Bagger Racing European Cup: Manuel Grandi, first champion of Xaus' project

Manuel Grandi started the season in great style, with a win in the very first round, and finished it even better. It was the 34-year-old from Bologna, riding an Indian Challenger prepared with Denis Pagani’s Thirteen Garage, the official Indian workshop in Bologna, who became the first champion of this new series, a crowning achievement that came at the sun-drenched Circuito de Jerez–Ángel Nieto, the perfect stage for the grand finale of the inaugural Bagger Racing European Cup. With an Italian title, this first historic season concluded by redefining the boundaries of motorcycle racing in Europe and also featured some very interesting guest stars. Like Kevin Manfredi, a “jack-of-all-trades” who put himself to the test in the final stretch of this unique championship.

Long admired with interest by European enthusiasts, bagger motorcycle racing—featuring large, powerful bikes equipped with side bags—made its way onto the Old Continent’s stage this year, turning curiosity into full-throttle excitement. At the center of this bold new venture is Ruben Xaus, a legendary figure from early-2000s WorldSBK. After a sensational return to racing in the United States, where he clinched the Bagger Racing League title on his first attempt, Xaus brought his winning spirit back to Europe.

Open to all brands offering motorcycles with bagger equipment, this new championship invited both manufacturers and tuners to compete in a format never before seen in Europe. Each round featured two races, one on Saturday and one on Sunday, preceded by free practice and qualifying sessions to set the starting grid, creating an unprecedented, high-tension competitive weekend.

For the grand finale, perfect weather, passionate fans, and the unmistakable roar of big V-twin engines created a festive atmosphere in Jerez. Thousands of spectators filled the grandstands and paddock, culminating in a big parade on Saturday evening, where riders and fans came together to celebrate this groundbreaking championship. In the lively Bagger Village, enthusiasts mingled with their heroes, exchanged technical insights with teams, and captured memories alongside bikes that blend power, style, and speed like no others.

When the lights went out, the on-track action delivered. In Race 1, Spanish ace David Checa put on a masterclass in precision and pace, taking victory in front of an ecstatic home crowd. Andrea Tomio pushed to the limit throughout, securing an excellent second place after a tight duel that showcased his consistency and race craft. Behind them, Ruben Xaus once again showed that his competitive fire still burns, claiming third and reminding everyone why he remains one of the sport’s most charismatic figures.

With a reverse grid for Race 2, unpredictability was guaranteed, but Checa once again rose to the occasion, cutting through the field with remarkable determination and sealing a perfect weekend with a second win. Tomio again finished second, but the spotlight was especially on 3rd place.

With that result, Manuel Grandi sealed the biggest prize. For Grandi, it was the culmination of a season defined by speed, control, and unwavering focus. A contender from the opening race, the Italian rider’s consistency and composure under pressure made him a worthy first champion of this new era of European racing.

As the sun set over Jerez, the paddock celebrated more than just a winner. The inaugural Bagger Racing European Cup proved that Europe is ready to embrace this spectacular blend of top-level performance and pure racing passion. What began as an ambitious idea evolved into a movement—driven by innovation, fueled by competition, and united by a shared love for motorcycles with personality and character.

With its first season complete, the Bagger Racing European Cup has written a new chapter in European motorsport history thanks to its partnership with the Andorran Motorcycle Federation.