The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship will be adding another prestigious venue to its calendar for the 2025 season as Balaton Park in Hungary will host the series on July 25-27th. Located near the picturesque Lake Balaton, in western Hungary, the circuit will undergo upgrades to meet the high standards of WorldSBK competition and offer fans an exhilarating race weekend experience.
Hungary has a rich history in motorsport, and 2025 will see the return of world-class motorcycle racing to the country, marking Balaton Park’s debut on the WorldSBK calendar. With its proximity to Lake Balaton, the largest lake in central Europe, the venue offers not only an exciting sporting event but also an opportunity for fans to enjoy one of the region’s most beautiful tourist destinations.
Improvements to the circuit and surrounding infrastructure will enhance the fan experience, ensuring that visitors can fully enjoy both the thrilling on-track action and the scenic surroundings. The Hungarian Round will undoubtedly become a highlight on the WorldSBK calendar, attracting fans from across Europe and beyond.
MotoGP™ will also make its debut at Balaton Park in 2025, making the venue a premier destination for fans of both motorcycle Championships.
Balázs Weingartner, Chairman of the Board of Directors of HUMDA Zrt said: “I would like to thank Carmelo Ezpeleta for the trust he has placed in us over the years and of course the support of the Hungarian Government. The hard work of many years is finally coming to fruition, thanks to which we have been included in the calendar of the most watched sports in the world. It is a testament to the strength of our country that, despite the difficulties, we are here today and can embark on this new path of shared success. Motorsport is about emotion and passion, but there is even more to it than that. We believe that these sports will promote the engineering knowledge and expertise of our country, the excellence of our riders, the touristic complexity of our country and, of course, the fantastic hospitality and support. And speaking of cheering, the Hungarian heart is beating stronger for a Hungarian success, so we will make sure that our talents can show their skills on the home races next year and we will cheer them on together.”
Henrik Hermann, President of the Hungarian Motorsport Association added: “When you are on your way to the finish line, every milestone on the way is an important confirmation of the right direction. Back in 2004, as President of the Hungarian Motorsport Association, I had the opportunity to meet Dorna and dream of the return of motorcycle Grand Prix racing in Hungary. This goal has been on the horizon several times, unfortunately there have been more and more turns on the horizon, but one thing is for sure, we have never been so close and under such clear skies. Our eyes are smiling under our helmets at the last turn before the finish line and we are concentrating all our energy on waving the chequered in front of the roaring crowd so we Hungarians can enjoy that feeling in our home country as well.”
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports concluded: “We’re very happy to announce that Balaton Park will be on the 2025 calendar for MotoGP™ and WorldSBK. The circuit is in a spectacular location and will be a fantastic destination for fans to come and see the world’s most exciting sport in action. Work is underway to get the venue ready for its historic debut on the calendar, adding another chapter to Hungary’s history in motorcycle Grand Prix racing, and we’re very much looking forward to returning to a key market in central Europe.”
The FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship bursts back into action at the Cremona Circuit, the venue where it all began in May with testing, to kickstart the second half of the season. Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) has been one of the standout riders this season, taking a podium at Donington Park and sitting fourth in the standings. In a special interview, Neila discusses her racing journey, the fierce fight in 2024 and being able to get advice from Jonathan Rea (Pata Prometeon Yamaha).
FAMILY HELP: “My father is a hairdresser… but now he’s a super good mechanic!”
Neila had her first bike when she was 8 years old, as a birthday gift, before advancing into racing on minibikes, and then MiniGP categories. She took the Mediterranean Women’s championship and Catalunya Women’s championship in 2016, before being selected for the Red Bull Rookies Cup. She then competed in WorldSSP300 before going on to compete in the Women’s European Cup, winning it four times between 2020 and 2023.
Discussing her racing career, and family support, Neila said: “My passion from racing comes from when I was 8. I knew that motorbikes would be my sport. My father is a hairdresser, and my mother helps my father. Now, he has improved a lot because he didn’t know about bikes but now, he’s a super good mechanic!”
DONINGTON PODIUM: “No words for what happened at Donington…”
Neila spoke about her delight of competing in WorldWCR in its inaugural season, while she also discussed her maiden podium at Donington Park, when she finished second behind Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team) by just half-a-second. Neila, who runs with the #36, also revealed that six-time WorldSBK Champion Rea had given her some advice on how to find time in Sector 4.
“To be here in this Championship is, for me, something amazing because I’ve dreamt a lot about this,” she began. “Jonny is the best. If I have a question, for example, about the track, I can ask him the question and he’ll say, ‘you have to do this line or this line or the other line’. At Donington, he told me that in the last sector, I had to cut the chicane, so I did. I think it was my best sector. I have no words for what happened at Donington because, for me, this podium meant a lot. I was smiling every time, and it was amazing. I’m fighting with more experienced women so I’m proud but I’m sure that I’ll improve some things that will be good for me.”
FIGHTING WITH HER RIVALS: “My target is to win a race first… important to have fun”
The inaugural WorldWCR campaign has been defined by four riders fighting consistently at the front: Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team), Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team), Carrasco and Neila. Herrera leads the standings with just 7 points between her and Carrasco, with Sanchez third and Neila fourth.
Discussing her rivalry and goals, Neila said: “Maria, Ana, and Sara have a lot of experience so it’s difficult. I’m working super hard to beat these girls. My target is also to win a race first and I think it’s more important to have fun. If you always have a smile and have fun with everything in this amazing Championship, the win, I think, is better.”
