AUSTIN, TX – The rumble of American V-Twins is set to echo around the world with the launch of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup in 2026. The series, a collaboration between Harley-Davidson and MotoGP™ organizer Dorna Sports, promises a recent spectacle in motorcycle racing, bringing highly-tuned, road-capable Harley-Davidson baggers to international circuits. The inaugural season is quickly taking shape, with a diverse grid of teams and riders preparing for the first official pre-season test at the Circuit of the Americas on March 21-22, ahead of the opening race during the MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas from March 27-29.
The FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup represents a significant step in Harley-Davidson’s global motorsport ambitions. Unlike traditional road racing, the bagger class features production-based touring motorcycles modified for competition, offering a unique blend of power, handling, and visual appeal. The series aims to attract both seasoned racing fans and the devoted Harley-Davidson community, creating a thrilling new championship.
A Global Grid Takes Shape
The entry list for the 2026 season showcases the international appeal of the series. Teams from four continents will compete, including Joe Rascal Racing (USA) with three bikes, Niti Racing (Indonesia) with two bikes, ParkinGO Team (Italy) with one bike, and Saddlemen Racing (USA) with three bikes. The addition of the ParkinGO Team, announced March 17, 2026, brings significant racing pedigree to the championship. Founded by Giuliano Rovelli and managed by his son Edoardo, the Italian team has a history of success in FIM Supersport World Championship, Moto2, and international endurance racing. They will field rider Filippo Rovelli.
Saddlemen Racing has further bolstered its presence, expanding to a three-bike effort. Cecchini Racing’s participation remains tentative, currently on standby pending the finalization of required guarantees for the first round. The diverse lineup of riders includes Travis Wyman and Cory West (Saddlemen Racing), Dimas Ekky Pratama (Niti Racing), Cody Wyman and Eric Granado (Joe Rascal Racing), Archie McDonald (Joe Rascal Racing), Jake Lewis (Saddlemen Racing), and Oscar Gutiérrez (Niti Racing).
Technical Specifications and Competition
The Harley-Davidson baggers competing in the series will be equipped with high-performance components, ensuring a level playing field and maximizing on-track excitement. These include dedicated Dunlop racing tires, Brembo brakes, Öhlins suspension, forged Marchesini aluminum wheels, Akrapovič titanium exhausts, Regina chains, and STM high-performance clutch systems. Technical support will be provided by Dynojet.
2026 FIM Bagger World Cup Schedule
Beyond the opening round at the Circuit of the Americas, the 2026 FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup schedule includes:
- May 29-31: Mugello Circuit – Italy
- June 26-29: TT Circuit Assen – Netherlands
- August 7-9: Silverstone Circuit – UK
- August 28-29: MotorLand Aragón – Spain
- September 18-20: Red Bull Ring – Austria
The Red Bull Ring in Austria will host the final and championship-deciding round of the series, recognizing the country’s growing prominence in global motorsport. The full 2026 calendar promises a thrilling season of racing across some of the most iconic circuits in the world.
With a combination of experienced riders, advanced technology, and a global stage, the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup is poised to become a significant force in motorcycle racing. The series is set to unite racing culture and an international audience around the iconic V-twin motorcycles. The next key date for the championship is the pre-season test at the Circuit of the Americas, March 21-22, where teams will fine-tune their machines before the competitive action begins.
What are your thoughts on the new Bagger World Cup? Share your predictions and excitement in the comments below.
