Race 2 promised to have more close racing, as many riders in Race 1 proved they could race near the top (not to mention, many riders in WSBK have contracts up for renewal). With Imola being the home track for the Ducati loyal, a lot of fans we’re waiting to see the red bikes up front.

Many Xerox Ducati fans were also keen to see if Haga could retake the lead in the World Superbike Championship standings with a strong showing at Imola. They would not be disappointed, a full race report after the jump.


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Everyone was excited about the return to Imola for the World Superbike circus. This is the circuit that decided the 2002 season between Troy Bayliss and Colin Edwards (in Edward’s favor) and is the first meeting with Ben Spies in the points lead. However riders have turned only 2 laps in the first practice session before all coming in complaining about a lack of grip.

The live timing at the official site is frozen with just 5 minutes of the opening practice session run and riders completing no more than 2 laps. Ironically Troy Croser on the BMW is on top with surprise 250GP entrant and soon to be MotoGP star, Marco Simoncelli recording the 2nd fastest time on his Aprilia RSV4 World Superbike debut.

The grip problems seems to stem from the World Touring Car Championship racing from last weekend. No-one is sure what the problem is, too much cleaning or still some remaining oil but the riders are not happy and the teams are in a huddle with organizers whilst a solution is sought.

There is likely to be no more riding today.

Source: MotoGPMatters.com