Yamaha secured their sixth consecutive WorldSSP manufacturer title today as Lorenzo Baldassarri raced to second place at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve circuit in Portimao. 

Yamaha secured their sixth FIM Supersport World Championship manufacturers title today as Evan Bros.WorldSSP’s Lorenzo Baldassari bravely battled to a podium finish at the Portimao venue. The Italian stormed to a 14th podium of the season aboard his Yamaha R6, missing out on the race victory by just 0.011 seconds. 

Saturday’s action commenced with a frantic Superpole session which saw ten riders under the existing lap record. The first to break Jules Cluzel’s lap record from 2021, Dominique Aegerter was also the last as he stormed to a 1'43.065 to secure pole position by 0.204 seconds, while title-rival Baldassarri was forced to start the race from seventh following a late crash. 

Aegerter made a solid start from pole position, settling into the leading group in the early stages as he fought with Cluzel and Glenn van Straalen for second place. As the shortened 12-lap race unfolded, the battle at the front quickly became a hectic seven-rider battle; and with five laps to go, saw Baldassarri hit the front. 

The Italian’s lead was short-lived, however, slipping to third before re-passing Federico Caricasulo on the final lap for second. Despite giving it his all, the former Moto2 rider couldn’t topple the Triumph ahead, crossing the line in second just 0.011 seconds adrift of the race winner. Meanwhile, Aegerter held on to secure fourth in the opening race of the weekend. 

Jules Cluzel secured a hard-fought seventh with Glenn van Straalen finishing in 12th. Peter Sebestyen secured points in 14th place aboard the second Evan Bros.WorldSSP Yamaha Team R6. 

Early retirement for Marcel Brenner sadly ended his hunt for the Supersport Challenge championship trophy as he trails Bahattin Sofuoglu by 33 points. 

Clinching 16 race wins and 16 further podium finishes, Yamaha sits at the top of the manufacturer’s standings with an unbeatable 185-point advantage over Ducati. Ten Kate continue to lead the team’s standings. 

FIM Supersport World Championship action continues Sunday for the final race of the weekend. 

The 2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 is another step toward the racetrack for the Italian brand’s flagship superbike. Although the Desmosedici Stradale motor and frame are mechanically unchanged, there are plenty of technical and hardware upgrades that will make this a formidable racer and track day favourite.

Carbon fibre wheels reduce unsprung weight by over 1.3 kg compared to the V4 S’s forged aluminium wheels. According to Ducati, this reduces inertia by 26 percent for the front wheel and 46 percent for the rear.With the lighter wheels come stronger Brembo Style R callipers. The front braking system is highly adjustable, thanks to the Brembo MCS radial pump. There are three actuation ratios available so the rider can personalize the feel. Additionally, a remote brake lever adjuster near the left grip allows the rider to perfect the lever position without distracting the throttle hand. Further, the clutch and front brake levers have milled ends to reduce drag.The electronics on the 2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 are track ready. There’s a new Track Evo display that is inspired by the dash readout used in MotoGP. The tachometer runs horizontally, with the gear position cantered on the dash. Four sectors, delineated by different colours, tell you if electronic controls for traction, slide, wheelie, and engine braking control have been activated. The left side of the dash shows your speed, lap time, and number of laps completed. GPS is standard, which constantly monitors your track position. Finally, the Ducati Data Analyzer assists you in evaluating your track sessions.The most serious riders will want the optional Ducati Performance Software. This software ups the traction control game to include slick and rain tires. Five customizable riding modes can be stored, and the DPS can memorize five tracks.

Ducati has also upgraded the base software. There are four power modes—Full, High, Medium, and Low—with Full and Low being new. Each gear in the six-speed transmission gets its own torque curve. Maximum output remains at 210 horsepower at 12,500 rpm, and 91 ft-lbs of torque at 11,000.A track-only full-titanium Ducati Performance exhaust system is optional. Ducati worked on it with Akrapovič. The results are impressive—an 18-horsepower peak output increase, and maximum torque is boosted to 97 ft-lbs. Plus, the system is much lighter than the stock exhaust.

If you’ve missed dry clutches on Ducatis, the SP2 has one. The dry clutch offers less resistance to the motor.The SP2’s Rizoma adjustable racing foot pegs are anodized aluminium, and grippier. Carbon fibre heel guards keep your boots where they belong.

