WSS FP2
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WorldSBK: Razgatlioglu P1, Gerloff P8, Gagne P19 In FP2 In Portugal (Updated)
Editorial Note: American Garrett Gerloff’s time from FP1 made him third-fastest overall on Friday.
SBK FP2SBK FP1 and FP2 Comb
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
Razgatlioglu flew into top spot in Portimao’s combined results
Taking flight and lifting off, the reigning World Champion really was on another level
Friday highlights – WorldSBK
P1 – Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK)
Despite missing 10 minutes at the start of FP2 due to brake issues, Razgatlioglu topped the combined results.
He was 0.245s quicker than Michael Ruben Rinaldi with a best time of 1’40.720s.
Razgatlioglu was the fastest rider in Sector 2 and 3 but was the 14th fastest in the final sector.
“For me it’s a very good Friday because we started very strongly. I’m really happy. We tried different setups but now we are ready to race. In FP1, I jumped for 21 meters. For me it’s fun and I’m really happy for this. In FP2, we had brake problems because we used new parts and I felt some vibrations. We changed the disk and finally everything is ok. After, I saw very good lap times with the SC0 tyre and also the used tyre. After that, we tried a race simulation. We tried different tyres and finally we know which tyre is better for the race. Today is a good day. I followed Jonny and I had different tyres but once he saw me, he closed the gas … and then followed me! I saw some sectors where he was fast, and me too. Tomorrow the Superpole will be important for me. In Race 1, I will be fighting for the win again because I love this track. This year I’ll try for three wins.”
P2 – Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
Rinaldi finished second overall after FP2 thanks to his fast lap set in the morning session.
He was the lead Ducati rider on Friday at Portimao with Bautista in fifth.
“This morning was pretty good. This afternoon we worked more to understand which tyre we will use tomorrow and Sunday. I’m pretty happy. We didn’t improve with the new tyre … which is strange. We need to understand how to improve. But apart from that, it was a pretty consistent Friday and I’m pretty happy with the feeling with the bike.”
P3 – Garrett Gerloff (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team)
Gerloff was third, 0.362s behind Razgatlioglu, with his best time claimed in the morning session.
“Friday was not too bad, it was a decent start. I was happy to be within the top three in the first session for sure. Track conditions were pretty prime. I’m a little bit disappointed because we’re struggling when the track temperature goes up. We made an improvement in the last part of FP2 but it’s just really difficult to get the power to the ground and get the bike to turn when the temperature goes up. This afternoon we were focused on the race pace and race distance. Lap time wasn’t the first concern, but I feel like we could go faster. We have room to improve and that’s what were going to be working on tomorrow.”
P4 – Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK)
Rea finished in fourth place in the combined standings. He was 0.476s behind Razgatlioglu.
He was the fastest rider in the first sector, but, like Razgatlioglu, he was struggling in the last sector and was the 16th fastest rider in this short sector.
“It was a positive day. We ran through the tyre options to try them all and also understanding the track. I always love riding here. It’s quite challenging as a rider. You have to make a lot of special inputs with the bike, you’re almost massaging it around the circuit because it’s so undulating. Enjoying that challenge and working with the team to find an optimum setup for tomorrow. Tried to do longer runs on tyres to understand where the tyre drop would be and how we can manage that. We achieved the targets for today and look forward now to the Superpole tomorrow to try and qualify on that front row. There’s two options I feel like we can use, both SC0s as the race tyre. I was quite consistent and fast with both, although I didn’t really put a strong lap time, a time attack, together but consistency wasn’t too bad. We’ll just check that to understand the data to understand both FP1 and FP2 where it can be 8-10 degrees difference on track, so it’s hard to compare. We need to see what temperatures we will have tomorrow, understand how the bike behaves on each tyre and make a good choice from there.”
P5 – Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
Bautista improved his overall fastest time in FP2 and worked on race pace with a good run on track.
He was 0.503s under Razgatlioglu’s fastest time but only 0.027s behind Rea.
“Today we just tried to compare both rear tyre from Pirelli. This morning I did almost a race distance with the new compound and the feeling wasn’t to bad and in fact I did my best lap time in Lap 20. But in the afternoon, with the standard SC0 I felt quite good, good pace, good rhythm and good feeling with the bike… even better than in the morning. When I put again the new SC0 and I had a very bad feeling. I don’t know if it was due to this afternoon’s conditions or if the tyre had a problem. It has been positive because we could compare both tyre. The bike set up is quite good and work pretty well from this morning. Now we tried to be focus tomorrow just in one tyre and to fine tune.”
P6 – Iker Lecuona (Team HRC)
Lecuona was sixth at the end of Friday for his first time at Portimao with WorldSBK.
He continued to try and make gains with rear grip, something he spent time testing during a post-Catalunya Round test at MotorLand Aragon.
“It was a really good Friday. With the bike I felt strong, confident… I can’t compare with Jonny and Alvaro. In FP2, Alvaro was behind me and I could feel the difference, and with Jonny in the last lap as well. I feel good because I have very good speed, I go fast, I’m able to go alone so I don’t follow anyone … I have the pace and this is important for everyone. We focus on trying to save the tyre because in the end of races, we struggle a lot with the grip, we dropped a lot and loose everything in the last laps. We’re trying to improve this area on the bike. We found something. We worked very hard in the last test. I felt good today with the bike and we have a constant pace.”
WorldSBK action resumes on Saturday from 09:00 (Local Time), followed by Tissot Superpole at 11:10 and Race 1 at 14:00.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha Racing:
Top Three on First Day In Portimao for GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team returned to action today at Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal, with Garrett Gerloff ending the day third fastest on combined times. The Texan’s teammate, Kohta Nozane,endured a difficult day but improved his lap time this afternoon to finish in 22nd position.
Gerloff got off to a flying start in the opening free practice session this morning, with a time of 1’41.082 securing him second place on the timesheet as the fastest of the eight Yamaha R1 bikes on track. Nozane’s time of 1’43.622 was enough to net the Japanese rider 24th place.
Race pace rather than lap times was the focus for both GYTR GRT Yamaha riders in the hotter conditions of FP2 this afternoon, but Nozane managed to improve on his previous best to finish 22nd, while Gerloff ended in ninth.
Both riders will be back on track tomorrow, firstly with FP3 at 09:00 local time. The Tissot Superpole will be at 11:10, with Race 1 starting at 14:00.
Garrett Gerloff: P3 – 1’41.082
“A rollercoaster day for sure. In the morning everything felt pretty good with the bike, and we were quick from the very beginning. Unfortunately, we struggled a little bit more in the afternoon with the higher track temperature, but we leave this evening with some ideas on where we can improve tomorrow.”
Kohta Nozane: P22 – 1’43.329
“To be honest, that was a particularly difficult day. We tried many things to gain more confidence and I made a small improvement, but we’re looking for more. Tomorrow we’ll move forward together with the team, we’ll work hard in the afternoon and in the evening to be faster on Saturday.”
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC:
Race pace the target for Team HRC at Portimão
The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal is the stage for the last European round of the 2022 Superbike World Championship and Team HRC is keen to exploit the fact it is competing at a track that rookie riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge already know.
Aware that one of the most important setup aspects relates to race-distance consistency and that this track is pretty hard on tyre life, the team spent both sessions working to find steady race pace, rather than outright pace.
The opening practice session ran smoothly this morning in warm, sunny conditions. With previous data to refer to, and with the experience gathered during recent rounds, both sides of the garage were able to make solid progress already during this first phase, with both Xavi and Iker getting into a good rhythm and making the most of the almost ideal conditions. Lapping with similar lap times to each other, Vierge set a best of 1’41.972 to position ninth, with Lecuona finishing right behind him, tenth with a 1’42.099.
The work continued mid-afternoon during FP2. Lecuona immediately shaved a good half second off his previous time and didn’t stop there, making further gains throughout the 45-minute session and demonstrating a certain consistency around the Portuguese track. His best was a 1’41.453, a time that saw him round out day one in sixth place overall. Team-mate Vierge also made a step towards the end of this second session, a 1’41.858 moving him up into twelfth position in the day’s combined standings.
Iker Lecuona 7
“It was a positive Friday for us and I felt strong and confident on my bike. At the same time, when I made a few laps with Alvaro and a final one close to Johnny towards the end of FP1, I could feel that something is still missing. Generally speaking, we’ve found consistent pace, and this is good – we put the focus on the tyre life because we generally struggle at the end of races once the grip drops significantly. So we tried to work to improve this area of the bike and yes, we’ve found something, nothing huge but definitely something that allows us to be more consistent. Looking at the big picture, I feel both good and a bit frustrated because, compared to the top three guys, I’m still losing a little everywhere, which means that we need to keep up the good work and try to close this gap. Looking at what we achieved during the last test and also here today in terms of setup, I feel happy and am looking forward to tomorrow. Our target for qualifying is a place on the first two rows and then, for the race, to try and be consistent throughout and especially in the final stages, and of course to score the best possible result.”
Xavi Vierge 97
“It’s been a good first day for us considering that we’ve worked a lot on race pace, finding quite good feeling over the two sessions. In the final part of FP1 we tried a new tyre but to be honest we expected more. In the end, the feeling wasn’t perfect with this solution, but it was good to try it today because that helped us to understand the direction to take tomorrow. The team has done a very good job and so we can say so far, so good.”
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
WorldSBK Gets Underway Again At Portimao
On the opening day of WorldSBK action at a sun-kissed Portimao circuit Jonathan Rea was the fourth quickest rider in FP2, with his team-mate Alex Lowes seventh.
The eagerly anticipated return of WorldSBK to the 4.592km long Portimao circuit, located close to the Algarve coastline of southern Portugal, started well for both KRT riders.
Rea and Lowes working with regular racing tyres as they each set out to find an effective machine set-up for their riding styles and the heavily undulating Portimao circuit layout.
After recent private tests since the previous round of the championship in Barcelona-Catalunya Rea used that experience with his team to find a platform to work from at Portimao, which has been one of Rea’s favourite and most rewarding circuits. Finding more corner entry traction is his priority on Saturday in FP3, before Superpole qualifying and Race One.
After two sessions on the opening day at Portimao Lowes is looking for improved stopping performance at one of the most intensely undulating and dramatic WorldSBK tracks there is.
Second fastest in the FP2 session in the afternoon Rea would end up fourth overall, while Alex was seventh on the combined timesheets.
Next up for the WorldSBK riders on Saturday 8 October will be a third free practice session, then Superpole Qualifying and a full distance 21-lap Race One.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “We found some positives during some private testing we did last week and we just confirmed some items here. We have found a base set-up but I am struggling a little bit with entry traction – it’s backing in on the rear – so we need to find more entry traction for the first race. I felt my rhythm was good; I just didn’t find that one out-and-out lap time. For day one, I feel we were there or thereabouts.”
Alex Lowes, stated: “Not a bad first day at Portimao but we were struggling to stop the bike a little bit. Now we have clear ideas on what to try tomorrow to improve that and make a step forward. It’s always so much fun to ride here, because of the nature of the circuit, so I’m excited to get into some racing tomorrow.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) ended his first day in Portugal in 17th place, with Leon Haslam (Team Pedercini Racing Kawasaki) 18th in his return to the WorldSBK paddock. Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) was 26th today.
More, from a press release issued by Pata Yamaha:
Razgatlıoğlu Flies to Fastest Lap Time in Portimão Friday Free Practice
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK rider and defending WorldSBK Champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu topped Friday’s Free Practice with a commanding lap time of 1’40.720, as the ninth round of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship kicked off at the Algarve International Circuit in Portugal today.
It was a positive result for the Turkish ace, who alongside his #1 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK crew, tested the Pirelli tire options available at this circuit in his search of a race-winning set-up for the weekend. But what really caught everyone’s attention was Razgatlıoğlu’s 21 metre-long “flight” over the crest of Turn 9 on his “in-lap” at the end of FP1!
Teammate Andrea Locatelli was eighth quickest in the combined standings, having set a 1’41.760 lap time in this morning’s Free Practice 1 session before continuing to work on race pace and set-up to manage tyre life during in the hotter temperatures during the afternoon.
With warm, clear weather set to continue throughout the weekend, today’s set-up work could prove crucial in Race 1 at 14:00 (WEST, UTC+1) tomorrow, but not before one final 30-minute Free Practice 3 at 9:00 and the all-important 15-minute Superpole qualifying to determine grid position at 11:10.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: P1 – 1’40.720
“For me it was a very good Friday because we started really strong. I am happy today, we tried some different set-up combinations and now we are ready to race. After some changes at the start of FP2, I see very good lap time 1’40.7 with SC0 tyre – also not a new tyre, it was used one. I am really happy for this and after we try race simulation with different tyre and finally we know which tyre is better for the race. I love this track and this year, I try my best for three races, three wins. We will see, it’s not easy I know because everyone is very fast but I am coming here for the win. For the jump, I didn’t feel very long flight but we look at the data and I jumped 21 metres! Looks not long, but I think it was very fast! I learned how to jump the R1 when we went to Cadwell Park, for me this is fun after the hard work in the session.”
Andrea Locatelli: P8 – 1’41.760
“I’m happy because the feeling was ok immediately in FP1 and also in FP2, we improved the feeling of the bike a lot. We tried to focus just on riding many laps and to do a long run to understand the bike for the race tomorrow, but the confidence is good and this is important. Tomorrow morning we will try to push hard and do a fast lap to prepare for Superpole. But we have a good base set-up for the afternoon, in the end the position is not so good but I am really happy about the work we did today. I feel good on the bike and we are ready to race.”
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
Positive start for Rinaldi (P2) and Bautista (P5) in Pirelli Portuguese Round. Bulega ninth in WorldSSP free practice
The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team got off to a convincing start in Pirelli Portuguese Round. Michael Rinaldi and Alvaro Bautista finished second and fifth, respectively, in the combined standings.
The Italian rider was the protagonist of an extremely positive Friday. After finishing FP1 with the fastest lap, in FP2 Rinaldi worked with the team to collect data that could prove useful for tyre choice, especially in view of the two long races on Saturday and Sunday.
In the afternoon session, Bautista was able to lower his FP1 time by three-tenths, although the feeling with the softer tyre was not particularly positive.
P2 – Michael Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
FP1 > P1 – 1’40.965
FP2 > P4 – 1’41.296 (+0.576)
“It was a pretty positive Friday. We started this morning on the right foot and in the afternoon we worked a lot in sight of the race. All in all it was a very consistent day and the race pace is positive. The goal for tomorrow is to get a good start and stay with the front group for the whole race.”
P5 – Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #19)
FP1 > P5 – 1’41.512 (+0.547)
FP2 > P3 – 1’41.223 (+0.503)
“We worked a lot on the tyres in both FP1 and FP2. The feeling in the morning was very positive while in the afternoon, probably due to the higher temperature, I wasn’t able to make the most of the softer tyre. Anyway, I am confident ahead of tomorrow”.
WorldSSP
After a good FP1 closed with the fifth time, in FP2 Bulega had to deal with a technical problem that did not allow him to improve.
P9 Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WSSP #11)
FP1 > P6 – 1’44.832 (+0.472)
FP2 > P9 – 1’44.947 (+0.687)
“Unfortunately I could only do a few laps in the afternoon. We can’t let this problem affect us though. Tomorrow I will still give my best first in qualifying and then in the race”.
More, from a press release issued by Team Go Eleven:
PHILIPP GETS THE TOP TEN AT THE END OF PORTIMAO FRIDAY!
Day 1 in Portimao turns out to be positive and strong for Philipp Oettl and Team Go Eleven! The German rider enters the Top Ten of the day at the end of a very fast second session for the WorldSBK protagonists, where the Best Lap of the day stopped half a second from the lap record.
In the first session Philipp found a good feeling with the V4-R, starting from the positive sensations found on Sunday in Barcelona. In Portimao it will be important to manage the tyre for the race distance, so the technicians chose to used just a set tyres. Philipp made all the laps on the 42, managing well the drop of the rear Pirelli. As often happens, the FP 1 standing is not so realistic, as several riders have used the new tyre at the end, improving their Best.
Free Practice 1:
P 1 M. Rinaldi 1.40.965
P 2 G. Gerloff + 0.117
P 3 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.294
…
P 13 P. Oettl + 1.330
In FP 2 Philipp faced the session with the new 624 rear compound, in order to make a comparison to the morning. The asphalt temperature, about 10 degrees warmer than in FP 1, made the Portuguese asphalt more slippery and difficult to analyze. In the last sector, the one of the fast corners, for example, Oettl lost a few tenths compared to the morning. Towards the end of the session, then, the German rider put on a new set of tyres, with which he attacked the time, riding below 42 and entering the Top Ten, two tenths from sixth place. The third sector remains to be solved, a real weak point here at the ups and downs of the Algarve.
Free Practice 2:
P 1 T. Razgatlioglu 1.40.720
P 2 J. Rea + 0.476
P 3 A. Bautista + 0.503
…
P 9 P. Oettl + 1.118
Philipp Oettl (Rider):
“Today it was a solid day! We have a quite consistent pace, which I think it will be really important tomorrow. We have two main areas on which we need to work for tomorrow, but I think we can go in the right direction, as our technical debrief gave us some ideas. I hope my comments will help the team to find the right solutions. I think we are competitive here in Portimao, too, so I am happy today!”
