Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1543676
P124 FEATURE I 2026 AMERICAN FLAT TRACK SEASON PREVIEW Seven rounds this Progressive AFT season will be immediately preceded by AMA-sanctioned Mission Foods CTR Showcase Events featuring the 450 Road to AFT class, which shares its technical rules with the all-new AFT 450 ProSport class. The top 12 finishers in each Road to AFT main will auto - matically qualify for an AFT 450 ProSport license and be granted entry to the following day's na- tional, providing them an oppor- tunity to showcase their talents before the AFT paddock. This new era begins just days from now with the first of the Showcase Events taking place this Wednesday, March 4, fol- lowed immediately by the Royal Enfield Short Track at Daytona I & II double season opener on Thursday, March 5, and Friday, March 6. CN two major initiatives designed to inject new blood, draw more eyeballs, and attract greater support. Two years after the introduc- tion of AFT AdventureTrackers, the class is set to be joined by another new category, simi- larly designed to connect with a broader segment of fans. AMA StreetTrackers looks to tap into the sport's Class C roots by racing close-to-stock, production-based bikes not far removed from the motorcycles lining the parking lots outside the racing facilities. Additionally, AMA Pro Racing has partnered with Cory Texter Race (CTR) Promotions to estab - lish a springboard for the nation's most promising amateur racers. As usual, the class is deep with others who have the skills to fight for the podium, including Mission Roof Systems' Tarren Santero, OTB Racing's Bradon Pfanders, BigR Racing's Jared Lowe, and Schaeffer's Motors- ports' Evan Kelleher. And always, keep an eye out for the rookie class, which includes Saathoff's new team- mate, Jack Brucks, and BigR Racing's Jackson Sangals. PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE Beyond the headlining classes, AMA Pro Racing has continued to evolve the sport in its ongo- ing effort to both lean into its historical significance while seeking new ways to increase its relevance with manufactur - ers and spectators. 2026 sees the addition of Chase Saathoff was a thorn in Drane's side last year. We doubt that it will change this year.