WELCOME BACK PIRES, WELCOME SALTARELLI.
It is a very welcome return for André Pires, already a winner last year in the Portuguese round of the BRL. The Portuguese rider returns to the continental series once again on Ducati, with the clear intention of becoming a frontrunner again. An objective he shares with debutant Simone Saltarelli, fresh from his triumph in the 8 Hours of Spa on Aprilia.
The Bagger Racing League European Cup is ready to return to the track for Round 2 of the 2026 season, scheduled from July 10 to 12 at Brno, one of the most iconic and technical circuits in Europe.
After the spectacular opening round at Cremona, the European series dedicated to baggers is preparing to take on the Czech Republic round, where it will race during the Alpe Adria International Championship weekend.
For André Pires (Ducati), Brno will mark his official return to the championship after being forced to miss the opening round at Cremona. The Portuguese rider is ready to bring his Ducati Diavel back on track and immediately join the fight for the top positions. Pires arrives with a highly experienced racing background: Portuguese champion in several categories, including 125GP, Superstock 600 and Superbike, he has also gained international experience in the MotoE World Championship and has already made his mark in BRL Europe, taking victory in front of his home crowd at Estoril in the 2025 edition.
There is also great anticipation for Italian rider Simone Saltarelli, who will take part in the Brno round with the Johnny Maracas Team, replacing Vittorio Iannuzzo. Saltarelli will race on a Harley-Davidson, adding further interest to an already star-studded starting grid. A highly experienced rider, Saltarelli is currently competing successfully in the Endurance World Championship, raced for two seasons in the Stock 1000 World Championship, and boasts a long career in the Italian Speed Championship, between Stock 1000 and Superbike, where he achieved important results and several podium finishes.
The second round of the BRL European Cup will therefore represent a key moment for the championship, with eagerly awaited returns, new protagonists and the unique spectacle of the baggers ready to take on the Brno circuit!