AMA/FIM North America Congratulates 2022 Racing Champions
FIM North America Congratulates 2022 Champions
Multiple FIM North America Championships wrapped up in September
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme North America (FIM NA) congratulates the FIM NA-sanctioned class champions crowned at the final two rounds of this year’s MotoAmerica Series.
“The 2022 season has been a great success,” said FIM NA President Rob Dingman, “and the champions at its conclusion are worthy of the honors they worked hard to earn.”
Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne won the Medallia AMA Superbike Championship for a second consecutive year, clinching the title with a second-place finish Sunday.
Earlier in the month, Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC’s Josh Herrin secured the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship at New Jersey Motorsports Park on Sept. 10. The title marked Herrin’s third overall and first in the class.
Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing’s Corey Alexander also wrapped up his title — the Yuasa Stock 1000 Championship — in New Jersey earlier in September.
In the 2022 Mini Cup by Motul Championship, the 160cc class was won by Nathan Gouker. By winning the 160cc class, Gouker, along with second place finisher Ryder Davis, will represent FIM NA in the FIM MiniGP World Series Final in Valencia, Spain, on Nov. 1.
About the FIM North America
FIM North America is one of six Continental Unions (CONUs) recognized as geographical subdivisions and accountable to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). It was founded in 1998. The national federations who are members of FIM North America are, by virtue of their geographical area and their membership in the FIM, the American Motorcyclist Association and the Canadian Motorcycle Association. FIM North America establishes an annual calendar of Continental Championship events and other activities and declares champions in designated disciplines and classes. Its member federations issue CONU licenses to riders participating in FIM NA events as well as those who are participating in Continental Championship events organized in other CONUs. For more information, visit fim-northamerica.com.
More, from another press release issued by FIM North America:
North America Talent Cup Completes Inaugural Season with Worthy Champion
Alessandro Di Mario becomes first title-winner
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme North America (FIM NA) congratulates Alessandro Di Mario on being crowned the 2022 North America Talent Cup Champion.
“The inaugural season of the North America Talent Cup was a huge success and a great standard was set,” said FIM NA President Rob Dingman. “The competition was exciting to the very end and Alessandro Di Mario proved to be a deserving champion.”
Di Mario edged out runner-up Jesse Shedden by a single point in the final standings to become the first North America Talent Cup (NATC) champion.
The inaugural season of the NATC concluded alongside the final round of the MotoAmerica Series at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala.
The NATC — a collaborative effort between MotoAmerica and Dorna with Rise Moto providing coordination and sanctioned by FIM North America and the AMA — is designed to be a stepping stone between the FIM North America Mini Cup Series and the FIM European Talent Cup or Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. The inaugural season spanned seven rounds and included riders between the ages of 13 and 16.
About the FIM North America
FIM North America is one of six Continental Unions (CONUs) recognized as geographical subdivisions and accountable to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). It was founded in 1998. The national federations who are members of FIM North America are, by virtue of their geographical area and their membership in the FIM, the American Motorcyclist Association and the Canadian Motorcycle Association. FIM North America establishes an annual calendar of Continental Championship events and other activities and declares champions in designated disciplines and classes. Its member federations issue CONU licenses to riders participating in FIM NA events as well as those who are participating in Continental Championship events organized in other CONUs. For more information, visit fim-northamerica.com.
More, from a press release issued by AMA:
Champions Crowned at MotoAmerica Finale
Gagne takes AMA Superbike title, others win support classes
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association congratulates the champions crowned at the MotoAmerica Series finale at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala.
The 2022 season’s final event, which ran Sept. 23-25, wrapped up the Medallia AMA Superbike Championship and five support-class titles. Two of the three Mini Cup by Motul classes were also decided on the track in the season finale.
“The 2022 season finale was action packed and full of excitement,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant. “After a year full of hard work and spectacular performances, it is great to see a group of winners who embody what it means to be a champion.”
Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne won the Medallia AMA Superbike Championship for a second consecutive year as he clinched the title with a second-place finish Sept. 25.
Alpha Omega Kawasaki’s Cody Wyman and Rodio Racing Kawasaki’s Gus Rodio finished the SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup season tied at 285 points, but Wyman took the championship because of the tiebreaker that is determined by total season wins.
The REV’IT! Twins Cup was claimed by N2 Racing/BobbleHeadMoto’s Blake Davis, who rode his late-season momentum to the title. The 16-year-old rider entered the finale ahead by 15 points and his fourth-place finish Sept. 25 was good enough to hold on for the championship.
Earlier in the month, Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC’s Josh Herrin secured the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship at New Jersey Motorsports Park on Sept. 10. The title marked Herrin’s third overall and first in the class.
Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing’s Corey Alexander also wrapped up his title — the Yuasa Stock 1000 Championship — in New Jersey earlier in September.
Mission Foods/S&S Cycle/Indian Challenger Team’s Tyler O’Hara ended his season by winning both the 2022 MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers Championship and the Super Hooligans Championship.
In the 2022 Mini Cup by Motul Championship, the 110cc and 160cc classes were won by Nathan Gouker. The 190cc title was claimed by Kensei Matsudaira.
By winning the 160cc class, Gouker, along with second place finisher Ryder Davis, will represent FIM NA in the FIM MiniGP World Series Final in Valencia, Spain, on Nov. 1.
The conclusion of the inaugural North America Talent Cup (NATC) happened alongside the final round of the MotoAmerica Series at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala., and Alessandro Di Mario edged out runner-up Jesse Shedden by a single point in the final standings to become the first NATC champion.
The NATC — which is a collaborative effort between MotoAmerica and Dorna with Rise Moto providing coordination and sanctioned by FIM North America and the AMA — is designed to be a stepping stone between the FIM North America Mini Cup Series and the FIM European Talent Cup or Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. The inaugural season spanned seven rounds and included riders between the ages of 13 and 16.
2022 MotoAmerica Series results:
Medallia AMA Superbike
1. Jake Gagne
2. Danilo Petrucci
3. Cameron Petersen
Supersport
1. Josh Herrin
2. Rocco Landers
3. Tyler Scott
SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup
1. Cody Wyman
2. Gus Rodio
3. Kayla Yaakov
Yuasa Stock 1000
1. Corey Alexander
2. Hayden Gillim
3. Travis Wyman
REV’IT! Twins Cup
1. Blake Davis
2. Jody Barry
3. Anthony Mazziotto
Mission King of the Baggers
1. Tyler O’Hara
2. Travis Wyman
3. Kyle Wyman
RSD Super Hooligan
1. Tyler O’Hara
2. Cory West
3. Andy DiBrino
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
British Superbike: Rouse Dies From Injuries Sustained Oct. 2 At Donington Park
Following an accident during Bennetts British Superbike Championship race three at Donington Park (on Sunday 2 October 2022), competitor Chrissy Rouse crashed heavily on the opening lap of the race and was unavoidably struck by an immediately following rider. He sustained a significant head injury.
The race was stopped and he was treated immediately trackside by the BSB Medical Team before being transferred to the circuit medical centre.
He was stabilised and put in a medically induced coma at the medical centre before being transferred to Queens Medical Centre/University Hospital, Nottingham for further assessment and treatment. He underwent an emergency neurosurgical procedure shortly after admission.
It is with great regret that we have to announce that Chrissy Rouse aged 26, from Newcastle upon Tyne, has succumbed to his injuries, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family in hospital earlier this afternoon.
On behalf of Chrissy’s family they wish to convey their deep appreciation for the support and well wishes that they have received in recent days. As well they wish to thank all the attending marshals and medical services who provided such skill and care attending to Chrissy. The family also ask for privacy at this difficult time as they attempt to deal with their devastating loss.
MSVR is now working with the Coroner, Police and the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board in order to investigate the full circumstances of this tragic accident.
Our deepest condolences are extended to Chrissy’s family, friends and team members.
More, from a press release issued by BMW Motorrad Motorsport:
The BMW Motorrad Motorsport family mourns Chrissy Rouse.
Munich. The BMW Motorrad Motorsport family is mourning the death of Chrissy Rouse (GBR). The 26-year-old Briton passed away on Thursday, succumbing to the serious injuries suffered last weekend in an accident in the British Superbike Championship at Donington Park (GBR). It was with great dismay and sadness that BMW Motorrad Motorsport received the news of Rouse’s death.
Rouse was a valued member of the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family for several years. In 2020, he won the title in the British National Superstock 1000 Championship with the Crowe Performance BMW Team. This season, Rouse had been riding for the Crowe Performance BMW Team in the British Superbike Championship.
The whole BMW Motorrad Motorsport community wishes to express its heartfelt condolences to Rouse’s family, friends and team. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
R.I.P. Phil Read MBE (Updated)
From a statement issued by the Read family:
It is with incredible sadness that the Read family reports the passing of Phil Read MBE while peacefully asleep on the morning of October 6th, 2022, at his home in Canterbury, England.