You get a track kit with the 2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2. The kit includes an open clutch carbon fibre clutch cover, billet aluminium caps for the mirror mounts, and parts to facilitate removing the license plate.

Passengers don’t get to ride with you on the SP2. That’s a solo seat, so no two-up riding at the track.Winter Test livery gives the SP2 a factory look. Matte black dominates, with accenting coming from the brushed aluminium fuel tank and strategically placed red. Don’t miss the tri-colour Italian flag graphic on the wings. Though it’s not offered as a limited-edition model, the top triple-clamp has a specific number for each 2023 Panigale V4 SP2.

2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 Specs 

ENGINE

Type: Desmosedici Stradale 90-degree V4 w/ counter-rotating crankshaft

Displacement: 1103cc

Bore x stroke: 81 x 53.5mm

Maximum power: 210 horsepower @ 12,500 rpm

Maximum torque: 91 ft-lbs @ 11,000 rpm

Compression ratio: 14.0:1

Valvetrain: Desmodromic actuation w/ 4vpc

Fuelling: Twin injectors per cylinder w/ elliptical throttle bodies

Transmission: 6-speed w/ straight-cut gears and quick shifter

Clutch: Dry multiplate w/ assist function

Final drive: 520 chain

CHASSIS

Frame: Aluminium monocoque w/ Öhlins electronic steering damper

Front suspension: Fully adjustable semi-active Öhlins NIX25/30 pressurized 43mm fork.

Rear suspension: Fully adjustable semi-active Öhlins TTX36 shock.

Wheels: 5 split-spoke carbon fibre.

Front wheel: 17 x 3.50

Rear wheel: 17 x 6.00

Tires: Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP

Front tire: 120/70 x 17

Rear tire: 200/60 x 17

Front brakes: Semi-floating 330mm discs w/ Brembo Stylema R 4-piston callipers and Brembo MC 19.21 self-bleeding master cylinder

Rear brake: 245mm disc w/ 2-piston calliper

ABS: Cornering ABS Evo

DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES 

Wheelbase: 57.8 inches

Rake: 24.5 degrees

Trail: 3.9 inches

Seat height: 33.5 inches

Fuel capacity: 4.5 gallons

Curb weight: 429 pounds

Colour: Winter Test

www.ducati.co.za

Yamaha celebrates the success of an incredible 2022 Motocross season, in which the Japanese brand won the Manufacturer’s World Championship in all three FIM Motocross World Championship classes, MXGP, MX2 and WMX.  

Thanks to the excellence of the YZ450F and YZ250F, both production and Factory versions of the bike, and the skill and determination of riders Jeremy Seewer, Maxime Renaux, Glenn Coldenhoff, Jago Geerts, Thibault Benistant, Calvin Vlaanderen, Nancy van de Ven and Lynn Valk, all of whom stood on the top step of the podium this year, Yamaha dominated the 2022 FIM Manufacturer’s World Championships. 

In 2022, the premier class was spearheaded by the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP team with its riders Seewer, Renaux and Coldenhoff, and strengthened by Gebben van Venrooy Yamaha Supported team’s Vlaanderen. Between the four MXGP stars, Yamaha celebrated 16 race wins, 24 podium finishes and six Grand Prix victories on its way to celebrating the MXGP Manufacturer’s World Championship title for the first time since 2015.  

In MX2, Yamaha successfully defended the crown for a third consecutive season thanks to the efforts of Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2’s Geerts and Benistant, who celebrated a combined total of 16 race wins and 22 podium finishes, culminating in seven Grand Prix victories. The achievement marks Yamaha's fifth Manufacturer's crown since the class was reinvented as MX2 in 2004, taking its first two titles in 2005 and 2007.

Proving the dominance of the YZ250F across the board and adding to a memorable off-road campaign for those dressed in blue, Yamaha also won its seventh WMX Manufacturer’s title with Van de Ven, Valk and Larissa Papenmeier awarded the top-three championship medals.

Throughout the five rounds of the FIM Women’s World Championship in 2022, Van de Ven won three races and mounted the podium four times on the way to her first-ever world title. She was joined on the podium by Dutch compatriot Valk, who scored three race victories and two Grands Prix to end the season as the silver medalist. 

Increasing Yamaha’s presence and adding to its success in WMX, Yamaha Germany’s Papenmeier collected one piece of podium silverware and secured her fifth championship bronze medal, making it a “blue-wash” of the top-three positions for Yamaha.

Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne was crowned MotoAmerica Superbike Champion today for the second year running, sealing the deal with a runner-up finish in Race 2 at the Barber Motorsports Park. It was a stellar end to the season for the team as a whole, as Cameron Petersen took home the win for a 1-2 finish in Leeds, Alabama.

Following his dominant performance yesterday, Gagne grabbed the holeshot with Petersen right behind. Looking for redemption after a tough Race 1 and a win of his own, the South African quickly took the lead. The duo set the pace early aboard their Attack Performance Yamaha R1s to build a comfortable gap clear of the competition. Petersen managed a superb race up front and rode on to claim his second win of the season, 3.1-seconds ahead of his teammate.Gagne’s runner-up finish secured the crown with a 20-point lead. It was an intense battle all year with his title rival Danilo Petrucci, but the Colorado rider fought through adversity to take back-to-back titles in the premier class. Over the 10-round season, he amassed 12 wins, a total of 15 podiums, eight pole positions, and multiple track records. His teammate Petersen enjoyed a successful debut season with the team, ending the year third in the points standings with a pair of wins and a total of 12 podiums. 

The 2022 MotoAmerica Superbike Champion and his team get a short break before heading over to Portimao, Portugal, to make a wild card appearance at the ninth round of the FIM Superbike World Championship on October 7-9.Richard Stanboli – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing Team Manager

“It’s been a challenging year. Our competition kept us honest, but in the end, when the pressure should be the highest, our riders and crew performed their jobs with great harmony. I couldn’t be prouder of all of them. 

“Jake achieved his second championship milestone, and Cameron had his first dry weather superbike win, so it was a good finish to the season. We are now looking forward to our WorldSBK wild card appearance at Portimao and then a little time off after that before we start again with winter testing.Jake Gagne – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing

“I’m so happy to be able to bring another title home for this team. It was quite a year and a very exciting, close championship hunt. Thanks again to this team for giving me the best bike possible. It feels really good to get this championship. We were all tested again and again with some ups and downs, but we got it done. Congrats to Cam for that win, he got out in front, and I was kind of happy to watch his pace with that little bit of rain earlier. Also, hats off to Danilo (Petrucci), that guy is a true competitor, and he really pushed me this year.”Cameron Petersen – Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing

“To finish off the year with a win, I can’t tell you how much that means to me. We had a rough day yesterday, and we knew what we needed to do. I’ve wanted to get a win in the dry for a long time, and we finally made it happen. I can’t thank the whole team enough. I’ve had so much fun and can’t wait for next year.”

For the highly anticipated first-ever edition of the Yamaha R7 SuperFinale, 27 riders are set to battle it out on equal R7 machinery in support of the FIM Superbike World Championship round this weekend at the iconic Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

This weekend, the top riders from the national R7 Cups and Challenges across France, Germany, Italy and Spain will compete together in the first international event for Yamaha’s newest Supersport model.

Those fighting for overall honours include Argentina’s Matías Pérez, who raced in the Spanish R7 Cup this year, and Brazil’s Edson Barreto and Fabio Linares Delefrate. Eight French riders also make up the grid, as well as four from Germany, seven from Italy and five from Spain.On Thursday, the riders will set-up and get ready for the weekend at the dedicated R7 SuperFinale Village, inside the WorldSBK paddock. After receiving their race equipment, the riders will join bLU cRU Rider Coach Lorenzo Alfonsi for a guided tour of the Spanish circuit at the same time as the WorldSBK riders.

They will have their first chance to get up to speed on their Yamaha R7 bikes during Friday’s 30-minute Free Practice session, before battling it out for grid positions in the 30-minute qualifier that afternoon. That will set the grid for both of Saturday’s races, offering 25 points in each with the overall winner earning a brand new Yamaha R7.

Riders will also have the chance to meet Yamaha’s WorldSBK riders, including Toprak Razgatlıoğlu, Andrea Locatelli, Garrett Gerloff and Kohta Nozane, as well as visit the Pata Yamaha and GYTR GRT Yamaha pit boxes.

All races will be broadcast live on the big screens around the WorldSBK paddock, with video highlights available on the Yamaha Racing YouTube channel on Wednesday. Coverage will also be included on the Yamaha Racing social media channels and website.

