Toprak Razgatlıoğlu secured his second World Superbike Championship (WSBK) title after ending second within the penultimate race of the 2024 season on the Circuito de Jerez in Spain on Saturday.
The Turkish motorcyclist, often known as “El Turco” amongst fellow racers, elevated his whole factors to 493, solidifying his place because the world champion.
The race, held on the 4.423-kilometer (2.81-mile) observe, marked the twelfth and ultimate leg of the season.
Razgatlıoğlu began from pole place and maintained second place all through the race, guaranteeing his championship victory.
Nicolo Bulega of Aruba Ducati received the race, whereas Italy’s Andrea Locatelli of Pata Yamaha Prometeon completed third.
Following his triumph, Razgatlıoğlu celebrated in fashion, performing a victory lap on one wheel.
He was joined by former Turkish world champion and mentor Kenan Sofuoğlu in addition to household and supporters waving Turkish flags.
In a playful gesture, Razgatlıoğlu donned an alien masks and a gold helmet as a part of his championship celebration.
Razgatlıoğlu first received the World Superbike title with Yamaha in 2021 and repeated the feat in 2024, this time using for the Rokit BMW workforce.
‘Long and difficult season’
His consistency all through the season, together with 17 wins, six second-place finishes and two third-place finishes, performed a vital function in his title protection.
This season’s success additionally introduced his profession whole to 140 podium finishes throughout 220 WSBK races.
The Turkish rider dominated the 2024 season, staying forward of his closest competitor, Bulega, who trailed with 452 factors.
After his second profession WSBK title, Razgatlıoğlu expressed his satisfaction in securing one other championship for Türkiye. “I am very happy and proud that we have won another world championship for Türkiye,” he stated. “It was a long and challenging season, but we achieved everything we aimed for.”
Razgatlıoğlu additionally hinted at his future ambitions, expressing hope for continued success within the coming years.
“I hope we will have the same performance in the future and win the world championship again,” he stated.
When requested a few potential transfer to MotoGP, he left the door open, stating, “Maybe in 2026, but nothing is clear yet.”
Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş was among the many many who congratulated Razgatlıoğlu on his victory, praising him for proudly representing Türkiye on the world stage.
“I heartily congratulate our national motorcyclist Toprak Razgatlıoğlu, who waved our glorious flag as the world champion in the 2024 World Superbike Championship,” Kurtulmuş wrote on social media.
Source: www.dailysabah.com