Phil is best known for winning Yamaha’s first world championship title in 1964 with four more Yamaha-mounted titles including one fought as a privateer, plus two premier class 500cc world championships in 1973 and 1974 for the Italian MV Agusta marque.
Often a controversial and outspoken figure, his prolific racing career included 52 FIM Grand Prix wins and eight wins at the iconic Isle of Man TT Races. In 2002 he was granted the status of “MotoGP Legend” by Dorna.
Phil is survived by his sons Michael, Graham, Phil Jr, Roki and daughter Esme’. Further details on any public celebrations of life will be shared.
Editorial Note: Phil Read, a seven-time Grand Prix World Champion, was 83.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Phil Read MBE: 1939-2022 | Yamaha’s First Ever Road Racing World Champion
The Yamaha Racing family are incredibly saddened by the news that Phil Read MBE, Yamaha’s first-ever road racing World Champion, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home in Canterbury, England this morning.
Read, 83, was truly one of motorcycle racing’s greats, winning seven Grand Prix Road Racing titles during the 1960s and 70s. The British ace was also the first rider to claim world championship victories in all three of the 125cc, 250cc and 500cc classes.
His illustrious career began with the first of eight Isle of Man TT victories in 1961, and in 1964 he gave Yamaha its first world title, winning the 250cc class on the RD56. In 1968, Read dominated both the 125cc and 250cc championships, standing on the top step of the podium in 12 of the 15 races he contested. He followed that up with another 250cc title in 1971, his final for Yamaha, before claiming the 500cc world championship crown in 1973 and 1974.
With 52 Grand Prix victories to his name, Read retired from the world championship in 1976, while his final race came at the 1982 Isle of Man TT. In 1979 he was awarded the MBE for services to motorcycle racing and his career was further recognised in 2002 when he was inducted into the MotoGP Hall of Fame.
Everyone at Yamaha offers their sincere condolences to Phil’s family and friends.
WorldSBK: Rea Says He’s Excited By What He’s Been Testing
Algarve Offers Possibilities To KRT
The Barcelona-based KRT WorldSBK squad will move all the way across the Iberian peninsula after their recent home race weekend in Catalunya to take part in the ninth round at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal. Alex Lowes and Jonathan Rea will take to the 4.592km long track in earnest between 7-9 October.
In a busy period for WorldSBK in general ‘Portimao’ – as the Algarve circuit is more familiarly known inside the paddock – is a welcome venue to visit. Both KRT riders cite it as one of their favourite race destinations of this or any other year. It will also be the final European-based venue in 2022, with the last three rounds all being flyaway events in the Southern Hemisphere.
Since the previous round in Barcelona-Catalunya Rea and Lowes took part in a short test at that same circuit on the Monday after race weekend, and yet another test on Wednesday 28 September, at the Motorland Aragon circuit. As this evidence suggests, no stone has been left unturned in pursuit of KRT success in the final few rounds.
Six-times WorldSBK Champion Rea has a remarkable record in most statistical measures within this category of racing but Portimao is actually his second best circuit in terms of race wins. Rea has 13 Portimao victories already in his WorldSBK locker. Assen is his absolute best venue to date, with 17 victories already claimed.
Portimao was actually the first track that Rea raced in WorldSBK, when he swapped his regular WorldSSP ride for an early Superbike opportunity at the very end of the 2008 season.
Some recent changes to his Ninja ZX-10RR’s base set-up have seen Lowes back to the kind of form he is looking for in WorldSBK. Alex has been on the Portimao podium once before but this coming weekend he is out to add to his top three tally this season, having already taken third places at the Donington and Catalunya rounds.
As we enter the ninth round of the season Rea is sitting third in the championship rankings, 67 points from the lead and just eight points from second place. Lowes is seventh, just nine points behind the top six.
After Portimao completes the European phase of the 12-round WorldSBK calendar the first of three ‘long-haul’ events will take place at the Circuito San Juan Villicum in Argentina, between 21-23 October 2022.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “Portimao is a great circuit, and one which has a lot of special memories for me. I had my first ever WorldSBK Race there in 2008. The circuit itself is very challenging. It has a lot of different characteristics, from slow corners to fast ones, blind entries and apexes, so there is a lot of rider input required. We have enjoyed some success there. After Barcelona, where we were able to extract the full potential from our Ninja ZX-10RR, I expect to go to Portugal and keep working with my team to create a good race package. The race in Portugal is also cool because I have a lot of travelling support from Northern Ireland there. It is a great circuit for viewing as well. The target is to have a really good weekend. I really want to get back to winning ways after this mid part of the season, where I have had a bit of a win drought. Our team has had two good days of testing recently; one on Barcelona following the race and one in Motorland. We have a lot more information now and I am excited to put that to good use in Portugal.”
Alex Lowes, stated: “Portimao is one of my favourite tracks – and events in general. It’s going to end the European season for us and normally it’s a good track for me and the Ninja ZX-10RR. I’m aiming to continue my strong form and be fighting for the podium places again. We’ve made some improvements with our base set up lately, especially with the rear of the bike, which has given me even greater confidence. I can’t wait to try out the set-up changes next weekend at Portimao.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) heads to Portugal looking to score top ten finishes with his Italian-based team. Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) will continue his rookie season in search of championship points. After some strong displays from new rider Oscar Gutierrez (Team Pedercini Racing Kawasaki) BSB regular Leon Haslam is preparing to return for the Portimao round. Leon has four Portimao WorldSBK podiums to his credit.
MotoGP: Savadori Continuing As Aprilia Test Rider In 2023
LORENZO SAVADORI WITH APRILIA IN 2023
THE ITALIAN TESTER’S JOB BECOMES INCREASINGLY MORE CENTRAL TO THE APRILIA RACING PROJECT
Lorenzo Savadori will be an Aprilia test rider once again in the 2023 season. The Cesena native is an integral part of the Aprilia Racing project in MotoGP and will continue his development work on the RS-GP which includes the entire official and private testing programme, as well as a series of wild-card races in the World Championship.
The role of Lorenzo Savadori, FIM STK 1000 Cup champion and Italian Superbike Champion, will become even more demanding next year, given the outstanding results of the current season which will lead to the elimination of the regulatory concessions for Aprilia so that they will not be able to conduct private tests with factory riders Espargaró and Viñales.
As an official Aprilia Racing tester, Lorenzo will also be following the development of all the “track-ready” products from the Italian racing department, such as the RSV4 Xtrenta, created by the Veneto based factory in order to make not only the performance, but also the feeling and technology of true racing bikes, available to all enthusiasts.
LORENZO SAVADORI
“I am very happy about the renewal with Aprilia, with whom I have been collaborating since 2015. I’m particularly pleased with the level the RS-GP has reached and to have also provided my contribution to this growth, bringing the brand back into the battle for the championship title. Besides my work as a tester, I am always anxious to participate in as many races as possible, with the hopes of being able to once again race for an entire season as a rider.”
MotoGP: Mir Returning To Action At Phillip Island
MIR MAKES HIS WAY BACK TO MOTOGP FOR PHILLIP ISLAND ROUND
Suzuki’s Joan Mir is planning to make his return to action at the forthcoming Australian GP following a long recovery from the ankle injury he suffered in August.
The Mallorcan rider has been carrying out an extensive programme of recovery, which includes physiotherapy and rest. He tried to make a comeback at the Aragon GP last month, but the discomfort didn’t allow him to ride safely, and he withdrew from the subsequent three races. On Wednesday October 5th he underwent an electromyography to check the condition of the nerves and muscles around his damaged right ankle. These latest tests showed encouraging signs of recovery, and he will therefore attempt to ride in Australia. He is eager to return to the team, and Phillip Island circuit is one of his absolute favourites on the calendar.
Mir will attend medical checks with the circuit doctors next week ahead of his hopeful return to track action on Friday October 14th.
Joan Mir:
“It looks like everything is getting better, and I was very happy to hear the latest news from the doctors following my checks. The injury appears to be healing well and the recovery work I’ve been doing has paid off. I’m still not at 100%, but I feel it’s time to come back because the situation is a lot better than it has been in previous weeks. I want to spend these last three races of the season with my team, so I hope that I will feel OK on the bike and be able to ride well.”
Livio Suppo:
“I am very happy that Joan can return in Phillip Island and be back with all of us. Even though we’ve been helped out by some nice stand-in riders, we’ve felt his absence, and it will be great to see him back on his bike! We will do everything to put him at ease and allow him to enjoy one of his favourite circuits.”
