Rueda Dominates in Texas as Quiles Shines on Debut

Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) delivered a commanding performance at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, pulling away from the pack to claim his second victory of the season. The Spanish rider showcased his class by breaking free early and maintaining a comfortable gap to the chasing field.

Behind him, Joel Kelso (LEVELUP – MTA) celebrated his first dry-weather podium with a well-earned second place, while his teammate Matteo Bertelle secured his maiden Moto3™ podium in third after an impressive ride.

Quiles Stuns with Lightning Start

The race began with a spectacular launch from Maximo Quiles (CFMoto Valresa Aspar Team), who wasted no time making an impact in his World Championship debut. The young Spaniard rocketed off the line and led an entire racing lap, an incredible feat for a newcomer. However, with Moto3’s trademark group battles in full force, it wasn’t long before the pressure mounted.

Among the early casualties was pole-sitter David Muñoz (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP), who slid out of the leading group, suffering yet another disappointing race despite his strong qualifying pace. Adrian Fernandez (Leopard Racing) also faced a chaotic afternoon—his troubles started before the lights even went out. A technical issue almost prevented him from making it onto the grid in time, but due to a minor regulation loophole, he was allowed to take his place. However, his woes continued when he jumped the start, earning himself two Long Lap Penalties.

Rueda Breaks Away

Quiles held onto the lead for the opening lap, but Rueda was on the move. The Red Bull KTM Ajo rider methodically worked his way to the front and, once there, began to pull clear. By the halfway point of the race, his lead had grown to over two seconds, leaving the rest of the podium contenders to battle it out amongst themselves.

Kelso and Bertelle were locked in an intense scrap for second and third, with Angel Piqueras (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI), Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo), and Quiles forming a chasing trio just behind them. Further back, a large group was engaged in an all-out war for seventh place, providing plenty of entertainment.

Final Laps: Rueda Untouchable, Late Fireworks Behind

Heading into the last lap, Rueda was in complete control, with Kelso managing to solidify his position in second. Bertelle, after securing two pole positions earlier this season but missing out on the podium, finally got his reward with third place.

However, the most thrilling battle of the final lap was the fight for fourth between Piqueras and Quiles. The two engaged in a fierce back-and-forth exchange, with the experienced Piqueras narrowly edging out the Moto3 debutant in the end. Despite just missing out, Quiles’ top-five finish was a remarkable result in his first-ever Grand Prix weekend. Meanwhile, Carpe had to settle for sixth after previously tasting podium success as a rookie.

Fierce Midfield Battles and a Standout Recovery Ride

Dennis Foggia (CFMoto Valresa Aspar Team) emerged victorious from a tight midfield contest, securing seventh ahead of Adrian Cruces (CIP – Green Power) and Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia). A standout performance came from Cormac Buchanan (DENSSI Racing – BOE), who earned his first-ever top-ten finish, while fellow rookie Guido Pini (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) was close behind.

Despite starting from the back and serving two Long Lap Penalties, Adrian Fernandez delivered a determined ride to climb up to P12 and salvage valuable championship points. David Almansa (Leopard Racing), Jacob Roulstone (Red Bull KTM Tech3), and Nicola Carraro (Rivacold Snipers Team) rounded out the points-scoring positions.

Unfortunately, both Valentin Perrone (Red Bull KTM Tech3) and Ryusei Yamanaka (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) saw their races end early, with Yamanaka caught up in Perrone’s crash while battling inside the top ten.

Eyes on Qatar: Can Anyone Stop Rueda?

With two wins under his belt already this season, Rueda has firmly established himself as the man to beat. However, his rivals—led by Piqueras and Fernandez—will be eager to strike back when the championship heads to Qatar in two weeks. Will they be able to halt Rueda’s momentum, or will the Spanish star continue his dominant run?

The battle is just getting started!

Official MotoGP Press Release

Rueda Image Rob Gray (Polarity Photo)