The 2025 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship heads to Hungary for a landmark event at a brand-new venue, with Race 1000 on the horizon
As the WorldSBK paddock arrives at the brand-new Balaton Park Circuit in Hungary, anticipation is high ahead of Round 8 of the 2025 season. It’s more than just another race weekend — it’s a momentous occasion, marking the 1000th race in WorldSBK history. And while the history books are ready to be updated, there’s no shortage of current storylines generating buzz: a new track to conquer, title fights heating up, and the ever-churning “silly season” rumour mill.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team)
“It suits my riding style — and I want to win Race 1000”
Toprak is coming in fired up. With two milestone race wins already under his belt — Race 800 and 900 — the Turkish star is eyeing another: Race 1000. “I’m excited to finally get on this new track. It’s technical, slow in places, and that fits how I ride,” he said. While he previously tested here on a production bike, the real test begins Friday. “It’s not the same as riding a superbike,” he admitted, but he’s optimistic and eager. “I feel pressure to win this special race — and I like that.”
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
“I don’t care which race I win — just that I win”
The Italian rookie remains laser-focused on results, not milestones. “We tested here recently with the road bike, so we know a little bit. Some corners might suit us, others maybe not — but I’m not overthinking it,” Bulega explained. Trailing closely in the standings, he sees no margin for error. “Four points is nothing. I’ll try to win Race 999 and Race 1000. What matters is crossing the line first.”
Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha)
“It’s a huge milestone for the sport — and for me personally”
Rea, a WorldSBK legend, knows how to manage weekends like this. “Free Practice 1 is crucial. We’ll bring a setup similar to Donington, which worked well for us.” Despite speculation over his future, he’s keeping the focus on the present. “We’ll know more over the summer. There are options, yes, but right now it’s about doing a great job this weekend.” Rea also highlighted the emotional side: “WorldSBK has shaped my life. Being part of Race 1000 is very special.”
Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team)
“It reminds me of Cremona and Most — I expect real racing here”
Petrucci brings a wealth of experience — and a knack for racing historic Grands Prix, having also raced in MotoGP’s 1000th event. “Balaton is all about heavy braking and chicanes — my kind of track,” he said. With the unknowns around gear ratios and setup, his team is ready to experiment. On the rider market, he added: “We’re in discussions, but so is the team — with other riders. All I can do is go faster.”
Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team)
“You dream of these moments as a kid”
Lowes heads into the weekend still recovering from a foot injury sustained at Donington but remains optimistic. “The layout here looks good for us on paper, and if we can ride our lines, we’re fast.” His aim? Return to the front and maybe even snatch victory in the historic Race 1000 for bimota. “These are the moments you grow up dreaming about.”
Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha)
“This track suits our bike — we can aim high”
Locatelli is upbeat after watching footage from earlier tests. “There are plenty of chicanes and direction changes — ideal for our Yamaha,” he said. With an eye on a strong weekend, he believes preparation could be the difference-maker: “We need to hit the ground running and build momentum quickly. A podium is within reach.”
Álvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)
“Let’s unlock the secrets of this circuit”
Bautista returns with confidence after a productive previous round. “We tested Balaton on street bikes, and it’s a unique layout. It’s technical, especially after the resurfacing.” But he’s keeping expectations realistic. “The goal is to discover what makes this track tick and build from there. In WorldSBK, tyre management and adapting to the circuit are what really matter.”
Tarran Mackenzie (MGM BONOVO Action)
“This is a real opportunity for me”
Back after missing a round, Mackenzie has landed a full-season opportunity following internal changes at MGM BONOVO Action. “I’m diving in head-first, and I’m thrilled. I’ve maybe not had a bike capable of top results — now I do.” His first goal? “Ride with a smile. A happy rider is a fast rider.”
Xavi Vierge (Honda HRC)
“Balaton gives us a fighting chance”
Vierge is healthy and confident as he returns to form. “I’m feeling 100%, and this circuit gives everyone a reset. When it’s a new track, the advantage levels out.” As for his future? “My dream remains to fight for a title with Honda. I know I have options, but right now it’s too early to decide.”
What Makes Balaton Special?
Balaton Park is unlike anything currently on the WorldSBK calendar. A blend of heavy braking zones, hairpins, and flowing chicanes makes it both technical and overtaking-friendly. Riders are praising its potential to produce close racing — a perfect setting for a milestone weekend. With limited data and no previous Superbike races at the venue, adaptability will be key.
What’s at Stake?
- Race 1000: A landmark moment for the Championship.
- Title implications: The championship battle between Bulega and Razgatlıoğlu is heating up.
- Silly season pressure: Riders like Rea, Petrucci, and Vierge are looking to solidify their 2026 plans.
As engines roar to life this Friday, all eyes will be on Hungary’s newest racing jewel. The stakes are high, the history books are open — and Race 1000 is about to make some noise.
