Cormac Buchanan has become the third AGR Racing rider in just three years to earn a world championship contract.

The 18-year-old New Zealander will link with BOE Motorsports to contest the 2025 Moto3 World Championship, following in the footsteps of former AGR riders Collin Veijer, of the Netherlands, in 2023 and Joel Kelso, of Australia, in 2022.

AGR team manager Anscari Nadal said it was testament to the team’s commitment to develop talented riders from around the world.

“The job is done. We have another international rider, in this case a New Zealander, into the world championship,” he said.

“That’s why riders come to AGR. We have a reputation for helping riders get faster and putting them in world championship. I’m super excited and happy that Cormac can join such a good team like BOE Motorsports. To have three riders in three years progress is something we can all be very proud of.” 

Buchanan rated his time under the guidance of Nadal and his team as instrumental in his success.

“The past three years with AGR have been crucial in helping me evolve as a racer and I can’t thank Anscari, my crew chief Javi, rider coach Angel and the entire team enough for the role they have all played,” he said.

“They put their trust in me when I hadn’t even scored my first points in Europe to now this year securing two podiums and a pole position so far. It wouldn’t have been possible without them believing in me. They have played the biggest role in my journey so far and I will be eternally grateful for that. The final round in Estoril will be emotional for sure.”

Buchanan was rapt to be taking the next vital step in his racing career. 

“My goal for this year was to earn my place in the Moto3 World Championship and to be able to step up into those elite ranks with a team the calibre of BOE Motorsports is a great privilege. It’s a team I’ve looked up to since my ambition to be a world championship rider was first ignited,” he said.

“For me it’s a crucial stage in my career and one step closer to my ultimate dream so I’m really excited to get 2025 underway. 

AGR riders will contest the final round of the 2024 FIM JuniorGP at Estoril, Portugal, from November 25-27 after the racing was rescheduled due to the devastating floods in Valencia recently. 

South African rider Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane will contest the 2025 FIM JuniorGP World Championship with AGR Racing.

Mononyane, 17, has impressed since making his Moto3 debut – his work ethic and positive attitude fueling his progress on the track.

“I’m very excited and privileged to sign another year with AGR and have the opportunity to work with a team that has a strong history of developing champions,” he said.

“I’ve always been someone who thrives on a challenge and I know at AGR they will push me to improve in every aspect of my performance. The racing journey isn’t easy and there are moments where it feels like nothing is going your way and that’s where being in the right team environment becomes so important.

“My goal next year is not only to be competitive but improve my attributes off track too. All these goals will be achievable with a team so experienced and professional and I’m more motivated than ever to make 2025 a standout season in my racing career.”

Mononyane will contest dual championships again in 2025 after being invited to return to the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup for a second season. 

AGR team manager Anscari Nadal said he was delighted to re-sign Mononyane.

“We will continue to work together and to learn. I love KJ as a person and, as a rider, I think he has a great attitude and we can get the best out of him,” he said.

“Next year I believe KJ can make a positive step in both Rookies Cup and the JuniorGP championship with AGR and I hope to be able to find the best KJ possible. He is a guy who puts in the effort, is focused and loves racing so for me it is a pleasure to help this kind of rider in his goal to world championship.”

AGR Racing was battling at the front of the races during round six of the FIM JuniorGP World Championship staged at Motorland Aragon today.

In the European Talent Cup division, American Kristian Daniel Jr unleashed his best performance so far, nabbing the hole shot in both races and leading the field in stages before finishing an impressive P7 and P8.

“For me it’s been the two best races of my ETC career so I’m really happy. I wasn’t 100 percent confident because I qualified P2 in the rain so in the dry I didn’t know if I had the pace. I just pushed as much as I could. Hole shot in both races was super awesome for me,” he said.

“I improved and learned a lot in both races. I adapted to all the scenarios like the heat and the tyre wear and the bike honestly performed the best of the whole season for me. I felt super fast and I knew I had the pace in both races to be fighting for the podium so it was disappointing to drop back a bit. But it’s a really good booster for the team and motivation for me to train harder and do everything we can for the last round at Valencia.”

Teammate Afonso Almeida, of Portugal, demonstrated his potential to claim P19 and P23 in the competitive field of talent.

“It was my best weekend of the season. I felt really good on the bike in the wet and the dry conditions and I improved every session on track. Now we need to continue this momentum,” he said.

“Many thanks to my team for the great work they have done over the past days. Now it’s time to get back to work and get even stronger for the final round.”

In the sole JuniorGP race, New Zealander Cormac Buchanan battled to finish P6, missing out on his fourth top five of the season by the slimmest of margins.

“I’m somewhat happy. It’s a really good result for the championship in that we’ve closed in from 25 points to 16 points to second overall heading into the last round at Valencia where anything is possible,” he said.

“There is a bit of a bittersweet taste as to what could have been. I had a strategy going into the race with the focus on conserving my tyres for the end which is a massive part of the equation here at Aragon. It definitely worked in the sense I was able to finish really strong going from P12 to P5.

“Looking back now I was probably a bit too conservative in the opening laps and left myself too much work to do where I should have sacrificed some of the tyre. But overall, I’m happy with the race given it’s the first time I’ve had to ride with such a focus on the saving rubber. We were so close to P5 except a scrappy last corner with another rider denied me that on the line.

“We’ve been really focused on our goals and sticking to our own plan all weekend so it’s good to have a decent result after the disappointment of Jerez. Now we go into Valencia with the chance to fight for second overall and I will work hard to make the most of that opportunity.”

Owen van Trigt, of the Netherlands, overcame a difficult start to work his way back through the field and claim his first JuniorGP point with P15.

“The race was not bad. I struggled with the start and then someone crashed in front of me which cost me some places but I made up for it and overall we are happy with the result,” he said.

It was a frustrating race for Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane, of South Africa, who had to settle for P25.

“At the start of the race, I made some good overtakes and got myself into a position I was hoping for. But after the long lap I had to serve, I had a high side and even though I managed to save it, I ended up in the gravel,” he said.

“After that the bike just didn’t feel the same and it was a struggle to regather my rhythm so I just focused on finishing the race.”

Tyre management proved a factor in both European Moto2 Championship races. Nicholas Spinelli, of Italy, claimed a solid P8 and P5 while American Max Toth continued his comeback from injury to finish a respectable P16 and P14.

Spinelli rated race two as his better performance.

“I feel happy. The team did a modification in the bike and it was very good. In the last lap I’m very confident and I go faster but I do a battle with another rider and this compromised me for the podium,” he said.

“I am content and I need to continue in this way. We will see in Valencia.”

Toth leave Aragon happy with his performance and nabbing two championship points.

“Our pace after the midway point was really, really good comparatively to the front guys we just lacked that jump at the start,” he said.

“I had a shifter glitch in race one which set me back to dead last and I couldn’t get my rhythm initially, but I just had to keep a consistent pace which brought me back to nearly within reach of the points.

“We have to be happy because this is the best races we’ve had all year and I think we have to look at it as ‘this is how we’re starting, not how we are midyear’. So, it’s not a bad way to come back after five months of not racing. It was very tough physically but we will focus on continuing our conditioning to be in the best shape possible for Valencia.”

Kristian Daniel Jr has secured his first front row in the European Talent Cup, qualifying an excellent P2 at Motorland Aragon today.

Adding to the team’s success, his AGR Racing team-mates Cormac Buchanan (JuniorGP) and Nicholas Spinelli (European Moto2) will start on row two in their respective categories in the FIM JuniorGP World Championship races tomorrow.

All riders were forced to tackle tough conditions in qualifying but performed strongly in their sessions, completing a positive day of action.

Kristian, of the United States, scorched to the top of the class in Group B – his P1 in Q2 earning his place on the coveted front row for tomorrow’s two races.

“In practice I think I was still a little bit hesitant because of the difficult day we had yesterday and I wasn’t really pushing. I knew I had a lot more margin so I just put in as many laps as possible to get the experience in the wet conditions,” he said.

“In qualifying, every lap I was improving. The track conditions were changing to the point where slicks could have been an option but we pushed on and managed to get P1 for the group, on the final lap to make it a bit more exciting.”

Portugal’s Afonso Almeida handled the pressure of Q1 and earned the chance to contest Q2 in Group A of the ETC, where he finished P12. He will start from P24 in the races.

“While I struggled a bit more in Q2, I was still two seconds faster than Q1. I wanted a better result but I am happy because step by step we are getting faster. We are working very good as a team this week and I hope tomorrow in both races we make even more progress,” Afonso said.

New Zealander Cormac was the highest qualifier in the Moto3 trio, securing P4 for tomorrow’s feature race.

“All season long we’ve shown we can be fast in the wet so for me practice was about consolidating a position in Q2. The third lap we did that and the fourth lap I had an incident with another rider where I tried to pass him then unfortunately lost the rear and he ended up running over my bike. It was badly damaged but thankfully my team were able to work really fast and got me back out for the end of the session to bank some data,” he said.

“In Q2 the conditions were iffy and we weren’t sure if it was slicks or wets so I gave myself two laps to decide. I stayed out and pushed as much as I could in the early laps and held P3 for the majority of the session but ended up getting knocked back to fourth.

“It’s a really solid position and we’ve been working on our race pace all weekend so tomorrow’s the time to show it.”

Wildcard entrant Owen van Trigt, of the Netherlands, impressed during practice to bank his spot in Q2, where he finished 16th.

“Today was not too bad. The practice went well and the qualifying was just really difficult with the conditions but overall I am happy with how the weekend is going,” he said.

Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane, of South Africa, will start from P23. However, he will have to contend with a long lap penalty in the race due to a crash under a yellow flag.

“I have so much potential and worked hard with the team so I know I could have been up there fighting for the good grid positions but it wasn’t possible today because we had a lot of setbacks,” he said.

“We just got very unlucky and I know it will be a tough race tomorrow with a long lap. It will be fun to see how far I can push my limits and I will need to perform at my max so that is motivating. I still believe in myself to do a good race.”

In his debut with AGR, Spinelli, of Italy, will contest both European Moto2 races from P5.

“We started the day well. I feel good on the bike in the wet and I tried to push lap for lap but made a mistake near the end and crashed. But the feeling was good, I finished P2 and I am happy for this,” he said.

“In the qualifying, we choose the slick but it was the incorrect decision. We had to change and I got two laps. I am happy because the position is good but I am not happy because for me it’s possible to do better. Tomorrow is the race and we will see what we can do.”

Fellow Moto2 rider Max Toth, of the United States, was left to rue tyre choice and will have to settle for P18 on the grid.

“The day overall was really good. In the first session I surprised myself because I’ve never taken this bike out in the rain. To be that close to the front and go straight to Q2 was great especially given the struggles we’ve had and four months off the bike,” he said.

“In qualifying we simply made the wrong choice of tyres but I kept it upright, gained more confidence and I’m happy. It’s been a long time since I’ve been at a race weekend with a smile on my face for this long.”

Dutch teenager Owen van Trigt has signed with AGR Racing to contest the 2025 FIM JuniorGP World Championship.

van Trigt, who has previously represented the team in the European Talent Cup division, made his debut on the Moto3 at Jerez last month and is currently competing as a wildcard for the remaining 2024 races.

The talented 16-year-old jumped at the chance to join AGR permanently for 2025.

“This is the next step in my racing career and I am very happy to be making it with AGR Racing who have played a massive part in my journey over the past few years,” van Trigt said.

“The opportunity to compete in the last three rounds this year will be very beneficial to prepare for a full championship campaign in 2025 and I’m excited to keep learning and progressing in this incredibly competitive class.”

Team manager Anscari Nadal said van Trigt was a strong addition to the AGR environment.

“Owen has been performing really well on the Moto3 and for sure he will continue to excel as he gains more experience on the KTM machinery,” he said.

“I am excited to see him work hard and, with our help, maximise his potential as a racer.”

MotoE World Championship racer Nicholas Spinelli will make his Moto2 debut with AGR Racing at Motorland Aragon next weekend.

The experienced campaigner, who finished a commendable 7th overall in the electric championship recently, will contest round six of the Moto2 European Championship with the team.

Spinelli, 23, was set to be part of the action at Jerez earlier this month but was unfortunately struck by illness.

Team manager Anscari Nadal was keen to see the Italian race after encouraging performances during testing.

“We are all looking forward to seeing Nicholas continue his Moto2 journey with us on race weekend,” he said.

A former Moto3 Italian champion, Spinelli has earned four wins and nine podiums since joining the MotoE ranks last year.

AGR riders take home valuable points and important progress from round five of the 2024 Finetwork FIM JuniorGP world championship at Circuito de Jerez Angel Nieto this weekend.

New Zealander Cormac Buchanan overcame adversity to secure two top 10 finishes in the Moto3 races. Due to a penalty in qualifying, he started race one from the back of the grid and scorched through the pack to put himself firmly in the battle for P4 but was forced to settle for P10.

“It was a fun race. I got into a rhythm and I felt that even when the tyre grip started to drop off, I was able to make even more moves. Getting to P10 and into the group battle after passing 23 bikes, I knew it was a really strong result against the odds so was prepared to consolidate the points if the opportunities to take more positions were limited,” he said.

Misfortune struck in race two when Buchanan’s rear tyre went flat after the opening few laps but he held his nerve to earn P10.

“I knew starting in 16th would penalise us a bit but I wasn’t prepared to use that as an excuse. After a few laps as we were closing into the group about 1.5 seconds ahead, it became very clear that our ability to fight was compromised due to the tyre deflating. So again, it was just a case of taking what I could from the situation. I could have pushed and tried to do something heroic but a top 10 is better than zero points.

“It’s a positive to finish inside the top 10 twice. We were one of the fastest but we didn’t get to show it due to a couple of mistakes. I will make sure that doesn’t happen again so we can arrive to Aragon in the best place possible. 

“We are still only 25 points from second in the championship and I am not going to give up until that chequered flag is waved at the end of race two in Valencia in November. I’m going to make sure this team gets the result it deserves.”

South Africa’s Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane had a solid day to earn P16 and P17.

“It was a difficult race but we managed the conditions without feeling like I was on the limit so I am happy for this,” KJ said.

“In the first lap, everyone was a tad more aggressive than me so I lost some positions. I managed to grab them back but I lost a lot of tyre in the process which impacted me in the final laps. 

“Fighting for the top 14, I made a move into the last corner and tried to overtake them on the brakes. I stopped the bike, got around the corner safely but, unfortunately, they slipstreamed me to the line so I just missed the points. But I’m happy I made a move instead of settling for a position without trying.

“As a team we made good steps and continue to move forward.”

In his Moto3 debut, Owen van Trigt, of the Netherlands, finished a respectable P27 and P21 – despite starting from pit lane in race one due to an issue with a new clutch.

“Overall, the pace was there and I have to be happy with that for my first races in the championship,” he said.

“I made some mistakes in the first lap but managed to catch the group in race two and make something of it into a good race. I am satisfied, I will learn from it and I think we can have some good races for the rest of the season.” 

Geoffrey Emmanuel, of India, narrowly missed out on the points in his Moto2 debut, finishing P16.

“The race was very good and we improved a lot of things. I was held up by another rider I just couldn’t get passed and then the tyre started spinning and I couldn’t do my best lap,” he said.

“We have a lot of positives we can take from this first race after reviewing the data so we know what we have to do to keep progressing strongly.”

In the two European Talent Cup races, American pilot Kristian Daniel Jnr finished P19 and P20 – a result which left the talented teen disappointed.

“I just didn’t have the pace. I didn’t feel comfortable on the bike, made a few mistakes obviously. It is what it is and we will look forward to the next round in Aragon,” he said.

Afonso Almeida, of Portugal, finished an impressive P4 in the last chance race but wanted more. 

“It was not the result that we expected but it was another week where I learned a lot. I am trying to keep all of the information and continue to apply it every time I am on the track,” he said.

“I had some mistakes but each of these make me stronger so from that perspective I can treat them like a victory, not a defeat. I will come to Aragon full gas.”

Qualifying served up a mix of fortunes for AGR Racing riders as the 2024 Finetwork FIM JuniorGP world championship resumed at Circuito de Jerez Angel Nieto this weekend.

In the Moto3 ranks, Cormac Buchanan was the highest qualifier but was left unsatisfied with P16 after a crash on the final lap of Q2 halted his aspirations for a better grid position. 

However, his first penalty for slow sectors will see the kiwi start from the back of the grid.

“Today was a day of two halves. The goal initially is always to go straight to Q2 and the feeling I had in practice was really nice and we achieved that. We had really strong consistent pace and didn’t need a reference point or a slipstream which is going to bode well for tomorrow’s racing,” he said.

“Q2 was a very windy session which made conditions challenging. We found ourselves in a difficult situation where we only had one lap with the new tyre which is not ideal. Obviously, me being a racer, I’m going to push as hard as I can and I had one lap to be either P15 or whatever I could do with the new rubber. I tried my best and we were 0.0 seconds away from pole but, unfortunately, I had another crash at turn 8.

“It’s frustrating and not where we want to be but we know our pace is one of the strongest even if we didn’t show it in qualifying. Tomorrow will be the time to have some fun and it will make for a more exciting race.”

Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane, of South Africa, will start from P20 – his best qualifying result of the season.

“In practice, I did push but I felt like I was coming up against a block. We made some changes to the bike and I took another step in qualifying. We tried to attack and even though it wasn’t quite enough, it is still my best qualifying result so we have to be happy with that. We are ready to race, tricky conditions or not, with the goal of closing the seconds to the front and being in a position to attack,” he said. 

In his Moto3 debut, Owen van Trigt, of the Netherlands, will start from P26.

“Qualifying was alright although I expected more but hit a bit of traffic which impacted the lap. I think we have the speed, especially in the hotter conditions, so we will see what’s possible tomorrow. My focus is to finish both races, learn and improve. It’s my first races so I will just enjoy the moment,” he said.

Geoffrey Emmanuel, of India, is relishing the chance to step up to the Moto2 championship and qualified P25 for tomorrow’s race.

“My first qualifying on a Moto2 was much better than expected. We had a good feeling with the new tyres and were able to improve every lap. I think we have more of a chance tomorrow so let’s have some fun” he said.

Fellow Moto2 rider Max Toth, of the United States, continues to recover from a leg injury sustained during a training incident and aims to return to AGR for the next round at Aragon in October.

In the European Talent Cup, American pilot Kristian Daniel Jnr cemented his spot directly into Q2 with a strong practice, but also suffered a crash on the final lap, leaving him to start P25.

“Overall today was good and I had really good feelings throughout. It wasn’t the best ending but I know I have really good pace for tomorrow and I feel really confident,” Daniel said.

“I had several confidence boosters on the track so that’s really reinforced what we are capable of. I’m excited for tomorrow because I know I can make something happen because my pace is for the top five. I’ve been strong at passing throughout the weekend and it feels like just doing a drill so let’s see what we can do when the lights go out.”

Portugal’s Afonso Almeida will contest the last chance race tomorrow morning in a bid to secure his spot in the main event – a challenge the team’s rookie was eagerly anticipating.

“It’s hard because I worked very hard for this weekend but it’s more experience and more track time. We have to see the positives on this because from mistakes we learn. In qualifying I was on a good pace but I didn’t calculate the lap correctly. I am trying my best and trying to learn the most I can,” Afonso said.

Talented Dutch teenager Owen van Trigt will make his Moto3 debut at the FIM JuniorGP World Championship in Jerez this weekend.

van Trigt returns to the AGR Racing environment after previously representing the team in the European Talent Cup division. This season he has opted to focus on training with 111 Management to hone his skills.

The opportunity to race emerged when permanent AGR rider Geoffrey Emmanuel, of India, opted to be promoted into the Moto2 ranks for the remaining three rounds of the championship.

Team manager Anscari Nadal said van Trigt deserved the chance to race after a committed effort to training.

“Owen is no stranger to AGR and we are happy we can provide this opportunity for him. With Geoffrey keen to step up to the Moto2, we were looking for a talented young rider to replace him on the Moto3 and Owen was a natural choice. He’s been training hard this year to be ready for any chance to race.

“I have no doubt Owen will continue to excel over the next three rounds as he banks more and more experience on the KTM.” 

van Trigt was eager get back into race mode at Circuito de Angel Nieto in southern Spain.

“I’m excited to get back on the bike again, especially to race. You can train hard but nothing fully compares to racing. That’s what we’re here to do,” he said.

“The Moto3 is completely different to ride – there are more things to concentrate on doing right and connecting it all together to try and find the ideal lap. It’s a great challenge which I’m really enjoying.”

AGR Moto2 rider Max Toth has been ruled out of the FIM JuniorGP World Championship in Jerez this weekend.

A leg injury sustained during an unfortunate training incident will prevent Toth from joining his AGR Racing team-mates when the championship resumes at the iconic Circuito de Angel Nieto in southern Spain.

 “A few weeks ago, another rider had a mechanical issue which impacted me on the track and effectively blew the back of my leg open,” Toth said.

“As I progress well through my recovery, both my family and my team agree it's best I don't rush the process. The focus is to return to my Moto2 at 100 percent health. I look forward to being back on a bike very soon.”

He was to be replaced by MotoE World Championship rider Nicholas Spinelli but misfortune also struck the talented Italian in the form of illness which has plagued several riders from the elite paddock.

Team manager Anscari Nadal was eager to see Max back in action.

“The entire AGR family sends Max our best for a speedy recovery. He really hasn't had the chance to prove his potential this season for reasons often outside of his control which is disappointing both for Max and our team,” he said.

“The situation did present an opportunity for Nicholas to continue his Moto2 journey after a positive test with us at Jerez recently. We were excited to see what he could achieve during the race weekend but unfortunately he has been battling the illness which ruled riders like Joan Mir out of MotoGP at Misano.“

AGR will have a presence on track in the Moto2 ranks with permanent AGR rider Geoffrey Emmanuel, of India, set to make his debut after opting to switch onto the bigger machinery during the test.

“Geoffrey is excited to step into this new challenge and continue to gain vital experience,” Nadal said.

The Portimao circuit lived up to its reputation, delivering a rollercoaster of emotions for the AGR team.

Scorching temperatures added a new factor into the equation for round four of the FIM JuniorGP World Championship – and the action was just as hot on the track.

New Zealander Cormac Buchanan chalked up a fifth consecutive top five finish in race one of the highly-competitive JuniorGP Moto3 class.

Two rodeo-style saves as he battled in podium contention certainly thrilled the fans and was testament to his determination.

“I was really happy with my pace in the first race and actually couldn’t stop grinning under the helmet making fun overtakes and battling hard. It was a blast,” he said.

“The heat certainly contributed to losing grip in the rear and I was faced with grip issues a lot earlier than I had anticipated – hence the two cowboy-esque saves.

“I was really motivated to fight for a strong result so there was no question, I was going to push through the challenges. As a racer you always want more and, on reflection, I believe a podium or better was possible, but I had to be content to cross the finish line fifth.”