Paolo Pavesio

Yamaha Motor Europe Marketing and Motorsport Director

“It is really exciting to offer these riders an opportunity to race inside the WorldSBK paddock in the first global motorsports event for the Yamaha R7. It’s only the first year, but we have seen a huge amount of interest across all the national R7 Cups already, and the 27 SuperFinale participants further confirms the popularity of this new series. I think all of the riders will really enjoy the event, it’s a good opportunity for them, and also for Yamaha to showcase what a great Supersport bike the R7 is.”

For all those who dare to adventure, the new KTM 890 ADVENTURE R is here to break travel barriers on or off the beaten track. Featuring a host of technical upgrades, this reworked machine enters a new era of rally-inspired aesthetics and performance.

Harnessing attributes of KTM’s pure READY TO RACE legacy, the hyper-focused KTM 890 ADVENTURE R new development aims to further offroad excellence, dependability, and suitability for whatever the road ahead holds. To prove the point, the bike was launched in the diverse topography of western Idaho, USA, in the presence of adventurers attending the 2022 KTM Adventure Rider Rally. The next-level capability and mettle of the reshaped KTM 890 ADVENTURE R came to the fore in the heart of the Idaho mountains. Taking cues from the KTM 450 RALLY setup, the WP suspension package on the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R, with fully adjustable WP XPLOR forks and a WP XPLOR PDS rear shock, was re-tuned to provide improved feeling to ensure riders reach the end of each stage with reduced fatigue. Further influence from the KTM 450 RALLY is evident in the redesigned bodywork with a new fairing, fuel tank, and cowling, improving aerodynamics and ergonomics, respectively enhancing protection from the elements and the bike’s already phenomenal agility. The fact that the 2023 KTM 890 ADVENTURE R is ready for action is also made clear through the new and lower windshield, high front fender and engine protector, for those tricky technical terrains. 

The new 5” TFT display — equipped with USB-C connecters — features a completely new appearance with colored pictograms and intuitive graphics that allow for easy navigation through the menus. In addition, the latest upgrades provide a developed turn-by-turn plus navigation system that allows the rider to select the preferred destination out of their last selections. A new call-out function also allows a favorites call option, with a maximum of 10 numbers, or the option to call one of the 10 last numbers called. To take the software and hardware potential of the electronics suite to new levels, KTM has also included the next generation of ABS control unit that takes readings from the 6D sensor — which continually informs the CMU on the angle, pitch, speed and general behavior of the motorcycle — to apply the correct amount of braking force for any given situation. Riders opting to try the bike’s potential off the beaten tracks can count on OFFROAD ABS as an integrated element of OFFROAD MODE, or the optional RALLY MODE, without the need to select the OFFROAD ABS separately. 

When the trail widens and the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R wants to clock the miles, the 2023 edition provides comfort through the single piece seat with is new colors, which still emphasizes mobility and grip. Count on extra wear resistance thanks to the new Mitas ENDURO TRAIL+ tires combo for the International and European versions. American adventurers can also be seen with LED style indicators to complement the revitalized graphic set for 2023 model. 

KTM has taken advantage of the growing electronic capacity of the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R to install a new DEMO MODE, seen for the first time on this 2023 model. The new KTM 890 ADVENTURE R will allow riders to take advantage of all the specs and options for the first 1,500 kilometers, before the rider decides which pack or features to acquire. Thanks to the DEMO MODE setting, adventurers can feel and experience the areas of the bike they prefer, while in the thick of throttle-wringing action. 

2023 KTM 890 ADVENTURE R – HIGHLIGHTS
// Reworked bodywork & fairing inspired by the KTM 450 RALLY 
// New windshield offering improved airflow 
// Reworked suspension settings for reduced long-distance fatigue 
// Upgraded 5” TFT display with USB connection & new pictograms 
// Improved ABS components with new modulator (9.3 MP) 
// OFFROAD ABS linked with OFFROAD MODE & (optional) RALLY MODE 
// New & more offroad oriented tires (INT models) 
// Updated turn-by-turn plus navigation system 
// Introducing the DEMO MODE functionality 
// Handlebar switch with hazard warning 
// LED indicators (US models) 
// New engine protector 

The 2023 KTM 890 ADVENTURE R pushes extremes a little further while inviting riders from across of the world to #Dare2ADV. 