REA’S VIEW: “A race win’s up her sleeve this year…”
With the Pata Prometeon Yamaha team from WorldSBK involved in WorldWCR, and with Neila’s team, she has a great opportunity to learn from Rea. The Ulsterman was on hand to give his view on Neila’s season so far, being involved in WorldWCR, and what he believes she’ll be able to achieve.”
Rea said: “It feels so good to be involved with Beatriz this season. Having the same bike means the races are very close, some of the best racing this year has been in WorldWCR. It’s always nice to pass on some words of wisdom. She’s really strong on the brakes and she has some really good characteristics of her riding style. I think a race win’s up her sleeve this year and hopefully it’ll come sooner rather than later.”
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The drama of the second half of the 2024 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship has hit new levels as Championship leader Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) will not participate in the Acerbis Italian Round at the Cremona Circuit. At the start of September, his lead was 92 points and he was coming back from holidays on a run of 13 consecutive race wins; he’ll now have missed the last six races by the time Cremona’s first-ever WorldSBK round is completed and perhaps lost his hard-earnt Championship lead.
WHAT IT MEANS: Bulega with a golden opportunity in Toprak’s absence
Suddenly, it’s back to game on in the 2024 WorldSBK season for Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), the rookie who ripped up the form book in testing and his first WorldSBK race. He dropped the ball at the first time of asking at Magny-Cours in Race 1 but more than made up for it on Sunday with a double win, inflicting maximum damage. Now, he must do the same again; having hauled himself back to within a round’s worth of points away, the reigning WorldSSP Champion – who has shown little struggles in his adaptation – now gets to enjoy the pleasure of arriving to a circuit where it’s very much a level playing field. No prior race experience, will Cremona be the stage where the #11 can take the Championship lead?
THE MATHS: 55 points to make up, a triple suffices
The maths is easy; three wins for Bulega and he leads the Championship. Three second-places will put him close but not quite in the lead, six points adrift. Even that would make it in Bulega’s favour in terms of momentum going to Aragon, where Ducati have been so strong before. A triple is a tough ask but in a season where he’s finished second to Toprak on nine occasions, it’s more than likely that Bulega inherits the title lead in the #54’s absence. However, it’s worth noting that Bulega himself is not at absolutely 100% fitness, following his own Race 1 crash at Magny-Cours, although it didn’t stop him on Sunday. In terms of what’s the minimum Bulega can do, podiums are a must. Third place on three occasions at Cremona will put him 16 behind Toprak, perhaps not quite close enough to be convincing unless Razgatlioglu is out of Aragon. What is absolutely crucial for Bulega is that he doesn’t squander the opportunity; crashes and unforced errors are completely out of the question. Points make prizes.
TEAM ORDERS: will Bautista play second fiddle at Cremona?
Cremona is a city known for violins but will the reigning double World Champion be instructed to not get involved of Bulega’s clear opportunity? It all depends whether Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) races: he needs to be declared fit on Thursday and then, it is all about how much pain he has and how competitive he can be. Whilst a return is perhaps more likely than not, Cremona is a circuit that the Spanish star didn’t warm to in the test back in May. If he rides, will he even be able to take points off rivals to help Bulega? More questions than answers, mainly because we don’t have any until the green lights at 14:00 local time on Saturday.
BMW’S PERSPECTIVE: time for their riders to help out their fallen leader
Michael van der Mark’s (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) turn of form couldn’t have come at a better moment, with a victory at Magny-Cours keeping BMW’s presence on the top of the rostrum alive for another day. Then, Garrett Gerloff’s (Bonovo Action BMW) fantastic P3 in Race 2 and teammate Scott Redding’s fourth after crashing in Race 1 means that big points were taken by riders on Toprak’s side as well as those not directly in combat with him. The same must be done at Cremona: Van der Mark, Gerloff and Redding must try to get in amongst the act at the front and disrupt the momentum of Bulega, lending a huge favour to Razgatlioglu. Previous testing at Cremona will give them a base but Bulega has likewise been there. It’s also worth noting that Markus Reiterberger – someone with huge experience of the BMW M 1000 RR – will replace Razgatlioglu for the round.
IN CONCLUSION: four rounds in five weeks and a huge climax pending
Of all the times to get injured, the big run-in at the end of the year was not the time for Razgatlioglu. If the injury had occurred back at Portimao, perhaps he’d have missed no additional rounds. However, what’s done is done and speculation is all well and good but there’s only one certainty: the 2024 WorldSBK season’s final third is going to be electric. One of Ducati’s most successful circuits at Aragon is next up after Cremona, before Estoril returns and Jerez closes of the season, both circuits which both Razgatlioglu in past years, as well as Ducati, have been strong at.
It’s all building to one great big dust off – if Bulega can make hay whilst the sun shines down on him. If it’s close going to Aragon, or even if Bulega’s leading the Championship, we can expect the title race to go the distance. 248 points up for grabs in the next 12 races and four rounds and in little over a month, someone will be crowned Champion. The questions are who, where, how and when. There may well be plenty more twists to be had in this Championship story that you just couldn’t script.
When lane splitting, which is legal in California and several other states, playing follow the leader helps open up a wider space for you to ride between lanes of gridlocked traffic. (Photo by Kevin Wing.)
