WSBK AUSTRALIA REVEIW
Ducati Dominates 2023 World Superbikes and World Supersport Opener at Phillip Island
The engines roared back to life at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit as the 2023 season of the World Superbikes and World Supersport championships burst onto the scene. This year, the Grand Ridge Brewery Australian Round marked the opening of the season at the beloved seaside circuit, bringing a post-COVID revival to the racing fervor. This iconic venue also hosted the final pre-season test, intensifying the anticipation for a thrilling championship.
Following the whirlwind finale of the 2022 Motul FIM Superbike World Championship, the production bike category was back in action for the 2023 opener, showcasing a compelling clash of competitors. The past three world champions, equipped with a formidable form guide from the previous Phillip Island round, aimed to extend their championship conquests in a tight contest.
While seasoned champions adorned the grid, fresh faces added an exciting dimension to the competition. Former MotoGP riders Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati) and Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK), along with two-time World Supersport Champion Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK), Lorenzo Baldassarri (GMT94 Yamaha), and MotoE star Eric Granado (MIE Racing Honda) joined the fray, injecting new energy into the field.
The racing spectacle unfolded amidst homologation changes for 2023 in the World Superbike (WSBK) category. Striking new aero parts adorned the BMW M1000RR, the Ducati Panigale V4R showcased a new engine spec, and the Kawasaki ZX-10RR sported a fresh air intake system. These innovations prompted debates about the "production" aspect of the production bike category, as the new features diverged from their standard counterparts.
In treacherous wet conditions, Alvaro Bautista stormed into the lead, closely pursued by Jonathan Rea. Despite Bautista's early advantage, Rea swiftly claimed the lead within the opening lap. The race witnessed a series of dramatic incidents, including crashes involving Michael van der Mark and Tom Sykes, as well as a retirement by Sykes.
In a captivating turn of events, Bautista briefly reclaimed the lead on Lap 10 before a hair-raising slide almost led to disaster. Meanwhile, Razgatlioglu's third-place position was maintained with a comfortable margin, and Lowes' unfortunate crash altered the complexion of the race.
Bautista emerged triumphant, securing a commanding victory over Rea. Razgatlioglu completed the podium, with Locatelli rounding out the top four. Notably, Axel Bassani showcased remarkable progress by advancing from 14th to fifth.
As the Superpole Race results determined the front grid for Race 2, Bautista secured pole position. In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Bautista surged ahead, accumulating a lead of over six seconds by the race's conclusion. Rinaldi followed in his wake, while Rea's struggle for grip saw him relinquish positions.
In a tale of contrasts, the season opener saw Bautista reign supreme, securing a clean sweep of three wins from three starts. His dominant performance earned him an impressive 62-point haul. While Rea and Razgatlioglu faced a 28 and 39-point deficit, respectively, Bautista's early-season supremacy showcased his championship aspirations.
Phillip Island's breathtaking twists and turns set the stage for a captivating season, as riders gear up for the challenges that lie ahead. The inaugural rounds have set the tone for an enthralling campaign, promising fans a thrilling spectacle as the competition unfolds.
