2024 Aragon WordSBK FP1: Toprak Razgatlioglu returns to the top

Toprak Razgatlioglu returned to the top of the timesheets in the opening practice for the 2024 Aragon WordSBK.

Razgatlioglu’s performance was nothing short of spectacular after spending a lengthy period on the sidelines after sustaining a serious injury at Magny-Cours almost a month ago.

Riding his ROKiT BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR, the Turkish rider topped the timesheets in the opening practice for the 2024 Aragon WordSBK with an impressive lap time of 1:49.021, leading his stablemate Garrett Gerloff.

The atmosphere at MotorLand Aragon was electric as fans and teams prepared for an exciting weekend of racing. The track, known for its challenging layout and recently resurfaced asphalt, provided excellent grip, although some patched sections posed potential challenges for the riders.

As FP1 commenced, it was clear that Toprak Razgatlioglu had not lost any of his competitive edge despite his time away from the track as his performance in FP1 was marked by a strategic approach and impressive speed.

The world champion completed 14 laps during the session, gradually improving his times and ultimately securing the top spot with a significant margin of nearly half a second over his closest rival. His ability to quickly adapt to the track conditions and find optimal lines demonstrated his skill and experience as a top-tier racer.

Following Razgatlioglu in second place was American rider Garrett Gerloff from Bonovo Action BMW, who clocked a time of 1:49.486. His performance highlighted his growing confidence and form, having consistently finished in the top four in recent rounds.

Gerloff’s final lap in FP1 was particularly noteworthy as he pushed hard to close the gap to Razgatlioglu, but ultimately fell short.

Completing the top three was Xavi Vierge from Team HRC Honda, who recorded a lap time of 1:49.493, a strong showing indicative of his determination to compete at a high level this season.

Vierge was closely followed by teammate Iker Lecuona, who finished fourth with a time of 1:49.546. Both Honda riders demonstrated their capabilities on the new asphalt, which offered improved grip compared to previous seasons.

Two-time reigning World Champion Alvaro Bautista rounded out the top five with a time of 1:49.673 on his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R. Bautista’s performance was solid but left him slightly off the pace compared to his rivals in FP1, indicating that he would need to find additional speed as the weekend progressed.

Andrea Iannone was sixth fastest ahead of Danilo Petrucci in seventh after completing the treble at Cremona while Michael Ruben Rinaldi followed in eighth place.

Axel Bassani marked the top Kawasaki rider on Friday morning as he finished the opening session in ninth while Nicolo Bulega rounded out the top ten.

Notably absent from the top positions were riders from Yamaha and Kawasaki, raising questions about their competitiveness at this round.

Remy Gardner from GYTR GRT Yamaha managed to secure 11th place, while Alex Lowes from Kawasaki Racing Team finished 12th, indicating that both manufacturers would need to make significant improvements to challenge for top positions in subsequent sessions.

The session was not without its challenges; several riders faced difficulties with track conditions and tire management due to strong winds affecting grip levels throughout the day. However, several riders adapted well showcasing their skill in navigating the twists and turns of the circuit.

As FP1 concluded, it became evident that Toprak Razgatlioglu return had reinvigorated not only his own championship hopes but also added an exciting dynamic to the competition among leading riders.

His statement after the session reflected his determination: “The feeling is amazing! I’ve never won at this track and this weekend I’m just trying to win.”

2024 Aragon WordSBK FP1 Results