Trackside with Merlo UK: Drama Ignites NORA92 British Cup Opener

The 2026 NORA92 British Cup roared into life at Landrake Moto Parc, where Merlo UK’s MX1/MX2-backed category delivered a high-intensity opening round defined by breakthrough rides and a packed Cornwall paddock of riders, families, and Merlo UK dealer partners.

At Cornwall’s Landrake Moto Parc, more than 330 riders lined up across classes ranging from 50cc youth machines to 450cc race bikes, with over 600 spectators lining the fences to support the three-day event. The field featured talent spanning first-time racers to seasoned veterans, with the opening round immediately reinforcing the British Cup’s reputation as a proving ground where progression is earned under pressure.

MX1/MX2 delivers unpredictable racing

At the heart of the weekend, the MX1/MX2 category, powered by Merlo UK, delivered relentlessly close competition. As event commentator Mick Rich explained: “Every moto produced a different winner. No rider controlled a race from start to finish, it was constantly changing, with decisive moves happening even in the final laps.”

That unpredictability defined event, even repeating itself in striking fashion: “We saw a change of leadership at the exact same corner in both the opening and final races, effectively a mirror image across two motos.”

A standout moment came as an MX2 rider challenged outright power: “Alfie Calvert took an overall win against the 450cc machines, which really highlights the level of talent in the field,” continued Rich.

“Building Champions” with the “Courage to Dare”

The British Cup continues to grow as a national four-round series, attracting riders from across the UK and Ireland. “It brings together every level of rider and creates a pathway where competitors can push themselves and be inspired by racing alongside experienced talent,” Rich said.

Guided by its ethos of “Building Champions,” the NORA92 British Cup aligns closely with Merlo “Courage to Dare” philosophy, embedded across the OEM’s culture and innovation. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to progression and resilience, with both brands defined by their ability to perform under pressure both on the track and in the field.

That connection is further strengthened by Merlo’s Italian heritage. Founded in Italy and still designing and manufacturing agricultural and construction machinery there today, the company maintains a direct link between its engineering base and its performance-led values. Italy’s motocross culture, shaped by riders such as Antonio Cairoli, reflects a similar competitive edge, one that translates naturally to events like the opening round in Cornwall, where pace and pressure are immediately put to the test from the first gate drop.

Relationships built trackside: Dealer partnership driving growth in the South West

The Landrake round also highlighted the strength of Merlo UK’s dealer network, with Vincents hosting customers across the weekend as part of its growing partnership with the manufacturer. For Nick Vincent, Director of Vincents, the event offered a valuable opportunity to connect with customers in a different setting: “It was really enjoyable and very well organised. The hospitality was excellent and the customers we invited along really enjoyed the experience. It’s something a bit different, and that makes it memorable,” Vincent shares.

Vincents renewed its partnership with Merlo UK in 2025, expanding its territory across the South West through four depots spanning Cornwall, Devon and Somerset. “We wanted a premium telehandler in our portfolio, and Merlo was the brand we wanted, strong residual values, excellent warranty packages and finance options, and a product range that really suits our market,” Nick Vincent shares.

The partnership has already delivered strong momentum across agricultural and construction sectors, with compact telehandlers proving particularly popular. “The 30.7 has been a real success for us. It’s compact, offers strong capacity, and suits the mixed farms and construction businesses we work with. Visibility is a major factor for customers, and that’s an area where the Merlo machines really stand out.”

Alongside product performance, Nick Vincent highlighted manufacturer support as a defining strength of the relationship: “The support from Merlo UK has been exceptional. When customers need quick solutions, having that backing makes all the difference. It feels like a genuine partnership, they want us to succeed as much as we do.”

That long-term approach reflects Vincents’ own business philosophy as it marks its 60th anniversary this year. “Our business was built on service. My grandfather always said ‘service sells’, and that still runs through everything we do today. Having a partner like Merlo UK, who shares that focus on aftersales support and customer relationships, is incredibly important,” shared Nick Vincent.

A new arena awaits

Merlo UK extends its thanks to the NORA92 British Cup for a strong opening round and continued commitment to delivering a professional, well-run championship. Rich emphasises: “A huge amount of credit has to go to the marshals, medics, and organising team who work in all conditions to keep the event running to such a high standard.”

Following a standout opening round in Cornwall, the 2026 NORA92 British Cup has already set a relentless pace for the season ahead. The next round of the championship heads to Hawkstone Park in June, one of the UK’s most iconic former Grand Prix circuits, where Merlo UK will return to support the MX1/MX2 category and cheer on riders trackside alongside its local dealer partners.

Click here for more information about Merlo telehandlers & on upcoming Nora92 British Cup events