Cycle News Staff | January 25, 2023
The American development series, the North America Talent Cup (NATC), has been designated a Road to Red Bull Rookies Cup program along with its Road to MotoGP designation.
The following is a press release from NATC…
York, PA (January 24, 2023) – After a successful first year, the North America Talent Cup (NATC) series has been granted official status as a Road to Red Bull Rookies Cup development series. The designation was approved based on the structure and criteria of the NATC.
Riders competing in designated Road to Red Bull Rookies Cup and Road to MotoGP programs are introduced early on to the rules and regulations required to be successful. Through an understanding of the development system and experience gained on GP oriented motorcycles, competitors have a greater chance of advancement.
Peter Clifford, Red Bull Rookies Cup Director of Rider Development, stated: “It is wonderful to see how this program is developing young talent in the U.S. The history of Grand Prix racing features so many great American riders but fewer in recent years, and we hope that this trend will be reversed.
“Alexander Enriquez was one of the stand-out riders at the 2022 Selection Event and we look forward to welcoming more riders from this program.”
Prospective competitors who meet eligibility requirements can now apply to participate in the 2023 NATC. Applicants will have until February 1, 2023 to submit their candidacy.
The 2023 race calendar will include up to seven rounds. The NATC series will kick off April 14-16 with MotoGP during the Americas GP at Circuit of the Americas. The NATC will run alongside MotoAmerica at select events.
“MotoAmerica’s mission since inception is to establish a path forward for riders that ultimately could give them an opportunity to race for a World Championship,” said MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland. “The support of the Red Bull Rookies to create another opportunity through NATC and Road to MotoGP is a welcome addition to our program.”
Riders from all nationalities can apply, but the NATC aims to discover talent from across North America. After only one season, NATC alumni have already gone on to be selected for the Red Bull Rookies Cup, as well as for national race teams.
In 2023—the series’ second season—the NATC grid will be limited to 22 entrants. Riders must be born between January 1, 2004, and April 6, 2009, to be a minimum of 14 years of age before the first round. Riders from different racing backgrounds can apply with no road racing experience necessary, as other disciplines can also translate into road racing success.
Individual riders can apply, but they must choose a team name and have a team manager. Riders must also have at least one mechanic and a legal guardian.
Any team application should specify a team manager, who will be the main contact with the organization, and can be comprised of a rider and two mechanics. Mechanics can be family members or acquaintances.
To apply, please visit www.northamericatalentcup.com