race possible, a farewell parade took to the Island on Sunday instead, with riders heading out behind the Safety Car to give the Sunday sell-out crowd a last look at MotoGP at the iconic Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

MotoGP Championship Points

Marc Marquez Ducati Lenovo – 365
Jorge Martin Aprilia Racing – 355
Marco Bezzecchi Aprilia Racing – 315
Pedro Acosta Red Bull KTM – 263
Ai Ogura Trackhouse Aprilia – 259

Moto2 Championship Points

Manuel Gonzalez Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP – 265.5
Izan Guevara BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2 – 260
Ivan Ortola QJMOTOR – Biolec – MSI – 191.5
Daniel Holgado CFMOTO Power Electronics Aspar Team – 170
David Alonso CFMOTO Inde Team – 166

Moto3 Championship Points

Maximo Quiles CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team – 351
David Almansa Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP – 219
Brian Uriarte Red Bull KTM Ajo – 203
Alvaro Carpe Red Bull KTM Ajo – 191
Marco Morelli CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team – 146

How Did the Aussies Do?

Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP #43) showed encouraging speed on Friday at Phillip Island, finishing 12th overall after setting the third-fastest time in the opening session despite having his progress disrupted by two crashes.

The popular Aussie star then enjoyed a standout Saturday at Phillip Island, progressing through Q1 to qualify fifth before finishing eighth in the Sprint to equal his best result of the season and score his first Saturday points of 2026, with Sunday’s Grand Prix later cancelled due to poor weather conditions.

Senna Agius enjoyed a strong Saturday at his home Grand Prix, as he finished second in the wet morning session and showing front-running pace in qualifying before a Turn 8 crash on his out lap left him seventh on the grid despite his impressive pace.

P3 was where Joel Kelso qualified for race day, leaving him well placed to challenge for a standout result on home soil, but unfortunately severe weather led to the race being cancelled, denying him the chance to capitalise on his front row start.

MotoGP Heads to Phillip Island for Historic Final Grand Prix

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October 22, 2026

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MotoGP Heads to Phillip Island | The world’s fastest motorcycle racers return to one of the sport’s most spectacular circuits this weekend, with the 2026 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix marking the end of Phillip Island’s long-running place on the MotoGP calendar.

MotoGP heads to Phillip Island this weekend for a historic farewell, with the iconic Victorian circuit set to host the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix for the final time before the event moves to Adelaide in 2027. Set against the rugged coastline of Bass Strait, Phillip Island is renowned for its fast, flowing layout, spectacular ocean views and unpredictable conditions. These characteristics have helped make it a favourite among riders and fans, producing some of the championship’s most memorable battles over the years.

The 2026 event marks the end of an era for Australian motorcycle racing. Generations of fans have travelled to the Island to watch the world’s best riders tackle its demanding corners, with the circuit becoming synonymous with MotoGP in Australia.

This weekend’s racing will once again bring the MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3 fields together for three days of world championship action. With the season approaching its conclusion, every point remains important for riders fighting for championship positions, while the unique challenge of Phillip Island offers plenty of opportunity for surprises.

Beyond the racing, the weekend will carry an emotional significance for local fans, travelling spectators and the Bass Coast community. The Grand Prix has long been a major drawcard for regional Victoria, attracting international visitors and providing an important boost for local businesses.

With the championship moving to Adelaide next year, this is the final opportunity for fans to experience MotoGP at Phillip Island in its current role on the calendar. The circuit’s combination of high-speed corners, coastal scenery and passionate crowds has helped establish its reputation as one of the sport’s standout venues.

Expect a huge weekend of racing, atmosphere and nostalgia as the 2026 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix takes centre stage from tomorrow – Friday, October 23, to Sunday, October 25.

For fans, riders and everyone who has made the journey to the Island over the years, this weekend is about more than the results. It is a chance to celebrate a remarkable chapter in Australian motorsport before MotoGP begins a new era in Adelaide. See you there!

Ticketing options and full list of events available here…

Ducati Updates Desmo450 MX and MX Factory for 2027

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October 14, 2026

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Ducati has announced a series of updates for its 2027 Desmo450 MX and Desmo450 MX Factory motocross models, drawing on feedback from the bikes’ first season of racing competition to improve performance, ergonomics, reliability and durability. Press: Ducati ANZ

One year after entering the motocross market with its first dedicated MX machine, the Borgo Panigale manufacturer is continuing to develop its competition and production bikes in parallel. The MY27 updates include a new 51-tooth rear sprocket, revised gearshift and rear brake pedal tips, a larger fuel tank cap and new Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tyres.

Read our Ducati content here…

Ducati has also revised several components subject to stress and impact, including the starter motor gear coupling, water pump oil seal, exhaust manifold, fork slider guards and engine mounting brackets. A predictive maintenance system is another addition, available through an optional Wi-Fi module that analyses motorcycle usage data to help tailor engine maintenance intervals to actual riding conditions.

The updates are accompanied by new liveries intended to reinforce the Desmo450 range’s racing identity. For the US market, the 2027 range will also receive dedicated suspension settings and different triple clamps, featuring a 22mm offset instead of the standard 20mm.

Ducati Desmo450 MX: Revised Gearing and Ergonomics

The Desmo450 MX remains the core model in Ducati’s motocross range, combining its distinctive Desmodromic single-cylinder engine with an aluminium frame and an advanced electronics package.

The 449.6cc engine produces a claimed 63.5hp at 9400rpm and 53.5Nm of torque at 7500rpm. Ducati says the engine delivers strong low- and mid-range torque alongside high-revving performance, while the aluminium twin-spar frame is designed to balance rigidity, light weight and precise handling.

The electronics package includes Ducati Traction Control, Power Launch, Quick Shift and Engine Brake Control, with two power modes and two riding modes. Riding modes can also be configured through the optional X-Link app.

For 2027, the revised final drive uses a 51-tooth rear sprocket to increase torque available at the rear wheel, improving responsiveness when accelerating out of corners. The new gearshift and rear brake pedal tips are designed to improve foot movement and rider ergonomics during gear changes and braking, while a larger 40mm fuel tank cap is intended to make refuelling quicker and easier.

