WorldSSP: History Looks Set To Repeat Itself
Sofuoglu fixes his sights on fifth title
Fresh from his winning form at the Lausitzring, Kawasaki Puccetti Racing’s Kenan Sofuoglu heads to France with one thing on his mind- his fifth World Title.
The Turk can seal the crown in Magny-Cours as long as he finishes in front of his rookie teammate Randy Krummenacher, who hasn’t yet raced at the French circuit. After the announcement at the last round which will see Krummenacher compete in WorldSBK in 2017 with his current team, the Swiss rider will head into Round 11 with only one thing left to do- fight Sofuoglu for the title.
Kawasaki will be celebrating at Magny-Cours when they arrive at the Fassi French Round crowned as Manufacturers Champions. The brand has enough points to take out the manufacturers title thanks to their incredible riders’ performance throughout the year.
Everyone will be looking to Kallio Racing Team’s Niki Tuuli ahead of the Fassi French Round, as the impressive young gun tries to back up his maiden WorldSSP performance that saw him challenge Championship leader Kenan Sofuoglu before finally finishing second in Germany. The Fin’s impressive performance at the Lausitzring will see him push his Yamaha to its limits in a bid to live up to the remarkable reputation he’s built himself as a serious podium contender.
Last year at Magny-Cours, it was Honda World Supersport Team’s 'PJ' Jacobsen who took the win from pole. Though this year he has fallen out of contention for the title, that won’t stop him from trying to repeat last year’s feat. The American has a good track record in France and will be a strong contender ahead of Round 11.
Jules Cluzel will be one to look out for, as he intends to make up for last year’s home round absence and will be fighting for home glory. Cluzel ended his season early last year after a crash in Jerez a round before Magny-Cours, which put him on the sidelines with broken bones. The Frenchman will count on his extensive experience at his home circuit to put his MV Agusta on the podium. FIM Europe Supersport Cup rider Cedric Tangre will be sure to bring the fight for home glory to Cluzel on his Suzuki. The reigning French National Champion won’t let Cluzel get away easily.
Luke Stapleford has been a solid contender all season, with the British Champion always striving to get his Triumph at the front and Magny-Cours will see no less from him.
The battle resumes on Friday 30th of September for the first free practice ahead of race day on Sunday the 2nd of October, which could see Kenan Sofuoglu rewrite the history books and win his fifth FIM Supersport World Championship.