Unfortunately, Buchanan’s luck ran out in race two, crashing with another rider on the second lap. Despite the team’s best efforts to get him in a position to rejoin, it was not possible.

“I was gutted to crash as I really wanted to continue our excellent momentum during the first half of the season and keep adding points to my championship tally. But this doesn’t take away from the great weekend we’ve had being in the front positions in every other session, nor the podiums and pole we’ve already achieved. It just leaves me hungry for more when the season reignites at Jerez in September.”

His fellow JuniorGP riders recorded their best race results of the season.

South Africa’s Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane snatched points in both races, finishing 13th and 15th respectively.

“It was the best race of my season and I really needed this because now we know where we stand and what we can do. We just have to have a better Saturday with the qualifying so I can start in a stronger position,” he said.

“I can call it a weekend I am proud of.”

India’s Geoffrey Emmanuel earned 24th and 26th, making strong progress over the past two days.

“It was a very good race weekend. We had good pace and it’s the closest I’ve been to the top this season,” he said.

It was a frustrating day for American Max Toth in the Moto2 ranks, a bout of illness coming back to haunt him. Forced to withdraw halfway through race one, he was physically unable to start the second.

“I just don’t have any words. I got really sick Thursday night, that screwed up our Friday and then Saturday was fine and now the illness has screwed up race day,” he said.

“Hopefully this bad luck will halt soon.”

In the sole European Talent Cup race, Kristian Daniel Jr, of the United States, secured points but was ultimately disappointed with his P14 effort.

“This was probably one of the hardest races I’ve raced this year. I was struggling the whole race with this wind, I was doing everything I could but ended up just over-riding too much and tired myself out,” he said.

“The heat affected me endurance wise which made it harder to hold the pace. I will keep training for these conditions and try the next race.”

Portugal’s Afonso Almeida earned himself a spot on the grid for the main race after finishing third in the last chance event.

“I knew if I finished third I could make the grid so I was intelligent. I felt I could win, but I stayed in third place instead of taking risks,” he said.

“It was a hard race because it was very hot and the tyres were a little bit finished. I was very tired and the bike started to move a lot becouse of the heat. I got to battle with some riders which was a lot of fun.

“I know I can do better and my goal in the next race is to qualify straight through and fight for a good grid position and then points in the race.”

AGR riders have positioned themselves strongly to fight for top honours in round four of the FIM JuniorGP world championship at Portimao.

In challenging conditions as the temperature soared, riders kept their cool on track to secure their grid positions.

In the Moto3 ranks, New Zealander Cormac Buchanan continued his impressive form and will start from P7 on the grid for both races tomorrow.

“I am confident we can achieve an excellent result given the times are so incredibly close and just 0.18 seconds separated me from pole position,” he said.

“Tomorrow I have two opportunities to reward my hard-working team and you can bet I will be giving it my all to achieve the best result I can, focusing on my processes to get the job done.”

His fellow JuniorGP rider Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane, of South Africa, finished the day determined to improve from P26.

“Today was pretty difficult for me as I tried really hard to get back to the pace we achieved yesterday. I know I have the potential but the changing conditions affected what we could achieve,” he said.

“It’s my first time here and I am really enjoying the track and the challenges of it. My grid position adds to that challenge but I know I am capable of more – I just need to find that confidence we have been looking for all weekend.”

India’s Geoffrey Emmanuel will kick off proceedings from the back of the grid but was pleased to qualify in the mix.

“We had a lot of work to do today but we did manage to get the job done. We have a really good feeling for the races and I’m ready to go all out,” he said.

On the AGR Moto2 machine, American racer Max Toth overcame a bout of illness and zero practice time to put in a stellar performance and qualify straight to Q2. He will start from P18 for both races.

“It was a bittersweet day. We made a big step getting a direct placement into Q2 and I think we had a really competitive lap time for that which boosted everyone’s morale. Unfortunately Q2 didn’t go to plan as we had bad positioning from the start, weird laps

For the sole European Talent Cup race, Kristian Daniel Jr, of the United States, earned himself P6 in his Q2 group.

“This is my best qualifying so far in the dry and I know I could have gone a little bit faster but the wind played against us. Overall, I had a really good feeling today and I’m excited to see what’s possible.

“The bike has been performing really well all weekend. For the race I’m going to focus on staying calm as I know I have the pace to stay with the front group – I just need to eliminate the mistakes which have hindered me at times this season. It’s one shot and one opportunity to show what I can do.”

In his rookie year Portugal’s Afonso Almeida will contest the last chance race to earn his spot in the main event.

“It’s not the result I wanted today but this is a learning year and I will take the experience. My lap times mean I will start from pole which gives me a chance to really fight,” he said.

Afonso Almeida’s journey to the FIM JuniorGP ranks hasn’t exactly been smooth but it has built a resilient young man determined to achieve his dream of racing MotoGP.

The personable 14-year-old joined the AGR Racing team this year to contest the European Talent Cup and continues to impress with an unwavering dedication.

“It is my dream and I want it,” he said, matter-of-factly.

“I love everything but the most is racing and competing. If I can’t race to go to MotoGP one day, I will stop because it is the competition I love and chasing the dream. What I love most is racing bikes, not just riding the bikes. It is the feeling and the adrenaline.”

Almeida twisted the throttle on his first motorbike as a fearless kid.

“This all started because of my dad and my mum. They met through motorcycles. I told my dad I want to ride a bike and when I was five years old, he put me in one motocross camp and I didn’t like it so I decided to switch to football,” he recalled.

“At 8-years-old, my dad met Paulo Oliveira and he asked if I wanted to try a road bike. I loved it because it was really different to motocross. It sparked my passion.

“My first race was really bad – I finished last, really last. The guy ahead of me in second last lapped me. My dad told me ‘we aren’t going to race, you can just have one bike and have fun with me at the kart tracks’. 

“I cried a lot and said ‘I want to race’. So, we trained a lot in the Oliveira Cup and I did fifth place and then I started to get some evolution.

“After the second race, I crashed almost in all the races for the rest of the year. But then the next year, I got the podium in my first race and finished third in the championship.”

The following three years were spent honing his skills in the competitive ESBK Championship, first in Moto-4 before moving up to Pre-Moto3 last year where he was consistently battling for the podium.

“I started to see my potential and get better results. I learn all the time,” he said.

His trophy cabinet is filling up with dual Portugese championships in the Moto-4 class in 2020 and 2021 and the Oliveira Cup in 2020. 

He is thriving in the professional AGR setup.

“When I came into the paddock and saw all the big trucks and the box, I knew it was the environment I wanted to be in. I love the atmosphere and the whole rider life of training to be the best and working hard to be the best. It is my motivation,” he said.

“I like a lot my teammates because they all push me and have been on this journey already. It helps me understand the evolution that’s possible and to get better. Sometimes when you have a bad result it’s hard to think you can do better. When something bad happens, in that moment it feels like the worst moment of my life. And then two days later, I realise it’s not so bad. So the guys really show me that it is a long career, there is good and bad in racing and it’s just a moment in time so we keep working.”

He doesn’t have too look far for motivation with Portugal’s Miguel Oliveira etching out a stellar MotoGP career.

“It’s not just because he’s Portugese, If he was Spanish or English, I would still like him a lot because, yes he is fast and a good rider, but he’s a really good person,” Almeida said. 

“One thing I like a lot is that he is one of the only MotoGP riders that finished school. I am very proud of him because of that. For me and my family, the school is very important and he did it and still achieved MotoGP. That inspires me because I don’t like school but I think ‘if Miguel can do it, I can do it’.

Now his focus is firmly on the undulations of Portimao, a circuit he rates highly.

“I know this track and I am confident we can do a good race weekend here,” he said.

“What I like the most, I’m not saying the downhills because everyone says that. I’m saying this is like a confidence track and I have confidence with the bike and I’m a little bit crazy so I like to explore the limits of the risk and this is the track for that.”

Cormac Buchanan fighting for the podium and Max Toth in the points are two of the highlights the AGR team takes from round three of the FIM JuniorGP World Championship in Barcelona today.

In both Moto3 races, Buchanan achieved an impressive P5 after race long battles, narrowly missing victory by just 0.4 and 0.5 seconds respectively.

“Two very difficult races but we were in the hunt. We want podiums but it’s more important to be consistent,” he said.

“In both races, I was patient within the group before pushing when it really counted. In race two, the last laps were crazy with a lot of pushing and contact and I ended up getting shifted back to fifth. 

“Given this was the track which was my most difficult last year, I’m proud of the progress we have made and we leave with really vital points for the championship. 

“It’s a race weekend we can be really proud of, especially considering the races were two of the biggest battles this season so far. Now I’m looking forward to Portimao where I’ll be looking to take another step.”

His fellow JuniorGP rider Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane, of South Africa, narrowly missed out on the points, finishing a credible P16.

“I felt comfortable with the bike and it felt easy to overtake and make the pace. I just couldn’t strategise well with managing the tyres which affected the results,” he said.

“But I ended both races much closer to the front than the previous round so the progress is there. I need to focus on qualifying because getting a better grid position will put me in the hunt for the front group. The race pace is there but the one lap time we need in qualifying I am struggling with.” 

On the AGR Moto2 machine, American racer Max Toth marked his return from injury with a courageous performance to bank valuable championship points in both races. 

“It feels good. Finally, we have points on the board – even if it did come with a little bit of luck from some people crashing. We started the race and we finished the race so that’s the important thing,” he said.

 “We gathered a lot of good info and we’re not as far off as we initially thought we were. It’s just going to take a few little things to get to the pace that we want.

“The important thing now is to recover because we are nowhere near full physical fitness and I felt it in both races. I think these were the hardest 32 laps of my life and I’m going to need to continue an intensive recovery to let my body heal.

“We have a month now to the next race weekend which is a good amount of time to train, recover and just sharpen everything up that we need to so we can make steps to the front.”

In the European Talent Cup race, Kristian Daniel Jr, of the United States, made progress from his grid position to finish P17. 

“I did a decent recovery job to end the weekend in a positive way. Obviously, I didn’t finish where I wanted to but I know for sure it was good to get back on the bike, go quick and get back into my rhythm so I was happy for that.

“I set myself up for a challenging race after messy practice and qualifying days. I am frustrated with myself because I know I could have gone better but it is what it is – I just need to improve on making sure my whole weekend is successful, not just race day. For me it’s now time reset and prepare for Portimao so we can have some more fun.”

In his rookie year, Portugal’s Afonso Almeida contested the last chance race, earning P7.

“I expected more and I tried hard to qualify. I am really sad because the team and I did a great job and our results don’t show how hard we are working. I still learned a lot this weekend and this is a learning year for me. We are still pushing and I will try my best at Portimao,” he said.

Tricky conditions threw up some challenges for AGR riders at the FIM JuniorGP World Championship in Barcelona today, setting the team up strongly to perform on race day tomorrow.

In the JuniorGP ranks, Cormac Buchanan topped the time sheets to claim P1 in a wet practice, progressing straight to Q2. In the second session, strong pace on the final lap had him in the hunt for the front row of the grid before a high-speed crash forced him to settle for P7.

“Today is a day I can still be proud of, especially in the morning as I knew my pace in the wet has been good and we’ve been P1 in all of the wet sessions so far this year. In the dry it was a bit more of the unknown but I was confident we had strong pace from yesterday" he said. 

“In the second half of the session we put a new tyre on and I started to push. Unfortunately, I caught traffic and, although the lap was still good enough to put me in a solid place, I felt there was plenty more to achieve. 

“On the final lap my sectors had me on for the front row but I had a crash at the second to last corner. It’s a little bit unfortunate but it’s the best I’ve felt on the bike all season and I know my pace is there so it’s nothing to beat myself up about. These things happen and ultimately the race is where it counts.”

His fellow JuniorGP riders Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane, of South Africa, and Geoffrey Emmanuel, of India, finished P12 and P19 respectively in their Q1 session.

Mononyane will start the races from P26.

“There are some real positives to take out of today. It was difficult this morning to improve when the track started to dry out as I feel most comfortable in the full wet conditions,” he said.

“I went alone in Q1 and improved my lap times. I was focusing on getting my pace more than the lap itself. We aren’t missing too much and we will see what we can achieve in the races.” 

Emmanuel was determined to keep working hard.

“We had a good feeling with the bike but we couldn’t make it to the race after a crash during practice yesterday limited my track time,” he said.

“It is important to keep my head up and continue to work harder for the next round in Portugal.”

After battling injury, American racer Max Toth staged his long-awaited return to the track on the AGR Moto2 machine. 

“It was good to finally get some laps. Unfortunately, we’re still not close at all to 100 percent physical condition but the important thing is we are back and building our confidence up on the bike,” he said.

“We’re treating this more as a test instead of a race weekend. I’m just trying to do the best I can with the cards that I’ve been dealt and we will keep coming back stronger. Right now, we have to keep our feet grounded and our heads out of the clouds. We aren’t going to do anything crazy for the races tomorrow – there’s no worries, no pressure and no stress. I will just keep progressing at the pace my current physical condition allows me to.” 

Kristian Daniel Jr, of the United States, is ready to fight for higher honours in the European Talent Cup division where he will start from P28.

“We finish today overall with good vibes and we know where we need to improve. The lap time didn’t come together but I know I have the speed and fighting spirit to push my way up the field,” he said.

“The team and I are going all out tomorrow to achieve what we have been working so hard for. I will push as hard as I can in the race.”

Portugal’s Afonso Almeida will contest the last chance race in the European Talent Cup, fighting to earn his spot in the feature race.

“Today was a day where I learned a lot. I didn’t pass to Q2 because I had some difficulties to get a strong lap time, but I am confident for tomorrow because I’m feeling good with the bike and the team is doing a very good job.”

There comes a time when a dream must morph into a plan. That time is now for Kristian Daniel Jr.

The talented teenager has set a strategy in motion which he hopes will ultimately see him reach coveted MotoGP status. To achieve it, he is firmly focused on each vital step.

His next assignment is round three of the FIM JuniorGP world championship where he will compete in the European Talent Cup division at Montmelo, near Barcelona, this weekend. 

“This is my home race and I want to show my family especially that what they’ve given me is the chance to fight competitively against the best in the world. That is the greatest reward I can give them,” he said.

Living just a short drive from the iconic circuit, Daniel Jr regards it as “home turf”, despite retaining his American twang. He was just 9-years-old when his family moved to Spain from the United States in 2019.

“This does feel like home now, 100 percent,” he said. 

“I wanted to come over here and race because honestly the level is just so much higher than in the US. In order for me to get on par with the Spanish riders as early as possible, we decided to move.

“I don’t really know what my dad saw in me to make such a massive decision but he saw something special. I guess he saw the dream I had and wanted to support me in achieving that.

“I still identify as American most of all but I’m getting to the point where I am getting really Spanish in some of my traits. I lead two lives in some respects and it’s really cool to be able to do that.”

Daniel Jr achieved a crucial step on his racing journey when selected to contest the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup this season and has already impressed with top 10 finishes on debut.

“It feels good to be in the top 10 and get some good results but at the same time I want more,” he said.

“I know a lot of the guys in Rookies Cup and I just want to beat them. It’s definitely an advantage having raced against them in Europe over the past few years because it’s forced me to develop a Spanish mindset.

“Rookies Cup is where you prove you have the skills to go to the world championship so it’s a vital step on the ladder. And it really is the best visibility possible because we get to race side-by-side with MotoGP.”

He was steadfast that’s where his future aspirations are.

“If I keep working hard and I keep learning every year, maintaining the steady progression I’ve had, for sure I can get there. But I need to keep following my plan and stay grounded,” he said.

“My goal now is to finish the Rookies Cup in a good place in the championship and then look to go into the JuniorGP on the Moto3 to hone my skills further before going into the world championship and working up the ranks.

“I’m really happy the path is getting clearer and the results are starting to reflect the hard work my family and I are putting in.”

New Zealander Cormac Buchanan has secured his second consecutive podium, finishing third in today’s FIM JuniorGP race at Circuito Estoril.

In fast-changing conditions, the New Zealander opted to switch to slick tyres while on the grid and his experienced AGR crew quickly delivered.

Scorching off the line, Buchanan reinforced it was the right decision by leading the first six laps of the shortened 10-lap stanza. Forced to avoid a crash in the lead group of four riders, the kiwi battled to the line, narrowly missing out on second by just 0.04 seconds.

“It was a really good race for me. We went with the slicks last minute and it was still quite a wet track so the priority for me was to come home with some points. Third place is a solid result,” he said.

“I think today the win was on the cards but there’s a few little things to improve and that comes with experience. Avoiding the crash detached me from the leader so I think if that didn’t happen we could have been in for more but third is still really good points for the championship and we keep focused on this.

“With such a cold track the tyres weren’t performing to their optimum and I still had the wet set up so in those circumstances you have to consolidate. Considering where we were on Friday with the big crash and injury, I’m really happy to get another podium. 

“My plan was always to get away fast and try to make the group as small as possible. I made a strong start and pushed really hard in the opening laps. It was really difficult because the conditions were changing all the time but it was good to lead the race and I felt really comfortable so this gives me really good confidence heading into Barcelona.”

Fellow JuniorGP racers Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane, of South Africa, and Geoffrey Emmanuel, of India, finished 19th and 28th respectively.

“I had some good battles in the group but I felt I could have gone faster and wanted more. It’s the past now and obviously it was a difficult weekend but the learning curve continues. We have to look on the positive side and we finished the race, we gained some good data and got a lot of experience,” Mononyane said.

Emmanuel was satisfied with his efforts.

“We’ve made some good steps in both dry and wet conditions this weekend. I’ve worked on very important things so I’m looking forward to Barcelona to put them into action again,” he said.

In the European Talent Cup ranks, American Kristian Daniel Junior had a challenging day, crashing in slippery wet conditions in race one. Despite two long lap penalties for a jump start in the second event, he fought hard to finish P15 and get points on the championship ladder.

“After a good Saturday, it’s a little bit infuriating to end Sunday on this note. We had pretty good pace in the wet but I crashed out of 6th place in the first lap as I was too eager to get past and move up positions,” he said.

“In the second race, I barely moved but the FIM is super strict – and rightly so, they should be like that – and I got a double long lap for a jump start. We got P15 and it’s an improvement because we finished the race and got on the points ladder. We have the pace to be at the front and I proved that – in the next race we just have to push a little bit more and not make any mistakes.”

After suffering a knee injury in qualifying, Afonso Almeida showed impressive strength of character to complete both races.

“Today I considered not racing but then the motivation hit me as this is my home round in Portugal and I am the only one from my country on the grid,” he said.

“I tried my best to ignore the pain to finish the races as strong as possible. I’m not completely happy because if I wasn’t injured, I know I could do better. I want to say thank you to my team because we achieved my first goal of getting to Q2. My next goal is to catch the points and I am confident we will do that in Barcelona.” 

New Zealander Cormac Buchanan overcame incredibly challenging conditions to clinch pole position for tomorrow’s FIM JuniorGP race at Circuito Estoril.

Progressing straight to Q2 after a solid practice in the dry, Buchanan was forced to contend with rain and fog to determine his spot on the grid but reigned supreme by over 0.5 seconds from the rest of the highly competitive field.

“Every racer strives to be at the front of that grid and I am stoked to finally be able to claim my first international pole in the last lap!,” Buchanan said. 

“It’s interesting because this is my first time riding this type of bike in the wet and on the wet Pirelli tyres so I had a lot of different things to contend with. I knew that I’m quite good in the wet so just needed to stay calm and let the session come to me.

“In these difficult conditions, it’s always the last lap you make that’s the best as the track improves and you are aquaplaning less and less. 

“I just focused on getting to that last lap because honestly it was very easy to crash in that session. Finally, I was able to pull out a good lap and then I felt I had more to give and tried to push more everywhere and I was able to improve that time again and get pole.

“It’s good because I know I wasn’t riding on the limit and I am on pole. For me that’s really important and, wet or dry tomorrow, I know we can have a good race and keep rewarding my team for all of our hard work.” 

In the European Talent Cup ranks, American Kristian Daniel Junior delivered a fantastic result to finish P3 in group A so he will start from the second row.

“I had a really strong morning and I was confident for Q2. The rain changed the conditions completely but it was a really fun session. We came into it with an open mind and treated it like a testing session in the wet given it is likely to be raining for the race.

“I just went out there to feel how it was and we came back with P3,” he enthused.

“I’m honestly really happy because I didn’t crash, I felt super comfortable on the bike and I feel I could have pushed even more. 

“P3 is my best qualifying yet and, even though it wasn’t in the dry, it’s the same conditions for everyone and I beat riders who have had the edge on me for a while so it really feels good to have that pace.”

Fellow ETC rider Alfonso Almeida continues to impress in his rookie season, earning a place in Q2 for his home event in Portugal. However, an unfortunate crash hindered his progress.

“We tried our best and achieved the first goal of Q2. In the rain, I struggled to get a good feeling and then I crashed. I am still happy with the job the team and I did and tomorrow I will push the best that I can,” Almeida said.

Joining Buchanan in the JuniorGP event, Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane, of South Africa, will start P19 and Geoffrey Emmanuel, of India, on the back row.

Mononyane was agonisingly close to a spot in Q2, finishing P5 in Q1. 

“After the rain at the opening round in Misano, we had some base settings so we weren’t starting from scratch. We made some good laps but the tyre gave us some problems when we were feeling really good and battling to get into Q2. I had a crash on the fastest lap, losing the rear at turn two. 

Emmanuel feels ready for anything.

“I had a good feeling in the wet conditions for the first time and even in the dry we made positive steps. We won’t know the conditions for the race until tomorrow but we are ready for whatever is thrown at us.”

“The position is not the target, I want to keep improving my lap times and enjoy.”

Cormac Buchanan has rewarded our hard-working AGR team with its first podium of the 2024 season.

In a frantic race, the talented New Zealander battled right to the line to earn an epic third place in the FIM JuniorGP world championship – his first podium in the category.

“This is the moment I have been chasing. It is ultimately payback for all of the hard work and sacrifices my team and my family have made to bring me to this point. Little me would be so proud to see this dream realised, standing on this podium in Europe against the best talents in the world,” Buchanan said.

“It makes me so hungry for more and we will keep striving for that top step. It is important to continue this positive trajectory and achieve what we know is possible. I have the crew beside me to do it.

“For now we will enjoy this moment and then it is time to reset and refocus for Estoril in two weeks.”

Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane, of South Africa, launched strongly into the action of the first JuniorGP race and made excellent progress before crashing out from P14.

“I felt really confident overtaking and the good set up with the bike made me feel like I could push and try to reach the front group. Despite the crash I am pretty happy with race one,” Mononyane said.

“In race two, I stalled on the sighting lap and had to start on the back of the grid in P32. I was very aggressive on the first lap to try and get my positions back. Unfortunately, the front group had broken away so I pushed until P15 and consolidated my position. On the last lap, I touched the green and received a 3 second penalty which left me in P19.

“I am satisfied with how I progressed throughout the weekend and I feel like I can stick with the front group, I just have to strategise my races better.