New Pirelli Scorpion MX32 Mid-Soft tyres, measuring 80/100-21 at the front and 110/90-19 at the rear, complete the principal performance updates.

Ducati has also strengthened or revised a number of components to improve durability. Changes include revised starter motor gear coupling tolerances, a water pump oil seal with updated geometry and a Teflon coating, and a reinforced exhaust manifold around the silencer connection. The chain guide support, fork slider guards and front engine-to-frame brackets have also been updated.

The standard Desmo450 MX retains its 49mm fully adjustable Showa upside-down forks with 310mm of travel and Kashima-coated fork legs, together with a fully adjustable Showa rear monoshock offering 301mm of wheel travel. Braking is handled by Brembo components with Galfer discs measuring 260mm at the front and 240mm at the rear.

Other equipment includes a 7.2-litre fuel tank, cast aluminium swingarm, DID final drive chain and Takasago Excel aluminium wheels with Alpina spokes. The 2027 model is finished in Ducati Red, with black logos replacing the previous white graphics.

Desmo450 MX Factory: Competition-Focused Equipment

The Desmo450 MX Factory remains the more highly equipped version, adding specialist components intended for riders seeking a competition-ready package with reduced weight and enhanced performance. Its most significant hardware feature is a complete Akrapovič titanium exhaust system with dedicated engine mapping. Ducati says the system reduces weight by 1.7kg while improving power delivery and acceleration.

The Factory model also receives Showa suspension with additional surface treatments. The 49mm fully adjustable front forks feature Kashima Extra Dark coating on the fork legs and TiO treatment with superfinishing on the stanchions. The rear monoshock receives matching Kashima Extra Dark coating on its body and TiO superfinishing on the shaft.

Further equipment includes a Factory triple clamp machined from solid billet, a front disc guard, sump guard, Holeshot device and an RK MXU gold chain with O-rings. These additions are designed to improve the bike’s suitability for demanding race conditions, with the Holeshot device intended to assist acceleration and stability at the start.

A Wi-Fi module is included on the Factory version, allowing riders to customise riding modes through the X-Link app. Settings include engine response, Launch Control, engine braking and Ducati Traction Control, while the module also enables the predictive maintenance system.

The Factory receives the new Ducati Corse 2027 livery, incorporating red and black Ducati logos to emphasise its racing connection. Australian Pricing and Availability TBC…

Predictive Maintenance and Availability

The predictive maintenance system is one of the more practical additions for 2027. Available on the standard model through an accessory Wi-Fi module and included with the Factory version, it analyses usage data to help adapt engine maintenance intervals to the conditions in which the motorcycle is ridden. Ducati says this allows maintenance planning to be more closely aligned with actual use.

The MY27 Desmo450 MX and Desmo450 MX Factory are arriving at selected European dealerships first, with distribution to expand to other markets afterwards. Ducati has confirmed that the MY27 Desmo450 MX Factory will not be available in North America, where the limited-edition MY26 Factory model will remain the exclusive offering.

The updates represent an evolution rather than a complete redesign, with Ducati concentrating on details developed through its first season of motocross competition. Revised gearing, improved rider controls, new tyres and component refinements aim to make the Desmo450 range more effective on track, while the Factory model continues to offer a more specialised package for competitive riders.

Australian pricing and availability are yet to be announced.

Hurry! Yamaha BLU CRU YZ65 Cup Applications Due September 14

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September 7, 2026

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Built to win, the YZ65 is ready to tackle the track with winning performance right out of the gate. This compact machine features Yamaha's renowned off-road competition quality and durability just like the bigger YZs.

Yamaha BLU CRU YZ65 Cup, experience the full factory treatment | Applications are now open for the Yamaha BLU CRU YZ65 Cup, with three rounds to be held alongsidxae the 2026 AUSX series, hurry, as spots are limited and applications close on September 14! Press: YMA

Yamaha Motor Australia has confirmed the return of the BLU CRU YZ65 Cup, giving young riders aged between nine and 12 the opportunity to experience racing in front of professional teams and national-event crowds.

The 2026 series will open at Geelong, Victoria, on 7 November, before heading to Perth, Western Australia, on 14 November, and Newcastle, New South Wales, on 28 November. Parents and riders are invited to register their interest online by 14 September 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by email or telephone before 30 September.

Apply for your child’s YZ65 Cup spot here…

The BLU CRU YZ65 Cup is designed to provide more than a race experience, with participants and their families receiving access to Yamaha’s professional race teams and a range of factory-style activities. Yamaha says the aim is to make every rider feel part of the factory race team while encouraging young YZ65 owners to remain involved with the BLU CRU program.

“YMA has been providing this unique experience since 2018 and has proved super popular for young guns starting out in the sport,” said Yamaha Motor Australia Customer Activation Coordinator Jake Belford. “It’s great to see former Yamaha BLU CRU YZ65 Cup riders achieve success at the top level – such as 2026 FIM World Junior Motocross Champion Blake Bohannon.”

Riders must hold a current Motorcycling Australia or FIM licence, own a YZ65 to use in the event and provide valid proof of age. Entry is limited at each round, and while riders may apply for multiple events, successful entrants will compete at a maximum of one event.

The race fee is $1100 including GST, which includes a selection of genuine Yamaha apparel and merchandise. Parents are also asked to assess their child’s riding ability and confidence before applying, as the event will take place on a modified supercross track in a competitive environment.

The BLU CRU YZ65 Cup is part of Yamaha’s ongoing support for grassroots motocross, with extensive media coverage planned across the AUSX series.

MotoGP Round 12 2026 Report | Fernandez reigns supreme at Silverstone

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August 10, 2026

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MotoGP 2026 Round 12 British Grands Prix Silverstone report | The 12th different winner in the last 12 British Grands Prix, Aprilia rider Raul Fernandez led from start to finish for a mighty first Grand Prix win of the season. Report: Ed Stratmann/MotoGP Press

Friday Practice and Saturday Qualifying
MotoGP

The Qatar Airways British GP got off to a flying start as MotoGP roared out of the blocks in Silverstone, with Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing #72) setting a new lap record with an outstanding 1’56.280 to top the day’s running. Raul Fernandez (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team #25) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team #49) completed the top three, as no less than eight riders beat the previous lap record.

