WorldSSP: Starting from the second row of the grid Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) made a fast start to sit third into Turn 1.
The Italian moved past Roberto Garcia (GMT94-YAMAHA) on Lap 2 and gave chase to Can Oncu (Yamaha BLU CRU Evan Bros Team).
Oncu, starting from second on the grid, led the opening nine laps of the race. However, once Manzi had a clear track to chase him down it was clear that the Turkish rider was on borrowed time at the front. As the race entered its second half Manzi attacked and moved into the lead. He would open a margin of 3.8 seconds at the flag.
The battle for third was heated throughout with the MV Agusta Reparto Corse duo of Bo Bendsneyder and Filipo Farioli fighting with Garcia. They traded places, and paint, throughout with Bendneyder eventually claiming the podium position. Garcia crossed the line in fourth position but was given a one place penalty for his aggressive riding.
Manzi’s fastest lap also means that he will start from pole position for Race 2.
Championship Highlights
- Manzi now holds a 50 point advantage over Oncu in the Riders’ Standings.
- An early crash ruled Tom Booth-Amos (PTR Triumph Factory Racing) out of contention. The Englishman now holds a one point advantage over Jaume Masia (Orelac Racing Verdnatura) in their fight for third position. Masia finished seventh having started from the back of the grid.
P1 – Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing)
“This was a really good race. We were super strong and after the disappointment in the last round it feels great to bounce back. This weekend was a bit tough in the beginning; it’s a new track and I struggled at first. The team did an amazing job last night working on the bike and today the feeling was fantastic. I’m happy with today’s result but already focused on tomorrow.”
Race 1 Results
1. Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing)
2. Can Oncu (Yamaha BLU CRU Evan Bros Team) +3.834s
3. Bo Bendsneyder (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) +5.775s
4. Filippo Farioli (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) 8.680s
5. Roberto Garcia (GMT94-YAMAHA) 9.000s
6. Simon Jespersen (Ecosantagata Althea Racing Team) 10.545s
Fastest lap: Stefano Manzi – 1’43.358s
For more info checkout our dedicated WorldSBK (World Superbike) News page superbike-news.co.uk/category/world-superbikes/
Or visit the official World Superbike website worldsbk.com
©Words/Images are from official press release posted courtesy of WorldSBK.com
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