P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alvaro Bautista believes he was “able to fight for the podium” if he didn’t crash at the first turn of Czech WorldSBK Race 2.
Despite being a two-time World Superbike Champion, Alvaro Bautista’s Czech WorldSBK Race 2 ended abruptly at the first corner due to contact with Jonathan Rea, making him miss out on a potential podium finish. The collision led to Bautista crashing out while Rea received a double long lap penalty for the incident, with Xavi Vierge facing assessments for a possible right foot fracture following the race weekend. Bautista expressed disappointment in missing the chance for a podium, having finished fifth in Race 1 and the Superpole Race despite starting 10th on the grid. He remains optimistic about their performance and narrowing the gap with the leaders in the competitive field of World Superbike racing. Bautista highlighted the increase in competitiveness in the category, with more riders vying for the front positions and faster lap times, driving the need to push harder and improve. The Spanish rider showed promise with a strong finish in the Superpole Race but was frustrated by missed opportunities in Race 2, emphasizing the challenges of the first chicane that often hindered his progress.