Read our other race news here…

Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing #89) came out swinging after the summer break to take the first pole position of the second half, setting a new lap record of 1’56.160 to pip Raul Fernandez to the top by just 0.021. SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team made it both riders on the front row, as Ai Ogura (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team #79) slotted into third alongside his teammate.

Moto2

P1 and a new all-time Moto2 Silverstone lap record signalled a pretty good day at the office for Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team #96) as the MotoGP-bound Spaniard set the pace going into the weekend at the British GP. The #96’s 2:01.815 was 0.095s quicker than Senna Agius’ (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP #81) best effort, and it was the Australian’s teammate Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP #18), who closed out the top three.

Moto2 was back in action at the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Great Britain, and their grid was locked in for Sunday with Izan Guevara (BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2 #28) at the head of the pack. The Spaniard clocked in his 2:01.483s time early in the session, and his time hung on for his third career Moto2 pole position. Behind him, Alonso Lopez (ITALJET Gresini Moto2 #21) ended the session three tenths off the #28, but he took second, just denying Ivan Ortola (QJMOTOR-Biolec-MSI #4), who completed the front row.

Moto3

The opening day of the British GP, and thus the second half of the 2026 season, is all done in Moto3, and it was Valentin Perrone’s (Red Bull KTM Tech3 #73) 2’09.568, which led the way by the final chequered flag. With all main title contenders in Q2 and an array of big names in Q1, qualifying on Saturday was going to be a belter.

Scott Ogden (CIP Green Power #19) earned pole position for the British GP, becoming the first home hero to qualify on Moto3 pole at the venue – ever. It was a CIP Green Power 1-2 too, with Adrian Cruces (CIP Green Power #11) taking second ahead of Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech3), who rounded out the front row after being fastest on Friday.

Saturday
Tissot Sprint

World Championship leader Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) claimed his third Tissot Sprint victory of the season at the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Great Britain, completing a golden day at Silverstone to extend his title lead ahead of Sunday’s race. Ai Ogura (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) finished second to limit the damage in the standings, while Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) produced a heroic ride to secure third and deliver Aprilia’s first 1-2-3 in a Sprint.

Martin launched perfectly from pole to lead into Turn 1, with Ogura holding P2 and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) muscling his way into P3. Bezzecchi and Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team #93) immediately went to battle, the reigning World Champion eventually taking P4. Raul Fernandez (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) slipped to P6 on the opening lap.

Di Giannantonio attacked Ogura on Lap 2 but couldn’t make it stick, leaving the title’s top two controlling the race as Martin held a half‑second advantage. Fernandez then crashed at Turn 4 while shadowing Bezzecchi, promoting Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP #73) to P6 and putting pressure on the Italian ahead. Bezzecchi struck next, passing Marc Marquez at Copse for P4, while Alex Marquez soon overtook his brother for P5 as the #93 struggled for grip.

At the front, Martin and Ogura remained locked in for gold, but Bezzecchi reeled in Di Giannantonio and passed him at Copse with four laps remaining. Both Di Giannantonio and Marc Marquez suffered severe rear‑grip drop, allowing Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing #37) and Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol #36) to sweep through. On the final lap, Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team #21) demoted Marc Marquez to P9, though the #93 clung to the final point by 0.027s.

“I did a lot of work during the summer, and all the work we did was worth it so I’m really happy. Today, it was an incredible job. Congrats also to Marco, because after what he suffered with his last injuries, it’s crazy that he’s on the podium again. At the end I had no rear tyre [grip], and I thought Ai would catch me, but finally I was able to manage the distance,” Martin explained.

Tissot Sprint Race Results

Jorge Martin Aprilia Racing
Ai Ogura Trackhouse Aprilia (+1.530s)
Marco Bezzecchi Aprilia Racing (+3.974s)
Alex Marquez BK8 Gresini Ducati (+6.956s)
Fabio Di Giannantonio Pertamina VR46 Ducati (+8.651s)

Sunday
MotoGP

Raul Fernandez (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) delivered a flawless lights‑to‑flag performance to claim his second Grand Prix victory and first of 2026 at Silverstone, making amends for Saturday’s mistake with a dominant ride ahead of Aprilia Racing duo Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi. The #25 seized the lead immediately at Turn 1 and never looked back, while Martin extended his Championship advantage over Bezzecchi with another strong podium.

Fernandez became the 12th different winner in the last 12 British Grands Prix and the seventh victor of 2026, matching the total number of winners from 2025 as the season’s unpredictable storylines continue. From P2, Fernandez launched perfectly to grab the holeshot ahead of Bezzecchi, while polesitter Martin and Ai Ogura (SuperFile Trackhouse MotoGP Team) scrapped through the opening corners. Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) pounced to third at Turn 4, though Martin soon struck back. Fernandez immediately broke clear, setting a new race lap record by Lap 3 and stretching his lead to two seconds.

Ogura’s early battles dropped him to P7, as Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) climbed to P5 ahead of Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). A chaotic spell followed as Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3 #23), Iker Lecuona (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP #27) and Cal Crutchlow (CASTROL Honda LCR #35) all crashed before Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team #63) also fell at Turn 7 on Lap 8.

Lap 9 brought major shifts, for Martin passed Bezzecchi for P2, Alex Marquez moved into third and Ogura’s race ended with a fall at Turn 16. A mistake at Turn 1 then dropped Alex Marquez to P5, though he recovered to P4 after re‑passing Acosta, with Marc Marquez still lurking behind. As the final laps approached, Fernandez remained untouchable, holding a lead of over four seconds while Martin and Bezzecchi settled into podium contention. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) later overtook Marc Marquez at Turn 3, renewing their rivalry as he chased Acosta.

