Beverley's Christie Brothers Target Championship Fightback in Italy This Weekend

This weekend sees Beverley's Sam and Thomas Christie return to action as the 2026 FIM Sidecar World Championship heads to Cremona, Italy, for the fourth round of the season. The event, taking place from 7 to 9 August, marks the championship's first visit to Italy in twenty-three years and provides a crucial opportunity for the reigning world champions to close the gap on the championship leaders.

2026 FIM Sidecar World Championship at Pau-Arnos Circuit, France © Mark Walters

Harrison Payne and Kevin Rousseau at 2026 FIM Sidecar World Championship at Pau-Arnos Circuit, France © Mark Walters

The East Yorkshire brothers enjoyed a remarkable 2025 campaign, securing the FIM Sidecar World Championship title and establishing themselves among the sport's elite. However, the opening rounds of the 2026 season have proved more challenging, leaving them with work to do if they are to defend their crown.

Currently sitting twenty-four points behind second place in the standings, Sam and Thomas know that a strong weekend in Cremona could significantly boost their championship hopes as the series enters its second half.

The current championship is led by British rider Harrison Payne and French passenger Kevin Rousseau, who extended their advantage following an impressive double victory at the previous round in Pau-Arnos, France. Five-time world champion Pekka Päivärinta and British passenger Adam Christie remain among their closest challengers, making the fight for the title increasingly competitive.

For the Christie brothers, consistency will be key. The Italian circuit offers two valuable scoring opportunities, beginning with a twelve-lap Sprint Race on Saturday 8 August, followed by the twenty-lap feature race on Sunday 9 August.

While the championship remains finely balanced, the Beverley pair have already shown they have the pace and determination needed to compete at the highest level. As defending champions, they know every point will matter heading into the closing rounds later this season in the Netherlands and Germany.

With Yorkshire once again represented on the world stage, local motorsport fans will be hoping the Christie brothers can deliver another memorable performance and reignite their championship challenge in Italy.