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Bimota rider Axel Bassani admits he struggled in places but didn’t expect his results at the WorldSBK season opener in Phillip Island.
Italian Bimota rider Axel Bassani admitted to struggling in certain areas but was pleasantly surprised by his performance at the WorldSBK season opener in Phillip Island. Due to limited pre-season testing caused by bad weather in Jerez and Portimao, Bassani had his most successful WorldSBK weekend yet at the 2026 season opener. He secured fourth place in Race 1 and finished second in both the Sunday Superpole Race and Race 2, achieving two podium finishes – his first with Bimota – and equaling his career-best result. Despite these strong showings, Bassani acknowledged that there are crucial areas where Bimota needs to improve for smoother corner entry and exit. Working with his new crew chief, Uri Pallares, who previously partnered with six-time WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea, has already enhanced communication regarding bike setup for Bassani. The rider expressed satisfaction with their collaboration, highlighting the ease of explaining his feelings about the bike and the potential for improvement in their performance despite it being their first weekend working together.
