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The 2026 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship makes its official return to action at Michelin Raceway road atlanta from April 17-19, 2026. This weekend not only launches the premier class schedule but also honors a half-century of American Superbike competition. The event pairs top-level 1000cc machine battles with the fan-favorite King of the Baggers support series, promising a packed program for paddock visitors and remote viewers alike. Local hero Scott Russell will serve as Grand Marshal, lending extra gravitas to the milestone weekend.
Road Atlanta’s 2.54-mile layout is a demanding test for rider and machine: a blind exit from turn one, flowing esses, a long back straight where speeds top 180 mph, and a dramatic plunge into Turn 12 make the circuit a true benchmark. Beyond the track features, the paddock buzz will be shaped by rider changes, manufacturer entries, and renewed championship ambitions. MotoAmerica leadership has noted the unusually deep field this year, with riders swapping brands and moving into the premier class, raising expectations for intense, closely fought races.
Who’s leading the charge
At the sharp end of the entry list, six-time champion Cameron Beaubier will campaign a brand-new Ducati Panigale V4 R for the Warhorse HSBK Ducati Flo4Law team as he chases a potential seventh title that would tie a longstanding record. Joining him in that factory-backed effort is South Carolina’s Benjamin Smith. Reigning contenders like Bobby fong return on an Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha YZF-R1, while JD Beach graduates his momentum into the Yamaha program after a dominant Superbike Cup season. The field mixes seasoned pros and hungry challengers, creating a diverse grid that should reward consistency and racecraft.
Notable teams and riders to watch
Rahal Ducati Moto with XPEL brings veteran PJ Jacobsen back into the premier class on a Ducati Panigale V4 R after a strong Supersport campaign, offering both pace and technical feedback. OrangeCat Racing will field Sean Dylan Kelly on a BMW M 1000 RR following encouraging preseason pace, paired with the precise and steady Jayson Uribe who steps into Superbike full-time. Strack Racing returns to the class with former Supersport champion Mathew Scholtz aboard a Yamaha YZF-R1, while Mission Foods M4 ECSTAR Suzuki runs gritty campaigners Richie Escalante and multi-time Daytona winner Brandon Paasch on GSX-R1000R machines.
Rookies, returns and privateers
New and returning faces will spice the mix: Hayden Gillim continues developing the Real Steel Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, and Cam Petersen brings a family-run Wrench Motorcycles Ducati effort with grandfathered racing knowledge from his crew chief father. Ashton Yates competes for Jones Honda on a Fireblade SP, while New Hampshire privateer Max Flinders pilots his Thrashed Bike Racing Yamaha YZF-R1, exemplifying the privateer spirit—competing without factory support but with relentless determination.
Support series, storylines, and how to follow
The weekend also showcases the King of the Baggers series—tough, high-speed battles between heavily modified Harley-Davidson and Indian cruisers that are a staple of the event’s spectacle. The paddock still hums from Daytona’s momentum earlier in the season, where an historic podium by Kayla Yaakov in the Daytona 200 marked a breakthrough performance and energized the paddock. Fans can expect full racing action across Supersport, Twins Cup, Talent Cup, and other support classes in a family-friendly schedule.
Tickets and broadcast
Event access and hospitality options are available through the official site, and viewers can follow live coverage via MotoAmerica Live+ with select content on the MotoAmerica YouTube channel. Between the on-track fireworks and the larger 50-year celebration, the Road Atlanta round is poised to be both a sporting and historical highlight of the 2026 season.