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WorldSSP: It’s crunch time

Tuesday, 9 October 2018 08:14 GMT

Two rounds remain for the intermediate class and everything is on the line

In one of the most anticipated battles out on track each weekend, the FIM Supersport World Championship is preparing for the penultimate round of the season at Circuito San Juan Villicum, and with the first chance for the title to be won, there’s a lot on the line. But as they head into the unknown at the new 4.2km circuit, the warriors are heading in on an even battleground and it could be even more unpredictable than normal.

For main title protagonist Sandro Cortese (Kallio Racing) a new track will put him on equal footing to his rivals, as he has spent the season learning new tracks in his rookie year. With an 11 point lead in the standings, a win with Jules Cluzel (NRT) finishing in sixth would be enough for him to secure the title, but a lot needs to happen before the German can get to that point. Unable to match the pace of Cluzel in France, Cortese’s six podiums and two wins will stand him in a strong position for a fight in Argentina.

Heading back from his home round on a high, Jules Cluzel was on sensational form at Magny-Cours and still has the title in his sights. Heading into the penultimate round of the season as determined as ever, the Frenchman has had a turbulent season but has taken six podiums and four wins so far. Facing a new challenge in Argentina, he will have the title in the back of his mind throughout.

Third in the championship standings, Randy Krummenacher (BARDHAL Evans Bros. WorldSSP Team) was strong in the last flyaway round of the season – winning the Thai race. But the visits to Europe have been a struggle for the Swiss rider, as he last finished on the podium at TT Circuit Assen back in May. With a string of top five finishes, he has always been close to the top, but has missed that final stretch. Looking for redemption this season, he is still in with a shout for the crown and could throw up some surprises.

Following a recent surge in form, Federico Caricasulo (GRT Yamaha Official WorldSSP Team) has been able to take two back to back wins in WorldSSP, but faced heartbreak in France. Crashing on the final lap after an overtake from his team-mate, he was able to re-join and take 13th position in the race, which keeps him in the championship battle. Heading into the unknown, he will be out to regain his form after a difficult final European Round.

Follow all the WorldSSP action from 12th – 14th October from the MOTUL Argentinean Round, with lights going out for the race at 14:30LT (-3 GMT), all on the WorldSBK VideoPass.