Former MotoAmerica Mini Cup road racer Chris Clark has been selected as one of 19 riders from around the world to compete in the 2025 FIM R3 BLU CRU World Cup.

Earlier this week, Clark, who is 18 years old and hails from Fairfax, Virginia, took part in the preseason induction and test at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli in Italy in preparation for the opening round of the season at Portimão in Portugal on March 29 through 30. He and his fellow competitors were given their race suits, airbags, boots, and gloves before participating in a “bike raffle,” which involves each rider randomly picking a number to decide which Yamaha YZF-R3 they will race this coming season. The raffle ensures a level playing field for each of the riders.

Working with his Smrz Racing team, Clark participated in five 20-minute sessions under the watchful eye of 2024 FIM Supersport 300 World Champion and 2023 FIM R3 BLU CRU World Cup runner-up Aldi Satya Mahendra. The test gave both Clark and his team confidence leading into next weekend’s season opener in Portugal.

“I am really happy with how the past two days have gone,” Clark said. “The promotional day was a lot of fun and something I had never done before but it was great. Today we had five sessions. This morning was cold and all about easing in the engine and not making any mistakes. As the day warmed up, we were able to improve the lap time and were close to the top. I was able to stay calm and improve throughout the day, which gives me confidence that I can do well and have a strong season. I enjoyed working with the team. We did a lot of positive work, and I am excited for round one.”

The 2025 FIM R3 BLU CRU World Cup takes place alongside six rounds of the FIM Superbike World Championship at Portimão, Misano, Donington Park, Balaton Park, Aragon, and Estoril, with the ultimate prize to the champion being a Yamaha-supported ride in the 2025 FIM Supersport 300 World Championship.