No one could challenge Fernandez, who crossed the line 2.5 seconds clear to take a commanding victory. Martin finished second to open a 31‑point lead over teammate Bezzecchi, who secured third. Alex Marquez led Ducati home in fourth behind the all‑Aprilia podium, followed by Acosta and Di Giannantonio.

“For sure I’m really happy, but I don’t really know what I feel right now. The last time I was in this position was in [the final race of 2025] at Valencia when I was fighting with Marco for the victory. It’s true that yesterday I was quite frustrated with my mistake, but it is part of the sport sometimes. I enjoyed it like a kid, and we won,” Fernandez said.

MotoGP Race Results

Raul Fernandez Trackhouse Aprilia
Jorge Martin Aprilia Racing (+2.538s)
Marco Bezzecchi Aprilia Racing (+3.393s)
Alex Marquez BK8 Gresini Ducati (+4.702s)
Pedro Acosta Red Bull KTM (+6.256s)

Check out the full MotoGP race results here…

MotoGP Championship Points

Jorge Martin Aprilia Racing – 240
Marco Bezzecchi Aprilia Racing – 209
Ai Ogura Trackhouse Aprilia – 203
Marc Marquez Ducati Lenovo – 200
Fabio di Giannantonio Pertamina VR46 Ducati – 199

Moto2

The Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Great Britain delivered one of the greatest Moto2 races ever, with Filip Salač (OnlyFans American Racing Team #12) rising above in a thriller to claim his first Moto2 victory. The drama peaked when World Championship leader Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) celebrated a lap early, then sustained bike damage after contact with Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team), dropping from P1 to P14. Ivan Ortola (QJMOTOR – Biolec – MSI) emerged in second, while Alex Escrig (KLINT Racing Team #11) secured his maiden Moto2 podium after Holgado saved a last‑lap highside.

Off the line, polesitter Izan Guevara (BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2) and Alonso Lopez (ITALJET Gresini Moto2) fought side‑by‑side, settling into a Guevara‑Lopez‑Ortola order by Lap 2. Holgado soon charged forward, setting multiple fastest laps and climbing to second by Lap 3, giving Guevara brief breathing room. Further back, David Alonso (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) received a Long Lap penalty for causing Collin Veijer’s (Red Bull KTM Ajo #95) Lap 1 crash. Title contender Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) disappointingly tumbled to P19 after a technical issue.

Lap 9 ignited the front group as Holgado slipstreamed past Guevara at Stowe, forming a six‑rider lead pack with Gonzalez, Tony Arbolino (REDS Fantic Racing #14), Ortola and Salač. The fight intensified, and with six laps remaining, Arbolino briefly hit the front before crashing at Vale, leaving Holgado, Gonzalez, Ortola and Salač battling for the win. Guevara ran wide, avoiding the incident, dropping behind Escrig.

With two laps to go, Gonzalez led for the first time, only for Holgado to strike back immediately. Then came extraordinary drama. Gonzalez crossed the line and began celebrating a lap early, standing on the footpegs. Holgado swerved to avoid him and clipped Gonzalez’s exhaust, damaging the #18’s bike and ending his victory hopes. Holgado then suffered a huge moment exiting Luffield, gifting Escrig P3.

Up front, it became Salač versus Ortola. The Czech rider held firm under pressure to secure his debut Moto2 win by 0.3s, with Ortola’s P2 moving him to fourth in the standings. Escrig completed the podium, finishing just 0.6s from the victory.

Moto2 Race Results

Filip Salac OnlyFans American Racing Team
Ivan Ortola QJMOTOR – Biolec – MSI (+0.303s)
Alex Escrig KLINT Racing Team (+0.652s)
Daniel Holgado CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team (+1.743s)
Izan Guevara BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2 (+2.555s)

Moto2 Championship Points

Manuel Gonzalez Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP – 197.5
Izan Guevara BLU CRU Pramac Yamaha Moto2 – 155
Senna Agius LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP – 136
Ivan Ortola QJMOTOR – Biolec – MSI – 133.5
Daniel Holgado CFMOTO Azul Marino Aspar Team – 128

Moto3

David Almansa (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP #22) won a stunning Moto3 race at the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Great Britain, with the battle going to the wire but the #22 taking command to get back on top. Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo #83) banked second place and becomes the closest chaser in the title fight after Maximo Quiles (CFMoto Valresa Aspar Team #28) was sidelined from Sunday, with the podium completed by Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech3).

Almansa shot off the line to lead from the second row, with an early race shuffle seeing the #22 in the lead and Carpe on his tail. They slotted in ahead of Adrian Cruces (CIP Green Power), whose teammate, home hero and polesitter Scott Ogden, got a tougher start and dropped a few positions. A top four of Almansa, Carpe, Brian Uriarte (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing #31) made themselves a little breathing room ahead of the front row, Cruces, Ogden and Perrone, early doors.

It soon became a freight train battle once again, however, before drama hit in a multiple-rider incident and Cruces crashed out, leaving a gap in the group behind the top seven. Not long after that, the fairytale came to an end for Ogden as the Brit crashed out of Club Corner, leaving a top six battle for the podium, now including Joel Esteban (LEVEL UP – MTA #78) as he got in the mix. That battle rolled nearly all the way to the flag. Almansa managed to keep himself at the front all the way to the final lap, the rider clearly to beat, and the four tenths in hand helped him stay ahead of the drama behind as the final tour of Silverstone got underway.

Fernandez vs Uriarte was lighting up before a sudden last lap crash for Sachsenring winner Uriarte as he slid out of third at Turn 6, leaving Fernandez to contend with Carpe instead. Into the final sector that duel rolled on, with Fernandez then suffering a moment and finding himself mugged by first Carpe and then Perrone, thus forcing him to settle for fourth. Almansa crossed the line ahead of the squabble for the win, with Carpe second and Perrone just nabbing that podium late on.

Behind Fernandez came Esteban to complete the top five, with Joel Kelso (GRYD Racing #66) at the head of the second group, which included Rico Salmela (Red Bull KTM Tech3 #27) and home hero Eddie O’Shea (GRYD Racing #8).

