Toprak Razgatlioglu returns to action at final Aragon WorldSBK test

Toprak Razgatlioglu was part of a ten rider line-up at this week’s final WorldSBK pre-season test of 2021 for Yamaha, Kawasaki and BMW.  

Most importantly for Razgatlioglu it meant a return to action having missed the final day of the lone Official WorldSBK organised test in early April at Barcelona, along with Yamaha’s private test nearly two weeks ago at Aragon. 

Until contracting Covid-19, Razgatlioglu was one of the standout riders during the pre-season which comes after his best year yet in 2020 that saw him take three wins and six other podiums. 

But Razgatlioglu showed no lingering effects of the Covid-19 virus on his return at MotorLand Aragon, as he was third quickest overall behind Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes.  

"I was excited to be back on my Yamaha R1 after a long wait! Day one was ok, I enjoyed riding a lot, but day two was a positive improvement after we tried some new parts to find a good set-up for the first race," said Razgatlioglu.  

"I felt the lap times were coming really good on the race tyres, but as always we will have to see what happens in the races." 

The Turkish rider also believes he’s stronger heading into this season with Aragon proving to be one of the rounds that gave him the most problems.

Razgatlioglu said: "I think this year I am more strong, last year I was not fast at this track but this time I have improved physically and mentally. 

"The conditions have been quite hot, and to test some new parts in these conditions and find some improvements is good preparation. 

"Now we must put together the best package, but I am happy to be back and I feel ready for the first race."