In the Supersport World Championship the dramatic conclusion to last weekend's Imola race, when the only two remaining championship protagonists Kenan Sofuoglu and Eugene Laverty collided in the final chicane, has built up anticipation all the more for the final round at Magny-Cours, France, this weekend.
Sofuoglu is in the box seat 16 points ahead, leaving Laverty in the position of having to go for the win and hope that other results work in his favour. Sofuoglu, who was champion of this class with the same Hannspree Ten Kate team in 2007, is therefore very much in the driving seat entering the French round.
"I really wanted to win last weekend in Italy but it didn't happen," Sofuoglu said. "The positive thing is that I have a 16-point advantage over Eugene going to Magny-Cours, so I am in a good position. The points I got at Imola mean I have to finish sixth or better to score enough, no matter what else happens. But we will be going out to win if we can."
Parkalgar Honda's Laverty needs to win - end of story.
"I am looking forward to the Magny-Cours race, although it is a pity that the points gap could not be closer. I am looking to be on form and be able to ride more like myself. I have had some treatment on my shoulder to make sure I am back at 100% for the final race. I want to win even if I don't win the championship. I have won more races than anyone else this year and Kenan knows that, which is why he wanted to beat me in Imola. I want to win the last race and I'm sure Kenan wants to do the same," the Irishman said.
Kawasaki's Joan Lascorz will still finish third in the championship despite missing the last three rounds after a horrific crash at Silverstone. Broc Parkes will once again fill on for the Kawasaki Provec Motocard.com rider. In his two outings with the team the Australian has finished third and fourth.
‰ÛÏI didn‰Ûªt get a great start in the last round so that is the first thing to think about for the French round," Parkes said. "Still one race to go this year, so I hope I can do an even better job at the final one. I usually do quite well in France, had a win and a few podiums there in WSS racing, so I‰Ûªm out to finish with another good race weekend. The only question may be the weather at this time of year.‰Û