Moto3 Race Results

David Almansa Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP
Alvaro Carpe Red Bull KTM Ajo (+0.701s)
Valentin Perrone Red Bull KTM Tech3 (+0.991s)
Adrian Fernandez Leopard Racing (+1.111s)
Joel Esteban LEVEL UP – MTA (+3.743s)

Moto3 Championship Points

Maximo Quiles CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team – 231
Alvaro Carpe Red Bull KTM Ajo – 146
David Almansa Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP – 134
Brian Uriarte Red Bull KTM Ajo – 127
Marco Morelli CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team – 115

How Did the Aussies Do?

Jack Miller (Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP #43) capped a competitive opening day at Silverstone by securing ninth in practice and booking his place directly into Q2. The Aussie recovered from a slow start on the medium rear to show some of the strongest late‑race pace in the Silverstone Sprint to claim 13th, giving him and the team valuable information for Sunday.

In the main race, his run to 13th underlined the limits he’s facing in front‑group battles, though, with the added workload hurting his tyres late on. Senna Agius carried his speed straight through the summer break, going second‑fastest on Friday, but after a P13 in FP3 and a disrupted Q2, he couldn’t improve his lap and started Sunday’s race from P11 on row four.

Sunday was similarly frustrating for the talented youngster, as a technical problem stifled him. Despite the difficult situation, he pushed through all 17 laps to finish P20, leaving Great Britain still third in the championship and fully motivated for the next round.

Joel Kelso qualified P10 at Silverstone and felt he’d made solid progress heading into race day, then delivered a season‑best P6 on Sunday after a tough weekend, as he extracted the positives and aims to build again in Aragon.

Track Days | How things have evolved over the years…

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PitBoard

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August 1, 2026

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Jeff had loads of fun on the ZX-6R 636 KRT edition at a recent Sydney Motorsports Park Ride Day, comfortably lapping in the 1:43s on the Bridgestone S22 rubber and stock settings. A great little bike and comfy to ride home!

Nigel Paterson heads back to SMSP for a ride day and finds plenty has changed since the early, chaotic years. With better organisation, coaching and sticky modern tyres, track time now offers speed, skill and fun without the risks of road riding.

Recently I had a chance to ride on a track… now, some of you may be a little unkind when I say it was the southern section of Sydney Motorsport Park, a tight, twisty and low-speed track – but it’s great fun on smaller bikes.

Read more of Nige’s columns here

I paid for that fun in numerous ways, including getting up at stupid o’clock to be there in time for the rider’s briefing (which happened an hour late, but I’m not bitter) and some tightness in the thighs the next day, a result of moving from side-to-side on the bike around ten times a minute, because of how twisty the track is.

It was great to catch up with folks from the industry and media I hadn’t seen in a while, it’s always awesome to be able to ride without a speed limit and it was cool to get my knee down while riding, and not follow it with hip, shoulder, elbow, helmet…

Getting the knee down on Suzuki's GSX250R! — Jeff getting his knee down on the road on Suzuki’s GSX250R!

Back in the day I had to go racing to experience a track, for the ride day hadn’t been invented – race tracks were for racing, not for just going fast. That was 1988 (yeah, I’m old), and it was around 1990 that I remember reading a magazine article about a bunch of guys who got together and hired Oran Park Raceway in Sydney’s South-West for their own pleasure – and the ride-day was born.

The late great Glenn Willing at Oran Park on an RZ Yamaha.

Numerous people thought this was a good idea and Dave Stone made a business of it with Motorcycle Concepts, while rider trainer Steve Brouggy eventually shifted from running schools to being the man behind Mega Ride Days, which has hosted hundreds of thousands of Aussies getting a taste of motorcycle sport without flaunting speed limits and taking unnecessary risks.

Mega Ride Days has hosted hundreds of thousands of Aussies getting a taste of motorcycle sport without flaunting speed limits and taking unnecessary risks.

The early days of ride days were sometimes a bit chaotic. Now, the older I get the faster I was, and one particular day back in the 1990s I was riding something fast at what was then know as Eastern Creek Raceway, and I was really enjoying turn eight, the left-hander around what was known as Corporate Hill (it’s now known as Turn Seven, because they took out the right-left ages ago).

Steve Brouggy with the S 1000 RR and Ducati Panigale V4 S at SMSP.

It’s a slight uphill as you approach, with a blind, late entry – you can’t really see what’s ahead, and tipping the bike over much later than you’d expect (if you’re a road rider) is par for the course, but I was getting familiar with leaving the tip-in until as late as my bravery allowed, which meant I’d enter the corner faster, because there was plenty of track width on the exit to run out wide before braking hard and moving left for the entry to the downhill hairpin which was Turn Nine.

You can wear out a knee scraper and wonder why no-one has offered you a Superbike contract.

What I love about this turn is how satisfying it feels when you get it right – a fast sweeper without much braking beforehand, where you can wear out a knee scraper and wonder why no-one has offered you a Superbike contract. On this particular day I was using all my C-grade racing skills to look good for whatever snapper Two Wheels was using that day… but then as I exited the turn I realised there were four or five big bikes ponderously rolling toward the hairpin… and I was going way too fast to slow down enough to follow them around.

Nigel on the cover of Two Wheels in 1997 on the new GSX-R600.

Luckily I was able to thread the needle between one rider running too wide, putting the bulk of the group on my left, then I braked hard for the hairpin and dove up the inside line. And if it was exciting for me, it may have been terrifying for them, but vastly preferable to skittling through the pack like a bowling ball.

Different experience levels means a lot of unpredictability at track days – as Nige found out.

Ride days have evolved from those early days of chaos on the track to efficiently run events with groups organised by skill (they certainly weren’t that day, and I still won’t go near a session full of first-timers). There are now rules in place regarding overtaking and behaviour on the track (experiences like mine above shouldn’t happen today), skills development (coaching) is available and the advice around preparing your bike and being ready for the track so much better than in the bad old days. Mega also offers sporty Ducatis you can hire, so if you don’t have a suitable machine this is a great way to experience sports riding without spending a fortune.

