Sofuoglu wins fifth WSS title

At Jerez, Sofuoglu's only championship rival, Puccetti team mate Randy Krummenacher, crashed, assuring the 32-year-old Turkish rider of not only the 2016 championship, but also a place in history by becoming the only rider to win five WSS championships. This year's title was preceded by championships in 2015, 2012, 2010 and 2007.

At Jerez, Sofuoglu got the holeshot and led his team mate for the opening laps, despite needing to finish no better than eighth, even if Krummenacher won. When Krummenacher crashed out of the lead on lap 5, the Turk knew that he was champion, regardless of where he finished.

Sofuoglu still chose to battle for the race win, though, against wildcard Niki Tuuli (Kallio Racing Team Yamaha) and Kyle Smith (CIA Landlord Insurance Honda). Tuuli actually led for a number of laps in the race's middle section before Sofuoglu's experience and pace prevailed, taking the race win by 2.728 seconds.

 

After a rocky start to his championship defence this year with a crash at Phillip Island, Sofuoglu bounced back with wins at Aragon and Imola, as well as podiums at Assen and Chang. Victories at Donington, Misano and the Lausitzring put Sofuoglu in the box seat, despite a fall at the Magny Cours round prior to Jerez.

With the 2016 WSS title decided, the battle is on for the runner-up position, only seven points separating Krummenacher, Jules Cluzel (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) and PJ Jacobsen (Honda World Supersport Team) ahead of the final round at Qatar, which takes place on 30 October.