Record-breaking Superbike champion Jonathan Rea recently expressed his admiration for current World Championship leader Toprak Razgatlioglu. In an interview with speedweek, Rea said: “If he had grown up in the MotoGP paddock, he would be one of the best there too. »
Jonathan Rhea, holder of six consecutive world titles and 119 victories in Superbike, is undoubtedly the most successful rider since the creation of the championship in 1988. With 263 podiums to his credit, Sale recognizes the exceptional talent of Toprak Razgatlioglu, a young Turkish pilot from 27 years old which impresses with its daring braking maneuvers and its unique style.
Rea recalls the time he helped Toprak early in his career: “ he was riding a Kawasaki ZX-10 at the time and didn't have the bike to fight Rinaldi on the Ducati, but he still fought against him. He is the talent of his generation. » He adds with conviction: “ I am sure that if he had grown up in the GP paddock, he would also be one of the best there."
Jonathan Rea: “ Toprak Razgatlioglu is the talent of his generation »
Toprak Razgatlioglu is currently the benchmark in Superbike, according to Sale : " he does a great job. » Despite his current contract with BMW for the Superbike World Championship until the end of next year, rumors have circulated regarding a possible transfer to MotoGP for 2025, prompted by his manager Kenan Sofuoglu. However, the same Sofuoglu recently confirmed that Toprak would honor its contract with BMW.
There have been rumors of interest from the MotoGP factory team Repsol Honda for Razgatlioglu. However, an insider of Honda downplayed these discussions: “ I don't think there were ever any more in-depth discussions. Honda's priority is to extend the contract with Joan Mir. And Luca Marini's contract runs until the end of next year anyway."
The recognition of Jonathan Rhea towards Toprak Razgatlioglu highlights the respect and admiration that even the greatest champions have for new talents. “ Unfortunately, he is no longer the youngest in this world, " added Sale, highlighting the fleeting nature of the careers of top pilots. However, it is clear that, in the world of Superbike, Toprak is a force to be reckoned with, and one who would also have made a splash in MotoGP. In the meantime, he will still be the star of this weekend's meeting at Donington which will offer a new round of the category reserved for motorcycles derived from the series.
