Archie Schmidt selected for 2026 Red Bull Rookies Cup

Australia’s Archie Schmidt has earned a coveted spot in the 2026 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. The 16-year-old from Mount Barker in the Adelaide Hills was one of just eight riders selected from 113 at a selection event in Spain this past October.

“Getting selected was really satisfying and a major goal ticked,” Schmidt told Just Bikes. “I’m really proud of myself. Since winning the Oceania Junior Cup in 2023, this has been the main goal I’ve been working towards.”

For junior riders like Schmidt, the Red Bull Rookies Cup is a crucial step on the Road to MotoGP pathway — a breeding ground for future world championship contenders.

“In 2026, my goal is to ride the whole Red Bull season without injury,” Schmidt explained. “And I also hope to be racing for a professional European team in the JuniorGP.”

To maximise every opportunity to ride, Schmidt will get as much seat time as possible in Australia as well as Asia. “I want to work on my aggression to help with the first couple of race laps.”

Having spent the last two seasons in the Asia Talent Cup (ATC), Schmidt’s already had a taste of the intensity that comes with international competition. “The biggest thing I’ve learnt from the ATC that I can take into Red Bull Rookies is resilience and mental strength,” he said. “When you leave Australia to race, it’s a whole new level — and there are a lot more losses and failures than there are wins.”

Australia has a proud history in the Red Bull Rookies Cup, producing several riders who’ve gone on to the world stage. Jack Miller (2011–2012) remains the most successful Australian graduate, while Billy van Eerde became the first Aussie race winner in 2019. Jacob Roulstone kept the flag flying, while Carter Thompson rode in the category in 2023, ’24 and ’25.

For Schmidt, joining that list is more than just an achievement — it’s the beginning of something bigger. “Getting this chance means everything,” he said. “Now it’s about making it count.”

Words: Russell Colvin

Photos: Red Bull Content Pool