Heading into the weekend, Diaz needed just one point to claim the title and he gave himself a strong chance in the Superpole, qualifying second on the grid. The race was then red flagged after an incident involving title rival Victor Steeman, who is currently being treated at Faro Hospital.
The race was then delayed and shortened to eight laps, with Diaz battling for victory throughout. In a frenetic final lap, the Spanish youngster eventually finished seventh, which was enough to see him crowned champion. With two victories and 10 podiums, Diaz will get one more chance to add to his impressive season tally in tomorrow's final contest.
Up ahead, 2021 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup graduate Humberto Maier enjoyed a sensational outing at the Algarve International Circuit. From 11th on the grid, the Brazilian muscled his way into the front fight on the final lap, crossing the line in third for the first podium of his maiden campaign.
Mirko Gennai was also in the top group battle, finishing fifth, ahead of Misano and Magny-Cours race-winner Matteo Vannucci. Behind Diaz came 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup winner Enzo Valentim; the Brazilian producing a stellar comeback from 27th on the grid to cross the line just 0.557s off the podium in eighth.
Yamaha’s first WorldSSP300 champion Marc Garcia rounded out the top 10, while 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup rider Wahyu Nugroho impressed on his world championship debut, scoring points from 18th on the grid.
For Race 1 results, click here.