Sofuoğlu Celebrates Sensational Podium in All-Action Race 1 at Barcelona

18-09-2021

Sofuoğlu Celebrates Sensational Podium in All-Action Race 1 at Barcelona

Biblion Motoxracing Yamaha WorldSSP300 Supported Team’s Bahattin Sofuoğlu celebrated his first FIM Supersport 300 World Championship podium of the season, finishing second in an action-packed race at Barcelona, with 2020 bLU cRU rider Ton Kawakami edging brother Meikon over the line for third – his maiden podium, while Alvaro Diaz ensured Yamaha made up four of the top five positions.

After topping Friday, Sofuoğlu went on to qualify second on the grid in the morning’s Superpole session. The bLU cRU youngster bided his time throughout Race 1, with the top 32 riders all within the lead group for much of the 12-lap opener.

The Turkish rider was always within range of the podium positions, and on the final two laps began his move towards the front. Sofuoğlu took second place on the last lap and held on to record a long-awaited podium finish.

The Kawakami brothers were separated by just 0.004s over the line, while Diaz, who was part of the 2020 bLU cRU program, enjoyed a fantastic return to the championship to finish fifth at his home event.

For Race 1 results, click here.

Bahattin Sofuoğlu: P2

Biblion Motoxracing Yamaha WorldSSP300 Supported Team

I am very happy with this result. The beginning of the race was very difficult, but I just tried to keep it safe and think about the last laps. I did my best and I’m really happy to get a second place. Tomorrow, I hope to do the same – it will be hard again because there is such a big group of riders, but we will see and try to push for the victory.

Ton Kawakami: P3

This was a really difficult race, with 32 riders all in the lead group. It’s my third year in this category and my first podium, so I’m very happy. I had a strategy for the final lap, I knew if I could get a good exit from the final corner, I could maybe get a podium, and it worked! I’m sorry for taking the podium away from my brother on the run to the line, but we will be pushing to both be there tomorrow.