Ahead of the heated proxy battle, Harley-Davidson has reiterated its intention to go global with its bagger racing series next season. Teaming with MotoGP, the 12-race series will be contested at six Grands Prix across Europe and North America. The grid is expected to comprise six to eight teams, each fielding two riders — supported by Harley-Davidson Factory Racing.
“This is a bold new step for Harley-Davidson’s global racing ambitions.,” notes Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO. “Harley-Davidson has been pioneering performance on and off the road since our beginnings over 120 years ago. Most recently, we showcased performance through our racing at the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series and through performance differentiated products such as our new CVO RR motorcycle and our CVO Road Glide ST.”
Deflecting some of the headlines away from the hotly contested Board of Directors vote, racing still resonates with dealers and their customers. “We’ve seen how performance has resonated with riders and fans, and we know that they’re keen for more,” claims Zeitz. “With this new series, we’re excited to bring a new form of racing to the world stage. Not only is this a bold and new chapter for our brand, celebrating our heritage while pushing into the future, but it will add an amazing spectacle to the greatest motorcycle show in the world.”
“This collaboration with Harley-Davidson is an exciting opportunity for both parties,” said Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports. “We offer a truly international platform for Harley-Davidson to expand their global reach, and Harley-Davidson is perfectly placed to join us in bringing our sport to new audiences as we team up with one of the most iconic lifestyle brands in the US. This partnership has big potential for both our strategies and will deliver a real spectacle for fans, bringing a completely new flavor to the Grand Prix weekends where the series will compete.”
More details will be revealed soon. Those looking to join the growing field or explore sponsorship and media opportunities can contact:
