WorldSBK, Razgatlioglu and Rea look out for Redding: Scott likes Magny-Cours

The cover image shows the strongest trio of SBK riders right now. Though Scott Redding appears a little ‘blurred’, the photo speaks volumes, the number 45 Ducati chasing the Yamaha and Kawasaki piloted by Toprak Razgatlioglu and Johnny Rea, who are on level pegging in the standings if not in this particular shot.

The Turk and the Northern Irishman hold 311 points apiece, while the Englishman has 273. The gap may still seem significant but let’s not forget that the bulldog has been gradually gaining ground – and points – in recent races.

So much so that he appears to be the rider in the best shape right now. Although he has confirmed that he will race with BMW next season, Reddingpower has promised commitment and fight as he defends the Aruba colours. We believe him and the results speak for themselves.

Magic rain for Scott at Magny-Cours

The 2020 French event saw Rea do the double in the wet, or rather damp conditions, before Redding triumphed in the final race. Scott stood out in the pouring rain, riding a V4 R that was all new to him, particularly in those tricky conditions.

With skill, courage and sensitivity, the then BSB champion made an impression, fully deserving of the applause and compliments he received. And he proved just how capable he was of adapting to the bike, the weather and the track. And so it is that the future BMW rider is the favourite ahead of the 2021 Magny-Cours round.

First he’ll have to deal with Toprak though – double race winner in 2019 – and with Johnny and the Ninja of course. The battle between the "three Rs" will continue then, but we should also look out for Michael Ruben Rinaldi, recently reconfirmed and good for (at least) a podium, if not more.

Davies seeks a comeback at what has been a friendly track

Chaz went well with the V4 R at Magny. He scored third in race 2 in 2020, and further podiums in the past, although the 2016 double win aboard the Panigale twin remains his best ever French result.

We hope he can continue to do well this time, flying the flag for the Go Eleven team which has seen too much of the gravel traps recently. Davies can do it, as he’s already proved this year. The battle between the independent riders is a hard-fought one, and the others will give as good as they get.

Riders like Garrett Gerloff and Axel Bassani for example. The American wants to boost both his morale and his points tally, while the Italian will be taking on the French track with a Superbike for the first time. And while it’s Gerloff who leads the way in the ‘unofficial’ standings, the Italian it still in the running for first place.

Translated by Heather Watson

WorldSBK, official: Rinaldi and Aruba Ducati together again in 2022