Kenan Sofuoğlu, captain of Türkiye’s nationwide motorbike crew, has revealed that efforts are in full swing to carry the Superbike World Championship again to Istanbul Park after a 12-year hiatus.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA), Sofuoğlu shared his optimism about including Istanbul to the 2025 Superbike calendar, contingent on securing enough sponsorship.
“The track is ready, and everyone wants to see Superbike in Türkiye again, especially our riders. However, the necessary budget is still a hurdle,” Sofuoğlu defined, highlighting ongoing discussions with Istanbul Park’s new administration, together with Lale Cander, and Superbike officers who’ve visited the monitor.
Razgatlıoğlu super-charged
Sofuoğlu additionally praised Turkish rider Toprak Razgatlıoğlu, who at the moment leads the Superbike standings by 39 factors, with simply two races left.
Despite a crash on Sept. 6 that sidelined him for six races, Razgatlıoğlu bounced again in Aragon, the place his aim was to safe factors, not essentially win. “Like in football, you can’t win every match. The aim is to finish the season as the champion,” Sofuoğlu remarked.
He expects Razgatlıoğlu to clinch the title, barring any unexpected mishaps, doubtless within the last race in Spain.
Sofuoğlu additionally mentioned the way forward for Turkish riders Bahattin Sofuoğlu and Can Öncü, each competing within the Supersport World Championship.
“They’re still gaining experience, but soon enough, we’ll see them on the podium regularly,” he stated.
Sofuoğlu introduced a significant shift for Bahattin Sofuoğlu, who will depart his present crew (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) and race with Yamaha subsequent season, a transfer Sofuoğlu believes will enable him to shine.
He anticipates intense competitors between Bahattin and Can within the coming 12 months.
Strong federation
Reflecting on the latest passing of Turkish Motorcycle Federation (TMF) President Bekir Yunus Uçar, Sofuoğlu expressed his sorrow and confidence within the federation’s future.
“We’ve lost more than just a president; he was like a brother to us. Morale is low, but the team that worked with him is determined to continue,” Sofuoğlu stated, emphasizing that he trusts the federation might be led by the appropriate folks, making certain stability for the game.
Zayn’s rising star
Sofuoğlu additionally spoke about his 5-year-old son, Zayn Sofuoğlu, who has captured social media’s consideration along with his racing expertise.
“My dream for Zayn Sofuoğlu isn’t just to be a social media sensation. I want him to represent Türkiye as a world-class athlete,” Sofuoğlu stated.
Zayn Sofuoğlu is already competing in motorbike and karting championships and will doubtlessly win each Turkish titles this 12 months. Sofuoğlu has excessive hopes for his son’s future, presumably even in Formula One.
Sofuoğlu acknowledged that Zayn Sofuoğlu’s rising recognition on social media is a strategic transfer. “Next year, we plan to compete in karting races in England, Italy, and other European countries, and social media exposure is crucial for that,” he defined. Despite the demanding schedule, Sofuoğlu handles the coaching and video manufacturing himself, and the hassle has paid off with widespread admiration. “God willing, Zayn will have a long and successful career ahead of him,” he added.
Source: www.dailysabah.com