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Harley-Davidson and MotoGP partner for new world cup

Harley-Davidson and MotoGP™ have officially launched a groundbreaking partnership with the unveiling of the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup and its full 2026 race calendar.

This exciting new series is the first-ever global racing competition centred on high-performance Harley-Davidson bagger motorcycles.

Announced at a press conference at Austria’s iconic Red Bull Ring, the six-round championship will debut next year, bringing the unmistakable American V-Twin power of Harley-Davidson to world-renowned circuits across the U.S. and Europe.

Rooted in Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring platform, the Bagger World Cup race bikes will undergo a radical transformation to enhance their speed, agility, and overall spectacle, offering fans a fresh and thrilling racing experience—something completely new on the MotoGP™ schedule.

Image: Harley-Davidson

The series will kick off in the U.S., before heading to Europe and taking the sport to an international audience. From the breathtaking hills of Mugello to the historic straights of Silverstone, the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup will deliver the perfect fusion of distinctive American performance and global competition, promising six rounds of electrifying action.

2026 Race Calendar:

  • Grand Prix of The Americas – Circuit of the Americas (USA): March 27–29
  • Grand Prix of Italy – Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello (Italy): May 29–31
  • Grand Prix of the Netherlands – TT Circuit Assen (Netherlands): June 26–28
  • Grand Prix of the United Kingdom – Silverstone Circuit (UK): August 7–9
  • Grand Prix of Aragon – MotorLand Aragón (Spain): August 28–30
  • Grand Prix of Austria – Red Bull Ring (Austria): September 18–20

Championship Round The Red Bull Ring in Austria will host the title-deciding final round, reflecting the country’s rich motorsport history and its rising significance on the global racing calendar.

“This launch signals a bold new chapter for both Harley-Davidson and the world of motorcycle racing,” Harley-Davidson Chairman, President and CEO Jochen Zeitz said.
“The Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup is about pushing boundaries—of our bikes, our riders, and our brand—on a global stage. Partnering with MotoGP™ to make this vision a reality is a point of immense pride for us.”

SEE MORE: Tradie Tough Tests

MotoGP™ rights holder Dorna Sports Chief Sports Officer Carlos Ezpeleta also expressed his enthusiasm for the series.

Image: Harley-Davidson

“We’re constantly exploring new ways to innovate and expand,” he said.
“The Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup is exactly what we need — it’s a thrilling addition to race weekends that will engage fans in new ways while connecting our sport with one of the most iconic brands in the world. It will enrich the MotoGP™ experience and expand our audience.”

The concept of the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup was first teased earlier this year during the Grand Prix of France at the legendary Le Mans circuit.

The reaction from fans, media, and the motorsport community was overwhelmingly positive, which paved the way for today’s official reveal. As preparations ramp up for the series’ debut in 2026, prospective teams, riders, and sponsors are now invited to join this exciting new chapter in racing.

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