World Supersport: Tuuli On Top Again In FP2 In Portugal
WorldSBK: Razgatlioglu P1, Gerloff P8, Gagne P19 In FP2 In Portugal (Updated)
Editorial Note: American Garrett Gerloff’s time from FP1 made him third-fastest overall on Friday.
SBK FP2SBK FP1 and FP2 Comb
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
Razgatlioglu flew into top spot in Portimao’s combined results
Taking flight and lifting off, the reigning World Champion really was on another level
Friday highlights – WorldSBK
P1 – Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK)
Despite missing 10 minutes at the start of FP2 due to brake issues, Razgatlioglu topped the combined results.
He was 0.245s quicker than Michael Ruben Rinaldi with a best time of 1’40.720s.
Razgatlioglu was the fastest rider in Sector 2 and 3 but was the 14th fastest in the final sector.
“For me it’s a very good Friday because we started very strongly. I’m really happy. We tried different setups but now we are ready to race. In FP1, I jumped for 21 meters. For me it’s fun and I’m really happy for this. In FP2, we had brake problems because we used new parts and I felt some vibrations. We changed the disk and finally everything is ok. After, I saw very good lap times with the SC0 tyre and also the used tyre. After that, we tried a race simulation. We tried different tyres and finally we know which tyre is better for the race. Today is a good day. I followed Jonny and I had different tyres but once he saw me, he closed the gas … and then followed me! I saw some sectors where he was fast, and me too. Tomorrow the Superpole will be important for me. In Race 1, I will be fighting for the win again because I love this track. This year I’ll try for three wins.”
P2 – Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
Rinaldi finished second overall after FP2 thanks to his fast lap set in the morning session.
He was the lead Ducati rider on Friday at Portimao with Bautista in fifth.
“This morning was pretty good. This afternoon we worked more to understand which tyre we will use tomorrow and Sunday. I’m pretty happy. We didn’t improve with the new tyre … which is strange. We need to understand how to improve. But apart from that, it was a pretty consistent Friday and I’m pretty happy with the feeling with the bike.”
P3 – Garrett Gerloff (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team)
Gerloff was third, 0.362s behind Razgatlioglu, with his best time claimed in the morning session.
“Friday was not too bad, it was a decent start. I was happy to be within the top three in the first session for sure. Track conditions were pretty prime. I’m a little bit disappointed because we’re struggling when the track temperature goes up. We made an improvement in the last part of FP2 but it’s just really difficult to get the power to the ground and get the bike to turn when the temperature goes up. This afternoon we were focused on the race pace and race distance. Lap time wasn’t the first concern, but I feel like we could go faster. We have room to improve and that’s what were going to be working on tomorrow.”
P4 – Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK)
Rea finished in fourth place in the combined standings. He was 0.476s behind Razgatlioglu.
He was the fastest rider in the first sector, but, like Razgatlioglu, he was struggling in the last sector and was the 16th fastest rider in this short sector.
“It was a positive day. We ran through the tyre options to try them all and also understanding the track. I always love riding here. It’s quite challenging as a rider. You have to make a lot of special inputs with the bike, you’re almost massaging it around the circuit because it’s so undulating. Enjoying that challenge and working with the team to find an optimum setup for tomorrow. Tried to do longer runs on tyres to understand where the tyre drop would be and how we can manage that. We achieved the targets for today and look forward now to the Superpole tomorrow to try and qualify on that front row. There’s two options I feel like we can use, both SC0s as the race tyre. I was quite consistent and fast with both, although I didn’t really put a strong lap time, a time attack, together but consistency wasn’t too bad. We’ll just check that to understand the data to understand both FP1 and FP2 where it can be 8-10 degrees difference on track, so it’s hard to compare. We need to see what temperatures we will have tomorrow, understand how the bike behaves on each tyre and make a good choice from there.”
P5 – Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
Bautista improved his overall fastest time in FP2 and worked on race pace with a good run on track.
He was 0.503s under Razgatlioglu’s fastest time but only 0.027s behind Rea.
“Today we just tried to compare both rear tyre from Pirelli. This morning I did almost a race distance with the new compound and the feeling wasn’t to bad and in fact I did my best lap time in Lap 20. But in the afternoon, with the standard SC0 I felt quite good, good pace, good rhythm and good feeling with the bike… even better than in the morning. When I put again the new SC0 and I had a very bad feeling. I don’t know if it was due to this afternoon’s conditions or if the tyre had a problem. It has been positive because we could compare both tyre. The bike set up is quite good and work pretty well from this morning. Now we tried to be focus tomorrow just in one tyre and to fine tune.”
P6 – Iker Lecuona (Team HRC)
Lecuona was sixth at the end of Friday for his first time at Portimao with WorldSBK.
He continued to try and make gains with rear grip, something he spent time testing during a post-Catalunya Round test at MotorLand Aragon.
“It was a really good Friday. With the bike I felt strong, confident… I can’t compare with Jonny and Alvaro. In FP2, Alvaro was behind me and I could feel the difference, and with Jonny in the last lap as well. I feel good because I have very good speed, I go fast, I’m able to go alone so I don’t follow anyone … I have the pace and this is important for everyone. We focus on trying to save the tyre because in the end of races, we struggle a lot with the grip, we dropped a lot and loose everything in the last laps. We’re trying to improve this area on the bike. We found something. We worked very hard in the last test. I felt good today with the bike and we have a constant pace.”
WorldSBK action resumes on Saturday from 09:00 (Local Time), followed by Tissot Superpole at 11:10 and Race 1 at 14:00.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha Racing:
Top Three on First Day In Portimao for GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team returned to action today at Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal, with Garrett Gerloff ending the day third fastest on combined times. The Texan’s teammate, Kohta Nozane,endured a difficult day but improved his lap time this afternoon to finish in 22nd position.
Gerloff got off to a flying start in the opening free practice session this morning, with a time of 1’41.082 securing him second place on the timesheet as the fastest of the eight Yamaha R1 bikes on track. Nozane’s time of 1’43.622 was enough to net the Japanese rider 24th place.
Race pace rather than lap times was the focus for both GYTR GRT Yamaha riders in the hotter conditions of FP2 this afternoon, but Nozane managed to improve on his previous best to finish 22nd, while Gerloff ended in ninth.
Both riders will be back on track tomorrow, firstly with FP3 at 09:00 local time. The Tissot Superpole will be at 11:10, with Race 1 starting at 14:00.
Garrett Gerloff: P3 – 1’41.082
“A rollercoaster day for sure. In the morning everything felt pretty good with the bike, and we were quick from the very beginning. Unfortunately, we struggled a little bit more in the afternoon with the higher track temperature, but we leave this evening with some ideas on where we can improve tomorrow.”
Kohta Nozane: P22 – 1’43.329
“To be honest, that was a particularly difficult day. We tried many things to gain more confidence and I made a small improvement, but we’re looking for more. Tomorrow we’ll move forward together with the team, we’ll work hard in the afternoon and in the evening to be faster on Saturday.”
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC:
Race pace the target for Team HRC at Portimão
The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal is the stage for the last European round of the 2022 Superbike World Championship and Team HRC is keen to exploit the fact it is competing at a track that rookie riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge already know.
Aware that one of the most important setup aspects relates to race-distance consistency and that this track is pretty hard on tyre life, the team spent both sessions working to find steady race pace, rather than outright pace.
The opening practice session ran smoothly this morning in warm, sunny conditions. With previous data to refer to, and with the experience gathered during recent rounds, both sides of the garage were able to make solid progress already during this first phase, with both Xavi and Iker getting into a good rhythm and making the most of the almost ideal conditions. Lapping with similar lap times to each other, Vierge set a best of 1’41.972 to position ninth, with Lecuona finishing right behind him, tenth with a 1’42.099.
The work continued mid-afternoon during FP2. Lecuona immediately shaved a good half second off his previous time and didn’t stop there, making further gains throughout the 45-minute session and demonstrating a certain consistency around the Portuguese track. His best was a 1’41.453, a time that saw him round out day one in sixth place overall. Team-mate Vierge also made a step towards the end of this second session, a 1’41.858 moving him up into twelfth position in the day’s combined standings.
Iker Lecuona 7
“It was a positive Friday for us and I felt strong and confident on my bike. At the same time, when I made a few laps with Alvaro and a final one close to Johnny towards the end of FP1, I could feel that something is still missing. Generally speaking, we’ve found consistent pace, and this is good – we put the focus on the tyre life because we generally struggle at the end of races once the grip drops significantly. So we tried to work to improve this area of the bike and yes, we’ve found something, nothing huge but definitely something that allows us to be more consistent. Looking at the big picture, I feel both good and a bit frustrated because, compared to the top three guys, I’m still losing a little everywhere, which means that we need to keep up the good work and try to close this gap. Looking at what we achieved during the last test and also here today in terms of setup, I feel happy and am looking forward to tomorrow. Our target for qualifying is a place on the first two rows and then, for the race, to try and be consistent throughout and especially in the final stages, and of course to score the best possible result.”
