An inventor from the United States wants to make the classic combustion engine more efficient using non-round gears and has filed the technology for a patent under the name Speed Stroke Engine. The idea shifts the duration of individual strokes but also raises questions about friction, smoothness, and wear.

Raul Fernandez has won the sprint at the Italian Grand Prix in Mugello, celebrating his first sprint victory in MotoGP. The Trackhouse Aprilia rider beat teammate Jorge Martin and home favourite Fabio Di Giannantonio, while championship leader Marco Bezzecchi finished fourth without a podium place.

On practice Friday for the Italian Grand Prix at Mugello, Marc Marquez returned after his double surgery while Fabio Di Giannantonio set the fastest time. Between comeback stories, a struggling Aprilia squad, and a new sponsorship deal, the day provided plenty of talking points for the entire weekend.

In the Supersport and Sportbike qualifying on Friday afternoon at the Isle of Man TT 2026, Michael Dunlop placed himself firmly at the top of both classes. Behind him, Peter Hickman and the other contenders sorted themselves out, while Mikey Evans returned to the track after his crash earlier in the week.

On Friday morning, the solo riders at the Isle of Man TT 2026 completed their fourth qualifying session — the final practice for the Superbike and Superstock classes. Dean Harrison topped the timesheets at 134.877 mph, while Peter Hickman, Michael Dunlop and the rest of the top riders focused primarily on fine-tuning their machines ahead of the first race.