There are now rules in place regarding overtaking and behaviour on the track, skills development is available and the advice around preparing your bike is so much better.

My recent ride was organised by Dunlop for the launch of its new track tyres, the Q5 range, sports tyres which include track focussed (Q5), track and street use (Q5S) and sports road riding (Q5A). Dunlop emphasised at the launch the track-focussed Q5 was built to warm up quickly and provide good grip straight from the pit box, making tyre warmers unnecessary. While I’ve always thought tyre warmers were overkill for ride days, a friend who uses them pointed out: “I get to go hard from the first lap – so that’s an extra six laps a day of having fun, plus they give me a little extra confidence, so I think it’s worth the cost and hassle”.

Nige’s most recent SMSP experience came during a Dunlop tyre launch.

Fair enough I suppose, but if I’m ever that serious about going that hard I’ll go racing again. In the meantime, having a bike with a set of sticky tyres, good suspension and rear-set footpegs for use at ride days would be awesome… oh wait, I do have one at the back of the garage… and even though it’s 20 years old it would still be great fun around SMSP. I should get that out.

Pirelli ASBK 2026 Round 5 Report | Harrison Voight Superbike Champ!

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June 30, 2026

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The future has arrived. Harrison Voight claimed his maiden Australian Superbike Championship at Queensland Raceway, delivering a composed title-winning performance to complete a sensational breakthrough ASBK season. Report: Link Int Photos: Foremost Media

Cru Halliday (Stop & Seal Racing Ducati) set the pace in qualifying with a time of 1:06.858s.

Cru Halliday topped the Superbike times on the Stop & Seal Racing Ducati, narrowly ahead of Glenn Allerton (Superbike Advocates Racing), while Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team) completed the top three. Championship leader Harrison Voight (McMartin Racing) finished seventh, just behind title rival and teammate Josh Waters (McMartin Racing) in sixth.

Saturday began with the final Superbike Free Practice session of the weekend before qualifying got underway. With only 15 entrants in the category, three riders would miss out on progressing to Qualifying 2. The usual front runners didn’t push in Qualifying 1, opting instead to save their fastest laps for the second session.

When Qualifying 2 got underway, it was quickly stopped after John Lytras (Caboolture Yamaha) suffered a mechanical issue. With a potential oil spill on the circuit, the red flag was shown, and the session was delayed for around 20 minutes. Once the session resumed, it became a Ducati versus Yamaha battle, with Halliday claiming pole position in a time of 1:06.858 as the only rider to break into the 1:06s. He finished ahead of Jones 1:07.062 and Jonathan Nahlous (Yamaha Racing Team) with a 1:07.235. Allerton, championship leader Voight, and defending champion Waters filled the second row, with Voight heading into Sunday’s races holding a 24-point lead over Waters. Most Pirelli riders selected the SC1 front tyre, paired with the SCX rear tyre.

Halliday and Voight leading the pack in race 1.

Jake Farnsworth (Worth Racing) topped Supersport qualifying with a best lap of 1:10.712. Valentino Knezovic (Addicted to Track) was second fastest on a 1:11.082, while Anupab Sarmoon (Moto Go) completed the front row with a 1:11.263. The SC1 front tyre was the tyre of choice across the field, while rear tyre selections were split between the A1128 and the SCX.

Tom Edwards (BC Performance Racing) secured Next Gen pole after setting a new category benchmark with a 1:10.425. Olly Simpson (DesmoSport Ducati) was a close second with a 1:10.462, and Tom Toparis (Stop & Seal) was third with a 1:10.578. The SC1 front tyre was used throughout the field, while rear tyre choices were divided, with the majority opting for the A1128 and others selecting the SCX.

In Supersport 300 qualifying, Tyler King (Kawasaki) claimed pole position with a 1:20.448, setting the benchmark for the session. Riley Nauta (Kawasaki) was his closest challenger, securing second on the grid with a 1:20.801, while Tara Morrison (Kawasaki) completed an all-Kawasaki front row in third with a 1:21.149. The SC1 was the tyre of choice for all Pirelli riders.

Race 1 of the Superbikes delivered the championship deciding moment, with Harrison Voight securing the 2026 Australian Superbike Championship one race before the season finale. Halliday claimed a hard-fought victory after a thrilling battle at the front, while Voight charged from fifth on the grid to finish second, setting a new Superbike race lap record in the process. Jones completed the podium. Voight’s runner-up finish was enough to put the title beyond Waters’ reach. The young Queenslander now held a 27-point championship lead, making him untouchable. Halliday’s victory also reignited the battle for third in the standings, with that fight set to go down to the final race of the season. The SC1 front tyre was used across the field, while riders opted for the SCX rear tyre.

Harrison Voight sealed the 2026 Australian Superbike Championship with his runner-up finish in race 1.

The final Superbike race of the 2026 season unfolded in challenging wet conditions, with newly crowned champion Harrison Voight electing to sit out the race after wrapping up the title earlier in the day. Olly Simpson (DesmoSport Ducati) made a sensational start from the fourth row to lead the opening 13 laps, but Allerton gradually reeled him in before making the decisive pass on lap 14. From there, Allerton controlled the closing stages to secure victory for Superbike Advocates Racing, with Simpson capping off an impressive weekend in second and Jones rounding out the podium.

Further back, Cru Halliday recovered from a difficult opening lap to finish fifth, a result that secured third place in the final championship standings. Morgan McLaren-Wood (Moto Go) was another standout in the wet, charging through the field to run as high as third before a late mistake dropped him to seventh at the chequered flag. The SCR1 wet tyres, front and rear, were the choice of Pirelli riders.

Glenn Allerton (1st), Olly Simpson (2nd) and Mike Jones (3rd).

The Supersport championship tightened in race one as Farnsworth chipped away at Knezovic’s points lead. Farnsworth claimed maximum Supersport points by finishing as the first Supersport rider home. Knezovic came home second in class, holding off a late charge from Sarmoon. Although Farnsworth reduced the championship margin, Knezovic remains in control of the title battle heading into the final race of the 2026 season. Pirelli riders chose the SC1 front tyre, while rear tyre selection was split between the A1128 and SCX.

