The WorldSBK Championship is heading for a nail-biting finale! After a thrilling Race 2 at Estoril, the title fight between Nicolo Bulega and Toprak Razgatlioglu is still wide open, promising a showdown for the ages at Jerez. This race was packed with drama, showcasing the incredible skill and determination of these top riders.
Bulega, riding his #11 Ducati, seized victory in Race 2, securing his 17th WorldSBK win. This win was crucial, as it kept the championship battle alive, pushing the decision to the final race of the season. Razgatlioglu, on his BMW, fought hard and finished second, demonstrating his relentless pursuit of the title.
The Race Unfolds:
From the start, Razgatlioglu found himself in fifth position, behind Bulega, Andrea Locatelli, Andrea Iannone, and Alvaro Bautista. The race quickly became a strategic battle, with riders jostling for position. Iannone received a double Long Lap Penalty for a jump start, adding another layer of complexity to the race. Razgatlioglu managed to climb to second place, setting his sights on Bulega. The two riders traded similar lap times, keeping the gap close, but Bulega gradually extended his lead, ultimately claiming the win.
But here's where it gets controversial... The gap between the two leaders was just over a second for a significant portion of the race, but Bulega managed to pull away, raising questions about strategy and tire management.
Bautista's Consistent Performance:
Alvaro Bautista, riding for Aruba.it Racing – Ducati, secured third place, marking his third podium finish of the weekend. This consistency propelled him to third in the Championship standings. Bulega's victory, combined with Bautista's podium, ensured that Aruba.it Racing – Ducati clinched the Teams’ Championship for 2025.
The Battle for the Podium:
The fight for third was a thrilling spectacle, with Bautista fending off challenges from Alex Lowes and Locatelli. This intense competition highlighted the depth of talent in the WorldSBK field.
Mid-Pack Mayhem:
Xavi Vierge finished sixth, leading the Honda riders, while Remy Gardner secured seventh place. Axel Bassani, Jonathan Rea, and Michael van der Mark rounded out the top ten, showcasing the competitive nature of the race.
Close Finishes and Penalties:
Michael van der Mark narrowly held off Garrett Gerloff, demonstrating the fierce competition throughout the field. Iannone recovered to finish 12th after his penalty, while other riders battled for the remaining points-paying positions.
Race Retirements:
Several riders faced unfortunate setbacks. Michael Rinaldi crashed out early, followed by Iker Lecuona. Home hero Ivo Lopes also retired, adding to the drama.
Final Results:
- Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.itRacing - Ducati)
- Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) +4.868s
- Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.itRacing – Ducati) +15.331s
- Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +17.333s
- Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha) +20.567s
- Xavi Vierge (Honda HRC) +22.205s
Championship Standings:
- Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) 580 points
- Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.itRacing - Ducati) 541 points
- Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.itRacing – Ducati) 292 points
What do you think? Will Razgatlioglu or Bulega take home the championship at Jerez? Who do you think had the best strategy in this race? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
