WorldSBK | Alvaro Bautista is two-time Superbike World Champion

The world of superbike racing witnessed another epic chapter as Alvaro Bautista, riding the formidable Panigale V4 R for the Ducati team, clinched his second consecutive World Superbike WorldSBK Championship title.

Bautista’s thrilling campaign culminated in his coronation at the Jerez – Angel Nieto Circuit, following an impressive victory in Race 1, on Saturday, and Superpole race and Race 2, on Sunday.

The race began with Bautista determined to establish a lead over his competitors, while Toprak Razgatlioglu (Yamaha) started from the seventh position.

Toprak knew he needed to win the race to keep his title hopes alive, but Bautista was not willing to yield. Despite Razgatlioglu’s early pressure, the reigning champion managed to extend his lead, reaching nearly a second’s advantage by lap 11.

Needing just two points to secure his second title, Bautista crossed the finish line with a little over a second’s lead, solidifying his position as a two-time SBK world champion.

This victory also made history as he became the first Ducati rider to retain the title since Carl Fogarty in 1998 and 1999. It’s remarkable to think that when Bautista and Ducati parted ways in 2019, no one foresaw their reunion in 2022 and 2023, clinching back-to-back titles.

Bautista’s 2023 season was marked by a stunning start. From the first round at Phillip Island, where he secured a hat-trick of victories, it was clear that Bautista was in top form.

In the following 12 races, he won 11 of them, showcasing an impressive dominance. His determination and speed allowed him to equal and break records, such as the number of consecutive wins on a Ducati and the number of wins in a single season.

However, the second half of the season was not without challenges. Toprak Razgatlioglu and other competitors found their form, resulting in intense battles.

Moments like Bautista’s defeat in the Imola Superpole Race and a crash in Race 2 at Donington Park tightened the championship race. Nevertheless, Bautista displayed his resilience, recovering points and staying focused on his goal.

Bautista’s coronation in Jerez marked the thrilling end of an incredible season. His exceptional performance placed him in a special place in the world of superbike racing, making him only the fifth rider in history to claim consecutive titles. With Ducati, he made history by defending the World Superbike Championship title.

Alvaro Bautista is a living legend in the world of superbike racing, and his journey to a second title is a testament to his skill, passion, and determination. His achievements leave fans eager to see what the future holds, as Bautista continues to etch his name in the two-wheeled sport.

For more info, access the WorldSBK website.