“Thank you to the team and everyone who has helped me achieve these results early on in the season.”

In the ETC ranks, it was a day of contrast for our two pilots. Kristian Daniel Junior unfortunately was taken out in the hectic early stages of both races, while Afonso Almeida earned credible finishes on debut.

“It was a very frustrating day. I was making up some positions at the start of the race and got taken out by another rider. For it to happen again in the second race was just unbelievable. This is the hardest part of racing but we will reset and make the comeback strong,” Daniel Jnr said.

Almeida leaves Misano smiling his trademark cheeky grin.

“It was a very positive weekend. The team and I worked hard to reach our goals – the first to pass to Q2 and I did it. In the first race, I was battling the group but I failed one corner and I was back to P23. In the second race, I was again in the group and I battled hard and finished P20,” he said.

“Thanks to the team and my family and sponsors. Next, we enjoy my home track.”

While Geoffrey Emmanuel, of India, was ruled out of the race, he enjoyed watching the exploits of his teammates.

“I was disappointed not to be out there myself but I am proud of all of my AGR friends. I am looking forward to Estoril,” he said.

Italy’s iconic Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli launches another chapter in the history of the AGR team as the 2024 Finetwork FIM JuniorGP season officially revved into action.

Today’s qualifying sessions resulted in promising progress for all AGR riders across both the Moto3 and European Talent Cup divisions. Unfortunately, our Moto2 rider Max Toth was unable to take part as he recovers from a dislocated shoulder sustained on Thursday.

Team owner Anscari Nadal was satisfied with the day’s proceedings, a highlight being Cormac Buchanan’s impressive P4 qualifying for tomorrow’s two Moto3 races. The New Zealand rider was on track to challenge for pole before a red flag forced an end to the session prematurely.

Buchanan: “It was a little bittersweet you could say. We went out on old tyres in the first run just to warm everything up, check the track after the rain and get prepared for a time attack. All weekend we have been riding alone so my goal was just to go out with clear track in front of me which we were able to do. I was able to put in a good lap – it didn’t feel great to me but apparently it was good enough for P4.

“The next lap we were arriving onto pole position but unfortunately we caught a red flag. So, definitely a little bittersweet in that sense but we’ve gained a lot of confidence and can be happy with the work we’ve been doing on ourselves, our processes and our own path. For the race tomorrow, we will reset and focus on staying calm and consistent.”  

South African Kgopotso ‘KJ’ Mononyane and Geoffrey Emmanuel, of India, earned P8 and P19 respectively in JuniorGP Q1.

Mononyane: “We worked a lot and we are going in the right direction. Our result really doesn’t reflect the way I feel but I know I can achieve good progression throughout the season, starting positively from this first race.”

Emmanuel: “I had a better feeling with the bike than yesterday …I could turn faster and carry more speed. I learned a lot of different things from the other moto3 veterans. I am improving step by step and it is the right direction so I am looking forward to more.”

For AGR’s European Talent Cup pilots, Misano presented a new adventure and both impressed.

Experienced campaigner Kristian Danial Jnr, of the United States, progressed straight to Q2 where he achieved a solid P5 finish in challenging conditions.

Kristian Daniel Jnr: “We went straight to Q2, despite a small crash, so even though I feel I could have got a better pace, it was still good. I was actually a bit nervous going into the next session as it looked like it was going to be a rainy session so it was very mixed conditions. It ended up being super dry which caught a lot of people off guard. I just pushed my maximum and gave it my all. The team worked super hard and we made a big step so I felt more comfortable to be at the faster pace so let’s see what we can do tomorrow.”

In his ETC debut, Portugal’s Afonso Almeida fought hard for P3 in Q1 to earn his place in Q2, finishing P12 in his group.

Almeida: “It was my first time in this category and I’m very happy. After the practice I was a little bit nervous because my goal was to pass straight to Q2 and qualify for the race but we had to go through Q1. I’m grateful to the team because we did a very good job and let’s see what we can achieve tomorrow.”

Tomorrow all our riders and crew will give their best to achieve strong results for AGR.

AGR Team is pleased to announce the return of Kristian Daniel Jr to the team in order to achieve great success together. The young Californian talent, who was previously an integral part of the AGR Team for the 2021 season, returns with a new perspective and valuable experience gained over the past three years.

Kristian, will continue his development in  the European Talent Cup category with which he already has three years of experience. He made his debut in the Championship at the tender age of 12, making him one of the youngest drivers in his category. His return home is an exciting opportunity to continue his growth as a professional driver. As a team, we are committed to ensuring the success of this exciting joint venture.

With a dedicated team and a determined rider, AGR Team anticipates an exciting season full of achievements in the European Talent Cup. Let's go for it!

Anscari Nadal: "I am pleased with the return of Kristian Daniel Jr to the AGR Team. We will continue where we left off and work together to achieve our goals with success. Kristian is a more mature rider with 3 years of experience. He started the European Talent Cup when he was only 12 years old, the youngest in the category, which was quite an achievement back then! We thank all the sponsors who make this new adventure possible. Although the budget presents challenges, AGR is committed to overcome them and move forward with determination."

Kristian Daniel Jr: "I'm very happy to announce that I will be competing in the 2024 season in the ETC category with the AGR team, where I was already in 2021 and had my first contact with the category. I am sure it will be a very funny season, as I know most of the mechanics and data guys, I am more mature and older now and I know I can bring a lot more to the table. It's a very special season for me”. 

AGR Team is delighted to announce the arrival of Kgopotso Mononyane II, better known as KJ. The 16 years old rider will be competing in the Junior GP category.

Kgopotso is a talented rider from Johannesburg, South Africa, who will make the leap to the Junior GP category this season as part of the FIM Junior GP, an effort and learning experience that will be complemented by his first participation in the prestigious Red Bull Rookies Cup.

KJ has impressed on the circuits since he began his sporting career in 2017. His dedication and skills have led him to win national championships, such as the SUB500 National MRSSA series in 2023, and to compete in Italy (CIV), where he got experience in the PreMoto3 and Moto3 categories.

With this participation in both Championships, KJ will continue his sporting progression that has only one target, the target to bring a South African to MotoGP. AGR Team is delighted to welcome KJ and looks forward to an exciting and successful season together. Welcome, KJ!"

AGR Team is proud to announce the addition of promising Indian rider, Geoffrey Emmanuel, who will compete in the JuniorGP category during the upcoming season. His outstanding track record and dedication in previous seasons will bring great value to our team., consolidating his position as a professional rider. 

Geoffrey's passion for motorcycling began at the early age of 7, marking the start of his professional career. With four consecutive years at Honda Racing India since the age of 13, Emmanuel has demonstrated exceptional skills and unwavering determination. In 2022, he participated in the Hawkers European Talent Cup, becoming the first Indian rider to compete on stage at the age of 17 and in 2023, he made the step up to the JuniorGP category.

We are excited to see his progress and contribute to the development of his talent and this sporting union promises an exciting season!

Anscari Nadal: "Being able to have an Indian rider is a challenge, the target is to develop the rider and continue his progression in the FIM Junior GP and finally reach the promotion of a Wild Card in the World Championship. It is a mutual challenge for rider and team, but in AGR we like challenges and we will put a lot of impetus in finding out all the hidden talent of riders of different nationalities and will help them reach the World Championship".

Geoffrey Emmanuel: "I'm very excited to be part of the AGR Team and to be able to train with 111 Management to improve my career as a professional rider. I can't wait to live new experiences with my new team!"

AGR Team is excited to welcome the talented Portuguese rider Afonso Almeida for the 2024 FIM Junior GP season, competing in the European Talent Cup class. Almeida, a young rider coming from the Spanish Pre-Moto3 Championship, will make his official appearance in the European Talent Cup category, after having already been part of the team during the last FIM Junior GP. 

From the team, we are pleased to welcome him and be part of this exciting chapter in his career. We look forward to seeing him demonstrate his skills on the track with the AGR Team. 

Anscari Nadal: "I am very happy to be able to count on Afonso next year. The test race he did in Valencia was not only a demonstration of his ability on the track, but also an encounter that left its mark on him. At AGR, Afonso has found more than a team; he feels at home. The connection he has established with our staff is palpable, everything flows and that is a good sign. We are aware that the road ahead is long and challenging, but at AGR, Afonso will have the best travelling companions on his way to the world championship."

Afonso Almeida: "I am very excited and pleased to be joining the AGR Team. I hope it will be a very positive year of learning a lot and enjoying riding on the track. My first target is to gain experience and confidence with the bike, as well as to adapt to the team. Every time I go out on the track, I go out to win. I 'm very grateful for this great opportunity and I will give my best to achieve great goals together. We are ready for an exciting 2024 together!"

Two races in JuniorGP, one in Moto2 and one in the ETC closed the 2023 season for the AGR Team and its riders. The results in these last events were not what we expected, but riders and each member of the AGR Team gave everything until the last minute. 

2023 has been a season that, as every year, has given good and not so good moments. From the team we want to thank all the riders who have passed through our garage this year. We are already working to return stronger in 2024… We never give up

JUNIOR GP

Cormac Buchanan Race1 DNF / Race2 P20 Championship  14 Points  50

“Today I was one of the strongest on the track. In both races we did a nice start, but unfortunately another rider made a silly move and damaged my bike, which made me no possible to finish the race. In the second race it was more or less the same thing. Again another rider tried to make a silly move that cost me a lot of position. The next lap the same rider touched me and I crashed.I was able to remount and I think I finished P20. It not the end of the season I wanted nor the end of the season we deserved as we were one of the strongest. In the second race I really made a good start and was fighting in the front but things didn’t work in our way. I’m sure that in 2024 we can come back stronger. We got new goals for the next season and I’m sure we will achieve them.”

Torin Collins  Race1 P19 / Race2 P19 Championship  P29 Points  1

“This weekend has been a little bit emotional for me as it will be my last race in JuniorGP with this team and in Spain, so I was a little bit sad. Overall it went pretty good. The result was not amazing but I think it was a good way to finish the season. Looking forward to the future and I’m happy for what the team has done for me in the last two years.”

MOTO2

Mattia Rato P10 Championship  P4 Points  113

“It has been a complicated race. I didn’t start well and I really struggled in the first lap. Another rider tried to overtake me in an , let’s say, not appropriate moment, which disturbed me a lot. Later I managed to overtake him and another rider, and I started to ride alone. It was then when I found my pace. The shame is that the riders I had in front were too far away. And that was it.”

Sam Wilford P12 Championship  P13 Points  50

“Difficult end of the weekend, still suffering from an injury form eight weeks ago. I will take the winter to recover and come back next season fully fit to be fighting again where I think I can be. Thank you to the team for the work made and I hope to see everyone next year.” 

European Talent Cup ETC

Owen van Trigt  P20 Championship  P33 Points  1

“The day was OK. I didn’t do one of the best starts. The pace was OK, but too far from the front. The balance of the season is under the expectations I had, but the positive is that I have grown and learned as a rider this season.”

The FIM Junior GP traveled this weekend to Valencia to celebrate its last round of the season at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit. The weather in the form of rain and especially a strong wind has marked the two days prior to today's practice. 

It has been a difficult day because after being two days without being able to ride, riders went out to the track especially 'motivated'. An excess of desire that resulted in more than one crash. The AGR Team will have some more work to do tonight, but tomorrow our riders will have their bikes perfectly ready to face the last race of the season.

Special mention should be made of Sam Wilford, a home rider who fought so hard to get back on his bike after the very serious accident he suffered last year. The season that ends tomorrow has not met Sam's expectations for this year, mainly due to a ligament damage in one of his knees. From the team we want to put on record that we are sure that the speed he lacks will return once he has repaired this bad knee. Sam's best is yet to come, we are sure of it. 

JUNIOR GP

Cormac Buchanan P8

“Today was a very interesting day. I entered wanting just ride the bike after two days sitting around doing nothing.Unfortunately, in the practice session we did three laps and in corner 3I made a very big highside, one of the biggest in my career. I was in a lot of pain. This meant that I couldn't go straight into Q2. Anyway I was fast, so in Q1 I put a fast lap together, which was good enough to go to Q2. The Q2 session was quite difficult. At first because we missed the group in the first run, but in the last try I was able to make really fast sectors. I was one of the fastest. Unfortunately I was in a lot of traffic, which meant that I couldn’t put all my sectors together. So finally we start P8 for tomorrow’s race, but in an ideal lap I would have been on the front row. I’m a little bit disappointed but anyway I’m happy with the feeling and for tomorrow I’ll push.”    

Torin Colins P26 

"It has been a complicated day because of the wind. I couldn't get into Q2 straight away, and in Q1 I didn't feel comfortable at all. The wind was a nuisance today."

MOTO2

Mattia Rato P12

“A bad day, a difficult day. This morning I started having a good feeling, but Q1 was complicated due to the wind. I haven’t been able to do even one good lap. I lapped slow. In the afternoon we did an important step forward. With used tires i was one second faster. We had found the ride way. Then I put new tires and I crashed in a very fast point of the circuit. Fortunately I’m OK. Hope to have a good feeling tomorrow and do well.”

Sam Wilford P16

“A very strange weekend after not having any practice and going straight into qualifying. I hope tomorrow we can improve on our position and end the year on a high!”

European Talent Cup ETC

Owen van Trigt P15

"It was a complicated day because of the wind. Riding was very difficult. In the first session I felt comfortable on the bike and the feeling I had was that I was going fast, but in the end the time didn't come out.".

Afonso Almeida P23

It was a difficult day because after two days without being able to ride, the riders went out to the track especially 'motivated'. 

Unfortunately Afonso, who joined us this weekend, making his debut in the FIM Junior World Championship, suffered an accident entering the pitlane caused by a distraction. As a result of the crash the Portuguese rider will not be able to start tomorrow's race. 

From the AGR Team we can only regret this situation and wish him a speedy recovery. We wish to see him back on a motorcycle as soon as possible. 

AGR Team is pleased to announce the participation of Portuguese rider Afonso Almeida for the last round of the FIM JuniorGP at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit. Almeida, a young rider coming from ESBK, will make his first appearance in the European Talent Cup category. 

Anscari Nadal: "It is an honor for AGR to give this opportunity to the young Portuguese rider Almeida, who comes to us from the ESBK and has the recommendation of Paulo Oliveira. This will be his first participation in this category and our main objective is for Almeida to gain confidence with the bike and go from strength to strength".

Afonso Almeida: "I’m very happy for the possibility given to me to compete in the last race of the European Talent Cup in a team like AGR. I am very grateful to the AGR team, Paulo Oliveira and Miguel Oliveira Racing Team for giving me the possibility to live this experience. I'm going to do my best this weekend to show my gratitude to everyone who believed in me."

In terms of results, it has not been the best weekend for our riders, who in all categories have been affected by the penalties received yesterday, which relegated them to start in positions that did not match the results obtained in the qualifying sessions.

From the AGR Team management we want to congratulate our riders and our team workers for having given everything throughout the weekend, regardless of the frustration that has caused us what we have explained above. We are a strong, experienced and dedicated team, always and in any circumstance to our riders.

We are all looking forward to the month before the race in Valencia so that we can provide our riders with the best possible equipment, as we have done throughout the season. In the races there are times when things go well and other times not so well, but in the AGR Team we never stop rowing.

JUNIOR GP

Cormac Buchanan P20 Championship P12 Points 50

“Many different emotions after today’s race. Firstly, I’m very happy with thw work we have done as a team. The qualifying P2 was very good. A grid position that was taken from us in what might have been a not very fair decision, but ultimately it is a steward decision and we have to respect that. It made the race very difficult at first

but we went from P26 to P10 in six laps, but unfortunately when you have to come through the pack there is a lot of risk involved. Om lap seven or eight I lost the front. I was able to pick up the bike and carry on. Ultimately is not the result I wanted for this weekend. I’m a bit disappointed. If we had started P2, which is where we deserved

to start, maybe the race would have been different. Obviously we wouldn’t have to take as many risks and we may have been able to go in the front and all the way. After the race it was a disappointing result, especially for the team. We hope to come back strong in Valencia and finish the season in a strong way.”

Torin Collins P22 Championship P28 Points 1

“Was quite a fun race. The position at the end wasn’t what I wanted but in the first couple of laps I was very aggressive and I made some good passes. In the middle of the race I was not so fast and other riders passed me. From then on I had a very good battle until the last corner. Although the result was not the one I wanted, it was a fun race.”

MOTO2

Mattia Rato  Race1 P12 / Race2 P11 Championship P4  Points 107

“In race 1 i started not bad. At the beginning I was able to be fast but in the middle of the race the steering damper failed and riding turned very difficult. In fact, at a certain point I thought I had a puncture in the front wheel and ran off the track trying to control the bike. In race 2 I started OK. As in the previous race I was able to catch up some positions. I was riding well until midrace. But from there on I lost the rhythm and wasn’t able to ride well and lost two positions."

Sam Wilford Race1 P15 / Race2 DNF Championship P12 Points 46

“Challenging two races today. Not where we want to be, we will keep working as a team to come back stronger and finish the last race in Valencia on a high..”

EUROPEAN TALENT CUP (ETC)

Owen van Trigt

Championship P31 Points 1

Unfortunately Owen was unable to race today as fog prevented the 'Last Chance' race from taking place.

After almost three months of hiatus, the FIM JuniorGP World Championship called its riders for its penultimate event. The setting, the Motorland circuit in Alcañiz. AGR Team will be present in this race with five riders:

● Cormac Buchanan and Torin Collins in Junior MotoGP

● Mattia Rato and Sam Wilford in Moto 2

● Owen van Trigt in the European Talent Cup.

Fog has become an unexpected protagonist, causing yesterday a two-hour delay in the scheduled timetable, and a half-hour delay today. It may happen that tomorrow it will be an issue.

In terms of sporting activity, the day was characterized by the rigorous application of the revised rule at the last race in Barcelona, which penalizes riders more strictly the riders who deliberately ride slowly on the track.

The severe use of this rule has led to a massive penalty in all categories. This has resulted in many of the faster riders starting from the back of the grid tomorrow, with many slower riders ahead of them. From the AGR Team we want to point out that this can generate high risk situations in the early stages of the race.

Obviously in the AGR Team we are totally aligned with the organizer of the championship in correcting situations on track that may generate danger for riders during the practice sessions. We also agree that the rules must be rigorously applied. But at the same time, we claim that in order to avoid unfair situations these rules must be applied with criteria, individually, to avoid that, as in the case of one of our riders, he is penalized for riding slow on the pit exit lap, only in one sector.

All our riders, except Torin Collins, have been penalized by the new rule, so regardless of their times in the qualifying sessions, they will have to start tomorrow from the back of their respective grids. 

JUNIOR GP 

Cormac Buchanan P*

“What to say about today? Firstly, I want to say a big thank you to the team for the work we have been doing all weekend. We started a little bit slow but kept improving. Saturday morning started really well. I did my best ever lap time on this track, mostly alone, which was really nice. Unfortunately on my out lap I did a slow sector. I had to start in the back of the grid. In Q2 it was quite funny, we took this position as a motivation and we did a very nice lap that put us on P2. Even if we have a penalty I’m sure we can have fun. I’m confident that we can get to the front even so. I’m excited for the race tomorrow.”

Torin Collins P*

“Today was quite difficult. It didn’t go how I wanted to. My grid position isn’t very good but I’m confident for tomorrow’s race.” 

*At the time of closing this release the final grid configuration was not known.

MOTO2

Mattia Rato P15

“A bad day. I fell down. In Q1 I felt good, I had improved the bike, but after three timed laps I crashed. In other words, I couldn't get the best out of one tire or the other. In the afternoon I went out with a good feeling, but after one timed lap I crashed again. This led me to do the last three laps very sore. To this we have to add a penalty. The result is that in race #1 we will start from the back."

Sam Wilford P18

“Difficult qualifying today and a penalty for race 1 tomorrow which puts us back of the grid. We will still try to do the best job tomorrow and come forward in the races.”

EUROPEAN TALENT CUP (ETC)

Owen van Trigt Not classified for main race  

“There is not much to say, it has been a bad day. Right now I’m pretty upset.” 

With deep regret we announce the departure of the Australian rider Carter Thompson from AGR Team. So the team will compete at Motorland with only 5 riders.

Anscari Nadal: "It is very unusual to see a rider not finishing the season at AGR but from the team we could not do more, we have given all the facilities and we have done everything possible but this story must end here. We wish Carter all the best, first and foremost he is a good guy".

The AGR team is pleased to announce the renewal of the contract of Cormac Buchanan, one of our outstanding riders in the Junior GP category. After a season full of passion and excitement, we have decided to continue our sporting partnership with Cormac to further develop his racing career together.

Since Cormac joined the AGR team, he has shown incredible commitment and significant tenacity within the championship. The decision to renew his contract is  testament to our confidence in his ability to continue to represent the values and ethos of the AGR Team, both on and off the track. We look forward to the coming season and are confident that Cormac will continue to make his mark on the world of motorcycling.

Anscari Nadal 

"I am delighted with him and his work. We are already doing well this season, and we are sure that next season will be even better. We are very happy to have Cormac; he is a great person and a great professional, as well as being surrounded by a great family. We are delighted to help him achieve his goal of making the jump to the World Championship as quickly as possible."

Cormac Buchanan 

"I am very happy to be able to renew for next season. I feel that the team really has confidence in me. Throughout this year, we have made a big step forward; compared to 2022, we are now close to podium positions. I'm convinced that next season we can fight for the championship and the top positions.”

As yesterday, the heat was the protagonist of the fifth round of the FIM JuniorGP World Championship, held at the Montmeló circuit, which made it the home race. Today, Sunday, two races were held in the JuinioGP and Moto2 categories, and one in the European Talent Cup. Now the championship enters a kind of lethargy that will last until October, when in Motorland Aragon and Valencia the FIM JuniorGP will hold the two remaining events.

JUNIOR GP

Cormac Buchanan Race 1, P17 / Race 2, P11 

“First race today was very difficult as we did the wrong choice in the gearing. Out of the corners we had no drive and we struggled a lot in the race. We changed the gearing for the second race and we could then do a good race. I was riding calm, choosing the time to push. In the last 8 laps we went to P9. I had a lot of tire left. The riders around me were not slow, but I could pass them easily. But then we had a problem on the bike which meant that we weren’t able to ride fast. We were 4/5 seconds slower per lap. That costed us a good result today, as we had pace for the podium. As I stayed on the track, some crashes helped me to finish P11. Some points are still good and for sure we will come back stronger   

Torin Colins Race 1, P27 / Race 2, P18 

“In ther first race I run off track while riding in a group. I rejoined the race but in the very back and riding alone. The second race went clearly better. I rode in a group and we had some nice fights. I took advantage of some crashes that happened to riders in front which allowed me to finish P18. I would say it’s a positive result.”

