#United States #Harley-Davidson #Milwaukee #MotoGP #Racing Series

Harley-Davidson and MotoGP: A New Era in Racing

In an exhilarating announcement, Harley-Davidson and MotoGP have unveiled their plan to launch a new global racing championship beginning in 2026. This groundbreaking series will see Harley-Davidson’s iconic bagger motorcycles take center stage at MotoGP weekends, merging one of the world’s most renowned motorcycle brands with the thrilling spectacle of international motor racing.

The new racing championship is designed to feature twelve high-octane races, poised to unfold across six captivating Grand Prix events in both Europe and North America. The star of the show will be the race-prepared Harley-Davidson Road Glide® motorcycles, custom-built for intense competition and showcasing the best of what the motorcycle world has to offer.

Specifications of the Racing Machines

Designed specifically for head-to-head battles, these motorcycles will weigh approximately 280 kilograms (617 pounds) and are engineered to produce an impressive 200 horsepower with a staggering 245 Nm (180 lb-ft) of torque. With the capability to reach speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour (approximately 186 mph), they promise to deliver thrilling action on the race track. Furthermore, each bike in the series will be identical, a strategic move intended to promote competitive fairness and excitement among teams and riders.

The anticipated grid will include between six to eight teams, each fielding two riders, all supported by the renowned Harley-Davidson Factory Racing team.

Statement from Company Leaders

Jochen Zeitz, the Chairman, President, and CEO of Harley-Davidson, expressed enthusiasm about this bold venture into global racing. He stated, “This is a bold new step for Harley-Davidson's global racing ambitions. Our brand has been at the forefront of performance for over 120 years, and with this new series, we aim to elevate motorcycling culture while thrilling our fans and riders alike. This initiative will celebrate our legacy while steering towards future innovations in racing.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports (the rights holder for MotoGP), echoed a similar sentiment, stating, “This collaboration with Harley-Davidson opens exciting new avenues for both MotoGP and the Harley brand. We believe this partnership will blend our high-speed racing platform with Harley’s iconic American spirit, introducing a new level of excitement to Grand Prix weekends.”

Future Insights and Expectations

As we approach the launch date in 2026, fans can expect to see further details regarding the race calendar and viewer access information. Additionally, opportunities for prospective participants, sponsors, and media partners are currently being explored. For those interested, inquiries on these collaborations can be directed to their designated contact points.

Closing Note

Harley-Davidson’s commitment to not only build machines but to inspire a lifestyle of adventure is evident in this enterprise. The forthcoming championship resonates perfectly with their vision of evolution and innovation in the motorcycle industry. With such a compelling blend of cultural heritage and cutting-edge technology, the collaboration between Harley-Davidson and MotoGP is set to be an electrifying chapter in the world of motorsport.

In an era when the quest for thrilling experiences drives the industry, the launch of Harley-Davidson’s global racing series promises to redefine excitement for motorcycle enthusiasts while reaffirming the brand's legacy in motorsport culture.