Xavi Vierge 97
“It’s been a good first day for us considering that we’ve worked a lot on race pace, finding quite good feeling over the two sessions. In the final part of FP1 we tried a new tyre but to be honest we expected more. In the end, the feeling wasn’t perfect with this solution, but it was good to try it today because that helped us to understand the direction to take tomorrow. The team has done a very good job and so we can say so far, so good.”
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
WorldSBK Gets Underway Again At Portimao
On the opening day of WorldSBK action at a sun-kissed Portimao circuit Jonathan Rea was the fourth quickest rider in FP2, with his team-mate Alex Lowes seventh.
The eagerly anticipated return of WorldSBK to the 4.592km long Portimao circuit, located close to the Algarve coastline of southern Portugal, started well for both KRT riders.
Rea and Lowes working with regular racing tyres as they each set out to find an effective machine set-up for their riding styles and the heavily undulating Portimao circuit layout.
After recent private tests since the previous round of the championship in Barcelona-Catalunya Rea used that experience with his team to find a platform to work from at Portimao, which has been one of Rea’s favourite and most rewarding circuits. Finding more corner entry traction is his priority on Saturday in FP3, before Superpole qualifying and Race One.
After two sessions on the opening day at Portimao Lowes is looking for improved stopping performance at one of the most intensely undulating and dramatic WorldSBK tracks there is.
Second fastest in the FP2 session in the afternoon Rea would end up fourth overall, while Alex was seventh on the combined timesheets.
Next up for the WorldSBK riders on Saturday 8 October will be a third free practice session, then Superpole Qualifying and a full distance 21-lap Race One.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “We found some positives during some private testing we did last week and we just confirmed some items here. We have found a base set-up but I am struggling a little bit with entry traction – it’s backing in on the rear – so we need to find more entry traction for the first race. I felt my rhythm was good; I just didn’t find that one out-and-out lap time. For day one, I feel we were there or thereabouts.”
Alex Lowes, stated: “Not a bad first day at Portimao but we were struggling to stop the bike a little bit. Now we have clear ideas on what to try tomorrow to improve that and make a step forward. It’s always so much fun to ride here, because of the nature of the circuit, so I’m excited to get into some racing tomorrow.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) ended his first day in Portugal in 17th place, with Leon Haslam (Team Pedercini Racing Kawasaki) 18th in his return to the WorldSBK paddock. Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) was 26th today.
More, from a press release issued by Pata Yamaha:
Razgatlıoğlu Flies to Fastest Lap Time in Portimão Friday Free Practice
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK rider and defending WorldSBK Champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu topped Friday’s Free Practice with a commanding lap time of 1’40.720, as the ninth round of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship kicked off at the Algarve International Circuit in Portugal today.
It was a positive result for the Turkish ace, who alongside his #1 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK crew, tested the Pirelli tire options available at this circuit in his search of a race-winning set-up for the weekend. But what really caught everyone’s attention was Razgatlıoğlu’s 21 metre-long “flight” over the crest of Turn 9 on his “in-lap” at the end of FP1!
Teammate Andrea Locatelli was eighth quickest in the combined standings, having set a 1’41.760 lap time in this morning’s Free Practice 1 session before continuing to work on race pace and set-up to manage tyre life during in the hotter temperatures during the afternoon.
With warm, clear weather set to continue throughout the weekend, today’s set-up work could prove crucial in Race 1 at 14:00 (WEST, UTC+1) tomorrow, but not before one final 30-minute Free Practice 3 at 9:00 and the all-important 15-minute Superpole qualifying to determine grid position at 11:10.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: P1 – 1’40.720
“For me it was a very good Friday because we started really strong. I am happy today, we tried some different set-up combinations and now we are ready to race. After some changes at the start of FP2, I see very good lap time 1’40.7 with SC0 tyre – also not a new tyre, it was used one. I am really happy for this and after we try race simulation with different tyre and finally we know which tyre is better for the race. I love this track and this year, I try my best for three races, three wins. We will see, it’s not easy I know because everyone is very fast but I am coming here for the win. For the jump, I didn’t feel very long flight but we look at the data and I jumped 21 metres! Looks not long, but I think it was very fast! I learned how to jump the R1 when we went to Cadwell Park, for me this is fun after the hard work in the session.”
Andrea Locatelli: P8 – 1’41.760
“I’m happy because the feeling was ok immediately in FP1 and also in FP2, we improved the feeling of the bike a lot. We tried to focus just on riding many laps and to do a long run to understand the bike for the race tomorrow, but the confidence is good and this is important. Tomorrow morning we will try to push hard and do a fast lap to prepare for Superpole. But we have a good base set-up for the afternoon, in the end the position is not so good but I am really happy about the work we did today. I feel good on the bike and we are ready to race.”
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
Positive start for Rinaldi (P2) and Bautista (P5) in Pirelli Portuguese Round. Bulega ninth in WorldSSP free practice
The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team got off to a convincing start in Pirelli Portuguese Round. Michael Rinaldi and Alvaro Bautista finished second and fifth, respectively, in the combined standings.
The Italian rider was the protagonist of an extremely positive Friday. After finishing FP1 with the fastest lap, in FP2 Rinaldi worked with the team to collect data that could prove useful for tyre choice, especially in view of the two long races on Saturday and Sunday.
In the afternoon session, Bautista was able to lower his FP1 time by three-tenths, although the feeling with the softer tyre was not particularly positive.
P2 – Michael Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
FP1 > P1 – 1’40.965
FP2 > P4 – 1’41.296 (+0.576)
“It was a pretty positive Friday. We started this morning on the right foot and in the afternoon we worked a lot in sight of the race. All in all it was a very consistent day and the race pace is positive. The goal for tomorrow is to get a good start and stay with the front group for the whole race.”
P5 – Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #19)
FP1 > P5 – 1’41.512 (+0.547)
FP2 > P3 – 1’41.223 (+0.503)
“We worked a lot on the tyres in both FP1 and FP2. The feeling in the morning was very positive while in the afternoon, probably due to the higher temperature, I wasn’t able to make the most of the softer tyre. Anyway, I am confident ahead of tomorrow”.
WorldSSP
After a good FP1 closed with the fifth time, in FP2 Bulega had to deal with a technical problem that did not allow him to improve.
P9 Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WSSP #11)
FP1 > P6 – 1’44.832 (+0.472)
FP2 > P9 – 1’44.947 (+0.687)
“Unfortunately I could only do a few laps in the afternoon. We can’t let this problem affect us though. Tomorrow I will still give my best first in qualifying and then in the race”.
More, from a press release issued by Team Go Eleven:
PHILIPP GETS THE TOP TEN AT THE END OF PORTIMAO FRIDAY!
Day 1 in Portimao turns out to be positive and strong for Philipp Oettl and Team Go Eleven! The German rider enters the Top Ten of the day at the end of a very fast second session for the WorldSBK protagonists, where the Best Lap of the day stopped half a second from the lap record.
In the first session Philipp found a good feeling with the V4-R, starting from the positive sensations found on Sunday in Barcelona. In Portimao it will be important to manage the tyre for the race distance, so the technicians chose to used just a set tyres. Philipp made all the laps on the 42, managing well the drop of the rear Pirelli. As often happens, the FP 1 standing is not so realistic, as several riders have used the new tyre at the end, improving their Best.
Free Practice 1:
P 1 M. Rinaldi 1.40.965
P 2 G. Gerloff + 0.117
P 3 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.294
…
P 13 P. Oettl + 1.330
In FP 2 Philipp faced the session with the new 624 rear compound, in order to make a comparison to the morning. The asphalt temperature, about 10 degrees warmer than in FP 1, made the Portuguese asphalt more slippery and difficult to analyze. In the last sector, the one of the fast corners, for example, Oettl lost a few tenths compared to the morning. Towards the end of the session, then, the German rider put on a new set of tyres, with which he attacked the time, riding below 42 and entering the Top Ten, two tenths from sixth place. The third sector remains to be solved, a real weak point here at the ups and downs of the Algarve.
Free Practice 2:
P 1 T. Razgatlioglu 1.40.720
P 2 J. Rea + 0.476
P 3 A. Bautista + 0.503
…
P 9 P. Oettl + 1.118
Philipp Oettl (Rider):
“Today it was a solid day! We have a quite consistent pace, which I think it will be really important tomorrow. We have two main areas on which we need to work for tomorrow, but I think we can go in the right direction, as our technical debrief gave us some ideas. I hope my comments will help the team to find the right solutions. I think we are competitive here in Portimao, too, so I am happy today!”
