Next Generation Ready to Shine: Provisional Entry List Released for 2026 FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup

24 of the world’s most promising young riders from 10 countries set to compete across six thrilling rounds, showcasing talent, speed, and fearless racing on the global stage.

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The stage is set for an electrifying 2026 season of the FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup, as the world’s most promising young riders prepare to compete for glory on a truly global platform. With 2025 champion Alessandro Di Persio moving up to the new FIM Sportbike World Championship, the fight for the title is wide open, promising an unpredictable and thrilling season.

Global talent and exciting returnees

The provisional entry list features 24 full-time riders aged 14 to 18 from 10 different countries, including Brazil, Indonesia, Japan, the Dominican Republic, and the USA. Local wildcard riders will also join select races across the six-round season, adding further excitement to the championship battles.

American standout Chris Clark (BGR Smrz Racing) returns after making history as the first American to win a race in the series at the 2025 season opener in Portimão. Meanwhile, Brazil’s rising star Aymon Bocanegra (Yamaha AD78 FIM Latinoamérica) will aim to continue his momentum following a dramatic final-race victory last season.

Also returning is young Dutch talent Indi Schunselaar (Yamaha Ten Kate Racing), entering his third year in the series. Despite being one of the youngest riders on the grid, Schunselaar has shown consistent growth over the past two seasons and will look to make further progress in 2026.

From the Dominican Republic, Xarly Méndez De Oleo (DPR Team) is another rising star to watch. Having impressed in 2025 with flashes of front-running pace, De Oleo is now ready to challenge for podiums and race wins.

Japanese riders and new entries

The 2026 grid also features five Japanese competitors, including Kakeru Okunuki, who secured a best finish of third place in Aragon last year, and Hinata Okada, who graduates from the 2025 BLU CRU Mastercamp into the series.

First-time entries include Charlie Huntingford (UK), Frederico Guimaraes (Portugal), Greg Marshall (USA), and Brazilian talent Leonardo Marques Barbim, who also participated in the 2025 Mastercamp. Each of these new riders will be looking to make a mark and showcase their skills on the international stage.

A proven pathway to professional success

The FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup continues to be a proven stepping stone to professional racing careers. With identical machinery and a level playing field, the championship emphasizes talent, determination, and courage, rewarding riders who push their limits both on and off the track.

With close battles, fearless overtakes, and career-defining moments guaranteed, the 2026 season promises to be one of the most competitive and exciting in the history of the FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup. Fans can expect a season full of future stars emerging and thrilling action at every round.