Despite the fact that I’m getting up there in age, I still like to think of myself as a motorcycle racer. But if I’m honest, it’s more of a dream than reality. I’ve won zero purse money, never had sponsorship funding past dear old Mom and Dad, and not once has Broc Glover spooned a free set of Dunlops onto my race steed. Still, if ever our paths have crossed on track, you know I don’t like to follow, I won’t get out of the way, and I’m going to do everything in my power to lead to the checkers…
They say with age comes wisdom. No, I’m not talking about the increased bran uptake or the geriatric mobility stretching I’ve incorporated into my daily life. I mean that I’m growing to appreciate the benefits of pulling up the rear when I go on motorcycle rides. While I pass up the potential for champagne, roses, and adoration, I gain valuable insights that I can’t get if I’m trying to stay up front all the time. Give me a second to pop some vitamin I (ibuprofen) and I’ll explain.
At first glance, being the caboose doesn’t sound great. Your scenery gets cluttered with Big Tom on his three-wheeler, you lose influence on speed and direction within the pack, and if someone is going to miss the green light, odds are it’s going to be you. But let me make the case for some of the tangible benefits of removing ourselves from the lead group.
First, the obvious: Your riding group probably goes a tad over the speed limit from time to time. Now I’m not saying they ride like they’re evading Sheriff Buford T. Justice to win a bet with Big Enos, but I am suggesting that being at the back of the line when the speeds pick up improves your odds of making it home without a ticket. Just sayin’.
Second, while we’re playing backmarker, we have a fantastic vantage point for watching the lead riders manage traffic hazards, road imperfections, and camber changes, all with a bit of processing time before it’s our turn to move to the dance floor and show everybody what we’ve got. It’s like having a crystal ball, allowing you to see a bit into the future and increase your margin of safety.
Also, should you steer yourself to a local track, there is no better way to get acclimated than by following a skilled rider around the circuit. From behind, you learn proper corner entry, braking markers, line selection, and everything necessary to be safe and have fun. In fact, I regularly introduce myself to riders I’ve observed pounding laps to ask if they’d slow a bit and allow me to follow so I can figure things out, and usually they are happy to oblige. Think of it as getting a friendly “tow” around the track until you map out the terrain.
Here in Southern California, we do plenty of lane splitting on the highways, and while it’s a huge timesaver and safer than being stuck in traffic between bumpers, it can be tricky. Some cars give you a wide birth while others wander around blindly. Whenever possible, I hang back a bit and let other riders forge a path, as it tends to “sound the alarm,” making drivers aware there are motorcyclists coming through by the time I squirt past.
Here’s one for you motorcycle-riding content creators: Ever watch a POV motorcycle video shot by a lead rider? There are no motorcycles in the video, just scenery rolling by. You might as well have your friend hold a GoPro out the sunroof of your Datsun 280ZX. At least then you might pick up some righteous tunes with Foghat blaring out of the car’s speakers. Instead, shoot video from the back of the pack so your content shows motorcycles in action, leaning into corners, and doing all the things that made you want to saddle up in the first place.
At Total Control Training, we teach on-track Advanced Riding Clinics, where we instruct students using road-speed concepts within a track setting so they learn what to do, when to do it, and how to do it properly. In this setting, my role is that of instructor. And while melting a set of Metzeler supermoto tires in the front of the group undeniably contends with my childhood joys of Christmas morning, staying behind allows me to get a better sense of how students are interpreting and applying the instruction we provide. Yes, we lead students at times to show techniques by example, but by following, I am a far more impactful instructor. This same thinking applies to the street and pays big dividends with my riding buddies too.
During Total Control Training’s Advanced Riding Clinics, instructors often lead from behind, as founder Lee Parks is doing here. It’s the best vantage point to observe students’ technique. (Photo by Austin Soboleski.)
Another aspect of the Advanced Riding Clinics is suspension theory and practical set-up. All those suspension dials and clickers you sometimes throw screwdrivers at? Well, they can make a huge impact on how a bike feels and performs, and following behind someone while riding is a great way to see if a bike is set up correctly. Trust me, your riding group could do itself some big favors by taking a little time and systematically rotating each member to the tail-gunner position to observe each other’s motorcycles in varying environments. At the minimum, it might catch that Steve did a lousy job of securing his camping gear to the pillion, and that alone is a win in my book.
And let’s not lose sight of the fact that every riding group needs a “mother hen” to keep a lookout from the back of the pack. No, it doesn’t have to be the same person on every ride, but it’s good sportsmanship to serve as the team’s sweeper from time to time. Not only will you be able to observe potential mechanical problems, but you will also see who might be struggling and could use some helpful feedback when you get to the coffee stop.
Now before you argue these are obvious and uninspiring ideas to add to your riding plan, let me push back and say that having information and putting it into practice aren’t the same thing. I’m suggesting here that you drop back more often than you do now and spend more time in the role of observer. Over time, you will see more, learn more, and ultimately improve the quality of both your own ride and that of your team. And who knows, maybe if you keep your eyes open, you might find the Coleman stove that liberated itself from Steve’s saddlebag.
For more information on Total Control Training and available clinics, go to the Total Control website.Quinn wears Lee Parks Design gloves exclusively. Find Quinn at Police Motor Training.
One of the stops on Bullitt County’s Whiskey, Wine, and Ale Trail is the Four Roses Distillery near Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.
