Turkish racer Razgatlioglu returns with 2nd Superbike Championship title
Toprak Razgatlioglu, Türkiye’s national motorcycle racer, returned home after securing his second Superbike World Championship.
He confirmed his title after finishing second in the first race of the 2024 Superbike World Championship’s final round in Jerez, Spain.
With this performance, the Turkish racer increased his points total to 493, earning him the championship. Competing in his debut season with ROKiT BMW Motorrad, he celebrated his second world title, following his 2021 victory.
Razgatlioglu landed at Istanbul Airport where he was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters, friends and family.
Among those welcoming him was five-time world champion Kenan Sofuoglu, who played a significant role in mentoring Razgatlioglu throughout his career.
Turkish racer Razgatlioglu expresses pride and gratitude for his achievement
Speaking to the press upon arrival, Razgatlioglu shared his joy. “I am so proud to have won the world championship again and to have brought this title to my country. It wasn’t an easy season, but finishing as champion is an incredible feeling. We made sure that our national anthem was heard across many countries,” he said, reflecting on the impact of his success.
Razgatlioglu also mentioned the challenges he faced, including early doubts about his move to BMW. “At the start of the season, I signed with BMW, and people had a lot of negative things to say. But we set a new record by winning 13 consecutive races. After a crash, we made a big comeback and fought hard to win the championship again,” he said.
He thanked the Turkish Motorcycle Federation, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and his sponsor Red Bull for their unwavering support throughout the season.
Looking ahead, Razgatlioglu confirmed his ambitions to continue his winning streak. “I aim to win the world championship again next year,” he stated, adding that his current focus is on celebrating his latest victory.
Kenan Sofuoglu urges Türkiye to recognize Razgatlioglu’s success
Kenan Sofuoglu, who has been instrumental in shaping Razgatlioglu’s career, stressed the importance of acknowledging the rider’s achievements in Türkiye.
“The world knows Toprak, but it is disappointing that Türkiye hasn’t fully recognized him. I also want to honor our late president Bekir Yunus Ucar, who played a huge role in planning this championship with Toprak. We currently have one of the world’s top motorcycle racers, and we should appreciate his value,” Sofuoglu remarked.
Razgatlioglu left the airport in a convoy of motorcycles, with his supporters riding alongside him to celebrate the victory. The Turkish racer’s win has not only brought further recognition to Türkiye on the global stage but also inspired a new wave of motorsport fans within the country.
Razgatlioglu’s triumph marks another step in his illustrious career, as he looks forward to defending his title in the upcoming season. With his focus set on continued success, the Turkish racer is poised to make more waves in the international motorsport scene.