For more information, visit ktm.com

Mattighofen, 20 September 2022 – KTM AG, a subsidiary of PIERER Mobility AG and MV Agusta have signed a commercial agreement for the distribution of the iconic Schiranna motorcycles in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The deal, extending over several years, focuses on the distribution, the promotion and customer service of the MV Agusta range of motorcycles by KTM AG’s North American subsidiary. On one hand, the strength of the brand and the exclusivity of its motorcycles, a symbol of Italy’s design and engineering excellence, and on the other hand KTM AG’s extensive and solid commercial organization, will support the growth of MV Agusta in the North American region.

The agreement is part of MV Agusta’s strategic plan, which envisions a significant growth in the coming years. KTM AG group will create a dedicated US-based legal entity, which will be in charge of all MV Agusta operations in North America. Going forward, MV Agusta motorcycles will be distributed through both, select KTM AG dealers as well as existing and new MV Agusta stores.

Timur Sardarov, CEO at MV Agusta Motor S.p.A. commented: “I am thrilled by this agreement between two historic European motorcycle manufacturers. I am confident that KTM’s extensive and professional sales organization paired with the strong appeal of our brand in the region will bring great benefits to both companies. Thanks to our cooperation we will create synergies that will enable us to accelerate our growth strategy in North America.”

Hubert Trunkenpolz, Member of the Executive Board at KTM AG, said: “We are extremely excited to start a new partnership with such a historic motorcycle brand. Our brands are going from strength to strength everywhere in the world, particularly in North America where we will exceed 100,000-unit sales in 2022 with the KTM, Husqvarna and GASGAS motorcycle brands. Taking on the distribution of the MV Agusta brand will complement our extensive premium motorcycle range. With the addition of the most iconic Italian luxury motorcycle brand to our KTM North America operations, we are able to ensure support to all North American motorcycle enthusiasts as well as bringing exciting new business opportunities to existing and new dealers.”

CLASS LEADING MODELS ENHANCED WITH A SWEDISH INSPIRED LOOK PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE BRAND´S RICH RACING HISTORY

Building on the proven technical platforms of Husqvarna Motorcycles’ 2023 motocross and enduro ranges, the exciting Heritage models are competition-focused machines designed for racing at the highest level. Enhancing these world-renowned offroad machinery, a distinctive new look inspired by the Swedish heritage of the brand, together with black anodised EXCEL rims, create an understated and exclusive appearance.

Delivering true motocross and enduro performance, the Heritage models are capable of competing on a global stage as standard. Both comprehensive ranges include 2-stroke and 4-stroke models with each one equipped with the latest technical advancements and premium components to give all modern racers a decisive advantage.Remaining competitive in top-flight motocross and enduro, Husqvarna Motorcycles has secured 15 FIM Motocross World Championship titles since Swedish racer Bill Nillson claimed the brand’s first in 1960.Honouring the racing achievements of Bill and those who followed in his successful footsteps, a limited run of motocross and enduro machines have been created with a special livery. Inspired by the racing machines of the past, the unique look celebrates and pays tribute to the rich, competitive history of Husqvarna Motorcycles.

2023 Heritage Motocross Technical Highlights

• New Husqvarna Racing heritage-inspired graphics
• New high-strength EXCEL alloy rims provide excellent durability and a premium finish
• New bodywork with specifically tailored ergonomics for easier movement on the motorcycle
• New hydro-formed chromium-molybdenum frames significantly improve anti-squat behaviour
• New topology-optimised die-cast aluminium swingarm provides optimal rigidity and low weight
• New throttle body fuel injection on 2-stroke engines ensures class-leading power and rideability
• New FC 250 and FC 350 DOHC engines deliver class-leading torque and peak power
• New Quickshift sensor ensures seamless upshifting on all 4-stroke models
• New electric start on both 2-stroke models
• New aluminium-polyamide hybrid subframe construction provides specifically calculated rigidity and advanced durability
• New WP XACT 48 mm front forks with AER technology offer more progressive end-of-stroke damping
• New WP XACT rear shock design with CFD-optimised main piston and tool-free adjusters
• New multifunctional Map Select Switch also activates the Quickshifter, Traction, and Launch Control
• High-performance Brembo hydraulic clutch system
• Premium-quality ProTaper handlebars
• Electric start powered by a lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery
• 