As a Kentucky native, I was long overdue for a visit to Bullitt County, home to two famous whiskey distilleries – Jim Beam and Four Roses – and beautiful rolling countryside. Less than two hours from my house, I explored curvy backroads and followed the famous Wine, Whiskey, and Ale Trail, enjoying the history and culture of these beloved beverages along this Bullitt County, Kentucky motorcycle ride.
Scan QR codes above or click Day 1 or Day 2 to view routes on REVER
Shepherdsville, located half an hour south of Louisville, is the trailhead of the WWAT, which also includes four wineries and a brewery. The trail allows you to sip, taste, and experience the history of the spirits of Kentucky, especially bourbon.
Bourbon whiskey has been distilled since the 1700s as a distinctive American product, and it is most associated with Kentucky, where it was first distilled. Legends abound about the early production of bourbon, and one can hear about that history and more on the WWAT tours.
Bullitt County recommends two days to fully experience everything the self-guided WWAT has to offer. If I had planned to partake in any of the samplers or tastings, I would have found a designated driver or used one of the available guided tour or transportation services, which are listed on the Shepherdsville travel website, where you can also download a digital passport.
Since my trip by motorcycle didn’t allow me to imbibe, I focused on the highlights and skipped the tastings. On my first day, I enjoyed a scenic ride east, mostly on U.S. Route 62, to the headquarters of Four Roses, one of the world’s most sought-after Kentucky bourbons. Having distilled fine bourbon since 1888, Four Roses has a romantic and fascinating history. With year-round tours, a tasting bar, an outdoor patio, and a gift shop, there is plenty for bourbon lovers to sample. I was particularly impressed by the property’s beautiful architecture and ambiance.
While exploring Bullitt County, I enjoyed riding on bucolic backroads.
For my return to Shepherdsville, I rode north to Lawrenceburg and then west on State Route 44, the sort of road that makes Kentucky such a wonderful place to ride. SR-44 is a rural two-lane that curves its way through peaceful countryside, including farmland, forest, and residential areas. The homes in Bullitt County are beautiful and well-maintained, providing picturesque scenery.
On SR-44, I enjoyed a few blissful instances where the road wound its way over hills above the surrounding countryside. With a rock face on one side and a drop off on the other, the road swept through a few switchbacks that kept me on my toes. The state route continues all the way to Shepherdsville and a little farther west, ending at the Ohio River.
Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, located a few miles south of Shepherdsville, encompasses more than 16,000 acres and includes a visitor center with a cafe, hiking trails, and the Canopy Tree Walk. It’s home to several art installations, including Thomas Dambo’s Forest Giants.
It was well into the evening when I arrived at my hotel, Spark by Hilton (see sidebar below). A sign nearby marked the entrance to Kart Kountry, said to be the country’s longest go-kart track, and it was open for another hour. I bought tickets for their fastest karts, and I was thrilled by the challenge and skill required to maneuver the kart around the well-maintained 1.5-mile track. With a wide grin on my face, I ran inside and bought more tickets. What a fun and exhilarating way to end my day.
On the next day of this Kentucky motorcycle ride, I rode to the Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, where I noticed a large wooden figure across the lake. Intrigued, I entered the visitor center, and a kind woman explained how to get to the sculpture, which is one of three known as the Forest Giants. After enjoying a cold brew coffee and sweet pastry at the visitor center’s cafe, I set out to view the Giants.
Another one of Thomas Dambo’s Forest Giants.
A two-mile round-trip loop connects these larger-than-life wooden sculptures, and parking is available at each Forest Giant for accessibility. I opted to hike the loop to see all three, and while I came back tired and hot from trekking in boots and motorcycle pants, the trail is a flat and easy hike for people of all ages and abilities.
A nationally renowned recycling artist, Thomas Dambo, created the sculptures, which were inspired by the nature and landscape of the area. They are unique and impressive works of art that complement the other points of interest in the park. After seeing the Forest Giants, I cruised around the rest of the arboretum on Bernheim Forest Road, a lovely tree-lined loop, enjoying the cool, fresh air of the shaded forest.
This Kentucky motorcycle ride would be incomplete without a visit to the James B. Beam distillery.
Continuing on the WWAT, I rode to the nearby James B. Beam distillery, where America’s No. 1 bourbon has been produced since 1795. Not only is there a wealth of history, but there are also generations of experience perfecting the bourbon-making process – both of which you can learn about in the American Outpost building and the tours and tastings offered there.
Famished, I found a seat at the large, well-lit bar in the on-site restaurant, The Kitchen Table. I ordered a starter with two cheese spreads and slices of a unique and tasty seasoned-and-fried bread. Above me was a sign proclaiming “Any damn way you please.” The bartender explained that one of the Beam distillers famously answers people with that statement when they ask about the proper way to drink Jim Beam. I love the freedom and self-expression that it implies. And I will certainly put this restaurant on my list of favorites for my next trip to Bullitt County.
Jim Beam, the world’s top-selling whiskey, has been produced for nearly 230 years.
My next stop on the WWAT was the Wight-Meyer Vineyards and Winery. I followed country roads and a well-maintained gravel lane to the owner-operated winery. Located on 16 acres, Wight-Meyer was the first commercial vineyard in Bullitt County and produces its wines from Kentucky grapes.
