WorldSBK, are we sure Razgatlioglu has already won the title?

WorldSBK, are we sure Razgatlioglu has already won the title?

Toprak heads into the last round with a 30-point lead over Rea. With 62 points still up for grabs, every detail could make the difference - bike, tyres, stress and psychology

18.10.2021 ( Aggiornata il 18.10.2021 18:17 )

Are we so sure that Toprak Razgatlioglu has already pocketed the 2021 SBK title? We remain impartial here of course but, knowing Johnny, we don’t think it’s game over quite yet.

The Turkish leader does have something like a 30-point advantage over the Cannibal but, having followed the championship closely, we want to point out a few episodes in which the number 54 rider has been involved.

The Garrett Gerloff incident at Assen, the Yamaha R1 struck dumb at Barcelona, the suicidal mudguard at Portimao. Whether down to bad luck or human error, these episodes have had a significant bearing on the standings. Sure, the six-time champion had also had his troubles, a few too many falls impacting on his season. Basically, it’s still game on between the two, which means that every single click of the fork and choice of tyre can prove decisive.

Mandalika, an unknown for everyone


Will the championship head to Indonesia or not? We hope so, but await further news as to the completion and homologation of the circuit. If the season were to finish on the island of Lombok, it would be a new experience for everyone.

No one would be able to say that their rival has an advantage because of any recent tests because no one will be testing. Let alone down there. Considering that the crates are already on their way to South East Asia, the riders will not see their bikes again until the race weekend, which may begin on the Thursday, to allow riders to get to know the new circuit.

Unless the event is cancelled in favour of another. We hope not, but there is a chance that the season will finish in Europe, considering current issues. But where? Valencia would be one thing, Estoril quite another. And Razga and Rea are aware of this.

A 30-point lead, 62 on the table, but consider the psychology


As we’ve said, Toprak has an extra 30 points compared to Johnny. OK. And there are 62 still up for grabs. Right. Then factor in the stress. Rea is cunning when he says all the pressure will be on Razgatlioglu’s shoulders.

As if to say: "Eh, you’re out front but I’m chasing you. And I can watch your moves. Also, I have nothing to lose or prove. Unlike you, my dear rival”. A tactic or the truth? Both really, as the number 1 knows all about title fights.

While it’s true that the Turk dominated in race 1 at Villicum – thanks also to an error by Scott Redding – before also going on to win the Tissot Superpole Race, it’s also true that he suffered in the last race, one which was won by Redding. Grip issues, or stress-related issues? It can all change in just one race ladies and gentleman.

Translated by Heather Watson

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