Applications Open for 2026 Oceania Junior Cup | The bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup (OJC), the official Road to MotoGP program for the region, has opened expressions of interest for riders aged 11 to 16 who want to take the first step toward a professional racing career.

The OJC has become Australia’s most successful junior development program, producing future stars and providing young riders with a direct link to international opportunities. As part of Dorna’s Road to MotoGP structure, the program offers riders a chance to progress into the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU Asia-Pacific Championship, Asia Talent Cup, and even the prestigious Red Bull Rookies Cup.

Check out our old OJC columns from a much younger James Weaver here…

"After my weekend was cut short up at Queensland Raceway due to getting COVID-19, I was looking forward to getting some time on the bike at one of my local tracks."

This alignment makes the OJC a gateway for Australian and New Zealand talent aspiring to reach the world stage.

PHILLIP ISLAND, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 20: during the 2024 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit on October 20, 2024 in Phillip Island, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

Level Playing Field-

One of the program’s biggest drawcards is its focus on equality and rider development. All entrants compete on identical, race-prepared Yamaha YZF-R15 motorcycles. By eliminating technical disparities, the emphasis remains on honing skills, building race craft, and developing consistency.

The technical support package is comprehensive, with each rider receiving a fully prepared machine, transportation and garage support at every round, and new race tyres supplied each weekend.

Training With Legends-

Participants also gain access to some of the sport’s best mentors. MotoGP race winner Garry McCoy leads the coaching program, supported by current ASBK stars such as Ty Lynch and Archie McDonald. The academy’s curriculum extends well beyond the track, offering media training, PR skills, fitness coaching, and sportsmanship development to help riders mature into complete professionals.

This holistic approach ensures young competitors are not only fast on the track but also prepared for the demands of a modern racing career.On the restart, it was all back to normal as the field sliced and diced each other for the five-lap duration with seven riders line astern. Well momentarily, as positions changed constantly as usual.

All-Inclusive Package

The 2026 season package includes:

Loan of a race-prepared Yamaha YZF-R15

Full transport and technical support at every round

Fresh race tyres each weekend

A complete set of premium racing gear (Shark helmet, Ricondi leathers, boots, and gloves)

OJC team uniform

Entry fees and allocated garage space

This removes many of the barriers traditionally faced by junior racers, allowing them to concentrate fully on development and performance.

Ethan Johnson, OJC Yamaha YZF-R15.

How to Apply-

Expressions of interest are now open for riders who will be aged 11–16 years as of January 1, 2026. Applications close on October 26, 2025, making this the window for aspiring young talents to secure a place on the 2026 grid.

The OJC has already proven to be a launchpad for future champions, with many alumni moving into higher domestic categories and onto international opportunities. For young riders with big dreams, this could be the first crucial step toward a MotoGP career.

Apply for the 2026 OJC Here Now! 

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