Jim Beam’s well-appointed distillery near Shepherdsville showcases the brand’s rich history with tours, tastings, and more.
I was greeted by a friendly owner, Sandy Wight, and her even friendlier dog, Charlie. She suggested a tasting from their selection of 25-plus wines, many of which are award-winning, but I had to take a raincheck since I was on a motorcycle. She graciously showed me around the cozy tasting room, covered patio, and serene vineyard. It was a beautiful day, and the puffy white clouds across the blue sky framed the rows of tendrilled grape vines that stretched off into the distance. I enjoyed the peace and tranquility before setting out.
In addition to the Four Roses and Beam distilleries, the Whiskey, Wine, and Ale Trail includes Wight-Meyer Vineyards and Winery (above), MillaNova Winery, Forest Edge Winery, Brooks Hill Winery, and Gallant Fox Brewing. For those who want to enjoy tastings, Bullitt County provides a list of guides and transportation companies.
Everyone in Kentucky loves steakhouses, so for dinner I chose a new one for me – Cattleman’s Roadhouse in Shepherdsville. It’s a family-style restaurant boasting a plentiful salad bar that was substantial enough for a meal, especially when combined with the complimentary melt-in-your-mouth rolls slathered with cinnamon butter.
Before heading home, I visited the Awesome Flea Market in Shepherdsville. A short ride from the hotel, this enormous building contains indoor and outdoor sellers. When I stepped out back, I was greeted by an impressively large painted sign – the kind that makes you feel small – proclaiming The Most Awesome Flea Market in the World. Inside, I found a climate-controlled market with a food court and countless shops with varied, eclectic wares and friendly customer service.
Awesome Flea Market in Shepherdsville
This short, local Kentucky motorcycle ride was a satisfying scratch to the itch one experiences when two-wheeled travel is a passion. Even though I was relatively close to home, I still rode new routes, met new people, and saw new sights – the makings of a successful motorcycle trip, indeed.
SIDEBAR: Spark by Hilton Shepherdsville Louisville South
The Spark by Hilton is only a half mile off I-65 at exit 117. It’s a short ride from a variety of restaurants, and some are within walking distance. It’s also near Kart Kountry, the world’s longest go-kart track. The clean, recently renovated hotel includes a variety of amenities that are great for a motorcycle trip, such as free wi-fi, an in-room mini-fridge, free hot breakfast, and an indoor pool. For more information, visit the Spark by Hilton website.
Carly Becker lives to ride. If she’s not on her bike, she can be found at her desk, writing about her motorcycle tours and moto camping trips. She lives in northern Kentucky with her husband, her dog, and her Kawasaki Versys-X 300.
Championship leader Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) will not take part in the Acerbis Italian Round after being ruled out through the injuries he sustained in France. ‘El Turco’ crashed at Magny-Cours in Free Practice 2 at Turn 14 and was diagnosed with mild traumatic pneumothorax, which ruled him out of all three races in France. Although he made his intentions to race at the Cremona Circuit clear, Razgatlioglu won’t take part in the round. BMW have drafted in Markus Reiterberger to replace him.
RAZGATLIOGLU MISSES CREMONA: full focus on recovery
The 2021 Champion would have needed to pass pre-round medical checks on Thursday in order to race, but it was announced on Wednesday that he wouldn’t take part at Cremona due to his ongoing recovery. Razgatlioglu has now stated he is aiming to return to the track at the Aragon Round, which takes place a week after Cremona.
RAZGATLIOGLU’S VIEW: “My goal now is to return at Aragon… as soon as possible, I’ll re-join the Championship fight”
Razgatlioglu said: “I would have loved to be back on track in Cremona, but the recovery of the mild pneumothorax is taking longer than I initially hoped. It’s important that I make a full recovery, and my goal now is to return on my BMW M 1000 RR at the next race weekend at MotorLand Aragon. But we need to wait and take it step by step. One thing is certain: as soon as possible and when my health allows, I will re-join the Championship fight! I’ll be rooting for my team at Cremona, and I hope to see the BMW M 1000 RR at the front and on the podium. A big thanks to everyone who’s been supporting me through this tough time – we’ll see each other back on the track soon!”
CHAMPIONSHIP IMPLICATIONS: a 55-point lead over Bulega
In Razgatlioglu’s absence in France, Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) completed a Sunday double to close the gap to Razgatlioglu to 55 points. With Razgatlioglu sitting out the Italian Round, it’s possible for ‘Bulegas’ to take a seven-point lead into the Aragon Round a week later. However, Bulega will face fierce competition from his rivals in the fight for victory.
REITERBERGER RETURNS: first WorldSBK races since 2019
Razgatlioglu will be replaced by Markus Reiterberger, who raced in WorldSBK 72 times with BMW including with the Shaun Muir Racing-run team that he’ll step into today. The German rider took the 2018 STK1000 title, also with BMW, with four wins in eight races. Reiterberger has also been a key part of BMW’s EWC project, racing last weekend at the Bol d’Or and finishing third in the 2024 standings.
Discussing his WorldSBK return, Reiterberger said: “First and foremost, I want to wish Toprak all the best and a speedy recovery. At Cremona, my focus will be on supporting the team and BMW Motorrad Motorsport as best as possible. I know the bike, the team, and the WorldSBK, so there shouldn’t be any issues getting up to speed quickly. I aim to do my part to ensure that Toprak, the team, and BMW enter the final races with a well-prepared BMW M 1000 RR, fighting for the World Championship titles that he and everyone involved deserve this season.”