MOTO 2

Matia Rato Race 1, P6 / Race 2, P4

“Two pretty good races. In the first I didn’t start very well and also a rider pushed me out of my line. I pushed to recover the positions.In the last laps I had a tough battle with Ierai. This time he won. In the second race the start was better, which allowed me to catch up a good number of positions. After the race was similar to the previous one. Little by little I was gaining positions. This time I was lucky because two riders who were in front of me crashed and this made me finish P4. Definitely we have to improve our qualifying lap, because our pace equals the one of the riders who fight for the victory.” 

Sam Wilford Race 1, P8 / Race 2, DNF

“A difficult 2 races for us today. I feel like we had good pace but unfortunately crashed out of race 2. We have made really good progress throughout the season but haven’t had the chance to show our potential. I look forward to coming back stronger in Aragon!”

EUROPEAN TALENT CUP (ETC)

Carter Thompson DNF

“Today I started not so bad. I was in the front group but wasn’t able to push through as I wanted as down the straight I haven’t as much speed as the other riders. I was able to catch up in the corners. About midrace I was caught up in an incident. I tried to overtake one rider and we hit and I crashed.”

Owen van Trigt P18

“I did a good start but in turn #1 I was pushed out of the line. I started to catch uo, joined the group which was riding in front of me. We had a nice fight and finally I finished in front of the riders I was racing with. the result is not what I expected, but I’m positive because i feel that this weekend we made a clear progress.”

The Circuit of Catalunya hosts this weekend the fifth round of the FIM JuniorGP World Championship, which will be the 'home race' for AGR Team. As usual, we are present with six riders distributed in three categories.

Under tremendous heat, with the track at more than 50º (122º Fº), today the free sessions were held and then the qualifying sessions that served to set the starting grid for tomorrow's races. JuniorMotoGP and Moto2 will race twice, the European talent Cup will race only once. 

JUNIOR GP

Cormac Buchanan P14

“It has been a difficult day. In the first practice at the start I did a decent lap riding alone but unfortunately we crashed, so I wasn’t able to improve that lap time. Luckily it was enough to go into Q2 straight away. In the Q2 session we didn’t make the best use of the new tire. Once we found a good pace on the track after we did not take out most of the new tire. We start P14 but I'm confident we can make a good comeback. Our goal is finishing in the front and I’m sure we can do that. We just have to wait and see how the race goes.

Torin Collins

“Today in practice I was able to make another step but the time wasn’t good enough to make me go straight to Q2. But I was happy with the progress we were making with our speed. In Q1 we tried a new strategy for us. It worked pretty good apart from m y two last flying laps with new tires. In the first lap a made a mistake, in the second lap a rider crashed in front of me. So it messed up my lap a little bit. Starting in the back of the grid is not where I wanted to for tomorrow but I’m still confident that I can perform well tomorrow.”

MOTO 2

Mattia Rato P11

"The key today was the set-up we went out with in the second run. I was one of the few who lowered the time in this session, as the hot conditions meant that most of the riders didn't improve their morning lap times. The position on the grid is not what I wanted, obviously, but I think I have the pace to be in the group that will fight for the top positions tomorrow.

Sam Wilford P13

“We will start tomorrow P13 of the grid. It is not where I thought we had potential for but hopefully we can move forward in the two races.”

EUROPEAN TALENT CUP (ETC)

Carter Thompson P4

“Today in qualifying I put some good laps in, had pretty good pace alone as well. I ended up P4 in the first session, which was pretty good. Could have been better but still positive. In the second practice it was a little bit harder. We had some problems with the rear grip so I wasn't able to put the fastest time in. We ended up P5 in the session but still P4 overall, so tomorrow should be good. I have a good pace so I think we will have a good race.”

Owen van Trigt

“Today was a good day. We did some changes on the bike that made me feel good. The second qualifying was good. I’m ready to race tomorrow. Full gas!".

Intense Sunday today in Portimao, where the FIM Junior MotoGP World Championship completed up to six races. For the AGR Team the fourth event of this championship has been an intense weekend in which the team has worked hard to put in the hands of its riders the most competitive bikes possible.

This weekend's results do not reflect the level of competitiveness shown by our riders in Portugal. In Junior MotoGP Cormac Thompson even led one of his races; in Moto2, Mattia Rato made a tremendous comeback in the first race, while in the second race Sam Willford put in his best performance of the season. The team is especially happy to see the best Sam back.

For our ETC drivers the weekend was not an easy one. Their races were affected by the lack of a good lap time in practice that would have allowed them to start further up the grid. Starting from the middle of the grid increases the risk of an incident in the first moments of the race, as it happened to Carter Thompson.

Junior MotoGP

Cormac Thompson Race 1 DNF / Race 2 P7

"In the first race I was really on fire. On the first lap I was P4 and soon after I was in the lead. Unfortunately I crashed out after that. I tried to get back into the race but it wasn't possible because of a broken shift guide. In the second race I had a good start, I was able to keep my position. I saw how the front group got away. My goal was to fight for the podium. But a driver touched me and took me off the track but I had lost a lot of positions. I was fighting for P4, to finally come in P7. It's not the result I was hoping for this weekend, especially the crash in the first race. I'm looking forward to the Barcelona race, where I'm sure we'll be fighting for the win."

Torin Collins Race 1 DNL / Race 2 P23

"My clutch overheated while I was waiting for the start and when the lights went out I couldn't get out of my position. I'm happy with the second race because I set my best lap time of the weekend, which means I've been improving. The final position doesn't reflect the reality of the race".

Moto2

Mattia Rato Race 1 P6 / Race 2 P8

"During the race, we had a slight problem with the bike that didn't allow us to have the right pace and finish in the desired position. The second race went better, but it was a complicated weekend from which we came away with points. Now we have to think about Barcelona to fight for the top positions".

Sam Wilford Race 1 P11 / Race 2 P7

"I'm happy that we managed to make a step forward in the second race. Hopefully we can keep the same line in the next race in Barcelona".

European Talent Cup

Carter Thompson P19

"Things didn't go as planned today. I had a pretty good start which allowed me to overtake some drivers in the first few corners. At turn #5 a rider almost crashed and in the manoeuvre to avoid him I went off the track. I came back on track but I was already in P24. I started to recover, I overtook the group in front of me and I thought I could make it to the next one, but the tyres started to feel the strain. I could make it up to two drivers in front of me, but it still wasn't a good qualifying. Now I'm just thinking about Barcelona."

Owen van Trigt DNF

"It wasn't the result I was hoping for because with three laps to go I crashed. But the positive thing is that my pace was going well up to that point. I am already looking forward to the race in Barcelona."

The FIM JuniorGP World Championship traveled this weekend to the south of Portugal to celebrate its fourth round. At the circuit located on the outskirts of Portimao, the riders encountered a very special track, unique in the world for its striking and continuous level changes, and for its high average speed.

The AGR Team faces this challenge with the same motivation as always and ready to give our riders the necessary tools to be able to perform at their highest level. As in the rest of the FIM JuniorGP rounds, the AGR Team is present in three of the four categories with its now classic line-up composed of riders of different nationalities. 

The free and timed practice sessions were held with good weather and the classic wind that blows in this part of Portugal. A wind that not only conditioned the riding of our riders, but also made the work of our technicians difficult. 

JuniorGP

Cormac has done very well. He has a lot of pace. He managed to do just one good lap in Q2, but it was enough to make P7. We believe that tomorrow he is a candidate for everything. As for Torin Collins, Portimao is costing him a lot. He hasn't finished in high spirits, but from the team, as always, we support him both technically and psychologically. There are weekends when he suffers more than others. 

Cormac Buchanan P6

"Today was a positive day for us. In the grid-setting session, we had a small problem with the bike at the first start; nothing major, just a sensor. On the next start I did 1.48.7, which put me P6, so I went straight through to Q2. In Q2 it was difficult with all the tactics and riders riding slowly on track. I tried to do my best, and in the end I decided to ride alone. I set my best time of the day, which puts me P7 on the grid for tomorrow. It's a good result and I feel strong. The bike is going well, the team is working.... I'm sure the race tomorrow will be a good one. I hope I can conquer a trophy or two for the team."  

Torin Collins 21

 "We improved on yesterday's time but I'm not happy with the day's result. Tomorrow we will have to give everything from the start in both races."

Moto2 

Both Mattia and Sam have good pace, but neither of our two riders managed to do the fastest lap to get into the first rows of the grid; they lacked. We hope that tomorrow, with a good start, they will be able to get into the group that will fight for positions much further ahead than those they have on the grid. 

Mattia Rato P12

"I had two small crashes in Q1 in the same corner, but I'm fine. This prevented me from being really fast. In Q2 it was a bit chaotic because everyone is waiting for everyone else to catch a slipstream. I'm confident that tomorrow, once the race starts, I'll be able to make up positions."

Sam Wilford P13

"We will start tomorrow's two races from 14th place. I think we can have a good two races here and make progress throughout."

European Talent Cup (ETC)

Carter Thompson, who was very good in free practice yesterday, didn't find the same pace today when he found himself riding in a group. But that's what Talent is for, a category for the riders to learn what top competition is like. Carter, however, has the pace for tomorrow. As for Owen, he has improved from yesterday's free practice. 

Carter Thompson TBC

"Today was not the best day. I wasn't able to do a good lap. But the feeling on the bike was good so I'm looking forward to tomorrow to push hard in the race.

Owen van Trigt TBC

"I didn't get the lap I was looking for, but we improved and I hope to make the most of tomorrow's race."

What a spectacular Sunday our riders starred today in Jerez de la Frontera, in the third round of the FIM Junior MotoGP. In intense races they showed us that, regardless of the final result, they are true fighters, and that is what we at AGR Team especially appreciate. The team gives everything to give its riders the best material, without sparing hours of work. Seeing how our riders do the same on the track motivates us to the maximum.

Junior GP

Two races were held in the JuniorGP category with two of our riders: Cormac Buchanan and Torin Collins. In both our New Zealander rider set the heart rate of those of us who follow the races from the box. 

In the first race Cormac's positions were a real roller coaster, because after passing first on the first lap, he was 15th with four laps to go, when he was imposed a long lap. But in a heart-stopping comeback -which he would repeat in the second race-, he ended up crossing under the checkered flag in fifth. The dynamics of the second race were similar. A good start, half of the race in the second group, and a devastating final sprint that took him to the lead with two laps to go. He finally entered the finish line fourth, completing his best weekend since he has been with us... Congratulations to him and his team.

Cormac Buchanan Race 1 P5 / Race 2 P4

"The first race was pretty good. I started third on the grid and took the lead. I was feeling pretty good, comfortable, but a few riders overtook me. In that part I had some problems with the heritage. From race direction I was penalized with a long lap, which dropped me down to P15, but I made a good comeback to P5 at the end of the race. The second race was very difficult. On the first lap I passed P2 and from then on it was a relentless fight. At one point I got to P9 and the race leader took some advantage, but I managed to neutralize the difference and I got to P1 with two laps to go. But unfortunately in the last corner a rider took me out of the line. I couldn't get back on the track because there was another rider, but I still finished P4, close to the podium. It was a good weekend, the first time I finished in the front group and less than half a second from victory. We also scored a lot of points for the championship. If I'm not mistaken, we're 4 points out of P5. Happy about that, and looking forward to Portimao where I want to take it and give the team one of the trophies they give out on the podium."

Torin Collins Race 1 P19 / Race 2 DNF

"The weekend has been quite difficult for me - Jerez is a circuit where I have suffered in the past. I confess I came into the weekend a little nervous, but we were determined to grow in confidence. Qualifying wasn't particularly good, but we took a step forward. In the first race the first few corners were good and the first half of the race I was quite fast. But at the end I lost the rhythm and got unhooked from the group. It was a bit disappointing, but we were ready to turn the situation around in the second race. But in race two my start was very bad. The start wasn't bad at all, but then I lost my rhythm again. I ended up crashing in turn #11, which is a very fast corner. Except for a little pain in the ankle, everything else is OK and I will be ready for the race in Portimao."

Moto 2

A great race for Mattia Rato in Moto2, showing that the second place in Valencia was not a coincidence but the confirmation of where the rider and the team are at the moment. In Jerez, Mattia was on the verge of the podium, a position he reached after a very mature race in which he knew how to have patience to make his way through the pack. Conditioned by a bad qualifying -P13-, Rato this time had to run more with his head than his heart, showing a maturity that positions him to fight to finish the championship at the top.

Mattia Rato's bike was timed as the fastest of the 22 that took the start, which is a sign of the level of the technicians of Team AGR, and of which we are logically proud.   

Mattia Rato P4

"I had a good start, but in the second corner I made a mistake in first gear. I lost a lot of positions; I think I went down to P12. Little by little, staying very concentrated, without making a mistake again, I made up a lot of positions. I'm happy because we had a bike that allowed me to make several overtakes. It left a bit of a bad taste in my mouth because I had the podium there, but I'm very happy with how we worked throughout the weekend. At one point I wasn't feeling good on the bike, but for the race the team gave me a tremendously efficient bike."  

Sam Wilford P12

“We managed to gain some positions in the race to take home some points. Obviously not where we want to be but we will continue working in the right direction.”

European Talent Cup

Our two ETC riders continue with their process of adaptation to a category that is new for Owen van Trigt, and in the case of Enzo Bellon it adds to his debut with the AGR Team. The races of both were conditioned by their respective positions on the grid. The important thing in both cases is that they took their respective bikes to the finish line, which is the best way to learn. 

Owen van Trigt Race 1 P18 / Race P20

“In the first race I was in a big group that was battling for points, but in the end I didn’t make it. In the second race the start was a little bit better but I lost contact with the front group and rode somehow alone, until the last five laps when I had a battle with Alomar, who I finally beat. I’m looking forward to the Portimao race to do better.”

Enzo Bellon Race 1 P25 / Race P25

“I did a not very good start in the first race and got stuck in a group that didn’t allow me to progress. Second race was more or less the same.”

FIM Junior GP Championship weekend. In its third round the championship traveled to the south of Spain, specifically to the mythical circuit of Jerez de la Frontera. Today qualifying sessions to form the starting grids for tomorrow's races were held. The AGR is present with its riders in three categories.

JuniorGP

A very good result for Cormac Buchanan today, who managed to get on the front row of the grid despite yesterday's heavy crash in free practice. His team deserves a good part of that credit for providing our New Zealander rider with an extremely competitive bike after it was badly damaged in yesterday's incident... Good job, guys!

Cormac Buchanan P3

“Today was a really nice day. I had a good feeling with the bike, despite the heavy crash I had yesterday on free practice 2 session. My original goal was just to qualify straight away to Q2. We were P7 in final free practice which was really nice. In the Q2 I looked at the clouds and said to myself that I had to put  in a good lap early on because the conditions looked like they would get worse and worse. I managed to do a nice lap in the first part of the session, which put me in P3. No one improved that so it was a nice way to start for tomorrow’s races. It’s my second front row and obviously I’m very happy. I have to thank the team for the great job we are doing and also Ansacri because he is helping me a lot this weekend. For the races it’s going to be a battle and I will give my best trying to get a trophy for my team this weekend.”

Torin Collins P24

“I made my best time of the weekend t in Q2. I will start in P24 and I hope to make a good start and gain positions already at the beginning of the race. I'm looking forward to tomorrow!”

Moto2 

P10 on the grid does not reflect the good work Mattia Rato showed during practice sessions. Moto2 is very close this weekend in Jerez, so tomorrow the start will be a very important factor. If Mattia can make a good start, he will have a good race because he has the pace.

Mattia Rato P10

“We tested some things on the bike, with which I did P10 in Q1. In Q2 we tried some other things that didn't work very well. I thought I could improve my time a little bit, but it wasn't possible. I'm happy that we know what we need for tomorrow's race, and I'm sure we'll do well.” 

Sam wilford P14

"We will start the race from P14 tomorrow. We managed to work on some things during the test and free practice sessions on my riding to help me. We are only 1 second from pole and I think we can have a good race tomorrow to move through the field"

European Talent Cup

In the ETC we continue to work with Owen van Trigt, a rookie in the championship but who is taking steps forward every time he goes out on track, which is what it is all about when you are getting the hang of a new category. We are also making our debut with Enzo Bellon, who joins the AGR Team for this race. He hadn't qualified yet this year, which we did today, so good for him and his team. 

The final Talent Cup grid will be configured tomorrow, after the Last Chance Race, which will provide the last riders of the final grid. 

Owen van Trigt P12 Group A

"Obviously I'm not where I'd like to be, but I'm happy that we've taken another step forward. So far this weekend I've been pretty consistent and solid. Let's see how the race goes tomorrow, I'll go out there and give it my all, as always"

Enzo Bellon P13 Group B 

"On the one hand I'm happy because I qualified for the grid and because I've been improving every time I've been out on track. On the other hand, I was hoping to qualify a little higher, but in the end the points will be distributed tomorrow. I hope to have a good race and give my team a good result in my debut with them"

The AGR Team announces the incorporation of Enzo Bellon to our structure for the FIM Junior GP event to be held this weekend at the Jerez de la Frontera circuit, where he will ride in the European Talent Cup category.

A French rider originally from the French overseas territory of Reunion, at 14 years of age Enzo is already considered one of the most talented young riders in French motorcycling. Expectations that Bellon has been finding with promising results in the competitions in which he has taken part both in France and in Spain.

In the AGR Team we wish Enzo the best of luck for the weekend and, as we do with all our riders, we will help him to achieve his expectations by giving him all the support, technical and human, to allow Enzo show his promising skills.

After undergoing surgery by Xavier Mir and his team at the Dexeus Clinic in Barcelona, our rider Carter Thompson is evolving favorably from the broken collarbone caused while participating in the Rookies Cup at Le Mans, held during the last French GP. 

Thompson will not be present at the next round of the FIM Junior GP. The whole AGR Team hopes for a speedy recovery for Carter.

From the AGR Team we also want to thank once again Dr. Mir and his team for their help and good work.

The AGR Team returns home from the second Junior GP event of the 2023 season with the satisfaction of a podium finish, but especially having seen our riders show the character expected of young guys who are determined to do something important in the sport they have chosen.

With an excellent performance Mattia Rato gave AGR Team its first podium of the season, which for sure will not be the last one this season. A bravo to our Italian rider who knew how to manage the pressure coming from behind from riders with much more experience than him.

Also very satisfied with our Junior GP riders, Buchanan and Collins; both achieved their best results ever. Cormac came back in race 1 from P16 on the second lap to finish 7th. A result that would surely have been better if he had been more efficient at the start, but it showed the determination of our New Zealander rider. As for Torin, in the second race he scored his first points of the championship, which is always a special mark.

Moto 2

Mattia Rato P2

“Obviously I am very happy with this result. I'm back on the podium after a very difficult season last year. I worked very hard to get it. I want to thank my father, my mother, my whole family and the team. Forza Napoli!”

Sam Wilford P11

“It has been a difficult weekend for us. Was able to make progress in the race, but the plan now is to reset and do a good job in Jerez in two weeks time.”

Junior GP

Cormac Buchanan Race 1 P7 / Race 2 DNF

“Today was a quite interesting day. It was very good in race 1 but not so good in the second one. In the first race I didn’t make the best start. I was P16 after the second lap. I said to myself that if I wanted to do a good result I had to start passing riders. Contrary to other occasions, today when I got behind a rider I immediately overtook him. Finally I was able to finish in the 7th position, which is my best ever result. Really nice, good result for the team. Starting from P19 and finishing P7 was quite good comeback. 

In the 2nd race I started a lot better and I was in the group for the podium. Unfortunately two riders crashed in front of me and got caught up in the crash. I had a big high side and got hit in the gravel escape area. I’m in a big pain right now, but hopefully I can make Jerez and continue the good momentum from here."

Torin Collins Race 1 P20 / Race 2 

"This weekend turned out really good. In the first race I had a good start and a good first lap, but then I crashed on lap 2. I was able to get the bike started again and continue. I was able to catch the riders who were racing in front of me and finally I managed to finish P20. I was really happy with that.

In race 2 the start wasn’t as good, but I was able to get locked in with other riders and because of some crashes I was able to get my first points. So I’m really happy "

European Talent Cup 

Owen Van Trigt Race 1 P15 / Race 2 P 21

"I'm very happy because I got my first point in the championship. It's a good sign, we are improving race by race. The second race was not as we expected, after exceeding the track limits and being reprimanded by race direction we could not finish in an optimal position."

The Ricardo Tormo Circuit located on the outskirts of Valencia hosts this weekend the second event of the FIM Junior, where the AGR Team, as we reported yesterday, with the absence of Carter Thompson.

After yesterday's training sessions, today our riders have disputed the sessions that configured the starting grids for tomorrow. As almost always in Valencia, the sessions have been held with an optimal weather, although in some moments it was even too hot. As always happens in the races, some of our riders have done better than others, but all of them are ready for their respective races. From the team we will give them the maximum technical and human support so that they can continue to grow as riders.

These were today's results and the statements of our riders. 

Junior GP

Cormac Buchanan P19

“Today was a difficult day. Because of yesterday's crash I rode with a lot of pain in my shoulder and ribs. In the free session I basically tried to get a good feeling with the bike and myself, because yesterday we missed a lot of laps. We didn't know in which positions we could be. After the first run I said to myself: 'OK, maybe I can go for getting you into Q2. In the end I ended up P16, but I did a time that will probably put me P5 on the grid. The pace was really fast and I was less than half a tenth away from getting into Q2. This was quite positive, especially considering the circumstances we were in. Then, in Q1, I tried to do a good lap but, honestly, I wasn't able to do the lap I needed. It was quite unfortunate, because I have the pace to fight for the top 10. I know I can be there. Tomorrow we have to go out on the attack, and see what happens. I'm looking forward to the race. I'm optimistic and I'll do my best to give the team a good result."

Torin Collins P22

“Today was an alright day. It could have been a little better. In the qualifying session my pace was good, but still not good enough to go straight into Q2.  But in Q1 we went out very determined. I couldn't do the perfect lap, and in the last laps another rider slowed me down, which made me lose contact with the group. In the end it was not a perfect qualifying, but better than usual.” 

Moto2

Mattia Rato P6

“I am very happy, I have done a good job. I felt good on the bike very quickly. Two good qualifying sessions. In the first one I was lucky to be able to catch up with another rider, which allowed me to do a good lap; in the second one I'm happy because I had a good pace.  Let's hope for a good start tomorrow and then we'll see.”

Sam Wilford P10

"A good qualifying. We struggled to improve in Q2. I think we have good pace for tomorrow and that we can have a good race, and fight for the top five positions."

European Talent Cup

Owen van Trigt P13

“It was good, it could have been better, but we need more. I learned a lot today riding behind the faster riders, especially in the corners. Their cornering speed is much higher. I think overall we did a good job.” 

From the AGR Team we regret to announce that our rider Carter Thompson will not take part in the second event of the FIM Junior GP that will be held this weekend at the Valencia circuit. After having performed an X-ray on him at a hospital in Valencia yesterday Thursday night, it has been verified that he suffers a fracture in his right clavicle.

