The curtain falls on one of the greatest chapters in Superbike history. Six-time world champion Jonathan Rea is living his final moments in WorldSBK. Two final rounds—Estoril and Jerez—in an attempt to give Yamaha a farewell podium before turning the page. The man who reigned supreme with Kawasaki is leaving the stage, but refuses to go out the back door.
He also arrives with a little hope: his fifth place in Race 2 at Aragon gave him back his confidence. No miracle victory in sight, but perhaps one last flourish, just to remind the paddock that he remains a warrior.
Si Sale has promised to continue riding motocross for fun, his professional future is intriguing. And the calls have been pouring in since Endurance. BMW, who came close to the world title in 2025 and is clearly aiming for the crown in 2026, dreams of adding the Northern Irish legend to his endurance program. The image would be powerful: the former king of Superbike to conquer theE.W.C..
Jonathan Rea: One last challenge for a champion who refuses to be forgotten
More Yamaha has not said its last word. Niccolò Canepa, its road racing manager, admitted it bluntly:
« We are in close contact. His passion is intact. We want to help it end beautifully, and then see together what the future holds. »
Translation : Yamaha wants to prevent his former champion from going off to strengthen a rival... while banking on his aura to establish his own endurance project.
Sale has little left to prove, but he refuses to disappear quietly. Test driver, endurance, Suzuka—the Northern Irishman still wants to smell the scent of gasoline and podiums. And he knows that his name, his six titles, and his experience carry a lot of weight. If he chooses BMW, it will be a huge marketing coup for the Germans; if he stays at home Yamaha , it will become a symbol of loyalty and a significant technical reinforcement.
In a paddock often merciless with former glories, Jonathan Rhea could well succeed in its ultimate pirouette: not to disappear, but to reinvent itself.