BMW SAYS: “Toprak’s complete recovery is the top priority… that’s why we decided together he will not return to racing at Cremona”
Sven Blusch, Head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport, concluded: “Toprak’s complete recovery is the top priority for everyone. Everything else takes a back seat for now. That’s why we decided together that he will not return to racing at Cremona. He’s in good hands and working closely with the medical team to get back on his BMW M 1000 RR by the next race weekend at MotorLand Aragon. However, we will take all the time needed. In Markus Reiterberger, we have an excellent stand-in for Cremona, who brings a wealth of experience with the bike, WorldSBK, the team, and BMW Motorrad Motorsport. He will focus on basic and preparation work during the weekend, gathering crucial information so that Toprak can fight for the championship with the best possible material after his comeback.”
After the mayhem of Magny-Cours, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship paddock will be hoping for a calm Cremona weekend. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team), Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), and Jonathan Rea (Pata Prometeon Yamaha) were all injured during an action-packed French Round less than two weeks ago, with Rea sitting out the Acerbis Italian Round.
RAZGATLIOGLU’S COMEBACK? Just two weeks on from his big crash…
Razgatlioglu is the most seriously injured of the trio. His crash in Friday practice left him lucky to escape without more serious injuries but while his injury is a “mild traumatic pneumothorax” it’s one that is difficult to recover from in just 13 days. The BMW star is the big name draw in WorldSBK and his absence over the last weekend was noted by all, but it opened a door for others to fill a void.
TITLE RACE IMPLICATIONS: the potential for a big swing?
With his teammate Bautista having crashed out of the Superpole Race, the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati honour was led by Nicolo Bulega in France. A double win, Bulega’s first since the opening day of the 2024 season, was impressive and necessary. With a 55-point deficit to make up, Bulega needs a perfect weekend at Cremona to have a title chance. For BMW and Razgatlioglu, the question becomes one of risk versus reward. If the Turkish superstar misses this weekend, the worst-case scenario is that he returns seven points behind in the standings. With Aragon, Estoril and Jerez remaining you would certainly fancy his chances of outscoring Bulega over the final weeks of the campaign.
BMW’S SITUATION: history awaits… but is there a big call to make?
It might be prudent for BMW to look to rest their rider but…it would be a very brave call to make. BMW are on the verge of making history and winning a World Championship. They can only do this with a fit and motivated Razgatlioglu. Toprak is the most unique rider in WorldSBK, and he has shown before that he won’t be fooled twice by a manufacturer. If you cross a line with him, he won’t let you come back. The relationship can be over with one mistake. BMW will know this and will therefore have to leave the call entirely in Toprak’s hands if he wants to race this weekend.
It’s a fascinating situation. Everyone wants to see Toprak race. Everyone wants to see BMW become a title winning manufacturer because it’s good for WorldSBK. The question now is whether we’ll see Razgatlioglu line up on the grid. The betting market would be set as more likely to race than less likely.
CONTRASTS FOR REA AND AEGERTER: missing a round with different impacts…
The same can’t be said for Yamaha. The walking wounded boys in blue are without Rea and Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) this weekend. Yamaha has called up their World Endurance riders Nicolo Canepa and Marvin Fritz to fill the void. There’ll be no pressure on either but for Rea and Aegerter, the break is an interesting contrast. Rea has nothing to gain by racing so soon after a skin graft on his right thumb. Aegerter is fighting for his future and needs to race soon if he’s to stay on the WorldSBK grid next year. A return to the World Supersport class remains a possibility so sitting out Cremona couldn’t come at a worse time for the Swiss rider.
ALL EYES ON CREMONA: what to expect from the newest WorldSBK venue?
What can we expect of Cremona? It’s a brand-new circuit that the majority of the field has tested at in recent months. The Italian venue has been excited about their debut WorldSBK event and, it’s fair to say, when the bikes roll down pitlane on Friday all eyes will be glued to see who’s there…and who isn’t.
It’s back to where it all started in May; the inaugural FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship enjoyed their first test at the Cremona Circuit in northern Italy and were in fact some of the first riders to hit the brand-new venue out of the entire WorldSBK paddock. Now, we head back to start the second half of 2024 and the title race is very much on; 7 points between arch rivals Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) and Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros. Racing Yamaha Team) mean it’s all to play for at Round 4.
FIGHT AT THE FRONT: 7 points split Herrera and Carrasco
Four wins from six races and missing the podium just once, Herrera has been in fine fettle but hasn’t always been the strongest in a straight line, evidented in the last race at Portimao when Carrasco mugged her on the run to the line. Carrasco may have taken podiums in every race but she’s only enjoyed two wins, although one of them was last time out. In Race 2 at Portimao, Herrera was shuffled back to third as Sara Sanchez (Terra&Vita 511 Racing Team) came through too, meaning Carrasco’s seven point deficit heading into Portugal remained the same leaving. Now, Cremona awaits where all of the field – with the exception of Herrera – went testing four months ago. Could this be the right time for Carrasco to hit the front? Beatriz Neila (Ampito/Pata Prometeon Yamaha) hasn’t dropped out of the top five in the races so far and has a podium from Donington Park, placing her fourth, whilst home-hero Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldWCR Team) is fifth overall, keen for a first rostrum of 2024.
