HARLEY-DAVIDSON AND MOTOGP ANNOUNCE NEW GLOBAL RACING SERIES TO BE HELD DURING MOTOGP WEEKENDS STARTING IN 2026

The new racing series—exclusive to H-D motorcycles—will take place over six MotoGP weekends, bringing a new form of racing to the world's most famous tracks.

MILWAUKEE, MAY 10 2025 – Harley-Davidson and MotoGP are now working together strategically to launch a new international racing series featuring Harley-Davidson Bagger bikes. It will debut in 2026 and take place worldwide on select MotoGP race weekends.

The series was developed exclusively in collaboration with MotoGP and will be contested on Harley-Davidson Road Glide race bikes developed and prepared for competition by H-D Factory Racing. Weighing approximately 
With a weight of 280 kg, an output of over 200 hp, and a torque of around 280 Nm, they can reach speeds of around 300 km/h. To ensure an exciting racing experience, all motorcycles will be technically identical for all teams and riders.

In its debut season, the series will be integrated into six official MotoGP race weekends—five races in Europe and one in the US—marking a bold step forward for the Motor Company's global racing ambitions. Each race will feature two rounds of competition, offering fans a full weekend of action and competition.

„We have already done pioneering work on and off the road—for example, with the King of the Baggers series—and shown how well this is received by our riders and fans,“ explains Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President, and CEO of Harley-Davidson. „With this new series, we are excited to bring a fresh take on racing to the world stage. Not only are we opening a new and bold chapter for our brand—one that is true to our heritage while looking to the future—but we also believe this will be a mega show for the whole world to see.“

„We are proud to be working with Harley-Davidson on this exciting new part of the MotoGP weekends,“ adds Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of DORNA Sports. „Harley-Davidson BaggerGP brings a fresh and distinctive wind to our racing season, and we believe this new element will captivate fans and add dynamism to the race weekends.“

The creation of the Harley-Davidson BaggerGP builds on the Motor Company's recent involvement in professional racing, which includes championship successes in the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series and the return of Harley-Davidson Factory Racing.

„We believe that racing can bring long-term business growth for Harley-Davidson,“ explains Jochen Zeitz. „This partnership will bring motorcycle racing closer to a global audience. We also recognize the potential to expand our performance offering across our entire portfolio of motorcycles, parts and accessories, apparel, and licensing through increased global visibility and product storytelling.“ 

This new chapter highlights the performance capabilities of Harley-Davidson V-Twins. The unique blend of performance, lifestyle, and competition that defines H-D is being presented to MotoGP audiences around the world. 

THE MOST IMPORTANT HIGHLIGHTS OF THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

Six official race weekends, integrated into the MotoGP calendar

The inaugural season will span six MotoGP events—five in Europe and one in the US—placing the new series at the heart of the world's most prestigious motorcycle racing weekends. Each venue will provide a global platform to showcase Harley-Davidson performance in front of live audiences and millions of fans around the world. The 2026 schedule will be announced in the summer.

Special race format for tough competition 

To ensure equal opportunities, all participants will start on identically prepared motorcycles. Nothing but talent, skill, and determination should determine the races. Therefore, the same specifications for all machines guarantee action-packed fights in which every rider has the same chance of winning.

Factory-built Harley-Davidson Bagger for the race track

Every motorcycle on the starting grid is a special version of the Harley-Davidson Road Glide, developed by H-D Factory Racing for use on racetracks. Built for the new racing series, these bikes build on the brand's successes in the American King of the Baggers championship and feature race-ready 131 cui V-twins, lightweight carbon fiber and titanium components, billet aluminum parts, and special chassis components. World Superbike-specific chassis and braking systems ensure exceptional handling and maximum riding precision, giving the rider the best possible control over the bike and promising exciting performance on the track.

Twelve high-scoring races during the Championship Season

With two main races per event, fans can enjoy a weekend full of Harley-Davidson racing. This format doubles the action per round and ensures maximum excitement in the championship battle from start to finish.

A competitive starting field of six to eight teams and 12 to 16 riders

The racing series will feature six to eight professional teams and up to 16 drivers, promising fans a diverse, tightly packed starting field and fierce competition in every round.

Supported by Harley-Davidson Factory Racing

All participating teams are supported by Harley-Davidson Factory Racing and can draw on proven success and technical expertise. This includes race-ready motorcycles, spare parts, setup guidance, and technical service at the track.

Thrilling experiences for all fans along the track

Each event offers interactive experiences along the track that deepen the connection between fans, the sport, and the Harley-Davidson brand. Access to the paddock and other fan activities make the race weekend an unforgettable experience.

Races that can be followed everywhere

All Harley-Davidson BaggerGP races will be streamed live via MotoGP's VideoPass and will be available on the MotoGP YouTube channel, allowing fans around the world to follow the action. The series will also be supported with digital content on the global Harley-Davidson and MotoGP channels. Additional options are being explored. 

Want to get involved?

While preparations for the debut in 2026 are in full swing, there is already considerable interest from teams, drivers, and sponsors. Anyone who would like to participate or explore sponsorship and media opportunities is asked to contact factoryracing@harley-davidson.com to report.