As it will be recalled, Carter Thompson suffered a heavy crash at Le Mans in which he temporarily lost consciousness, which led the doctors to transfer him to a hospital center to keep him under observation. There he told the doctors about the discomfort they felt in his right shoulder, bruised in the incident of the crash. However, he was not given much importance. Once discharged, Carter Thompson returned to his habitual residence, where he rested except for one day when he went for a short bike ride. During that lap he felt some discomfort in his shoulder, although nothing was out of the ordinary after one like the one he had. As it is, Carter traveled to Valencia to take part in this weekend's FIM Junior event.

Yesterday, Thursday, Thompson got on his bike to take part in FP1. Throughout the session I felt intense pain in his shoulder, which, however, did not prevent me from riding fast. In the team we try to minimize this pain based on a specific bandage and provide pain relievers. He went out in FP2, but the pain was increasing and Carter suffered a lot in that session.

In this situation, thinking that Thompson's discomfort could be due to a tendon or muscle problem, Carter was taken to a most trusted physiotherapist of the team, who immediately suggested a possible fracture in his right clavicle, diagnosed that obviously it would have to be checked. by means of an x-ray. He was immediately transferred to the emergency hospital center in Valencia, where the examination revealed the fracture.

Obviously in view of this circumstance Carter Thompson will not take part in this weekend's event. Our pilot has to travel immediately to Barcelona for a new exploration that will indicate the procedure to follow. The expectation is that Carter is recovered to take part in the FIM JuniorGP to be held in Jerez de la Frontera and in the Rookies Cup that will take place on the Italian GP weekend.

The Estoril circuit hosted this weekend the first round of the Finetwork FIM Junior GP World Championship. The AGR Team and our riders arrived in Portugal motivated and eager to return to action after a winter that has been too long for all of us.

The AGR Team will be present this season in three categories. 

● In FIM Junior we will support the New Zealander Cormac Buchanan and the Canadian Torin Collins; both repeat with us. 

● In Moto2 our riders will be Sam Wilford, one of our own, and our new Italian addition, Mattia Rato. 

● In the European Talent Cup we repeat with the Australian Carter Thompson and incorporate the Dutch rider Owen van Trigt. With both we hope to help them grow as riders so they can continue to advance in their careers.

The weekend in Portimao was characterized by good weather, the usual wind that blows in that part of Portugal, and the impetus given by the young riders participating in the FIM JuniorGP, which led to incidents and accidents that forced the interruption of some of the races that took place... Things of 'the force of youth'.

Among our riders, throughout the weekend there was a bit of everything, as is typical of racing. But the positive spirit and determination of the team to help and support our riders in every way has always prevailed. 

Junior GP

A multiple crash late in the race forced Race Direction to neutralize the race and reschedule it for a 5-lap sprint race. 

Cormac Buchanan P13

Torin Collins DNF

Grid position was obviously a determining factor in a race with only 5 laps to go. Buchanan started from the fourth row - 12th - and entered the finish one place further back. Little else can be noted, except that the fastest lap of our New Zealand rider was less than three tenths of a second slower. An encouraging statistic for a weekend that should have ended differently.

In the case of Collins, he went to the ground during the third lap of the race. 

Cormac Buchanan: “Today’s race was quite a difficult one. In race one I wasn’t able to do a good start but was able to regain positions and felt quite good and had the same pace as the front group, but unfortunately the red flag came out when I was fighting for P10. In the second race, I went to P11 but then I made some mistakes and nearly crashed in the last lap, so I finished P14 finally. Not super happy but I made some points. For sure in Valencia it will be more.”

European Talent Cup ETC

The Talent, as it is called in the paddock, held two races in Estoril. 

Race 1

Carter Thompson DNF

Owen van Trigt P 23

In the first race, Carter Thompson's expectations of a good race after qualifying seventh in practice were dashed in the early stages due an engine failure while riding in 5th position. 

Alberto Fernandez, who was in Carter’s slipstream could not avoid hitting him. Both went down pretty hard but fortunately both riders emerged from the incident physically unscathed.

As for Owen van Trigt, a bad start relegated him to the back of the pack, a position from which he began to climb positions. Our rookie finished the race in 23rd place in a group that crossed the finish line separated by thousandths of a second. 

Race 2

Carter Thompson P 14

Owen van Trigt P 25

Carter Thompson's second race was marked by the high speed crash in race one. The good feeling he had with the bike didn’t return in race two. In the first pass through the finish line after the start he had lost eight places with respect to his position on the starting grid. From then on he was caught in a group in which the continuous overtaking gave Carter no chance to go forward. After the 15 laps of the race Carter ended up entering first of that group, doing the best fastest lap among them and adding the 2 points awarded to the 14th classified.

As for Owen van Trigt, his second start in the ETC was a positive one. In his case his evaluation is not to be measured in his position at the finish line but in the evolution of his times. And comparing his best lap of Race 1 with that of Race 2, Owen clearly made a step forward, lapping almost two tenths faster in Race 2 than in Race 1. So it must be considered a positive weekend for our ETC rookie.  

Carter Thompson: “Today I had a good start in race one and was able to stay in top 5 and was able to keep a good pace. But on lap 3 going down the back straight my engine died then got hit and had a really fast crash. In race 2 I was not able to get a good feeling with the bike and didn’t have a great race.”

Moto 2

Bittersweet taste left us the weekend of Mattia Rato in Moto2. The Italian rider was fast from the very first moment, showing that he is aiming for everything for Sunday's races. In the end the podium escaped in both races, but Rato showed that he is going to be one of the roosters of the category. He left Estoril sharing second place in the provisional standings with his compatriot Niccolo Antonelli, a veteran World Championship rider and multiple GGPP winner. 

Race 1

Mattia Rato P5

Sam Wilford P10

A red flag forced the interruption of the first Moto2 race, leading to an 11-lap restart. Our two riders had a good race, a statement that may be strange in the case of Rato, who starting from fourth on the grid 'only' finished fifth. However, the Italian of our team this year, showed a maturity and serenity that made him forget his bad choice at the start, which led him to pass the finish line on the first lap, ninth. Mattia chose the outside to tackle the first corner, which let a bunch of riders sneak up on him on the inside. But far from being obfuscated, he was able to keep his cool, which ended up giving him that fifth position at the finish.

In the case of Sam Wilford, his race was conditioned by his position on the grid, 15th. However, the brave Sam made a very good start, fought the whole race, and in a very tight final sprint entered the finish line tenth, three thousandths ahead of the rider who followed him.    

Race 2

Mattia Rato P4

Sam Wilford P8

An intense and eventful second race, in which up to eight riders were out of the race due to various incidents. Rato again made a mistake in the way he attacked the first corner of the race, losing several positions on the entry again. When on the third lap he began to ride at the same pace as the race leader, he had already opened a lead that was impossible to cut. Nevertheless, Rato was still on the verge of the podium, beating his pursuer again on the finish line. 

As for Wilford, he repeated his good performance of the first race, which only did not shine more because he was conditioned by the 15th place from which he started on the grid. Sam was not happy with his championship debut, which is good, but he certainly gave it his all throughout the weekend.  

Mattia Rato: "In the first race I made a couple of mistakes at the start and in the first two laps. Then little by little I got into the rhythm and in the end I managed to make the difference. In the second race I made a few less mistakes. In the end my pace was better than the others. On the last lap in the last corner I managed to overtake Yeray. I'm happy, the team worked very well and I feel fit."

Sam Wilford: "After a difficult qualifying session yesterday, we managed to save the day today. I look to improve in Valencia, hopefully that means starting from a better position on the grid, which will allow me to fight for better positions in the race".  

First qualifying completed for the young AGR Team riders in mixed track conditions at the Estoril circuit. 

In the Moto2 class, the young Italian rider Mattia Rato will start from the second row of the grid in an excellent fourth position in his debut with the team. With a vibrant energy our rider will be looking to fight among the top positions at a track where he finished third last season. Sam Wilford will start from the fifth row of the grid, in fifteenth position. A difficult day for our driver due to the difficult track conditions, tomorrow he will start with great motivation for two solid races. 

Mattia Rato: "I am very happy with the work we have done since the beginning of the championship. The result we have achieved today is the result of everyone's effort, there is still a long way to go but I am very motivated for tomorrow's race".

Sam Wilford: "We will start both races tomorrow from 15th on the grid. It's not where we want to be, but we'll focus on having two strong races tomorrow."

In the JuniorGP class, Cormac Buchanan will start from the fourth row of the grid in twelfth position while his teammate Torin Collins will start from twenty-sixth. It was a difficult day for our young drivers with a new qualifying format with a third timed practice and a Q1 and Q2. During the first practice, the appearance of rain in the first sectors made it difficult for our riders, who suffered several crashes throughout the day.

Cormac Buchanan: "First of all, I'm happy to have made it straight through to Q2. It's a good result for the team and for us because it wasn't easy. During Q2 I did a good job, I was able to run with the group but the group broke up and I couldn't find a way to set a fast lap".

Torin Collins: "Today was a difficult day for me, we have to improve for the race tomorrow, it's not the position we want to be in, let's give it our all!"

In the European Talent Cup category, Carter Thompson was fifth fastest of the field, while Owen Van Trigt completed the day in fourteenth position. Thompson continues his upward progression on the track and was able to position himself among the top riders, despite suffering a crash during the day. Owen Van Tright is adapting to the category and the team in a very positive way, prioritising his learning on the track. 

Carter Thompson:  "During QP1 I felt good, I was able to do a fast lap but the track conditions and the wind plus a small crash prevented us from improving our time. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's race!

Owen Van Tright: "I still need to adapt to the class but we made small steps forward today. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's race and to continue learning with my team".

Nebrija University and the AGR Team competition team sign a collaboration agreement with the aim of promoting education in the field of motorcycling. A great opportunity for Nebrija University students to apply their knowledge in a real racing environment. This educational alliance will focus on the development of the students of the university to gain experience within the margin of the FIM Junior GP Championship and, in turn, that the AGR team can count on the talent and knowledge of the applicants.

The students will start their training from the beginning of the season and will learn race by race surrounded by great professionals. This union will also provide the delivery of three face-to-face classes of our technical team where they will offer their knowledge and experience. Three on-site classes at the Nebrija University, located in the epicenter of Madrid, two theoretical classes and one with the incorporation of one of our racing motorcycles to complete the experience of the students. We are delighted to be able to communicate this union and we cannot wait to begin this path of mutual growth, which we hope will continue over time.

Anscari Nadal - AGR Team Manager: "From AGR we are very happy to collaborate with a prestigious University such as Nebrija. For us it is the beginning of a collaboration that we hope will last for many years, we are sure it will be very good for both parties. We want to help in the training of their students and in turn be able to open a window to the workplace, we are also delighted to provide the talks at the university."

Sergio Corbera - Nebrija University: "The collaboration with the AGR team is another step that consolidates the "Learning by doing" philosophy of the Nebrija University as a commitment to train the best engineers in all aspects. In this sense, this alliance aims to prepare our students in the world of motorcycling, giving the best students the opportunity to start their professional training in a reference structure.  

 The FIM Junior GP is the prelude to the MotoGP World Championship. The need for technicians in this competition is very high, but due to the leap it represents there is a kind of blockage that prevents teams from giving free rein to incorporate new graduates. This is where there is a gap at present and where we want to direct our collaboration with AGR, a reference structure in the FIM Junior GP. 

For our students it is a very constructive experience, which will bring them great added value on a technical and human level. The fact of having the opportunity to work in a structure such as the FIM Junior GP gives them an insight into the demands and pressure of the world of competition. Undoubtedly, a very enriching collaboration for both parties in which the main beneficiaries are our students and motorcycling".

The AGR Team is pleased to announce the incorporation of the young Italian talent Mattia Rato to our team next season in the Moto2 structure. Mattia Rato, is a young rider with plenty of experience in the Moto2 European Championship being this year, his third year. During the first round of last year's season in Estoril, he also finished on the podium. This year we will join our sporting paths with the aim of mutual growth of both rider and team, bringing out the full potential of our rider this season. Welcome to the team Mattia!

Mattia Rato

"I am very happy to be part of the AGR Team family and I can't wait to start working with the team during the first tests of the season. It's a big change, I feel ready and with faith in myself to give everything from the start with the team. This year we will be able to do very well and achieve great results together. I want to thank my sponsors, the whole AGR team and my family for the support they have given me, I can't wait for the season to start!"

Anscari Nadal

"We are delighted to have Mattia in our team, he is a very young rider but with a lot of experience in the Moto2 class. I think he can be a great teammate together with Sam Wilford, to help each other inside the box and have two riders fighting for the top positions. I also believe that with our help and our training Mattia will improve his riding technique, making a leap in quality to stop fighting for the podium and fight to win races".

Massimiliano Ripamonti

"As CEO of GRD Sport Management, I am very proud that our driver Mattia Ratto is part of the AGR team. First of all because it is one of the most important teams in the Junior GP Championship. We are sure that Mattia will achieve all the goals he sets for himself, being a protagonist throughout the season. I want to thank all the sponsors and Anscari Nadal for being a great professional and a great friend. I am sure that during the course of the whole season we will achieve great results together".

From AGR, we want to express our great enthusiasm to confirm the continuity of the Young rider Carter Thompson in our ranks for the 2023 season. The Australian will be competing in his second year in the European Talent Cup, a category in which he has gained a lot of experience and has managed to take a step forward by staying among the top positions towards the end of the season.

Next year we will continue to encourage the growth of our rider with whom we believe that we will be able to fight for great results from the beginning of the championship. The track is waiting for us!

Carter Thompson

"I am very excited to be joining the AGR team again in 2023. I will be competing in the European Talent Cup and hoping to build on our results from last year and be fighting for podiums in 2023. I will be spending the summer in Australia and heading back to Europe early 2023. I would like to thank the whole AGR team for giving me this opportunity and I can’t wait to get back into it and see what we can do"

Anscari Nadal

"From the beginning of the season there was a change and race by race the feeling on the track got better. Throughout the season, Carter adapted himself more and more to the performance of the bike and the team. I think it is a rider that next year with AGR we will be a winning duo, to be ahead from the first race".

From the AGR Team we want to announce the continuation of Torin Collins in our ranks for the 2023 season. The seventeen-year-old Canadian talent will continue his sporting growth for another year in the Junior GP category. We are very excited to continue working with Torin Collins and to continue his development as a professional rider. We will continue to build on the foundation laid this season with the goal of taking a step forward for next year.

Torin Collins

"I'm super excited and happy to be with the AGR team for another year. I love this team and I think working together we can make a big step forward next year."

Anscari Nadal

"We are delighted that he continues with the team, he is a hardworking rider and a great person. I am sure that with a bit of time we will see the best of Torin, can't wait to start the preseason, see you soon Torin!”

From the AGR team, we want to express our great satisfaction and pride that we have Sam Wilford with us for the 2023 season. The young British rider will continue his sporting growth for another year in the Moto2 class in the Junior GP Championship, after a difficult season marked by the terrible accident suffered during the second race at Estoril.

With great performances from the rider and team we will start a new year with renewed spirit and eager to show the fruits of the effort and experience that our rider has accumulated in his career with us. We will fight together for the podiums!

Sam Wilford

"I am very excited to stay with the AGR team for another season. It’s a great opportunity to show my potential next year being back fully fit after the accident that cut my season short this year. I really can’t wait to get started again in the new year, let’s see what is possible!"

Anscari Nadal

"We started very well in Estoril, but after the incident and with a lot of hard work and effort we made small positive steps until the end of the season even though the consequences of the accident did not allow him to be at 100%. The main goal is to return to where we left off in 2022 and with hard work, we hope to be at the highest level, both driver and team. It's an honor to fight with Sam at the front, who we hope to see on the podium next season”

The AGR Team is pleased to announce Owen van Trigt will join our team next season in the Junior GP European Talent Cup.

Owen van Trigt, is a young rider who started his sporting career from an early age, in 2018 he was the winner of the Minimoto Championship making the jump a year later in the Moto 5 Championship, In this competition, he earned several podiums. One of his most important steps was his incorporation to the European Talent Cup Championship, a category with a high level where Owen van Trigt already has two seasons' experience. We are very pleased to be joining our sporting paths and growing as a team. Welcome Owen!

Owen van Trigt

"My expectations for next season are to be in the points, being able to improve and develop as a rider in every race with the help of the AGR Team. I will do my best to prepare for the season's start during this winter break"

Anscari Nadal

"He is a young rider who has already been training within the 111 Management riders group. In addition to his potential, he is surrounded by good people. We expect a lot from him and we believe he can go far in his career".

The Ricardo Tormo Circuit of Valencia has been the scenario of the 8th and last round of the 2022 FIM Junior World Championship. The AGR Team has been present with his six riders in three different categories.

Junior GP

As expected after yesterday's brilliant pole position, the protagonist of the two races held today was our Colin Veijer. In the first race our Dutch rider dominated the race, leading the eight riders group that fought for the victory. In the final duel Colin has seen how another rider has touched him, finally entering in second position just two thousandths of a second behind the winner.

In the second race, the fight for the last victory of the season was even more fierce, but Veijer never lost his nerve. In fact, he was knocked down by another rider four laps from the end when exiting turn 1 this rider touched Colin’s front brake in a collision. The crash led to the race direction being forced to bring out the red flag and end the race with four laps to go. 

Race 1

Colin Veijer   P2 

Cormac Buchanan   P11

Torin Collins   P17 

Race 2

Cormac Buchanan   P17

Torin Collins   P20

Colin Veijer P23

Colin Veijer

“Race 2 was a bit more difficult because they kept. I tried to get to the front but it was very difficult. I managed to stay there. In the final part Luca came passed me. I tried on his inside out of turn 1. He passed me back. He went quite far to the left. I didn’t expect it. His bike touched my front brake.

I’m happy with how the season ended and the improvements after the summer break. I want to thank Luis for the year, my mechanics, the data guy, Ascari and Angel and all the rest. I look forward to next year in the World Championship; I’m very happy. 

Cormac Buchanan

“Today was a very fun day for me. In the races today I just wanted to take it easy, have a bit of fun. In the 1st race we started form P11 because of the penalties of other riders. I wasn’t able to make good use of the position, but in the last laps I was able to make some good passing and we finished P11, so I was quite happy with this. The 2nd race was more difficult. I made a better start from P16 but unfortunately I had a big moment on the second lap and I bent the handlebar  and from that moment on it went very difficult. It wasn’t the way I wanted to end the season but overall I’m happy with the year I did. Next year we will go faster.”

Torin Collins

“In race 1 I was starting P16. When the lights went out I did not get an amazing start but it was not terrible either. I lost a few places but I was able to get in the group. I got stacked in that group, as I was not able to pass that rider. In the end I won the battle but made an aggressive move on him. At the end I finished P17, which is my best result of the year. In race 2 I started P24. I had a very, very bad start. I think I was almost last place getting in the first corner. I quickly caught up with a couple of riders. I was also getting in the next group but as I got there and planned my next move, the red flag came out. I finished P20. Overall this weekend has been a very big step for me. Through Thursday, Friday, Saturday and today I made big progress with my riding. I’m looking forward to next year because I’m able to progress and do this more often. 

Moto 2

Mattia Volpi  DNF

Sam Wilford  DNF

Mattia Volpi

“This morning I got the OK to race from the doctors. I tried to check myself in the warm up. I had a bit of pain but I felt I could do the race. In the race we did a good race. We were inside the leading group until turn 11, when I got neutral for the first time. From that point on the gearbox went worse and worse. It finally forced me to enter the boxes. Anyhow, our weekend has been good on a track like Valencia, that is not easy. Looking forward for next season.”

Sam Wilford

“Unfortunately we had to retire from the race with a technical problem. These things can happen and today was one of them! Thank you to my team for staying behind me this year after the accident in Estoril!”

European Talent Cup

Carter Thompson   P8

Carter Thompson

“Today was good. I started from the back of the grid because of the penalty. I made a good start, made up a lot of positions, fought hard through the pack. I felt really good with the bike today, had a good pace, and was very fast. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to get to the front group. I was starting so far back it was hard to get through, but it was a good race. Ended up P8. The team has been great this year and couldn’t think about it anymore for the year. A lot of learning.”

A new season has been completed. It has been an intense season, with the logical ups and downs that are inherent to our sport. There have been hard moments, such as Sam Wilford's accident that affected us all so much, but also moments of joy and satisfaction. In the form of Colin Veijer's triumphs, but also the progression shown by each of our riders. Both the bad moments and the good ones were shared as a team, which is what the AGR Team is. 

Our team is like a Tower of Babel, but in our case our different backgrounds don't separate us, they amalgamate us. We don't know what the future holds for Colin, Cormac, Torin, Mattia, Sam and Carter, but we at AGR Team are proud to have worked with them and to have helped them grow as riders. We for our part have given it our all.

Now it's time for some of us to rest, but not too much, because next season we'll be back in the fight... Thanks to all of you.  

Eighth and final round of the FIM JuniorGP World Championship, which returned to the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia, where the second round was held back in May. Here in Cheste, the FIM Junior class will race two rounds tomorrow, while Moto2 and the Talent Cup will close the season with a single race.

With perfect weather conditions to ride, after yesterday’s free practice sessions the AGR Team riders have held today the qualifyings that have shaped the starting grids for tomorrow, Sunday. And it is one of our AGR riders who will start tomorrow leading one of them, the Junior GP, where Veijer has repeated pole with the lap time set in the first qualifying session.

FIM Junior GP

Our rider once again showed the excellent form with which he has reached the last part of the season. Today Colin set pole position again - his third this year - after perfectly controlling the times in the two qualifying sessions held today. Knowing that they have a good pace - as was evident during yesterday's free practice - the team managed the times of the sessions very well, especially the first one. Our rider from the Netherlands was calm throughout the day and will face tomorrow's race with the peace of mind that comes from knowing he is ready to fight for the victory.

Colin Veijer   Pole

"In the first qualifying session we stayed a long time inside the box because yesterday in the free sessions I had done a good pace and we knew that the other riders would try to follow me. We went out, did one lap and came back in. When we came back out I did a good time and the pace was also good, even on my own. In the second session we went out with new tires and I was able to do the same times, with a 40.0 pace. Very happy about this for tomorrow's race as well. In the second part of the session we put on new tires, but I didn't give the maximum because a lot of riders stuck to my wheel. On the last lap I found myself in the middle of a group, but finally I set the pole again."

Cormac Buchanan   P16

“Today was a bit of a difficult day. Me ha llevado un tiempo acostumbrarme a la nueva puesta a punto de la moto. Pero una vez que la he entendido hemos dado unos cuantos pasos adelante. En los últimos momentos de la primera sesión comenzamos a mejorar bastante nuestros tiempos así como mis sensaciones sobre la moto. Desgraciadamente, con la dinámica que se da en las sesiones de calificación en Moto3 perdimos algunas posiciones. De todas formas P14 no fue tan mal. En la segunda sesión las sensaciones estaban ahí desde el primer momento. Al final, cuando íbamos a usar el neumático nuevo y yo me sentía mejor que a lo largo de todo el fin de semana, de nuevo me encontré con un piloto en pista que me abortó mi posible vuelta buena. De cualquier manera, en general estoy contento conmigo mismo, con la moto y estoy seguro que mañana haremos una buena carrera.”