OUTSIDE THE TOP 5: Ruiz in good form, Yochay aims to fight back after Portimao struggles
Improving all the way through the season to take her first double top six and a best of P5 last time out, Pakita Ruiz (PS Racing Team 46+1) sits sixth overall and will now seek to try and bridge the gap to the top four on track. She’s just six points back of Ponziani and eight ahead of Ran Yochay (Terra&Vita 511 Racing Team), with the Israeli rider struggling at Portimao but keen to put that behind her. With the exception of Ponziani, the remainder of the top seven riders have scored points in every race so far in 2024. Tayla Relph (TAYCO Motorsport) was taken out last time in Race 2 at Portimao and will be keen to make up for it this time at the track where she led the first-ever WorldWCR test session. She’s tied on points with Ornella Ongaro (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldWCR Team) with 29 each. With a fine double top ten last time out – giving her a best result of P7 in Race 2 – Mexico’s Astrid Madrigal (ITALIKA Racing FIMLA) completes the top ten.
MOUNTING TOP 10 CHALLENGES: Michel leads the charge, Van Aswegen seeking return
Just pushed out of the top ten overall last time out, Lucy Michel (TSL-Racing) was inside the leading positions back at the Cremona test in May, as was Chun Mei Liu (WT Racing Team Taiwan) who’s next up in P12. Adela Ourednickova (DafitMotoracing by Smrz) has achieved points in every race and was impressive in the test too, whilst Isis Carreno’s (AD78 FIM Latinoamerica by Team GP3) recovery continues away from the circuit. Following her crash at Portimao, Nicole van Aswegen’s (Andalaft Racing) recovery back home has been nothing short of remarkable and she’ll be hoping to get racing just over a month after her leg break. She’s 15th overall and achieved her first top ten of the year in P9 in Race 1 in Portugal. She’s just ahead of Lena Kemmer (Bertl K. Racing Team), who was strong in P7 during Superpole last time out. Emily Bondi (YART Zelos Black Knights Team) grabbed a first top ten last time out, whereas Jessica Howden (Team Trasimeno) secured her first points of the year. Likewise getting a first top ten in Race 2 at Portimao after a string of misfortune, American Mallory Dobbs (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team) is 20th in the order.
HOUSEKEEPING: riders to watch out for and wildcards at Cremona
After scoring her first points of the season, Andrea Sibaja (Deza – Box 77 Racing Team) is keen to repeat it. First round nerves are out of the way for Sara Varon (ITALIKA Racing FIMLA), with the Colombian rider now looking towards points at Cremona, a track she knows from testing. Alyssia Whitmore (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team) is hoping to be declared fit as she bids to return to racing after missing Portimao through injury, whilst Iryna Nadieieva (MPS.RT) is unfit ahead of the round. There’ll be two wildcards too, with home-hero Irene Bramato (Team Roc’n’dea – De Angelis Team) on the grid alongside Avalon Lewis (Carl Cox Motor Sports), who returns to the paddock for the first time since her WorldSSP300 days.
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A new circuit brings plenty of challenges and that’s no different in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship ahead of the Acerbis Italian Round. The Cremona Circuit is the next destination for WorldSBK as it makes its racing debut, although teams, riders and tyre supplier Pirelli have information about the circuit from testing in the summer. With that in mind, Pirelli have announced their solutions for this weekend which include the SCQ tyre as well as the two development tyres that were available in France.
REAR TYRE OPTIONS: development SCX tyre returns, SCQ available
For the rear tyre, there are multiple solutions available for the long races. The standard SCX super soft and the standard SC0 soft tyre are available, and they are joined by the development SCX-A super soft tyre, coded D0820. This tyre made its debut in France and has the same structure as its standard equivalent, but with a new compound to offer greater wear resistance while maintaining the grip level of the standard SCX. For the Tissot Superpole session and Tissot Superpole Race, the SCQ tyre will be available to choose from. If it rains, the intermediate and wet tyres – both in standard solutions – are available.
AT THE FRONT: a mix of standard and development tyres
It’s a similar story for front tyre choices, with two standard solutions and one development available. The standard SC1 medium and SC2 hard are available to choose from, as is the SC1-A development medium, named D0715. Compared to the standard SC1, it has the same compound but has an evolution of the carcass as it aims to provide greater stability and riding precision. Of course, in the event of rain, riders will have the intermediate and wet tyres to use.
WORLD SUPERSPORT ALLOCATION: standard solutions are the name of the game
For the WorldSSP field, there are no development solutions available. At the front, it’s the standard SC1 soft and SC2 medium tyres while, for the rear, it’s the SCX super soft and SC0 soft – both in standard solutions. In the event of rain, teams will have the standard SCR1 wet at the front and rear with no intermediate tyres available.
