Electric Cars

Francesco Bagnaia, the factory Ducati rider, demonstrated a significant return to form during the initial free practice session at Motegi, leaving behind his previous difficulties at the San Marino Grand Prix. He emerged as the fastest, ahead of Jorge Martin and Marc Marquez, showcasing a notable improvement in performance after struggling in earlier sessions.

Despite slipping to seventh in the hour-long practice, Bagnaia's minimal gap to the frontrunners, just 0.346 seconds off the ultimate pace and two tenths from third-placed Marc Marquez, underscored his competitive resurgence. His renewed confidence is largely attributed to insights and developments from the Misano test, where he managed to make substantial progress with his GP25 bike. Although Ducati hadn't introduced new components, Bagnaia revisited previously unexplored parts, leading to a breakthrough in his setup and overall feel for the bike.

The collaboration with two-time MotoGP champion Casey Stoner during the Misano test also proved instrumental, offering Bagnaia valuable external perspectives on his riding technique and the bike's behavior. This input was crucial in overcoming what was perceived as a confidence deficit rather than a mechanical issue. While Ducati acknowledged the shared effort in finding solutions, they emphasized the combined contribution of their general manager, Gigi Dall’Igna, and Bagnaia himself. The forthcoming sprint race will be a critical indicator of whether this newfound form is sustainable, as sprint races have historically been Bagnaia's weaker point.

Bagnaia's journey exemplifies the power of resilience and continuous adaptation in the face of adversity. His ability to harness fresh perspectives and refine his approach not only elevates his own performance but also inspires all to embrace learning and growth, turning past setbacks into future triumphs.

In an exciting development for motorsport enthusiasts, MotorSport Vision (MSV) and the Classic Touring Car Racing Club (CTCRC) have unveiled plans for a new series of retro touring car celebrations in 2026. Named \"Touring Car Rewind,\" these festivals will feature two distinct events, one in the North at Oulton Park and another in the South at Brands Hatch. This initiative expands upon the popularity of MSV's previous \"Super Touring Power\" events, broadening the scope to include a diverse range of touring car eras and models, and promising an immersive experience for fans of classic racing.

These upcoming events are expected to be highlights on the classic motorsport calendar, offering a unique opportunity to witness historic vehicles in action. The collaboration between MSV and CTCRC aims to capture the essence of touring car heritage, bringing together a variety of vehicles from different eras and providing a platform for both competitive racing and nostalgic displays. The expansion to two venues reflects a growing demand for such events across the country, ensuring wider accessibility for fans eager to experience the rich history of touring car racing.

The Evolution of Classic Touring Car Events

The new \"Touring Car Rewind\" festivals represent a significant evolution from previous events, building on the established success of MSV's \"Super Touring Power\" series. While \"Super Touring Power\" primarily focused on the iconic 1990s Super Tourers, the upcoming events will cast a wider net, embracing a more comprehensive array of classic touring cars. This expanded focus means that spectators can anticipate seeing everything from meticulously restored Pre-'66 Touring Cars to powerful Group A machines of the 1980s, alongside the uniquely modified vehicles from the Classic and Historic Thunder categories. This inclusive approach caters to a broader spectrum of historical racing interests, ensuring a richer and more varied program for attendees.

Stuart Caie, chairman of the Classic Touring Car Racing Club, articulated the motivation behind this broader scope, stating that there was a clear desire to move beyond solely Super Tourers and incorporate a wider array of touring car history. He also highlighted the decision to host events in both the North and South, drawing a parallel to the popular geographical split of music festivals, thereby making these engaging retro experiences accessible to a larger audience across Britain. This strategic expansion aims to satisfy the increasing enthusiasm for classic motorsport, allowing more fans to engage with the heritage and excitement of various touring car eras.

Anticipated Highlights and Calendar Details for 2026

Beyond the thrilling on-track racing, the \"Touring Car Rewind\" festivals are set to feature several beloved elements that have contributed to the success of past classic motorsport gatherings. Attendees can look forward to dynamic demonstration runs, showcasing the power and agility of these historic machines, as well as extensive off-track displays providing a closer look at the vehicles. A key attraction will undoubtedly be the appearances of celebrated drivers from touring car history, offering fans a chance to connect with the legends of the sport. These additional features are designed to create a vibrant, festival-like atmosphere that appeals to families and enthusiasts alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich legacy of touring car racing.

The announcement also includes details regarding the broader 2026 calendar for the Classic Touring Car Racing Club, with the two \"Touring Car Rewind\" events forming integral parts of a seven-round schedule. The season is slated to commence at Donington Park's Grand Prix circuit on March 21-22, followed by a visit to Cadwell Park in April and the Thruxton Retro festival in June. The season will culminate with races at Snetterton and Silverstone. This comprehensive calendar underscores the commitment to providing a full season of classic touring car action, with the new \"Rewind\" festivals serving as prominent fixtures that promise both competition and celebration of the sport's enduring appeal.