Torin Collins   P25

"Overall today went well. Grid position isn't great. I think tomorrow at the level I'm at there will be a big group and hopefully there will be some good battles. I'm looking forward to it. Today showed the work we've done throughout the year and it's by far my best day. Not in terms of position, but in terms of the gap to Colin, the poleman. I'm not happy, but I'm satisfied."

Moto2

While Sam Wilford continues his re-entry process after months absent, Mattia Volpi is getting used to the category he joined three races ago. Today our Italian rider suffered a heavy fall in the second session in which he hit his right ankle. This evening it showed a strong inflammation but as Mattia himself explains, he hopes that it will not be an obstacle to be able to start tomorrow's race. 

Mattia Volpi P12

"In the first qualifying session we made a good step forward, improving a second and a half from my best time yesterday in free practice. And the best thing is that things went easy for us. In the second session we went out to set a slightly higher pace, but unfortunately I crashed quite hard. I hope to be able to start the race tomorrow."

Sam Wilford   P13

“I managed to set my fastest time so far in Valencia in qualifying so I’m happy to improve. It’s more difficult this weekend as I was injured in the second race of the season but I think we can have a strong race tomorrow!”

European Talent Cup

Good qualifying day by our Australian Talent rider, although a penalty for riding too slow during one of the sessions caused him to be penalized. However, Carter hopes to fight for podium positions tomorrow.

Carter James Thompson

"I felt good today. I was decently fast; P4 in my session. I felt comfortable with the track, I felt comfortable on the bike, so it was just a matter of putting it all together and putting in a good lap. I got it done and it put us right up there where we finished. It didn't go badly, although unfortunately I made a mistake, I rode too slow on one lap, so I got a penalty that will relegate me a few positions on the grid.  But I think I have a good pace, I hope I can open up and fight in the race with the front guys. Tango confidence, things should go well."

From the AGR team we want to announce that Cormac Buchanan will continue to be part of our team next year 2023 in the Junior GP category. The young New Zealand talent will continue to expand his professional growth taking part from the beginning in the Junior GP category, of which he already has some experience after his step forward in Portimao and the rest of the season.

We are very happy to be able to continue with Buchanan for another year due to his vast talent and his involvement with the team. We will continue to grow together and reap the rewards of his talent next year. 

Cormac Buchanan: 

"My goal for next season is to be in a position where we are fighting for race wins, podiums and the championship. The package that AGR has given me is one of the best and I feel very confident on the bike and with the team around me. Aragon was probably the first time in my career where I really stopped and reflected on what I have achieved, and it really made me proud. Our goal is definitely to keep climbing from here and that bodes well for the year ahead"

Anscari Nadal

"It is a pleasure to be able to continue working with Cormac for another year, he is a great rider and I am sure he will give us a lot of joy next year. He is a very hard-working rider and has a gift for riding a motorbike. He started in the European Talent Cup category and in Portimao he made the jump to the Junior GP, in a few races we managed to get a front row and his first top ten in Aragon. It's a great rider with a great family and I hope to do great things with him before he makes the jump to the world championship".

Intense and very positive Sunday racing for the AGR Team at Motorland, where the penultimate round of the FIM Junior GP World Championship was held today. 

The day has been intense, as both Moto2 and Talent Cup have run two races, while the intensity in Junior GP came from the hand of Colin Veijer, who confirmed his pole yesterday with a convincing victory. He led the race from start to finish, showing total superiority. Remember that this is Colin's second victory this season, after the one he got in Jerez.

Good sensations have also left Cormac Buchanan, who, starting from the first row  signed in Motorland his first top 10; Mattia Volpi with a good first race in Moto2; and the return of Sam Wilford in his return to the circuits after the serious injury that kept him months away from the circuits. Special mention for Carter Thompson who with two good races obtained his two best results of the season. 

As you can see, a good weekend for AGR Team, which has left Alcañiz with the motivation sky high waiting for the race that will close the FIM Junior GP 2022 World Championship in Valencia next October 30. 

Junior GP

Colin Veijer, Winner 

Cormac Buchanan, P9

Torin Collins, P23

Impeccable race from Colin, in which he led from the beginning. He imposed his rhythm, which meant that none of his rivals could overtake him at any time. It was one of those perfect victories, from start to finish. 

Cormac had a bit more trouble than his teammate: he lost the slipstream of the first and second group, which left him riding alone. He crossed the finish line ninth, his first top 10 in the category. 

Torin Collins has been in his line. He set his own pace and kept a hand to hand with the Japanese rider Uchiumi, whom he beat on the finish line.

Colin Veijer: “It has been one of the best races in my career. I felt great from the very beginning and I did ride at a high pace all the race. More or less I led the whole race. Alonso overtook me once, but I got on the front almost immediately. Yeah, I felt really strong today and I’m happy for me and for my team for this result. We worked hard all weekend to get here.”   

Cormac Buchanan: “Today’s race was a big learning experience today. I was quite nervous starting from the first row for the first time in the World Championship. I Was very nervous, but as we got close to the lights out for the race start I was quite confident that we could do a good race. In the first laps I mantined my position, third. I was looking to make a pass to go second behind Colin, but I had a big moment on turn 2 on lap 2, which cost me a lot of time. And from there we kind of struggled with the rear tire trying to stop sliding. We had a lot of moments. To add to this a rider crashed in front of me, which broke the group we were in. I tried to push to try to get back in that group, unfortunately I was not able to do it. There was no reason to push hard and risk a crash and lose the points. At the end I took P9 which are my first points of the season and my first top 10 ever in Europe. So it has been a great weekend. We made such a big step this weekend from not even being inside the top 15 to being fighting for pole and podium in the races. I’m very excited for the next round and for next season. 

I also would like to add that this weekend we made history by having a New Zealand rider on the front row of the Juinio World Championship. I’m incredibly proud of that and determined to repeat. Full credit to my crew javi, Sergi, Johnny and Fran, along with coach Angel and the whole AGR team for helping me achieve my first top 10 finish racing in Europe. It’s a weekend I’ll remember.” 

Torin Collins: “The race has been quite disappointing for me. I was hoping to be in a big group and have a good battle but I didn’t have a very good start and I was pushed wide. After that I got in a battle with another rider and struggled to overtake him. We batted until the end but we lost the group. I ended up eating him but it is not where we want to be. I’m ready for Valencia where I hope to do better.”

Moto 2

Race 1 

Mattia Volpi, P8

Sam Willford, P13

Good race of Mattia Volpi, who confirmed yesterday's good performance in practice. After the start he joined a good group in which he fought with intensity. Our Italian rider finally entered eighth at the finish line. In the case of Sam, logically he felt the lack of rhythm in the race after so many months without getting on the bike. In the last stages he slowed down a bit as a result of having his arms already very loaded. 

Race 2

Sam Willford, P7

Mattia Volpi, DNF

After his good performance in the first race, Volpi started the second race on adrenaline. An excess of motivation led him to the ground before the fourth lap when he was riding in the leading group. Sam, on the other hand, managed to manage his strength better than in the first race, not only keeping the pace but also catching up with the group in front. He came in seventh, making it the best result of the weekend for our Moto2 riders. A very positive lap from Sam that makes the whole team very happy.  

Mattia Volpi: “In the first race I made a mistake at the start. In the first lap I was P16 so I had to catch up. I kept overtaking riders the whole race. My last overtake was in the last lap and it made me finish P8. In the second race I made a good start. I was already P7 in the first lap. I was really pushing hard. On lap 3 my time was the same as Tulovic, who was leading the race. When I arrived on the back of the riders who were in fourth and third position I crashed. It’s a shame, but we have seen that already in our second Moto2 race we have been able to fight for the victory… We will do very well in Valencia.”

Sam Willford: “We did two strong races after a difficult qualifying. But I'm happy to have improved from race 1 to race 2 and close the gap to where we wanted to be. Now I will continue training and prepare for Valencia to hopefully make another step in the right direction.” 

European Talent Cup

Race 1

Carter Thopmson, P7

A good race for Carter, who started from tenth position on the grid and caught up with the second group, finishing the race very close to the group of riders who were fighting for the victory. He finally crossed the finish line in seventh position.

Race 2

Carter Thompson, P6

The script was repeated. Our Australian rider could not prevent the fastest riders from escaping from him, so he spent the whole race in the second group. In the end he beat all his fellow riders, finishing sixth. 

Carter Thompson: "Today’s races were good. Got some solid points. I’m happy with their results despite not getting the best of the starts. But I was able to fight through to the second group, but by then the gap with the first group was too big. But overall I’m happy.”

Seventh and penultimate round of the FIM JuniorGP World Championship, which this time traveled to the Motorland circuit in Alcañiz, where with perfect weather today were held the practice sessions that have configured the starting grids for tomorrow. 

Before going into the details of how the day went for our riders, we want to share the fantastic news of the return of Sam Wilford. After a serious accident at Estoril during the first race of the championship last May, Sam has gone through a long and very hard recovery, in which he has shown courage and determination that has made the whole AGR Team feel proud to have him in our ranks... With Sam back, the AGR family is again complete.

Junior GP

Important day for our Moto3 riders, where Colin Veijer will start tomorrow from pole position after setting the best time in QP1. Next to him will be on the front row the Colombian David Alonso and our Cormac Buchanan, despite crashing hard in QP1 at turn #7. 

Cormac was taken to the clinic after the crash, due to some pain in his back. But the doctors found nothing more than the contusion. There is nothing to prevent him from lining up on the front row of the grid tomorrow.

Back to Colin, our rider from the Netherlands has been calm and confident in the two days we have been riding at Motorland, and the lap times are coming out with "ease".

As for our third rider in the category, Torin Collins, he continues with his learning process, as evidenced by the step forward taken between QP1 and QP2.

Colin Veijer, Pole

"It went well. On the first start we went out looking for a good feeling and it went well. On the second start we put a new tire on the bike. I was riding on the track hoping to get it free. I let a group pass and that was a reference for me. It also helped me to take advantage of the slipstream on the straightaway, and all this helped me to set a good time. In QP2 we basically stayed on the sidelines to see what would happen. We put a new tire back on and I was on a fast lap, but in the last sector I had a little problem with the bike. But the important thing is that we started from pole. Let's see what happens tomorrow.”

Cormac Buchanan, P3

“Today was very good. First session was not so nice as I had a crash really early in the session which caused a lot of pain in my neck. So we decided to wait to go back on track to the end of the session. We were able to do a good lap alone which put us on P15. In QP2 we started alone and put together a really good pace. In our last stint I was not able to get any slipstream on the straight, but I was able to do 1.58.6 which put me on the front row. I’m very happy about that.”  

Torin Collins, P28

“Today things didn’t go as planned. I was hoping to have a really good qualifying but I was a little bit unlucky and I wasn’t able to get the time I wanted. Still I feel confident I can have a good race and I’m ready for tomorrow.” 

Moto 2

Second race for Mattia Volpi with the Moto2, in which he is showing so far himself much more adapted to his new bike than in Portimao. The 1'54.532 set in QP2 will allow him to start tomorrow from the third line of the grid, ahead of many riders with much more experience than him on a Moto2.

As for Sam Wilford, 14th best time out of 36 riders on his return to competition. As always Sam gave his all, as was evident when he crashed in turn #3 without suffering any physical consequences. 

It will be interesting to see what our two riders will do tomorrow in the race, since on paper both Mattia and Sam lack race pace... But who knows.

Mattia Volpi, P9

"The day has been good because we made another step forward, both riding alone and in traffic. We set a good time in the first session that we were able to improve in the second. My grid position is the best ever here in the FIM. Let's hope to make a good start and see what happens."

Sam Wilford, P14

“Difficult qualifying after crash in Q1. Hopefully tomorrow we can improve starting from 14th on the grid.” 

European Talent Cup

Our Talent rider, Carter Thompson has done the tenth best time. From what he showed in today's practice, if he can make a good start he can get into the front group, because he has the pace to ride there.

Carter Thompson, P10 

“Today was good, I improved my time each session, so it’s good. I start P10, so it should be a good race tomorrow, I should be fighting in the front.”

The FIM JuniorGP World Championship traveled to Italy for its sixth event of the season. An occasion that allowed our riders to share the weekend, the paddock and the circuit with the riders of the World Championship, and at the same time to be watched by their idols.

After the practice on the demanding Marco Simoncelli track, Collin Veijer managed to get into the second row of the grid after setting the sixth fastest time. Cormac Buchanan was three rows back, while Torin Collins was relegated to the last position on the grid after being penalized for irresponsible riding after slowing down too much in practice.

Our three riders were very motivated going into the race. Vejer made a good start and caught up with the group that was fighting for the victory. Despite some problems to stop the bike, he got to ride in third position. Repeating the podium he achieved in Jerez seemed possible, but a mechanical breakdown on the ninth lap, frustrating Colin's expectations and those of the whole team. As is easy to imagine, the young Dutch felt very disappointed.

Cormac's expectations were not met either, as he already felt problems with his engine on the warm-up lap. The team tried to fix it on the grid, but it was not possible. Technically weakened, Buchanan did what he could, finally finishing 21st. From the team we appreciate the fact that, despite his logical frustration - he was aiming for a top 10 - he brought his bike to the garage, showing respect for the work of the technicians and mechanics.

As for Torin, his race was totally conditioned by his position on the grid. As always he gave his all in the race and after some mistakes he finished 22nd, just behind his teammate.

Certainly the results obtained in Misano have not been as expected, but as Anscari Nadal, owner of the AGR Team, says very well: “Sometimes the mistakes are made by the riders, sometimes by the team, and this time it has been the time of mechanical failures for which none of the two previous parties are responsible.”... That's racing. 

Collin Veijer   -  DNF

“After the start of the race it was already quite difficult because I had problems to feel the grip. I felt that I had problems stopping the bike, but finally I made it into the group although it was impossible for me to overtake on the brakes. At the end I made it but then the bike broke again. I opened the throttle and I felt “click” and nothing happened. My team has explained me that the gearbox output shaft broke, a completely unusual failure. It’s a shame because the race was going pretty good, but…”

Cormac Buchanan   -  21st

“I was feelin great going into the race. Everything was going perfect for me. But already in the warm-up lap I felt something strange with the bike. My team tried to fix it. It is something related to the power issue. I started the race trying to enter with a clear head, I tried to push my best. I got a good launch, a make up a place into turn 1, but once we got into the first straight the bike was so slow. From then I tried my best and stay in the group I was in but with 20 K slower on the straight… I’m really frustrated because we were aiming for a top 10. I had never felt so good on the bike. It’s a shame because today we had a lot of potential. I’m frustrated and upset because we all worked so hard for this race, me, my family, everyone. It has prevented us to do a good result."

Torin Collins  -  22nd

“The race was difficult because I was starting from last place due to a penalty. In the first few laps I was able to get up from 32nd to 24th. I was with the group and everything was going pretty good, but when I was battling I made a mistake and dropped off. And without the slipstream my times start to dropping ands i lost contact with the group. Having raced here in Misano has been a great experience. I love this track.”

Junior GP

Getting caught up in the second group in the early stages of the race meant that Veijer did not reap the rewards of the pace he had shown in the race. The Dutch rider finished 9th, which meant 7 more points in the provisional championship standings, where he is in 10th position.  

Cormac Buchanan also paid for a bad start and subsequent collisions with other riders. From that moment on he was forced to catch up. Torin Collins had the weakest race of our three Junior GP riders, as evidenced that he was not able to do yesterday's lap times. 

Collin Veijer... P9

"The race was a difficult race. After the start I think I was in P10 and riding in the second group. From the second half of the race I didn't feel comfortable with the bike. At the end P9 after some riders were penalized. It wasn't the result I wanted."

Cormac Buchanan... P19

"I got a good start from the grid, but unfortunately some riders crossed in front of me and touched me, which led to me going wide in Turn 1. Then another rider took me off the circuit at turn 3. I rejoined the race dead last, 5 seconds behind the group in front of me. I managed to catch up, but once there, I was taken off the track again. I had to come back again with the goal of finishing in the points but I didn’t make it. It was a good race considering it was my first time in Junior GP, although obviously the result was not what I expected. I keep how much I learned this weekend."

Torin Collins... P21

"Despite the problems in the warm up in the morning, where I was hit and my bike damaged. A handlebar got  bent. In the race I made a good start, gained a few positions, but with the bent handlebar I didn't have the necessary confidence. In spite of this I had some good fights and ended up beating the riders of the group I was in. I ended up finishing 21st. Despite these problems, I think it was a good day."

Moto2

Points for Mattia in his first race on a Moto2 bike. He did good lap times, which would have allowed him to be with the front group if he had started better. He did ‘less well’ in the second race as he suffered a spectacular high side. Fortunately the spectacular crash had no physical consequences for our Italian rider. 

Mattia Volpi... Race 1 P15 / Race 2 DNF

"In the first race we had a bit of a bad start. You have to take into account that it was my first race start in this category. From then on I made up positions, improving By one second my fastest lap from yesterday's qualifying. We finished in P15. 

In the second race the start was already better, I recovered some positions. But in turn 5 a rider touched me from behind and I flew. Fortunately there were no particularly serious physical consequences. I want to apologize to the team because they have worked hard this weekend."

European Talent Cup

Bad start and good pace in the first laps is the sequence of Carter Thompson's race in Portimao. A pity because he could perfectly have fought in the leading group.

Carter Thompson... P12

"The day was okay, but it wasn't one of the best. After the first start the race was red flagged because of a crash in Turn 5. I was in a good position, which made me angry. My second start was not good. I think on the first lap I was P17. From there I had to recover and I got to the back of the group in front, but I was not able to overtake. It makes me angry. The positive thing is that in the race I did my best time of the weekend. I scored some points for the championship, which is also positive. In any case, I hope for more in the next race."

The FIM JuniorGP World Championship has chosen the ‘Autodromo do Algarve’ as the venue for its fifth race weekend. Tomorrow two races will be held there in the Moto2 category, one in the JuniorGP and one in HETC, with Team AGR riders present in all three categories.

The strong heat, expected in the south of Portugal at this time of the year, is one of the protagonists of the weekend, subjecting the riders to considerable physical effort. The other protagonists are the strong wind and the exceptional and unique layout of the Portuguese circuit.

JuniorGP

Collin Veijer, our winner of one of the races of the previous appointment, has missed doing a good lap, otherwise he has performed well. Cormac has done his homework considering it was his first time in the category: good lap times and as always with him, a positive attitude. As for Torin, he dropped a second and a half from yesterday to today, and we hope that tomorrow he will be able to ride in the intermediate group.  

Collin Veijer... 12º

“Not bad. First qualifying was not perfect as I couldn’t make a clean lap; P9 in that first one. Unfortunately I used all the new tires so I had no new one for the second qualifying. So I had no grip and finally I lost two positions, which means that I will start P12. We will see what we can do tomorrow.”

Cormac Buchanan... 19º

"I'm very happy with today. In the first session we had a mechanical incident, which complicated the start of the day. But in the second session we managed to get a P18, which I was quite happy with, especially considering it was my first qualifying on this bike. The wind was a factor that bothered quite a bit throughout the day. On used tires we don't have the pace, we're having problems there. On my last run out on track we put new tire on and I was feeling pretty comfortable, but unfortunately I ran into a few riders on my fast lap. Anyway, I'm confident we'll have a good race tomorrow; my goal is to fight to get into the points."

Torin Collins... 28º

"In Q1 I dropped another second, so that's part of it went very well, but the position is not fantastic. But I'm happy with our progression. Q2 was quite complicated because the group was a mess. In the end I did my fastest lap alone, doing the same time as in Q1: the conditions were much more difficult. I don't know in which position I will finally start, I think 28th. It's not where we wanted to be in practice, but I'm confident that tomorrow I can gain some positions."

Moto2

In his debut in Moto2, Mattia is following the logical process, that is to say, improving every time he goes out on track. In the end he has done a "decent" time, and from the team we hope that tomorrow he will make another step forward.

Mattia Volpi... 23º

"Today we made another big step forward in qualifying. We keep working because we can be fast also tomorrow in both races. It will be crazy because there will be a lot of laps, but we will do well for sure."

European Talent Cup

After the two crashes he suffered yesterday, Carter has logically started today with more caution. But as the day progressed he gained confidence, finishing sixth in his qualifying group.

Carter Thompson…11º

"The day started well with a good feeling on the bike. I felt like I could do pretty well, but in Q2 the temperature of the asphalt and the wind increased, which prevented me from improving. I finished P6 of my group. Tomorrow in the race we should be able to fight in the front group."

Great first race by Colin Veijer, in which the Dutch rider confirmed the good sensations in practice by climbing on to the top of the podium. He had the race under control at all times. In the last lap things got a bit complicated for him, but he was able to solve it with a lot of solidity. Good for Colin and the whole team. In the second race Colin suffered a technical problem and was taken off the track on the last lap, which prevented him from fighting for the podium positions. 

As for Volpi, it was a difficult race for the Italian rider, while Collins continued his upward trend shown all weekend. If yesterday he improved his fastest lap by more than a second compared to the previous day, today in the race he dropped a second off yesterday's time. He fought in a quite interesting group and was able to recover from a mistake and get back in contact with the group. In the second race, with much more heat than in the first one, he struggled a bit more. But the balance of the Canadian rider's weekend is undoubtedly positive. 

Colin Veijer... Race 1, first / Race 2, 11th

"The race went well, I felt very confident. The last lap was a bit complicated. I knew they were coming for me in turn 6. I tried to close the path, but Rueda passed me. He went a bit long and I tried to give it back to him, but I touched Alonso. We both went wide and we also forced Rueda to go wide. From then until the last corner I pushed with everything I had. I arrived first at the braking of the last corner and won the race. Obviously I am very happy. 

My second race was more difficult because I had no rear brake and this made me go wide in almost every corner. On the final lap I tried a different move, but I went wide, even out of the track. Finally I crossed the finish line P12… But I’m happy with my performance this weekend and obviously having given my team a victory.”

Torin Collins... Race 1, 22nd / Race 2, 21st 

"Today was quite positive. In the first race I got a good start and was able to link up with some fast riders, which was good for me to keep learning. I was also involved in an incident that took me off course, causing me to lose contact with the group. 

In the second race, with more heat, I had more difficulties, but in the end I had a good fight with another rider who beat me by 0.02s. I am very happy with this weekend. We will be there soon".

Mattia Volpi... Race 1, 24th / Race 2, 22nd

"Today didn't go as we expected, but we gave our maximum. With the engine change between the first and second race we were able to be closer to the front. However, as the laps went by, the engine's performance dropped. Now we have to train hard for the race in Portimao where I hope things will go better for us". 