PIRELLI SAYS: “Such a close comparison is very useful for us to consolidate data on new solutions and define future development”
Discussing the tyre choices, Pirelli’s Motorcycle Racing Director, Giorgio Barbier, said: “The Cremona round is a great opportunity to get further feedback on the two development solutions introduced at Magny-Cours, the front SC1 in D0715 specification and the rear SCX in D0820 specification, taking advantage of the fact that the riders still have the sensations they had in France and can put them to the test on a different track. Such a close comparison is very useful for us to consolidate data on new solutions and define future development. Having received positive feedback from the riders at their first contact with the new options, we also felt it was important to give the teams some continuity, so as to offer them a good choice on a circuit that has some unknowns. Cremona is in fact a circuit that we know well, if only because it is located an hour’s drive from our headquarters in Milan, but we have never raced there with WorldSBK and, in preparation for this important event, it has undergone considerable improvements. Already in the two tests that were carried out, one in mid-May and the other in mid-June, we found that the track, as often happens in these cases, still needs a bit of break-in to reach the optimal level of grip. This means that in the first sessions we could witness accentuated wear and tear that will then fall within the parameters we are used to over the weekend, as the track cleans and rubbers.”
The 2024 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship visits a new venue this weekend with the Cremona Circuit poised for its WorldSBK debut as it becomes the seventh Italian track to host WorldSBK. New locations mean a step into the unknown, even with testing at Cremona, and that always provides the possibility of new drama and potentially, new rivalries and winners, so it is time to look back through WorldSBK history to see which circuits have had iconic openings.
RECENT YEARS: modern classics on new battlegrounds
You only have to look at Race 1 at Most in 2021 to see just how much a new track can change the complexion of the Championship and indeed bring new battles. Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) beat Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) in a last lap, last corner battle for the ages in Race 1 and ended up just three points off the top of the standings as the weekend concluded, whilst Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) endured a difficult weekend as he crashed twice in Race 1 and finished third in the other two, meaning his lead was slashed. There were also strong performances from three Italians as Razgatlioglu’s teammate Andrea Locatelli, who took a second podium of the season, Redding’s teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi took two full-length race top five finishes and Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) took a career-best fifth in Race 1.
Other notable debuts include 2020’s season finale, which saw WorldSBK return to Estoril and the Championship battle took a dramatic turn as Rea and Redding both crashed in the Superpole, whilst Rea wrapped up the title in Race 1 following a Redding retirement. Earlier in 2020, we had a titanic Race 2 at Barcelona-Catalunya, giving Chaz Davies a first win of the year and Garrett Gerloff a first career podium. 2018 saw WorldSBK’s debut in South America and Argentina play host to a stunning Jonathan Rea double, meanwhile in 2014, it was WorldSBK’s debut at Sepang, which saw Kawasaki teammates Tom Sykes and Loris Baz collide at the notorious Turn 2 and crashing out, a huge moment in the title race.
In 2013, WorldSBK debuted in Turkey, but it was the World Supersport race which got the grandstand finish at Istanbul Park, with home-legend Kenan Sofuoglu winning in a final lap thriller. A year earlier, WorldSBK debuted in Russia and 2012 saw plenty of drama, particularly in the wet as the quirky Moscow Raceway came into its own. Race 2 stole the headlines though, with Championship leader Max Biaggi crashing out whilst Tom Sykes won, edging him closer to the title.
ROLLING BACK THE YEARS: iconic venues make their mark…
Historic destinations have been a staple in WorldSBK, but it wasn’t just their name that made memories, it was the on-track action too. Kyalami in 1998 was significant for the country in terms of it was the first major sporting event since Nelson Mandela came to power, but also on-track too, giving Frankie Chili a career-first double and thus putting him right in the Championship fight. The Lausitzring in 2001 saw a wet Race 2 go down to the wire between Troy Bayliss and Neil Hodgson, with the Australian coming out on top.
However, later in the year, the final round at Imola gave some of the greatest racing of the season. Race 1 saw a dramatic close at Regis Laconi and Troy Bayliss traded places, ultimately seeing the Australian crash and take the Frenchman with him. In Race 2 however, Laconi held on in an intense final lap showdown, taking his first ever win and becoming a select few to win in the 500cc era of Grand Prix Racing and then in WorldSBK. A year later and Silverstone was welcomed onto the calendar, with Race 1 seeing Championship leader Bayliss crashing twice and Colin Edwards taking victory.
2021’S NEW VENUES: Most, Navarra, and Mandalika provide drama
The Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit is the third new venue on the 2021 calendar and will host the title-deciding season finale. But two other circuits made their debut on the calendar in August, in the form of the Autodrom Most and then the Circuito de Navarra. Most, in the Czech Republic, featured one of the most thrilling encounters – in a season full of them – with a last-lap battle between Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) and Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), while Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) crashed on two separate occasions. As WorldSBK moved to Navarra, more of the same featured: the top three in the Championship battling it out for victory across the weekend, with Race 2 at Navarra providing excellent drama throughout. The Tissot Superpole Race, just a few hours before Race 2, was also an enthralling battle between the top three in the Championship.
With WorldSBK heading to Indonesia for the 2021 season finale, it was all on the line: the Riders’ and Manufacturers’ Championships were still to be decided, with Razgatlioglu and Yamaha favourites respectively. Rain on Saturday forced Race 1 to take place on Sunday, adding to the intrigue, before two thrilling races brought an epic campaign to an end with Rea doing the double, but ‘El Turco’ and Yamaha securing the crowns.
A NEW CIRCUIT IN 2024: Cremona awaits…
There’s no reason why the Cremona Circuit won’t provide any of the same excitement and drama. A tight and twisty track with off-camber corners and a long straight could be the perfect mix to see more riders in the mix as it starts a run of four rounds in five weeks; a part of the season where momentum will be key, 13 corners await with a real mix of turns across the 3.678km circuit, all with their own challenges.
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