World Supersport: MV Agusta’s Tuuli Tops FP1 In Portugal
WorldSBK: Rinaldi P1, Gerloff P2, Gagne P18 In FP1 In Portugal
AMA/FIM North America Congratulates 2022 Racing Champions
FIM North America Congratulates 2022 Champions
Multiple FIM North America Championships wrapped up in September
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme North America (FIM NA) congratulates the FIM NA-sanctioned class champions crowned at the final two rounds of this year’s MotoAmerica Series.
“The 2022 season has been a great success,” said FIM NA President Rob Dingman, “and the champions at its conclusion are worthy of the honors they worked hard to earn.”
Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne won the Medallia AMA Superbike Championship for a second consecutive year, clinching the title with a second-place finish Sunday.
Earlier in the month, Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC’s Josh Herrin secured the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship at New Jersey Motorsports Park on Sept. 10. The title marked Herrin’s third overall and first in the class.
Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing’s Corey Alexander also wrapped up his title — the Yuasa Stock 1000 Championship — in New Jersey earlier in September.
In the 2022 Mini Cup by Motul Championship, the 160cc class was won by Nathan Gouker. By winning the 160cc class, Gouker, along with second place finisher Ryder Davis, will represent FIM NA in the FIM MiniGP World Series Final in Valencia, Spain, on Nov. 1.
About the FIM North America
FIM North America is one of six Continental Unions (CONUs) recognized as geographical subdivisions and accountable to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). It was founded in 1998. The national federations who are members of FIM North America are, by virtue of their geographical area and their membership in the FIM, the American Motorcyclist Association and the Canadian Motorcycle Association. FIM North America establishes an annual calendar of Continental Championship events and other activities and declares champions in designated disciplines and classes. Its member federations issue CONU licenses to riders participating in FIM NA events as well as those who are participating in Continental Championship events organized in other CONUs. For more information, visit fim-northamerica.com.
More, from another press release issued by FIM North America:
North America Talent Cup Completes Inaugural Season with Worthy Champion
Alessandro Di Mario becomes first title-winner
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme North America (FIM NA) congratulates Alessandro Di Mario on being crowned the 2022 North America Talent Cup Champion.
“The inaugural season of the North America Talent Cup was a huge success and a great standard was set,” said FIM NA President Rob Dingman. “The competition was exciting to the very end and Alessandro Di Mario proved to be a deserving champion.”
Di Mario edged out runner-up Jesse Shedden by a single point in the final standings to become the first North America Talent Cup (NATC) champion.
The inaugural season of the NATC concluded alongside the final round of the MotoAmerica Series at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala.
The NATC — a collaborative effort between MotoAmerica and Dorna with Rise Moto providing coordination and sanctioned by FIM North America and the AMA — is designed to be a stepping stone between the FIM North America Mini Cup Series and the FIM European Talent Cup or Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. The inaugural season spanned seven rounds and included riders between the ages of 13 and 16.
About the FIM North America
FIM North America is one of six Continental Unions (CONUs) recognized as geographical subdivisions and accountable to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). It was founded in 1998. The national federations who are members of FIM North America are, by virtue of their geographical area and their membership in the FIM, the American Motorcyclist Association and the Canadian Motorcycle Association. FIM North America establishes an annual calendar of Continental Championship events and other activities and declares champions in designated disciplines and classes. Its member federations issue CONU licenses to riders participating in FIM NA events as well as those who are participating in Continental Championship events organized in other CONUs. For more information, visit fim-northamerica.com.
More, from a press release issued by AMA:
Champions Crowned at MotoAmerica Finale
Gagne takes AMA Superbike title, others win support classes
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association congratulates the champions crowned at the MotoAmerica Series finale at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala.
The 2022 season’s final event, which ran Sept. 23-25, wrapped up the Medallia AMA Superbike Championship and five support-class titles. Two of the three Mini Cup by Motul classes were also decided on the track in the season finale.
“The 2022 season finale was action packed and full of excitement,” said AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant. “After a year full of hard work and spectacular performances, it is great to see a group of winners who embody what it means to be a champion.”
Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne won the Medallia AMA Superbike Championship for a second consecutive year as he clinched the title with a second-place finish Sept. 25.
Alpha Omega Kawasaki’s Cody Wyman and Rodio Racing Kawasaki’s Gus Rodio finished the SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup season tied at 285 points, but Wyman took the championship because of the tiebreaker that is determined by total season wins.
The REV’IT! Twins Cup was claimed by N2 Racing/BobbleHeadMoto’s Blake Davis, who rode his late-season momentum to the title. The 16-year-old rider entered the finale ahead by 15 points and his fourth-place finish Sept. 25 was good enough to hold on for the championship.
Earlier in the month, Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC’s Josh Herrin secured the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship at New Jersey Motorsports Park on Sept. 10. The title marked Herrin’s third overall and first in the class.
Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing’s Corey Alexander also wrapped up his title — the Yuasa Stock 1000 Championship — in New Jersey earlier in September.
Mission Foods/S&S Cycle/Indian Challenger Team’s Tyler O’Hara ended his season by winning both the 2022 MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers Championship and the Super Hooligans Championship.
In the 2022 Mini Cup by Motul Championship, the 110cc and 160cc classes were won by Nathan Gouker. The 190cc title was claimed by Kensei Matsudaira.
By winning the 160cc class, Gouker, along with second place finisher Ryder Davis, will represent FIM NA in the FIM MiniGP World Series Final in Valencia, Spain, on Nov. 1.
The conclusion of the inaugural North America Talent Cup (NATC) happened alongside the final round of the MotoAmerica Series at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Ala., and Alessandro Di Mario edged out runner-up Jesse Shedden by a single point in the final standings to become the first NATC champion.
The NATC — which is a collaborative effort between MotoAmerica and Dorna with Rise Moto providing coordination and sanctioned by FIM North America and the AMA — is designed to be a stepping stone between the FIM North America Mini Cup Series and the FIM European Talent Cup or Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. The inaugural season spanned seven rounds and included riders between the ages of 13 and 16.
2022 MotoAmerica Series results:
Medallia AMA Superbike
1. Jake Gagne
2. Danilo Petrucci
3. Cameron Petersen
Supersport
1. Josh Herrin
2. Rocco Landers
3. Tyler Scott
SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup
1. Cody Wyman
2. Gus Rodio
3. Kayla Yaakov
Yuasa Stock 1000
1. Corey Alexander
2. Hayden Gillim
3. Travis Wyman
REV’IT! Twins Cup
1. Blake Davis
2. Jody Barry
3. Anthony Mazziotto
Mission King of the Baggers
1. Tyler O’Hara
2. Travis Wyman
3. Kyle Wyman
RSD Super Hooligan
1. Tyler O’Hara
2. Cory West
3. Andy DiBrino
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
British Superbike: Rouse Dies From Injuries Sustained Oct. 2 At Donington Park
Following an accident during Bennetts British Superbike Championship race three at Donington Park (on Sunday 2 October 2022), competitor Chrissy Rouse crashed heavily on the opening lap of the race and was unavoidably struck by an immediately following rider. He sustained a significant head injury.
The race was stopped and he was treated immediately trackside by the BSB Medical Team before being transferred to the circuit medical centre.
He was stabilised and put in a medically induced coma at the medical centre before being transferred to Queens Medical Centre/University Hospital, Nottingham for further assessment and treatment. He underwent an emergency neurosurgical procedure shortly after admission.
It is with great regret that we have to announce that Chrissy Rouse aged 26, from Newcastle upon Tyne, has succumbed to his injuries, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family in hospital earlier this afternoon.
On behalf of Chrissy’s family they wish to convey their deep appreciation for the support and well wishes that they have received in recent days. As well they wish to thank all the attending marshals and medical services who provided such skill and care attending to Chrissy. The family also ask for privacy at this difficult time as they attempt to deal with their devastating loss.
MSVR is now working with the Coroner, Police and the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board in order to investigate the full circumstances of this tragic accident.
Our deepest condolences are extended to Chrissy’s family, friends and team members.
More, from a press release issued by BMW Motorrad Motorsport:
The BMW Motorrad Motorsport family mourns Chrissy Rouse.
Munich. The BMW Motorrad Motorsport family is mourning the death of Chrissy Rouse (GBR). The 26-year-old Briton passed away on Thursday, succumbing to the serious injuries suffered last weekend in an accident in the British Superbike Championship at Donington Park (GBR). It was with great dismay and sadness that BMW Motorrad Motorsport received the news of Rouse’s death.
Rouse was a valued member of the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family for several years. In 2020, he won the title in the British National Superstock 1000 Championship with the Crowe Performance BMW Team. This season, Rouse had been riding for the Crowe Performance BMW Team in the British Superbike Championship.