European Talent Cup… Positive sensations despite unexpected results

As for the "little ones", in the first race both Buchanan and Thompson fell asleep in the group they were in, which caused the group in front to escape. It is clear that they need to work with them on the situation of riding in a group, as it is difficult for them to overtake and improve positions.

In the second race, Thompson came out with more enthusiasm and a good start allowed him to get into the front group. He was fighting the whole race. On the last lap he was dropped when he was fighting for the podium. Buchanan on the other hand, the same thing happened to him as in the first race. He got stuck in the second group and did not manage to improve positions.

Carter William James Thompson... Race 1, 18th / Race 2, DNF

“Today was not a bad day but not the best day either in race one I made a bad start and found it very hard to try to push back through. Race two I got a better start and was pushing through making overtakes until a few laps in me and another rider came together which caused me to drop back to p18 but made my way but up to fight for the podium but unfortunately crashed on the last lap but I was feeling good with the bike and was able to fight for the podium”.

Cormac Buchanan... Race 1, DNF / Race 2, 21st

"Today was a difficult day that didn't go as I expected. In the warm up we changed a few things on the bike that went really well and gave me a lot of confidence going into the race. In the first race I had a very good start, I gained some positions, but I made a mistake being more aware of the riders around me than my riding. I ended up crashing trying to recover the positions I had lost.

In the second race I had a very good pace, but I got caught in the group behind. Every time I tried to escape, they were all over me. This cost me a lot of time and also trying to overtake one of the riders I went long, leaving me last. I managed to get back to the group in one lap. In the end we didn't get the result I know we could have achieved, but this weekend has served to strengthen the relationship with the team. I can't wait to go to Portimao”. 

Fourth round of the FIM Junior World Championship, which this time has traveled to the Jerez circuit. And that in July means unequivocally adding intense heat to the challenge the riders have to face. This has been particularly high today, conditioning the performance of the riders in the afternoon sessions.

JuniorGP... Colin Veijer, a contender for everything

With an almost perfect lap Colin Veijer gave the AGR Team and himself the first pole position of the season. The Dutch rider also showed a good pace, so the expectations for a good result in tomorrow's race are high.

Torin Collins continues to follow the planned schedule, i.e. accumulating experience and taking steps forward. From yesterday to today, the Canadian rider's lap times have improved by more than a second; the gap between him and the riders in front of him is getting smaller and smaller.

As for Mattia Volpi, the lack of feeling on the bike has prevented him from performing at his level. The team will work with him this afternoon/evening to try to give the Italian a bike with which he feels better in the race.

Colin Veijer... Pole

"In the first qualifying run we went out I already felt comfortable. I ended up confident despite not having been able to be faster because in the last sector I was blocked by another rider. And I was right, because on the last lap I found a good tow that allowed me to take the pole. In the second qualifying session the wind picked up and made us go slower than in the previous stint. Having already set a good lap time I didn't want to take any risk to avoid any stupid incident. Obviously I'm happy and very confident for tomorrow".

Torin Colins... 27º

"In Q1 I improved a lot compared to yesterday, lapping 1.2s faster than Friday's times. The progress is quite positive; the position not so much. It's not where we wanted to be but we're definitely going in the right direction. In Q2 I had a problem with the engine. I could only complete three laps. But tomorrow we will be strong and fight from the start."

Mattia Volpi... 28º 

“Today we had a difficult day. We had some problems with the bike. But in the end it's tomorrow that counts, we have two races to have fun and come back."

European Talent Cup

Our two riders lacked today that fast lap that would have qualified them better for the grid, but it was not a bad day. In Q2 Cormac Buchanan and Carter William James Thompson finished fifth and sixth respectively; tomorrow they will start from 12th and 18th positions. They both have enough pace and are not far from the front, so with a good start they can both think of a good race.

Cormac Buchanan... 12º

"My mixed feelings on qualifying today. I'm happy but I know I could have done better. I just didn't have a clear lap to give it my all. I had the pace to fight for the top positions. My goal for the race is to get into the front group and keep scoring points."

Carter William James Thompson... 18º

"Today was not the best day. I expected more, but overall it was good. I learned a lot today and I hope to have a good race tomorrow. My goal is to get into the top five, and why not the podium."

This weekend at Montmeló was held the second round of the FIM Junior 2022, of which two races were run; the Talent Cup, on the other hand, contested only one race. The strong heat was the prevailing trend throughout the weekend, conditions that have tested the physical condition of the riders.  

In Catalonia, fortune was mixed for our three Junior GP riders. Collin Veijer, the spearhead of the AGR Team in this category, completed a good first race, in which he climbed up to the seventh position, which meant 9 more points for the championship. In the second race he was involved in an incident in the early stages that left him out of the race. Volpi suffered the same fate in his two starts on Sunday. 

Our Italian rider gave a lot of work to our mechanics this Sunday, who must be mentioned especially for the impeccable work of "reconstruction" of Mattia’s bike in the short time between the two races. Finally, a positive weekend for Torin Collins, who left Barcelona with the feeling that he has made a good step forward.

In ETC the result was below what was expected after the good qualifying sessions performed by our twoyoung  riders. 

FIM JUNIOR GP

Collin Veijer

Race 1, seventh

Race 2, DNF

"In the first part of the first race it was a bit tricky to make my way through the pack. But once I got in front I was able to set my own pace, which allowed me to catch Alonso and Voight. I overtook Alonso and tried to get to Voight, but some riders took advantage of my slipstream to pass me on the last lap.

My second race ended on the fifth lap due to my own mistake. I braked where I always do, but the rider in front of me passed me and moved into the turn. I pulled the brakes to stop the bike, but in the maneuver the rear wheel lifted up and when it hit the ground again, it hit it sideways and the bike sent me into the air. Unfortunately I hit the other rider. I feel sorry for him and hope things go better in the next race."

Torin Collins

Race 1, 21st

Race 2, 21st

"Today went well, although it was difficult. In the first race I had a pretty good start and got into a good group. I fought throughout the race and in the end I finished in a good position for me. 

In the second race I had a very, very bad start. I didn't feel comfortable at any time, but in the end I finished in the same position as in the first race. Overall, it was a good weekend in which I clearly took a step forward". 

Mattia Volpi

Race 1, DNF

Race 2, DNF

"In the first race I had a normal start, but on the first lap in turn 9, one of those riders who intend to win races on the first lap, touched me. I was last on the first lap. I started to push  hard to try catch the riders in front of me. In fact in that phase of the race I set a 1.50'1, the eighth fastest time of the whole race. When I left behind that group I tried to push again to get closer to those in front of me, but I crashed with a high side in turn #12.

In the second race we had a better start. I was in the points group. For five or six laps I was controlling everything. From then on I started to push and push, and I was overtaking riders. I was in P8, and after a few laps I opened up half a second gap. To avoid to get caught on the straight  pushed too hard and lost the front end. 

I want to apologize to the team because today I crashed twice because of me. The good thing is that we rode very, very fast and we showed that we can be at the front. It was also clear that we managed to solve the problems we had in Valencia. I'm already looking forward to Jerez.”

European Talent Cup / ETC

Cormac Buchanan 15th

"I'm happy with today's race but at the same time a little disappointed because on the first lap I was P28, which obviously wasn't an ideal position. From there I worked my way through the pack. I had a very, very good pace. I actually set the third fastest lap of the race. Unfortunately I got stuck behind some slower riders. When I overtook them I tried to catch  the guys in front of me. In the last two laps I cut them off by 1.8 seconds, but I ran out of laps. I keep my first point in the championship, something that gives me satisfaction and motivates me for the next race."

Carter W.J. Thompson 14th

"The day didn't go the way I wanted it to. In the race I didn't feel comfortable on the bike, so I wasn't able to ride as hard as I would have liked. It's disappointing, but things just came out that way. I finished P16, which is not the best position. Hopefully in Jerez things will go better."

After three days of testing in Montmeló, our riders will start tomorrow's third round of the Junior GP with a good feeling. The strong heat has been the protagonist in today's two sessions -qualifying sessions for the starting grid-, making it difficult to lower  in the afternoon. 

FIM Junior GP

Our three riders in the ultra-competitive FIM Junior category, where 36 riders of 17 different nationalities will line up tomorrow, are ready. Veijer has improved his lap times, which is what he was missing in the previous races; Mattia struggled in the first session, but in the second one he was able to get the time out despite the conditions being much more difficult; as for Torin, he has clearly shown progress compared to the previous races, which should basically be his goal now.  

12th Colin Veijer

Colin will start from the fourth row of the grid, confident that he can have a good race and continue to score points in the championship. 

"Today went quite well for us, in QP1 we started a bit later because no one wanted to go out on track. We finally managed to do a lap. Then we came in, put on new tires and went out and gave it all. My feeling on the bike was perfect, and finally I managed to do a decent time, P11. In the afternoon session it was a bit more difficult; in the end I will start P12. I'm happy". 

24th Mattia Volpi

For Mattia the grid position is misleading. As he himself admits, he has the pace to be at the front. The problem is the 23 riders who will start ahead of him. It will be a difficult race for sure. 

"This morning we didn't find the lap because the attitude of the people on the track was... let's say, stupid. But the bike was fine, the set-up was perfect. In the afternoon the track was more difficult and it was very difficult to improve. We did the same time as in the morning riding alone. Okay, we start tomorrow pretty far back, but I’m confident that tomorrow we can do very well".

26th Torin Collins

A complicated day for our Canadian rider, who was the victim of mechanical problems in the afternoon timed session. It prevented him from improving his morning lap times, but far from getting discouraged, Torin is looking forward to tomorrow to get rid of the bad taste. 

"A difficult day. In the morning I was improving my times steadily, but the position is not good. In the afternoon I had a mechanical problem with my bike and I could hardly do a lap. I do start at the back, but I'm sure I'll work my way up." 

Hawkers ETC

Our two riders worked very well. Both Carter and Cormac are very close to the leading times and have very good race pace. 

9th Carter W.J. Thompson

Third row for Carter who was just over three tenths off pole. From what he showed in practice, the young Australian rider can aim for a top result tomorrow.

"The day went pretty well. In the afternoon I tried to improve on my fast lap, but didn't get it done. Anyway, like I said, I consider it a good day. The pace we have should be good for the race. I'm looking forward to tomorrow."

13th Cormac Buchanan

Will start on the grid just behind his teammate. Cormac finished the day very confident and convinced that he can race with the front group tomorrow. 

"Today was a very good day. My fastest lap I did on my own and I also have good pace and consistency. We're not far from the front group, so I'm very confident I can make the race at the front. I need to make a good start." 

The AGR Team riders completed a complicated weekend during the second round of the FIM Junior GP at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia. In the Junior GP category, Colin Veijer finished the first race in 14th place, but was unable to finish the second after suffering a mechanical failure on the penultimate lap. Torin Collins took another step forward during the first race after once again climbing places and reaching the 22nd position, the Canadian rider did not complete the last race after making a mistake at the start that led him to start from the pit lane and he made the decision to retire with his mind set on the next race. Mattia Volpi continues his upward projection on the track, after a good half of the first race he made the decision to retire. He completed the day climbing to 17th position in the second race.

In the European Talent Cup, Carther Thompson continues his progression, managing to be in the points in both races of the day, despite the penalty imposed. During the first race, Thompson managed to climb back to 13th position, interrupted due to a red flag. In the second race the young Australian driver stood out again finishing in 15th place, showing a great race pace in both.

Collin Veijer: “The first race was not bad. The start wasn't perfect, the first few laps I focused on finding my place. We were able to have a good race at the end and I was happy with what I got. In the second race, the start was not what I expected again, I tried to get close to the first ones from the head. In the last two laps, I suffered a mechanical failure and I couldn't finish the race”

Torin Collins: “Today was very difficult. In the first race I made a good start and I was able to put up some good fights. I made a mistake, I lost the group, but I was able to rejoin it and I was able to fight for a good position. In the second race, I made a mistake when stopping the bike on the grid and I had to start from the pit lane. I have decided not to continue and not finish the race. Next stop Montmeló!”

Mattia Volpi: “In the first race we had to retire in the middle because we didn't have the power or the rubber to finish the race. Then in the second race we made a good start and we got to position 13th, but on the second lap, at turn 1, a rider touched me and I went wide. In the end we made a comeback from 32nd position to 17th, riding at the pace of the top ten”

Carter Thompson: “The day has gone well. In the first race I had to comply with the penalties imposed on me, but I felt good and the pace was good. During the second race we expected more, but I have not been able to feel comfortable. We hope that the next race in Barcelona goes better!”

The AGR Team completed a difficult qualifying day in the second stage of the JuniorGP, marked by very high temperatures on the track. 

In the JuniorGP category, Mattia Volpi will start from 22nd position. The Italian rider completes a consistent qualifying day taking a step forward compared to the free practice days. Collin Veijer will start 23rd, finishing a tough day despite the advances of the young Dutch driver. During the course of the last session while progressing in his timed he suffered a fall without consequences that has made it impossible to complete the session. Torin Collins will start 30º and continues his adaptation to the category, with a notable advance over the last race. 

In the category of the European Talent Cup, the progression of the young driver, Carther Thompson, stands out, who will start from the tenth grid line after being sanctioned by race direction. On the other hand his team-mate, Cormac Buchanan, ends his participation in the Valencia event by not overcoming the race "Last Change" after a complicated start, despite the magnificent effort of our driver who climbed numerous places in a fantastic progression. In the absence of two laps the bike suffered a mechanical problem that reduced its performance, which undoubtedly prevented it from overcoming the cut. 

Mattia Volpi: "The day has gone better than yesterday because we have taken a step forward. We are quite close to the first but we have to make some modifications due to the heat to prepare for tomorrow’s race" 

Collin Veijer: "I am satisfied with my position, but of course I would like to be faster. The first classification was not perfect, I did not get a correct lap. In the second classification, we went with other drivers, which is not what I want, but we had to push. I’m not happy with today, but let’s fight for tomorrow."

Torin Collins: "It’s been a difficult day. I learned a lot but I suffered a little while riding with some riders during qualifying. I’m not disappointed but I hope to get better. I can't wait for tomorrow to give it all!"

Carther Thompson: "The day went quite well. QP1 was a good session where we were able to finish in eighth position. During QP2 we tried to make some changes but they did not work as expected. I am also very happy with today and I also want to thank the mechanics for all their work"

Cormac Buchanan: "Today was a tough day. We had to compete in the "last change" race, since the pole position gave me confidence. Unfortunately I had to start from behind. I managed to reach the race group but it was not enough".

In the Moto2 category, Sam Wilford successfully completed the first race of the day by climbing from the last place on the grid to 5th. During the second race the rider could not finish due to a heavy crash while riding in second place. Despite the huge impact on the protections, Wilford is stable. The dramatic accident ends with a broken arm and a broken tibia. From the AGR Team we send Sam all our support and wishes for a prompt recovery. We will continue to report on his evolution. 

In the Junior GP category, Mattia Volpi finished 23rd after completing the penalty imposed by race direction yesterday. Torin Collins finished 24th. The rider concludes a successfully weekend in his adaptation to the category. Collin Veijer did not participate on Sunday’s activities due to a knee injury after a crash he suffered yesterday. 

In the European Talent Cup category, Carter Thompson completed the first race exceptionally getting 8th place, while in the second race he finished 16th. Corman Buchanan finished a weekend of learning and adaptation to the category, completing his first race in 16th place and 20th in the second race, ready to continue his progress in Valencia. 

Mattia Volpi: "Today we had to start from last place and perform two long laps penalty. We lost nine seconds but despite everything we had the same rhythm as the top10 and we have recovered to position ourselves in the 23rd place. I’m looking forward to the next race in Valencia"

Cormac Buchanan: "Today was a difficult day for the team. We suffered a lot during the first race. During the second race we lost a lot in the straights and we had to work hard in the corners. I am very happy with the weekend. I can’t wait for Valencia!"

Carter Thompson: "My day has gone very well. We started the day very well positioned in the top ten front positions in the first race. The second race also went well but we can still improve in Valencia. I am very happy with the team’s work throughout the weekend."

Torin Collins: "Today was a difficult day. I learned a lot during the race but I suffered with the race pace. I am happy because I have learned a lot this weekend and I look forward to the next race in Valencia."

The entire AGR team, family, sponsors and friends wish a speedy recovery for our brave driver Sam Wilford. We hope to see him soon on track. 

In the JuniorGP category, Collin Veijer will start from 17th position. The young New Zealander completed both qualifying sessions adapting to his new mount. Despite suffering a crash  during the last session, the rider managed to finish within the top ten. Torin Collins continues to adapt within the category, engaging in both training sessions and daily learning, departing from the 29th position. Mattia Volpi ended a day with difficulties for the Italian rider due to the high number of yellow flags during qualifying sessions and the massing on the track. Volpi will start from last place after being admonished by race direction for rolling slowly in five sectors. 

Sam Wildford has completed the Moto2 qualifying day with remarkable success, finishing in the top ten in both sessions. Despite his hard work, the British driver will start tomorrow’s race in 30th place, after being sanctioned for rolling slow on the track. 

Finally in the category of the European Talent Cup, Carter Thompson successfully completed both qualifying sessions, achieving the fifth best record during the afternoon session. Despite a fall that has prevented him from improving his timed Thompson will start from 21th place on Sunday. Cormac Buchanan will leave from 26th place after a difficult day with several falls during the course of the day. 

Collins Veijer: "The first classification was challenging. We encountered a few problems, but we were able to resolve them." We tried several strategies throughout the day, I was riding with several drivers looking for a great time but I suffered a crash in the last minutes of the last session."

Torin Collin: "Today has been a difficult day for me and the team. We haven’t had any good luck today with some falls. I am happy with the progress I am making and I look forward to the race tomorrow"

Mattia Volpi: "During the first classification I had good feelings riding alone but we still lacked something with the new tire and we were hurt by the yellow flags. Even with the heat on the track during the second qualifying round, I had good feelings, but there were lots of drivers in the last corner. Tomorrow we will be last due to a penalty but we have rhythm and we will give the maximum tomorrow!"

Sam Wilford: “We had a good qualifying today in 8th position. I’m excited to see what is possible in the race as we have good race pace. Unfortunately we have a penalty for the first race but we will try our best!”

Carter Thompson: "It was okay, but I suffered a crash in the first classification in the last few laps. I tried to improve my time during the second session, but the track was too hot"

Cormac Buchanan: "It has been a difficult day for me. I have suffered several crashes in both sessions. But we didn’t have to compete in the Last Chance race so I’m happy. I look forward to the race tomorrow."

We are pleased to announce the arrival of the young New Zealander Cormac Buchanan who will compete in the European Talent Cup of the FIM JuniorGP Championship with AGR Team.

Cormac is 15 years old, he is also the current NZ Road Race 300cc Champion recruited by New Zealand motorcycling legend Josh Coppins. 2022 will be the second year in Europe for the kiwi where he will also contest the Red Bull Rookies Cup again.

"I am excited to be joining the AGR familiy and I believe the team will provide the expertise and professional envionment which is crucial to success"

Welcome to the family Cormac!

AGR Team is proud to announce the young Canadian rider Torin Collins for his line up in the 2022 FIM Junior GP Championship. 

Torin will compete in the Moto3 category for the first time and will be living in Barcelona.

2022 will be a learning year for the 16 years old rider from Calgary (Canada) but the target remains high. 

Welcome Torin!

We are pleased to announce the arrival of young Dutch rider Collin Veijer who will compete in the Moto3 category of the FIM JuniorGP Championship with the AGR Team. 

Collin is at 16 years old  one of the fastest riders from Holland, this past year he was very close to the podium in the Misano round by finishing in 4th position, we hope to see him on the podium in 2022 with our red bullet!

Welcome to the family!

Joel Kelso’s victory with an impressive comeback; starting from the penultimate place. AGR Team ends a weekend full of emotions with an epic victory that puts a finishing touch to the end of the season at the FIM CEV Repsol. 

In Moto3, our Australian rider finishes the final round of the championship, achieving a sensational victory, going back to victory and far surpassing his direct rivals. During the second race the young rider once again dazzled with a great start that allowed him to lead group, fighting for victory. Finally, Joel Kelso, with his third victory in the FIM CEV Repsol,  managed to take fourth place in the Moto3 category. 

Mattia Volpi continues with his evolution in the category of Moto3, finishing in the last positions, after going back some positions in the first laps and passing through the pits. During the second race he again climbed some positions, but despite the great efforts of our rider suffered a touch while fighting for the position relegated to the last place. Finally, our young driver managed to finish in the 20th position, getting his best result of the day. 

In the Moto2 category the Japanese rider Taiga Hada and Sam Wilford finished in sixth and seventh place respectively, in a race prematurely finished due to a red flag. Taiga Hada thus ends a full weekend, despite the weather conditions and closes the season with a podium in the last races. Wilford again achieved an excellent result forming a perfect duo with his teammate Hada. 

Joel Kelso: "I’m very happy with how the results went and how the whole team worked. Thank the team for giving me this great opportunity. It’s been amazing to get three wins this season. It’s a bit sad to have to leave the team but new challenges await me within the Moto3 world championship".

Mattia Volpi: "Today the important thing was to regain confidence. In race1 I had some difficulties with the bike and I was fighting for the p24 position with a pit stop. Race 2 I had a strong pace like the top10 but in the second lap I had a touch with a rider and I went p31. I made a comeback to p 20. Thanks to the team for the whole season’s help and let's enjoy next year!”

Taiga Hada: "The race has been difficult. I finished in sixth position, I have been giving my all to try to reach podium positions but it has not been possible. Thank the team for their effort throughout the season See you soon!" 

Sam Wilford: “I’m happy to finish my season 6th in the championship. I want to thank everyone that has made this year possible and I look forward to what the future holds in 2022!”

Anscari Nadal: "It has been a difficult weekend marked by low temperatures and changing climatic conditions. Taiga Hada and Sam Wildofrod have made a good race, although we have lacked a little more rhythm. Highlight the progression of Sam Wilford during this year, giving us many expectations for next year. Regarding the category of Moto3 a little disappointed with Mattia, who has not finished finding the sensations in rain adding two big falls that have diminished his performance, also like Kristian Daniel, who also had another fall this weekend. The positive part of the weekend was with Joel Kelso who got an epic race after starting from penultimate position. From AGR Team we want to thank you for all the achievements we have achieved together this season"

The AGR Team finishes a tough qualifying day in the last round  of the FIM CEV Repsol in the Ricardo Tormo Circuit. Today the riders are facing difficult conditions of intense rain during the course of the qualifier, with numerous interruptions on the track due to the red flags that have modified the course of the day. 

Joel Kelso and Mattia Volpi finished the day under heavy rain in both qualifying sessions. Transalpine rider Mattia Volpi will leave from the last row of the grid, occupying the thirty-first place after completing a hard day and suffering two falls in the course of the sessions. The australian rider Joel Kelso will sharespace with his team mate, finishing in 30th place. 

