Ducati Dominates Pre-Season Testing
During the Philip Island WSBK 2025 pre-season test, Ducati emerged as the frontrunner, with Nicolò Bulega setting the fastest times. His impressive pace and consistency have made him an early favourite for the championship. Andrea Iannone and Danilo Petrucci also showed strong performances, indicating a dominant season ahead for Ducati.
Toprak Razgatlioglu's Resilience - Reigning champion Toprak Razgatlioglu faced challenges during testing, including a massive high-side crash. Despite this setback, his determination and skill shone through as he secured competitive lap times, proving he remains a formidable contender.
Jonathan Rea out with Injury - The multiple WSBK Champion will have to sit out the opening race in what will be a crucial year for himself and the Crescent-run Pata Maxus Yamaha Team. The Northern Irishman has fractured bones in his foot after his R1 collected him post crash. He is awaiting surgery.
Excitement Builds for Race Weekend! - As the first race weekend approaches, anticipation is at an all-time high. The introduction of the flag-to-flag rule, which requires mandatory pit stops due to unpredictable weather and varying track temperatures, has added an extra layer of strategy and excitement to the races.
With Ducati's dominant performance in testing, all eyes will be on Nicolò Bulega, Andrea Iannone, and Danilo Petrucci as they aim to carry their momentum into the races. Their strong start has set high expectations for the team.
Phillip Island is renowned for its high-speed corners and challenging layout, promising thrilling battles and close finishes. Expect dramatic duels and nail-biting moments as riders push their limits on the iconic circuit.
The flag-to-flag rule is expected to come into play as weather conditions can change rapidly. Riders and teams will need to adapt adding an element of unpredictability to the races.
Nicolò Bulega: "There were a lot of very fast riders in the test: me, Toprak Razgatlioglu, Andrea Iannone, Danilo Petrucci, Andrea Locatelli, Alvaro Bautista. A lot of fast guys were very close, so it will be an interesting weekend".
Remy Gardner: “Tyre life is not a problem here so I don’t understand why we are doing flag-to-flag. It was proven in the test that it was fine".
Garrett Gerloff: "I’m happy with the team and their pit stops, so I know we’ll have no problems with that. I am focused on having a good in-lap and out-lap. Hopefully that makes a difference".
Ryan Vickers: "It’s not going to be a big deal; the Ducati and the electronics system have got a really good strategy of making sure we spent the correct time in the pits. The team have done a fantastic job with the wheel changes".
Who will be the first to the top of the 2025 podium?
WSBK Philip Island Rd 1 2025 Race Schedule (UK/GMT)
Free practice: Friday 21st February 12.15am and 4.45am
Superpole: Saturday 22nd February 1.45am / Race 1: 4.30am
Raceday: Sunday 23rd February (Superpole Race): 1.45am / Race 2: 4.30am
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