Locatelli narrowly misses out on double Jerez World Superbike podium

Andrea Locatelli agonisingly missed out on a double Jerez World Superbike podium following last lap battles with Scott Redding and Alvaro Bautista.

In race one, Locatelli looked set for his first podium since the opening race at Magny-Cours, however, a late charge from Redding saw the Italian eventually relegated to fourth. 

Locatelli was able to edge away from Redding around mid-race distance before the 2019 BSB champion’s late race pace - similar to what he showed in race two - came into full effect.

Redding used the Ducati’s power out of turn four to get alongside the Yamaha man heading into turn five. Locatelli managed to stay close but was unable to counter the British rider. 

In race two, it was a similar theme as Locatelli held third for much of it after getting past Jonathan Rea. 

But a fast charging Bautista was able to use his CBR1000RR-R’ straight-line speed to get ahead of Locatelli into turn one.

Still, it’s another two top five finishes that demonstrate the continuous improvements that Locatelli and Yamaha are making together. 

Speaking after race two, Locatelli added: "So in the end it’s another good weekend for us, I’m a little bit frustrated because we lost the possibility for two podiums today but in the end we can be happy because when we arrived here on Friday it was not so easy for me to take a feeling with the bike. 

"Then, yesterday we lost the opportunity to make a race but it was the correct decision to cancel the racing. 

"Today we just missed the podium but we improved to become stronger and also faster during the race. I want to try and stay with the first group and in race one we did not do so badly. 

"In race two, I lose a little bit the feeling and I can’t stay with the front group but in any case it’s a positive performance and for sure we will continue in this way. 

"Now, my experience is getting better and we will see in Portimao, but I want to say thanks to the guys because we work very well and they make an amazing job. 

"Most importantly, I want to say that I am so sorry to the friends and family of Dean Berta Viñales."