Czech WorldSBK: Toprak Razgatlıoglu sets the Pace in FP1 ahead of Remy Gardner

Toprak Razgatlıoglu was the rider to beat after setting the fastest lap time in opening practice for 2024 Czech WorldSBK ahead of Remy Gardner.

Toprak Razgatlıoglu started the 2024 Czech WorldSBK on perfect form by topping the first free practice session (FP1) at the Autodrom Most. The Turkish rider, representing the ROKiT BMW Motorrad team, clocked an impressive lap time of 1:31.947, establishing a considerable lead over his rivals.

Following Razgatlıoğlu was Remy Gardner of GYTR GRT Yamaha, who finished FP1 in second place with a time of 1:32.233. Gardner’s performance was noteworthy, closing the gap to Razgatlıoğlu by just 0.286 seconds. This marks a significant improvement for Gardner, who has been working to regain his form throughout the season.

Reigning world champion Alvaro Bautista secured third place for Aruba.it Racing Ducati with a time of 1:32.240. He comes to Most on high hopes to challenge Razgatlıoğlu for the championship title.

Danilo Petrucci finished fourth with a time of 1:32.362, while Scott Redding rounded out the top five with a time of 1:32.365. Both riders demonstrated strong pace, suggesting they could be potential threats in the coming races.

Six time WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea initially held second place but ultimately finished sixth with a time of 1:32.465. Rea’s experience and skill are always factors in any race, and his ability to adapt to changing conditions will be crucial as the weekend progresses.

Nicolo Bulega, representing Aruba.it Racing Ducati, finished seventh with a time of 1:32.507. Iker Lecuona of Team HRC came in eighth with 1:32.538. Both riders displayed competitive times, indicating they are in contention for points.

Kawasaki’s Alex Lowes and Motorcorsa’s Michael Ruben Rinaldi rounded out the top ten. Lowes finished ninth with a time of 1:32.595, while Rinaldi struggled to set a competitive lap time after facing technical issues.

The session was not without its challenges, as several riders encountered challenges with track conditions. The nature of the Autodrom Most circuit, with its unique layout and elevation changes, demands precision and control.

Former MotoGP star Andrea Iannone suffered a dismal FP1 as he struggled to find his rhythm on the unfamiliar track and at some point found himself in the gravel. His performance will be closely watched as he aims to return to the podium.

Meanwhile, Riders like Bulega and Lecuona had moments where they ran wide, showing the fine line between speed and control.

2024 Czech WorldSBK FP1 Results