In the Moto2 category, stands out Sam Wildford who will leave from the third row on Sunday, after signing the eighth best record of the day. The British rider has completed a day with great efficiency despite the harsh weather conditions of the day. The Japanese rider Taiga Hada completes the day with the tenth place, after suffering during the QP1, culminating the day with good sensations after passing through the QP2, where he has scored the fifth best record of the afternoon qualifier. 

Kristian Daniel ends her participation in the FIM CEV Repsol after not finishing the qualifying race in the European Talent Cup category. The young American rider thus closes a weekend with numerous difficulties that have prevented him from giving his maximum. 

Mattia Volpi: “Today the condition was very difficult. In the QP1 I was doing a very good lap but I did a very big highside. In QP2 i've tried to do a few laps but I crashed in turn 4 on another highside and I was declared unfit. Tomorrow morning I will do the check. I hope to do both races”

Joel Kelso: "I am very disappointed with the result of the day, this is my worst classification in the FIM CEV Repsol with AGR. Today we made a mistake, we know where the problems are so the whole team and I are doing our best to solve them. Tomorrow we face the day with a clear mind. We face a challenge, we have to overcome twenty-nine to overtake.Let’s go for it!"

Sam Wildford: “I’m looking forward to the race tomorrow! I think we have pace in all conditions tomorrow to fight in the front. Whatever the conditions are tomorrow we will be fighting to finish the year on a high”

Taiga Hada: "It has been a complicated day with very intense rain throughout the qualifying. I felt good on the bike, becoming fifth during the second qualifying session. Tomorrow we face a hard race, I will start  from the tenth first position but we will fight for the front positions"

Kristian Daniel Jr: “We had a good weekend in Valencia. The conditions were different every day which made it challenging. A crash Friday made it a bit more difficult, but I pushed hard during the qualifying. Unfortunately I crashed during my best lap, and wasn't able to qualify for the race. I'm super happy with the work the team did, and I'm looking forward to training for next season”

We are pleased to announce the arrival of the young Australian talent Carter Thompson who will compete in the European Talent Cup with the AGR Team. Carter won the Motostars Australian Junior Road Racing Championship in 2019 and in 2020 won the R3 Cup, he was discovered by the ex-MotoGP rider Damian Cudlin in his rider training organization Motostars where he has been training until now getting ready to come to Europe.

The AGR Team finished the Italian round with a new victory for the team and Joel Kelso. The young rider achieved his second victory of the season after maintaining a firm lead from start to finish. 

Joel Kelso was unstoppable during the seventh round of the FIM CEV Repsol at the Misano Marco Simoncelli track. Starting from the third position, the rider managed to lead the header group from the first corner despite receiving a strong impact during the start. The Australian set the pace of the race from the first laps, maintaining a constant lead in the first ten laps. Kelso fought for podium positions during the final laps of the event. Without fainting the effort, the rider beat the rest managing to return and reach the first position. In the end, Joel Kelso added his second victory in his career, beating the current record for the fastest lap in the race (1:43.451) 

Mattia Volpi continues his traineeship in the Moto3 category, finishing in 26th place. The Italian rider continues to accumulate experience in competition after a relentless fight in the race, after being injured by a multiple accident at the start of the race. Our rider skilfully managed the penalty after exceeding the limits of the track in the last laps, working to regain two positions from the start. 

Joel Kelso: "It was wonderful! I led from the beginning and during the course of the race I slowed down my pace to analyse my rivals. In the last lap I gave everything despite being on my limit. It has been a great weekend for us and we will fight to finish this strong season. Thank to the team and my family"

Mattia Volpi: "I’m happy because I’ve improved on a second my race pace and I’ve been close to the front group pace. I got harmed by the incident of three riders on the track and I rode alone. I got penalized with a long lap and I finished 26º"

Anscari Nadal: "Amazing week for AGR Team! The team has done an excellent job on a mourning weekend for the passing of a person close to the team. I am very happy with the potential of Joel Kelso, he has shown his potential during the race with a great overtaking in the last laps. Mattia Volpi has to keep working, we are convinced that the results will come. During this weekend has proven to be very competitive in rainy conditions. Thank to the drivers, all AGR staff and sponsors who have made this success possible"

The AGR Team finishes an effective qualifying day during the seventh round of the FIM CEV Repsol, the Grand Prix the Octo di San Marino and the Riviera di Rimini, World Championship event. The riders have consolidated an atypical qualifying day, deprived of free training, in a semi-wet condition during the course of the two qualifying training sessions.

Joel Kelso and Mattia Volpi finish an excellent day under changing conditions. The young Australian rider keeps his line of hits on a track already known to him. He will start from the front line of the grid, in third place after achieving his record by shooting solo during the morning qualifying. Kelso has been confident and optimistic for Saturday after the good sensations obtained in dry and wet conditions. 

Mattia Volpi confirms her upward line of learning in her first year in the Moto3 category. During the course of the first qualifying session under the weather conditions of rain the Italian rider made the best of himself, managed to roll practically the entire session in first place. Volpi, the second youngest rider in the category, has taken a great driving lesson in wet conditions, going through difficulties in dry conditions. He will start from the twenty-eighth place with great options if rainy conditions are presented on track.

Anscari Nadal: "I am very proud with the result of the day. Mattia Volpi rode very fast in the first part of the QP1 and he will have to go all out from the start. Joel Kelso has done his job and can do it very well in the dry. We start from the front line, let’s fight for the victory tomorrow!"

The AGR Team riders have contested two races in each category during an intense day at the Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto. Al lof them have fought fought for the front positions and have given their best under difficult track conditions due to the high temperatures.

Moto3 kicked off an intense day of racing, with Joel Kelso starting from the front row of the grid and Mattia Volpi from the eighth row. In the first race, Kelso made a good start that allowed him to run in second position and lead during the first laps. The AGR Team rider constantly fought for podium positions and remained in the leading group. In the last laps he lost some positions, although he managed to overcome and finish in seventh position. Mattia Volpi went from less to more this time. The Italian lost some positions in the opening laps and fought to maintain a good pace. He progressively climbed positions and felt more and more comfortable until he crossed the finish line in seventeenth position, his best result this season.

Similar situation that we experienced in the second race of the category, although with very difficult track conditions due to the high temperatures. Kelso made a good start again and he quickly led the group. After six laps, an error relegated him several places and the Australian's comeback began at the same time that the group split. The AGR Team rider was finally seventh after fighting for sixth place in the final meters. Mattia Volpi lost several positions at the start and was forced to do his best from the start to get the best possible result. The Italian progressively advanced and fought for twentieth position until the last lap, crossing the finish line in twenty-first position.

In Moto2, Taiga Hada has fought in the group throughout the race to get the best possible position. Despite not finding the best feeling with his bike, Hada fought for fifth position until the end with several riders, including his teammate Sam Wilford. Finally, the Japanese rider crossed the finish line in sixth position after fighting to enter the Top5 until the last meters. Wilford lost several places at the start of the first race, although he quickly recovered and managed to hook up with the group and fight for the first positions. The Briton tried to the end and finished in seventh position.

The second Moto2 race was more difficult due to the high temperatures in Jerez. Taiga started the race climbing positions and in a few corners he was already running in third position. This time the Japanese had better feelings driving his Kalex, something that he showed as he fought for fourth position from start to finish until finishing fifth. Sam Wilford also made a good start that allowed him to be in the group from the first moments. After giving his best and finishing sixth, he crossed the finish line in eighth place. The Briton is showing that he is becoming more comfortable and that he has the potential to fight for the top positions and even for the podium.

The next FIM CEV Repsol event will take place on September 19 in Misano coinciding with the San Marino Grand Prix, although this time only Moto3 riders will compete. The Moto2 and Hawkers European Talent Cup riders will have to wait for the last race of the year next November.

Anscari Nadal (Team Manager): “We made some changes to the Warm Up on Taiga’s bike, but it wasn't perfect for the first race and he didn't have a good feeling with the front. In the second race we foung a good setup and he did a good race, but it was difficult with the temperature. Sam did very well, this weekend he was physically depleted but he still rode with the top five and had a good pace. He is getting closer to the podium every time. I have a bittersweet taste with Joel because the goal was the podium and even to win after coming off the front row. Joel suffered with the tyre and he did not want to risk. Mattia didn't have a good start in the first race, just like in the second. When he managed to shoot in good times the race was already very divided. Even so, he has worked hard considering the conditions of the track, it was very hot and it was not easy”.

Taiga Hada (R1: P6 / R2: P5): “Today has been a difficult day. In the first race I did not feel comfortable with the bike, I did not have a good feeling with the front. For the second race we managed to solve it and I was much better, but it was very hot and the conditions were not easy. In spite of everything we have given our best and we have been ahead. Now we are thinking in the last race in Valencia”.

Joel Kelso (R1: P7 / R2: P7): “We did a good start in Race 1 and we led for a few laps also. I felt strong in the beggining but we still had to find the correct setting. We continued working hard to fight for the podium in the end. Race 2 was similar, we led the first lap but the group spread out because I had a good pace. I made a Little mistake in turn 1 and I lost many positions. Then I tried to catch up the group and I only could fight for P6 or P7. Overall it was a hard weekend, we still scored points in both races, P7 in each one is not where we want to be but it better than crashing. We will come back stronger in Misano and we will do a better race”. 

Sam Wilford (R1: P7 / R2: P8): “Difficult 2 races today but many positives to take away from this weekend. We have good pace to fight inside the top 5, let’s see what we can do in Valencia for the last race of the season!”

Mattia Volpi (R1: P17 / R2: 21): “Today in Race 1 I did a mistake in the start, losing a lot of position but then I catch the group in front of me and I fought for top 10. The start in Race 2 was a bit better the start but in first corner I went wide, I lost some position and then I finished p21. Thanks to all the team, always closer for the top”.

AGR Team has disputed this Saturday the qualifying sessions of the sixth round of the FIM CEV Repsol. In Moto2, Taiga Hada Sam Wilford will start from the second and fourth row of the grid. In Moto3, Joel Kelso will start from the front row again while Mattia Volpi will start from the eighth. Kristian Daniel Jr. has come very close to qualifying for tomorrow's races after leading much of the Last Chance race.

In Moto2, Taiga Hada achieved the sixth best time in the first session. Already in second qualifying, the Japanese AGR Team rider was fifteenth after he did not find the best feelings due to the high temperatures. Tomorrow he will start from the second row of the grid, in sixth position.

Sam Wilford set the 10th best time in QP1. Already in the second and qualifying, Wilford improved his result and was sixth, being close to improving his own record after feeling very comfortable on the Andalusian track. With these results tomorrow he will start tenth.

In Moto3, Joel Kelso came out in the first session ready to get the best possible result after not starting the weekend with the best feeling. The Australian AGR Team rider set the third best time in the category, just one tenth behind the leader. In QP2 the times were slower and, although he was fifteenth, the time in QP1 was enough for him to start tomorrow from the front row of the grid.

Mattia Volpi continues to improve. The Italian was fourteenth in the first qualifying session, while in the second he was twenty-second. Tomorrow he will start the races from the twenty-third position although he is only a few tenths of the first classified, being very close to matching his best result this season.

At the Hawkers European Talent Cup, Kristian Daniel came very close to securing his direct pass to Sunday's races. The young American rider competed in the Last Chance race and quickly took the lead to dominate for much of the race. Despite fighting for the win until the end, he finished in a creditable third place. Once the test was over, he drop one position for exceeding the track limits on the last lap and he finally was fourth.

Tomorrow there will be two races of each category: Moto3, at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., and Moto2 at 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Anscari Nadal (Team Manager): “Taiga starts in the second row but he is not quite happy. We have to improve the set-up and get a better rhythm. We will test something in the warm up for the race. He is confident but Jerez is a very demanding circuit. I am very happy with Joel's front row. He has done a good job together with the whole team. We will suffer especially in the second race because of the heat, but we will fight for the podium. Mattia is 23rd but he es less than a second behind the first classified. He is riding very fast this weekend and has a great chance of getting the his first points if he makes a good start. With Sam we had a problem with the shifter in the first qualifying and that delayed us in the first laps. In the second qualifying he did very well. He's never been this far ahead, he's got a good pace and he's confident. Tomorrow I hope he fights for the top positions. Kristian was close to qualifying today. In Q1, the bike stopped due to an electrical problem and had few laps. In the second he went very well and was three tenths away from qualifying. In the race he made a good start and led most of the race. He has endured very well and we are all very happy with him”.

Joel Kelso P3 (QP1: P3 / QP2: P21): “I have mixed feelings today. I’m very happy that we found the direction we needed because this weekend hasn’t been easy. During QP1 we did some changed to get a better feeling. I did a nice lap riding alone and the pace was good also. Overall was a good day. During QP2 We worked on race pace, which is important for tomorrow. Let’s keep working during the warm up and let’s enjoy the two races”.

Taiga Hada P6 (QP1: P6 / QP2: P15: “The first qualifying was very good and we got a good time. In the second qualifying the conditions was very hard, with high termperatures so it was difficult to get a good setting. The feeling with the bike wasn’t the best because I had some problems with the front and I couldn’t get a good time. Tomorrow we will change the setting and the targes for the races is the podium”. 

Sam Wilford P10 (QP1: 10 / QP2: P6): “We are ready for the races tomorrow. I think we have a good setup for the 2 races and can fight inside the top 5 positions. I’m looking forward to the races and let’s see what is possible”.

Mattia Volpi P23 (QP1: 24 / QP2: P22): “Today was a good day. We are all near, I’m 23rd but I’m only eight tenths from the first, so this is very good. We are improving week by week and I have a good pace. Let’s see tomorrow in the race”.

Kristian Daniel Jr. P4 (Last Chance Race): “The weekend was very good. Everybody was really really close to qualifying for the main races but sadly there’s only two places to pass. It was a great race, I pushed a lot trying to open a gap between the other riders. I rode first during most of the race but when I was second the rider crashed in front of me and I lost some positions. I was holding pretty good, I was really fun. I want to thank the team because they worked really well. Now we are thinking in the next race in Valencia”. 

The AGR Team rider Taiga Hada will compete as a wildcard in Moto2 at the Grand Prix of Austria on August 15th. This Grand Prix is ​​the second in which the Japanese rider will take part this season, after making his debut at the Jerez Grand Prix.

This opportunity is a new reward for Hada, who took the podium for the first time in the last round of the FIM CEV Repsol after finishing third. This podium achieved at MotorLand Aragon is the result of all the work that he has been doing since the season began, and from the AGR Team we have no doubts that he will make a great performance in the World Championship.

Taiga Hada: “I am very excited and grateful. I want to thank both the Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team for this opportunity and the AGR Team, with whom I am growing as a rider in the FIM CEV since last season. In addition, the third place achieved this weekend at MotorLand gives me even more motivation to face this Grand Prix”.

The fifth round of the season for the FIM CEV Repsol was held this weekend at MotorLand Aragón. In Moto2, Taiga Hada returned in the best possible shape after his injury by taking the podium for the first time, while Sam Wilford took another step and finished sixth. In Moto3, Joel Kelso made a great race even leading the group after he finished eighth; and Mattia Volpi was twenty-sixth. At the Hawkers European Talent Cup, Kristian Daniel Jr. crashed after the restart. 

In the Moto2 race, Taiga Hada overtook positions since the beginning. With seven laps to go, he was running on the podium and struggled to extend the lead. Hada gave his best and in the last lap he overtook Lukas Tulovic to recover the final third position. It is the first podium for the Japanese in the Moto2 European Championship. His teammate Sam Wilford made a good start and stayed in the group for the first few laps. The AGR Team rider climbed up positions and rode alone to finish sixth, taking another step forward this season.

In the Hawkers European Talent Cup, Kristian Daniel started from the thirteenth row decided to get a good result. He climbed several positions in the opening laps until the red flag stopped the race. After the restart, the North American rider was involved in a multiple crash in the first corner that prevented him from continuing the race.

In Moto3, Joel Kelso came out determined to regain positions. Already at the start the Australian took tenth position and progressively approached the leading group. Kelso, who closed the gap before taking the long lap penalty, continued to struggle until he reached podium positions and even led the race. The AGR Team rider fought to the end and crossed the finish line in eighth position. Mattia Volpi, meanwhile, fought from start to finish and continues to improve in the category. After overtaking several riders and climbing positions, the Italian rider crossed the line in 26th position, making it clear that he has the potential to fight and achieve good results.

The rest of the races were canceled after the death of Hugo Millán was known. From AGR Team we send our deepest condolences to his family, friends and the team.

The next FIM CEV Repsol event will take place in Jerez from August 19 to 22.

Anscari Nadal (Team Manager): “It has been a bittersweet weekend due to the sad loss of Hugo. In sports, it has been a great weekend for Taiga Hada. Ten days before the race the doctors removed the piece of metal that he still wore on his finger. Despite having very little strength and mobility in his hand and suffering a lot of pain he has made his best race to date.

We also did a perfect set-up. I am very happy for him and more coming from an injury like this. Sam Wilford continues to advance. He is struggling to finish the race in the top5. He has more pace and he’s faster. I hope to see him on the podium soon too.

Joel made a great race. We didn’t start in the front because he didn't make a good strategy on Saturday and he also had a long lap. He managed to lead the race despite everything, but the tyres suffered a lot from having pushed so hard at the beginning to overtake positions. In the end he couldn't be on the podium, but he finished the race and showed his worth, I'm very happy. Mattia has to keep progressing. He rode in competitive times, but the problem is that all drivers have those times. If he keeps working the results will come.

Kristian qualified for the race and stepped up. In the first start he recovered some positions. Then there was the fatal accident and there was a red flag. I think he didn't have his head in place, like many other riders because of the situation, and that hurt him in the second start. He crashed in the first corner with other riders and we lost the opportunity to learn more. Even so, he has taken a step forward”. 

Today the results are not important. We mourn the passing of the young pilot Hugo Millán. The most important thing is to be with his family and friends.

From AGR Team we send our condolences to the family, friends and team.

The MotorLand Aragon circuit hosts this weekend the fifth round of the FIM CEV Repsol. The high temperatures and the wind turned the Aragonese track into a complicated scenario on this Saturday and the AGR Team riders have worked very hard to get the best result for tomorrow's races. 

Joel Kelso arrived at MotorLand Aragon with the best motivation after getting his first Moto3 victory. The Australian rider didn’t find the best feelings and finished eighteenth in the first session. In the second qualifying Kelso managed to improve his times until he achieved the ninth and he will start tomorrow from nineteenth position.

Volpi continues to progress in the Moto3 Junior World Championship. The Italian AGR Team rider set the twenty fifth fastest time in the first qualifying session. Already in the second session was twenty eighth and tomorrow he will occupy the twenty sisth position on the starting grid.

In Moto2, the big news has starred Taiga Hada. The Japanese rider has returned to competition after missing the previous round of the championship due to his crash at Montmeló. Hada faced the weekend with confidence finishing seventh in the first session and eighth in the second. In this way, Taiga Hada will start tomorrow from seventh position.

Sam Wilford has stepped forward once again. The British continues to improve and finished eighth and ninth in both sessions. Wilford is optimistic for tomorrow races and he is able to catch up with the front riders, starting from eighth position on the grid.

In the European Talent Cup, Kristian Daniel has registered the nineteenth fastest time in both sessions. With these results Kristian Daniel Jr. is classified for the two races and he will start from the thirteenth row of the grid.

Tomorrow the races of the fifth round of the season will be held: Moto2 races will take place at 11:00h and at 14:00h; Hawkers European Talent Cup will be at 12:00h and at 15:00h and Moto3 race at 13:00h, all of them in local time.

Anscari Nadal (Team Manager): “I am very happy with Taiga's return. We didn't think he could be on the bike so soon but his hand is improving faster than expected. Sam has taken a big step, he is going to be in an important group where, if he can make a good start he could even fight for the podium. The gap between the riders es very close except for the two Speed Up bikes so both Taiga and Sam can fight for the podium. In Moto3, I am happy for Mattia, he can fight to have a good race. Joel has not made a good strategy even though he has the pace. In addition, he received a long lap penalty for riding slow so we lose the options to fight for the podium tomorrow. Let's hope he can go fast tomorrow. I'm glad Kristian qualified. Tomorrow will be two learning races for him and hopefully he can make a good start”.

Taiga Hada P7 (QP1: 7th / QP2: 8th): “I felt comfortable today. After the crash in Barcelona it was a bit difficult for me to adapt to the bike, especially when braking. I am happy with the result in the first qualifying. In the second session the conditions were very tough, with a lot of heat and a lot of wind, so I couldn't get a better result. The target tomorrow is to be on the podium, but it is also important not to crash. Mentally I feel very strong, and physically I also feel good. Thanks to the adapted glove after the hand injury I can ride better, so tomorrow we will push in both races”.

Sam Wilford P8 (QP1: 8th / QP2: 9th): “Good Qualifying day here in Aragon. The gap to the podium is very close and tomorrow we will fight to close the gap! Let’s see what is possible in the races!”

Joel Kelso P15 (QP1: 18th / QP2: 9th): “It’s been a difficult weekend. We continue struggling for tomorrow. We have one long lap penalty for the race so let’s try our best. We will try to do the best as posible. Thanks again to the team for all their support, we continue working.”

Mattia Volpi P26 (QP1: 25th / QP2: 28th): “Today was a good day. We worked hard since the first day here in Aragon but we know we can do better. Tomorrow is race day and we will give our best to overtake some positions since the beginning”.

Kristian Daniel Jr. P19 (QP1: 19th / QP2: 19th): “It was a very hard day becuase I pushed really hard and I put everything into the qualifying. I didn't qualify where I wanted but, I am still very happy with my results”.

Very positive results for the AGR Team in Portimao. Joel Kelso has achieved his first victory after starting from pole and starring in a great race in Moto3. Mattia Volpi suffered a crash after being run over by another rider when he was performing his best. Sam Wilford finished sixth in both Moto2 races, achieving his best results of the season.

The Moto3 race was held under very tough conditions due to the wind and temperatures. Joel Kelso started from the top of the grid, ready to win after the good results achieved throughout the weekend. From the start Kelso fought with Daniel Holgado for the first position until a red flag stopped the race, which was later resumed with ten laps. After this second start, Kelso lost some positions, so he was forced to climb positions and do his best to stay in the leading group. With two laps to go, he regained the lead and tried to open a gap, although Daniel Holgado did not make things easy for him. The Australian rider still had an ace up his sleeve and achieved the long-awaited victory by five thousandths.

His teammate Mattia Volpi has had his best run this season. The young Italian rider started from twenty-second position. He progressively climbed positions and he feelt more and more comfortable in each lap. Volpi had a great pace and went on to make fastest lap up to three times. When he was running in thirteenth position and less than two seconds behind the leader, another rider hit him and he went to the ground, losing any option to finish the race and score the first points of the season.

In Moto2, Sam Wilford has once again taken another step forward. The British rider, who started from ninth on the grid, climbed positions from the start and is increasingly comfortable riding the Kalex. This time around, he finished sixth in both races after fighting for the place until the last moment.

The next FIM CEV Repsol event will take place at MotorLand Aragón from July 22 to 25.