The whole BMW Motorrad Motorsport community wishes to express its heartfelt condolences to Rouse’s family, friends and team. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
R.I.P. Phil Read MBE (Updated)
From a statement issued by the Read family:
It is with incredible sadness that the Read family reports the passing of Phil Read MBE while peacefully asleep on the morning of October 6th, 2022, at his home in Canterbury, England.
Phil is best known for winning Yamaha’s first world championship title in 1964 with four more Yamaha-mounted titles including one fought as a privateer, plus two premier class 500cc world championships in 1973 and 1974 for the Italian MV Agusta marque.
Often a controversial and outspoken figure, his prolific racing career included 52 FIM Grand Prix wins and eight wins at the iconic Isle of Man TT Races. In 2002 he was granted the status of “MotoGP Legend” by Dorna.
Phil is survived by his sons Michael, Graham, Phil Jr, Roki and daughter Esme’. Further details on any public celebrations of life will be shared.
Editorial Note: Phil Read, a seven-time Grand Prix World Champion, was 83.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Phil Read MBE: 1939-2022 | Yamaha’s First Ever Road Racing World Champion
The Yamaha Racing family are incredibly saddened by the news that Phil Read MBE, Yamaha’s first-ever road racing World Champion, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home in Canterbury, England this morning.
Read, 83, was truly one of motorcycle racing’s greats, winning seven Grand Prix Road Racing titles during the 1960s and 70s. The British ace was also the first rider to claim world championship victories in all three of the 125cc, 250cc and 500cc classes.
His illustrious career began with the first of eight Isle of Man TT victories in 1961, and in 1964 he gave Yamaha its first world title, winning the 250cc class on the RD56. In 1968, Read dominated both the 125cc and 250cc championships, standing on the top step of the podium in 12 of the 15 races he contested. He followed that up with another 250cc title in 1971, his final for Yamaha, before claiming the 500cc world championship crown in 1973 and 1974.
With 52 Grand Prix victories to his name, Read retired from the world championship in 1976, while his final race came at the 1982 Isle of Man TT. In 1979 he was awarded the MBE for services to motorcycle racing and his career was further recognised in 2002 when he was inducted into the MotoGP Hall of Fame.
Everyone at Yamaha offers their sincere condolences to Phil’s family and friends.
WorldSBK: Rea Says He’s Excited By What He’s Been Testing
Algarve Offers Possibilities To KRT
The Barcelona-based KRT WorldSBK squad will move all the way across the Iberian peninsula after their recent home race weekend in Catalunya to take part in the ninth round at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal. Alex Lowes and Jonathan Rea will take to the 4.592km long track in earnest between 7-9 October.
In a busy period for WorldSBK in general ‘Portimao’ – as the Algarve circuit is more familiarly known inside the paddock – is a welcome venue to visit. Both KRT riders cite it as one of their favourite race destinations of this or any other year. It will also be the final European-based venue in 2022, with the last three rounds all being flyaway events in the Southern Hemisphere.
Since the previous round in Barcelona-Catalunya Rea and Lowes took part in a short test at that same circuit on the Monday after race weekend, and yet another test on Wednesday 28 September, at the Motorland Aragon circuit. As this evidence suggests, no stone has been left unturned in pursuit of KRT success in the final few rounds.
Six-times WorldSBK Champion Rea has a remarkable record in most statistical measures within this category of racing but Portimao is actually his second best circuit in terms of race wins. Rea has 13 Portimao victories already in his WorldSBK locker. Assen is his absolute best venue to date, with 17 victories already claimed.
Portimao was actually the first track that Rea raced in WorldSBK, when he swapped his regular WorldSSP ride for an early Superbike opportunity at the very end of the 2008 season.
Some recent changes to his Ninja ZX-10RR’s base set-up have seen Lowes back to the kind of form he is looking for in WorldSBK. Alex has been on the Portimao podium once before but this coming weekend he is out to add to his top three tally this season, having already taken third places at the Donington and Catalunya rounds.
As we enter the ninth round of the season Rea is sitting third in the championship rankings, 67 points from the lead and just eight points from second place. Lowes is seventh, just nine points behind the top six.
After Portimao completes the European phase of the 12-round WorldSBK calendar the first of three ‘long-haul’ events will take place at the Circuito San Juan Villicum in Argentina, between 21-23 October 2022.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “Portimao is a great circuit, and one which has a lot of special memories for me. I had my first ever WorldSBK Race there in 2008. The circuit itself is very challenging. It has a lot of different characteristics, from slow corners to fast ones, blind entries and apexes, so there is a lot of rider input required. We have enjoyed some success there. After Barcelona, where we were able to extract the full potential from our Ninja ZX-10RR, I expect to go to Portugal and keep working with my team to create a good race package. The race in Portugal is also cool because I have a lot of travelling support from Northern Ireland there. It is a great circuit for viewing as well. The target is to have a really good weekend. I really want to get back to winning ways after this mid part of the season, where I have had a bit of a win drought. Our team has had two good days of testing recently; one on Barcelona following the race and one in Motorland. We have a lot more information now and I am excited to put that to good use in Portugal.”
Alex Lowes, stated: “Portimao is one of my favourite tracks – and events in general. It’s going to end the European season for us and normally it’s a good track for me and the Ninja ZX-10RR. I’m aiming to continue my strong form and be fighting for the podium places again. We’ve made some improvements with our base set up lately, especially with the rear of the bike, which has given me even greater confidence. I can’t wait to try out the set-up changes next weekend at Portimao.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) heads to Portugal looking to score top ten finishes with his Italian-based team. Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) will continue his rookie season in search of championship points. After some strong displays from new rider Oscar Gutierrez (Team Pedercini Racing Kawasaki) BSB regular Leon Haslam is preparing to return for the Portimao round. Leon has four Portimao WorldSBK podiums to his credit.
MotoGP: Savadori Continuing As Aprilia Test Rider In 2023
LORENZO SAVADORI WITH APRILIA IN 2023
THE ITALIAN TESTER’S JOB BECOMES INCREASINGLY MORE CENTRAL TO THE APRILIA RACING PROJECT
Lorenzo Savadori will be an Aprilia test rider once again in the 2023 season. The Cesena native is an integral part of the Aprilia Racing project in MotoGP and will continue his development work on the RS-GP which includes the entire official and private testing programme, as well as a series of wild-card races in the World Championship.
The role of Lorenzo Savadori, FIM STK 1000 Cup champion and Italian Superbike Champion, will become even more demanding next year, given the outstanding results of the current season which will lead to the elimination of the regulatory concessions for Aprilia so that they will not be able to conduct private tests with factory riders Espargaró and Viñales.
As an official Aprilia Racing tester, Lorenzo will also be following the development of all the “track-ready” products from the Italian racing department, such as the RSV4 Xtrenta, created by the Veneto based factory in order to make not only the performance, but also the feeling and technology of true racing bikes, available to all enthusiasts.
LORENZO SAVADORI
“I am very happy about the renewal with Aprilia, with whom I have been collaborating since 2015. I’m particularly pleased with the level the RS-GP has reached and to have also provided my contribution to this growth, bringing the brand back into the battle for the championship title. Besides my work as a tester, I am always anxious to participate in as many races as possible, with the hopes of being able to once again race for an entire season as a rider.”
MotoGP: Mir Returning To Action At Phillip Island
MIR MAKES HIS WAY BACK TO MOTOGP FOR PHILLIP ISLAND ROUND
Suzuki’s Joan Mir is planning to make his return to action at the forthcoming Australian GP following a long recovery from the ankle injury he suffered in August.
The Mallorcan rider has been carrying out an extensive programme of recovery, which includes physiotherapy and rest. He tried to make a comeback at the Aragon GP last month, but the discomfort didn’t allow him to ride safely, and he withdrew from the subsequent three races. On Wednesday October 5th he underwent an electromyography to check the condition of the nerves and muscles around his damaged right ankle. These latest tests showed encouraging signs of recovery, and he will therefore attempt to ride in Australia. He is eager to return to the team, and Phillip Island circuit is one of his absolute favourites on the calendar.
Mir will attend medical checks with the circuit doctors next week ahead of his hopeful return to track action on Friday October 14th.
Joan Mir:
“It looks like everything is getting better, and I was very happy to hear the latest news from the doctors following my checks. The injury appears to be healing well and the recovery work I’ve been doing has paid off. I’m still not at 100%, but I feel it’s time to come back because the situation is a lot better than it has been in previous weeks. I want to spend these last three races of the season with my team, so I hope that I will feel OK on the bike and be able to ride well.”
Livio Suppo:
“I am very happy that Joan can return in Phillip Island and be back with all of us. Even though we’ve been helped out by some nice stand-in riders, we’ve felt his absence, and it will be great to see him back on his bike! We will do everything to put him at ease and allow him to enjoy one of his favourite circuits.”