Chris Clark one of the fastest during FIM R3 Yamaha BLU CRU World Cup season kick off

Chris Clark began his 2026 season in style at the official FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup season launch which took place this past Wednesday and Thursday at the Cremona Circuit in Italy – the venue for one of the rounds of the series that he will compete in this year.

Having won last year’s season opener on his way to fifth overall in the final standings, Chris arrived at the Italian venue, confident, relaxed, and optimistic for the season ahead.

Putting in over sixty laps yesterday after a full day of media duties on Wednesday, Chris was fast from the off, with many referring to the #5 BGR Smrz Racing rider as a title contender!

Not thinking about the title, Chris will remain in Europe ahead of the season opener in Hungary in a few weeks where he will ride several times before the first race at Balaton Park.

Chris Clark:

“Yesterday was the first official Yamaha test for this year’s R3 World Cup and I want to start by thanking Yamaha and BLU CRU for putting together such a great program. Last year was awesome and I know this year will be too. After such a long off season it was great to finally get back on the bike and a great chance to break in my new BISON gear and try my new KYT helmets for the first time. Cremona was a brand-new track for me, so the morning was all about learning the track and not doing anything stupid, taking it step by step. I worked well with the team, and I set my fastest lap in the afternoon when we put new tyres on. I am even more confident now for round one in Hungary. Thank you to everyone who makes my racing possible and see you all at Balaton Park in a few weeks.”