2023 Heritage Enduro Technical Highlights

• New Husqvarna Racing heritage inspired graphics
• New high-strength EXCEL alloy rims provide excellent durability and a premium finish
• A two-piece carbon fibre composite subframe weighs just over 1 kg and is a major contributor to outstanding handling and rider comfort
• WP XPLOR front forks and WP XACT rear shock for consistent damping and exceptional handling
• Two Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) maps on 4-stroke models plus Traction Control
• Two selectable ignition curves and automatic fuelling adjustment on 2-strokes
• Advanced linkage progression, shared with the Husqvarna motocross range, for optimum control and comfort
• Pankl Racing Systems 6-speed gearbox with enduro specific ratios
• Unparalleled attention to detail and high-quality components ensure an exceptional riding experience
• Class-leading Michelin Enduro tyres as used by Husqvarna Factory Racing for superior traction

To enhance the Heritage models, an extended list of Technical Accessories allows riders to improve engine performance, handling, and durability of their machine. Included in the comprehensive range of competition-focused components are triple clamps and wheelsets developed with Husqvarna Factory Racing, together with exhaust systems, sprockets, and protective parts.Exciting new lines added to the Apparel Collection include a premium Moto-10 Spherical Railed Helmet and Origin Shirt. Both are designed to match the distinctive Heritage machines with comfort, safety, and style.Characterised by the unique new look, matching blue seat cover, and black EXCEL rims, the Heritage models are available from now onwards worldwide in limited numbers at all authorised Husqvarna Motorcycles dealers. Availability may differ from country to country. For details on pricing and availability, please refer to your national Husqvarna Motorcycles subsidiary or importer.

The complete 2023 Husqvarna Motorcycles Heritage media kit is available at:press.husqvarna-motorcycles.com

Yamaha Motor Europe is pleased to announce that 2021 Moto2 World Champion Remy Gardner will contest the FIM Superbike World Championship with Yamaha from 2023, after an agreement was reached this week with the 24-year-old Australian.

Gardner has enjoyed a successful career in the Grand Prix paddock, which began with three wildcard entries in the 2014 Moto3 World Championship. After completing his first full season the following year, the Australian impressed on his Moto2 debut as a replacement rider at Barcelona, which saw him retained for the remaining 2016 rounds.Gardner became a consistent points-scorer in the championship over the next few seasons, and in 2019 he scored a breakthrough podium with second in Argentina. In 2020, he was one of the Moto2 standouts, celebrating four podiums including a stunning maiden victory at the Portimão finale from pole position, ending the season sixth in the standings.

In 2021, Gardner enjoyed several exceptional performances, winning five times and taking 12 podiums, while he placed inside the top 10 in every race he finished. He was crowned the Moto2 World Champion at the Valencia finale, before being promoted to the premier MotoGP class for the 2022 season.

In his MotoGP rookie season, Gardner has demonstrated strong progression and a level of determination that will serve him well in 2023, as he takes on a new challenge aboard the race proven Yamaha R1 in the GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team.

Andrea Dosoli

Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager

“Remy is an exciting young talent, who boasts an impressive career inside the Grand Prix paddock. We are obviously delighted to have a rider on board who’s not only shown great progression but has experience at the top level of motorcycle racing. We believe that he is the perfect fit for Yamaha’s WorldSBK programme and are keen to see what he can do on one of our R1 WorldSBK machines. We’d also like to thank Garrett Gerloff for his commitment to Yamaha these past three seasons and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Constantly growing in the current season, the rider from Tavullia will still race on the Ducati Desmosedici GP. He will share the garage with Marco Bezzecchi who has signed a two-year contract in 2021

Tavullia (Italy), September 12th 2022 - The 2023 line up of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team that will race on the Ducati Desmosedici GP is completed with the signing of a new contract for the next year. In fact, Luca Marini will once again wear the yellow and black of the Tavullia Team in 2023. Alongside him, Marco Bezzecchi with a two-year agreement signed at the end of the last season for his debut in the Top class.A confirmation, that of Luca, the result of the great work of the technical team, a stripe of positive results throughout the season and an incredible fast pace held in this second half of the Championship where he impressed everyone with three consecutive Top5s after the summer break. For the 25-year-old from Tavullia, rookie in MotoGP in 2021 and runner-up World Champion in Moto2 in 2020, a constant and continuous progression with ambitious goals for the future.To Marco Bezzecchi, currently the best rookie and on the podium for the first time in the premier class at Assen last June, instead the other Ducati of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team as per the two-year contract valid from January 2022 for two seasons.