Razgatlioglu: We are strong in all circuits; aim is to fight for the win
After suffering a first DNF of the season during race two at WorldSBK Assen, Toprak Razgatlioglu has seen his championship challenge take a considerable hit.
The Pata Yamaha rider is 37 points down on Jonathan Rea - the biggest margin between the pair so far this year.
However, Razgatlioglu already overhauled a 23 point deficit at Donington Park just two rounds ago, which is important to remember.
This weekend presents a new challenge for Razgatlioglu and the Yamaha R1, as Autodrom Most makes its first appearance on the World Superbike calendar.
Like most of the grid, Razgatlioglu has never ridden the Czech circuit, but given the Yamaha’ improved consistency and ability to be ‘very strong in all circuits’, the Turkish rider expects to be in victory contention.
Razgatlioglu said: "I am only focused on the coming races, the aim is to fight for the win always.
"I am looking forward to riding the R1 at Most, and it will be a new circuit for almost everyone so we will see what is possible.
"I think we are very strong in all circuits now but we will see what happens.
"My Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK team did an amazing job in Assen, and now we will continue the fight and try for the best position in every race."
One of the standout performances from round five came from Razgatlioglu’s team-mate Andrea Locatelli.
The former Moto2 rider described Assen ‘like a dream’ after claiming a first WorldSBK podium along with top five finishes in the other two races.
"As always, I am excited to get back to riding my R1 WorldSBK and it will be interesting to discover this new circuit in Most," added Locatelli.
"Assen was like a dream, together with my crew we have been working so hard to increase the speed on the limit, and keep taking steps in every race.
"To be on the podium finally in the long race, after leading for more than 10 laps was an amazing feeling!
"Now, we will keep working again and try to be strong to push for more good results this weekend."
