The new Portimao circuit has come in for substantial praise from both World Superbike riders and team bosses following the first day of action around the Portuguese circuit.

The track, officially known as the Parkalgar Algarve Motor Park, is hosting its first event this weekend after being designed and built in less than a year.

Indeed, while the adverse weather conditions that are somewhat indicative of its late October/early November position were causing some problems for the riders as they learnt their way around the circuit, a round thumbs up was nonetheless given for the challenge it represents.

Provisional pole sitter Troy Corser was particularly impressed, suggesting the circuit, which has been designed to feature several undulations, has a layout similar to that of American tracks.

“I love the layout of this track,” he muses. “It reminds me of some of the USA tracks because of all the ups and downs. I like going to new tracks and the challenge of learning them and building up knowledge bit by bit.

“This circuit is a technical track and although it is not hard to learn, it is the kind of track where it's difficult to shave off those last fractions of a second. There are some corners where it's possible to make up half a second or more if you know exactly what you are doing.”

Carlos Checa, meanwhile, states that the circuit is 'one of the most fun circuits' he has ever competed on, while Regis Laconi adds that he believes the track is very 'dynamic'.

It wasn't just riders coming out in Portimao's praise though, with Yamaha Italia team boss Massimo Meregalli impressed with the quality of the facilities and infrastructure, particularly given its meagre ten-month building scale.

“It is an unbelievable track, one of the most beautiful circuits in the world. They did a great job here, and all in ten months. I think it is also a good winter test venue, especially as it is in Europe."