Flying the Flag for the USA: Chris Clark – FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup Rider

A Yamaha Racing profile interview…

Flying the Flag for the USA: Chris Clark – FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup Rider

The FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup is a truly global series – in 2025, competitors from over ten different countries lined up on the grid and in the very first race, the USA’s Chris Clark made history by becoming the first North American race winner in the class.

Clark’s victory in the first race of the season at Portimão was a small-bike Masterclass, waiting until the very last lap to get the drive out of Portimão’s final long right-hander and choosing his moment to get in the slipstream and win the race.

The American finished a stand-out 2025 season fifth in the championship, and his efforts during the season were rewarded with a place at the Yamaha BLU CRU Master Camp, where he joined nine other riders for a week of intensive training alongside some of Yamaha Racing’s biggest stars including Fabio Quartararo and Jonathan Rea.

Clark returns for more FIM Yamaha R3 BLU CRU World Cup action in 2026, this time with his sights set firmly on the podium as he aims to become the first North American R3 BLU CRU World Cup Champion.

We caught up with the 19-year-old to learn more about him ahead of the 2026 season, which gets underway later this year at Balaton Park, Hungary.

Q: How did your journey into motorcycle racing begin?

My journey started really early. I was just six years old when I first got on a dirt bike, and from that moment I was hooked. Riding became second nature to me, and as I grew older my passion for racing only got stronger. By the time I was 12, I made the switch to road racing, which was a big step but one I was incredibly excited about.

Q: What was your first bike?

My first bike was a Yamaha TTR 110. It was a great bike to learn on and played a big role in helping me understand the fundamentals of riding. Yamaha has been part of my journey from the very beginning, which makes racing with them now even more special.

Q: What is your favourite circuit?

Portimão is definitely my favourite track. The elevation changes there are incredible and unlike anything else. It’s so unique, and that’s what makes it one of the most special tracks in the world for me. Every lap feels exciting, and it really rewards riders who are confident and committed.

Q: What made you choose to compete in the Yamaha FIM R3 BLU CRU Cup?

I chose this championship because it’s an amazing opportunity to race on the world stage against very fast riders. Being part of a World Cup environment is a huge step in any rider’s career, and the chance to work closely with Yamaha made it even more appealing. It’s the perfect place to develop as a rider and push myself to the next level.

Q: Beyond the racing itself, what have you enjoyed most about the championship?

The people I’ve met and the experiences I’ve had have been unforgettable. From the races themselves to the BLU CRU Master Camp, everything has helped me grow—not just as a rider, but as a person too. Being surrounded by riders and staff who all share the same passion is really motivating.

Q: What has been the standout moment of your career so far?

Winning the opening Yamaha BLU CRU World Cup race at Portimão last year is definitely the highlight so far. It was an incredible feeling to start the championship with a win, especially at my favourite track. All the hard work paid off in that moment, and it gave me a lot of confidence for the rest of the season.

Q: Looking ahead, what goals have you set for yourself?

My main goal right now is to win the BLU CRU championship. That’s what I’m fully focused on right now. Looking further into the future, I’d love to progress into World Superbike. Racing at that level has always been a dream of mine, and I’m working every day to make it a reality.