Race one of the Next Gen class turned up the heat in the title fight, with just four points separating BC Performance teammates Edwards and Hayden Nelson heading into Sunday’s opener. Simpson wasted no time getting to the front, grabbing the lead in the opening corners before pulling away with a blistering pace that left the rest to fight over the remaining podium positions. Edwards and Nelson went head-to-head throughout the race, swapping positions as every championship point counted. Toparis also looked like a genuine contender until a mistake at Turn 3 on lap three dropped him to the back of the field and out of podium contention. With four laps to go, Edwards fought his way back past Nelson for second and held on by the slimmest of margins. Up front, Simpson was untouchable, taking a dominant 3.670-second victory after leading every lap, while Edwards claimed second and Nelson rounded out the podium, ensuring the championship battle stayed alive. The SC1 front tyre was the preferred choice for Pirelli riders, while the A1128 and SCX were the rear tyre options.

The Supersport title was decided in dramatic fashion, with wet conditions and a red flag completely reshaping the championship outcome. Farnsworth did everything required, finishing as the leading Supersport rider, while championship leader Knezovic crashed out on lap six. With the race declared following the red flag, Farnsworth secured his second Supersport class win of the day and wrapped up the 2026 Australian Supersport Championship by 15 points over Knezovic. Sarmoon and Flynn Jacobs (Yamaha Pitmans) completed the Supersport podium for Race 2. Pirelli riders opted for the SCR1 wet tyres at both the front and rear.

Jake Farnsworth (Worth Racing) claimed both Round 5 victory, and the 2026 Supersport 600 Champion title.

Wet conditions added another twist to the Next Gen title deciding race. After rain forced the race to be shortened to 10 laps, Toparis led the early stages before Simpson took control on lap five. The race was red flagged on lap six following a crash, with Simpson declared the winner ahead of Toparis and Nelson. Edwards finished fourth, which was enough to wrap up the Australian Supersport Next Gen Championship. He ended the season on 226 points, six clear of BC Performance Kawasaki teammate Nelson, while Simpson’s race win secured him third in the final standings. The SCR1 wet tyres were the preferred choice for Pirelli riders, front and rear.

Tom Edwards (BC Performance Racing) took the necessary points to secure his 2026 Next Gen Championship.

The Supersport 300 class produced plenty of action across its three-race weekend, starting with Race 1 on Saturday afternoon. Nauta took the win after a hard-fought battle with King, while Morrison finished third to complete the podium.

Race 2 turned the Championship on its head. Title contender Nauta was caught up in a racing incident and was unable to finish, opening the door for King to take victory. King led home Morrison, while Krittapat Keankum (Yamaha) completed the podium.

The final race of the 2026 season saw Nauta bounce back in style. After Race 2 didn’t go to plan, he was determined to redeem himself and that’s exactly what he did. Nauta claimed the Race 3 victory ahead of King, while Jake Senior (Yamaha) claimed third. All Pirelli riders ran the SC1 front and SC1 rear tyre combination across all three races.

Tyler King (Kawasaki) was crowned 2026 Supersport 300 Champion.

The 2026 Supersport 300 Championship title went to Tyler King, who secured the crown by eight points.

Full Results for Round 5 can be found here… Read our previous round reports here…

WorldSBK to race at The Bend from 2028!

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PitBoard

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June 19, 2026

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Exciting news for race fans but a blow to the Phillip Island community, WorldSBK moves to The Bend from 2028 | The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship will begin a new chapter in Australia, with The Bend set to host the Australian Round on a multi-year agreement. Release: WorldSBK Press

“Securing WorldSBK is a significant achievement for The Bend and today’s announcement marks a historic day for motorsport”. Dr Sam Shahin, Managing Director of Shell V-Power Motorsport Park.

Located in South Australia, Shell V-Power Motorsport Park at The Bend will join the WorldSBK calendar from the Championship’s 41st season onwards. Australia has been a cornerstone of WorldSBK since the Championship first visited the country in 1990, producing some of the sport’s most successful riders and delivering memorable moments for almost four decades. The Bend is one of Australia’s leading motorsport facilities, featuring multiple circuit configurations and modern infrastructure designed to host international events.

WorldSBK Aussie round has been hosted by Phillip Island since 1990, back when there were loads of Aussies in it.

Dr Sam Shahin, Managing Director of Shell V-Power Motorsport Park: “Securing WorldSBK is a significant achievement for The Bend and today’s announcement marks a historic day for motorsport and for South Australia. From the outset, our vision has been to create a proud facility capable of attracting the world’s leading motorsport categories and hosting the highest levels of international competition. A decade on, we celebrate a major milestone; WorldSBK is coming.

Read our other WorldSBK news here...

“This championship is set to bring the top motorcycle manufacturers, teams and riders to South Australia, creating a powerful platform that will showcase our venue, our passionate motorsport community and our state to a global audience. WorldSBK has an incredibly passionate global fanbase and we look forward to welcoming them to The Bend and delivering an event experience that reflects the significance of this championship and its place on the international calendar.”

The Bend hosted its first ASBK round in 2018 and has been on the calendar since.

Peter Malinauskas, South Australian Premier: “Securing WorldSBK further strengthens South Australia’s position as Australia’s motorsport capital and will deliver significant economic, tourism and profile benefits across the state, and in particular our regions. South Australia has built one of the strongest motorsport portfolios in the country. From the world-class facilities at The Bend to the Adelaide street circuit, we are attracting premier events, passionate fans and global attention.

“With WorldSBK joining MotoGP, the Adelaide 500 and the AirTouch 500 Enduro, this announcement reinforces our commitment to motorsport and reflects our determination to ensure South Australia remains the home of motorsport in this country. It also provides a pathway for the next generation of riders, engineers, officials, volunteers and motorsport enthusiasts to engage with world-class competition right here at home.”

The Bend is one of Australia’s leading motorsport facilities, featuring multiple circuit configurations.

Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director: “Australia holds a special place in the history of WorldSBK and remains an important market for our championship, manufacturers, teams and fans. We are pleased to confirm The Bend as the future home of the Australian Round from 2028.

“The venue offers excellent facilities and a strong commitment to motorsport, providing a solid platform for the next chapter of WorldSBK in Australia. We look forward to working closely with the team at The Bend and all local stakeholders as preparations begin for the first event in 2028.”

Further information regarding the inaugural WorldSBK event at The Bend, including dates and ticketing details, will be announced in due course. Keep an eye on WorldSBK.com

Ducati enters Enduro with all-new Desmo450 EDS

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PitBoard

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June 12, 2026

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Ducati has officially unveiled the Desmo450 EDS, marking the company’s first modern purpose-built enduro motorcycle and taking the Borgo Panigale brand into a completely new segment of off-road competition once again, after the success of the 450 MX.

Derived from the Desmo450 MX motocross machine but extensively reworked for enduro use, the Desmo450 EDS is built around a revised version of Ducati’s unique 449.6cc single-cylinder Desmodromic engine. Ducati says the bike has been developed specifically to deliver strong low and mid-range torque, improved traction and reduced rider fatigue while maintaining the high-performance character expected from the brand.

The Desmo450 EDS becomes the only motorcycle in its class to feature Desmodromic valve timing, a hallmark of Ducati engineering that allows strong torque production at lower revs while still delivering impressive top-end performance.

Compared to the motocross-focused Desmo450 MX, the EDS receives extensive changes aimed at enduro competition. These include an 8.5-litre fuel tank, new 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel combination, Metzeler Six Days Extreme tyres, revised gearing and dedicated protective equipment including handguards, engine guards and reinforced covers.

The aluminium perimeter frame remains central to the design, weighing less than 9kg and consisting of just 11 components. Ducati says the simplified frame architecture reduces weight while maintaining strength and rigidity.

Suspension duties are handled by a new Showa package developed specifically for enduro riding with input from multiple Enduro World Champion Antoine Meo. The 49mm fork offers 310mm of travel and is paired with a fully adjustable rear shock mounted via a progressive linkage system.

Perhaps the most significant technical innovation arrives when the Ducati Performance Racing Kit is fitted. The optional race package introduces what Ducati describes as the world’s first true traction control system designed specifically for enduro riding. Unlike conventional systems that rely on predefined parameters, Ducati Traction Control continuously calculates intervention based on actual rear wheel slip, automatically adapting to changing terrain conditions.

The system can also recognise situations where intervention isn’t required, such as jumps, and temporarily deactivate itself. Riders can manually override traction control via the clutch lever before the system automatically re-engages moments later.

Additional electronics available through the racing kit include Launch Control, Engine Brake Control, Quickshifter functionality and fully configurable Riding Modes accessed through Ducati’s X-Link smartphone app.

Another industry-first feature is Ducati’s adaptive maintenance system. Instead of fixed service intervals, the Desmo450 EDS uses an algorithm that continuously monitors engine stress, riding conditions and operating parameters to calculate real-time wear rates. Service intervals are then adjusted based on actual usage rather than predetermined hours.

Ducati says piston replacement intervals can vary between 90 and 120 hours, while major engine servicing may extend between 180 and 240 hours depending on riding style and conditions.

The Desmo450 EDS will arrive at selected European dealerships in Europe from July 2026, with Ducati confirming global distribution will follow. Australian pricing and local arrival timing are yet to be announced, although a 2027 Australian launch appears likely…

Kawasaki Announce Fuel Injected Two-Stroke KX327 and KX327X

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June 3, 2026

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Kawasaki unveils fuel-injected KX327 and KX327X two-strokes for 2027 | Kawasaki has revealed a major new addition to its off-road lineup for 2027, introducing the all-new KX327 and KX327X models powered by the company’s first-ever fuel-injected two-stroke engine. Press: KMA

The announcement marks one of the biggest developments in modern off-road motorcycling, combining the lightweight simplicity and explosive performance of a traditional two-stroke with modern electronic fuel injection technology.

Read our motocross news here…

At the heart of both models is a new 327cc fuel-injected single-cylinder two-stroke engine featuring electric start, a specially designed exhaust valve system and selectable power modes. Kawasaki says the engine delivers strong low-rpm traction, crisp throttle response and a smooth, linear torque curve while maintaining the lightweight feel that has made two-strokes a favourite among serious off-road riders.

The new platform has been built around a lightweight aluminium perimeter frame paired with KYB suspension and hydraulic clutch operation, creating what Kawasaki describes as the next generation of two-stroke off-road performance.

The motocross-focused KX327 features a five-speed close-ratio transmission, smartphone connectivity, slim bodywork and race-focused ergonomics aimed at motocross and closed-course competition.

For riders looking beyond the motocross track, Kawasaki has also developed the KX327X, a cross-country and enduro-focused version featuring a six-speed gearbox, ultra-low first gear, larger 8.3-litre fuel tank, hand guards, skid plate, side stand and a 21-inch front/18-inch rear wheel combination.

The arrival of the KX327 range is significant enough that Kawasaki has also revised its model naming structure, with its four-stroke competition bikes now carrying an “F” designation.

KX450F and KX250F updated
Alongside the new two-strokes, Kawasaki has updated its four-stroke motocross range for 2027. The KX450F and KX450FX receive revised intake and exhaust systems designed to improve low-end response and mid-to-high-rpm performance. Chassis updates include a redesigned swingarm and longer wheelbase aimed at improving traction, stability and overall handling.

Meanwhile, the KX250F and KX250FX continue to evolve following their major 2025 update, with refined suspension settings, enhanced clutch performance and improved mass centralisation.

Mini’s & Junior
Kawasaki’s junior motocross range, including the KX112, KX85, KX85L and KX65, returns for 2027 alongside the KLX300R, KLX230 S and KLX230R S trail bike models.

Australian pricing and final specifications will be announced closer to launch, with Kawasaki expecting the new 2027 off-road range to arrive in Australia and New Zealand during the first quarter of 2027.