Xavi Artigas takes championship lead at Jerez season finale

The season finale of the FIM Superbike World Championship has commenced at the Circuito de Jerez. In the World Sportbike category, Xavi Artigas of MTM Kawasaki secured his fourth victory of the season during an eventful opening race. Artigas now holds a 13-point advantage in the Riders’ Championship over David Salvador, who failed to score points after a crash involving Carter Thompson.

Alvaro Fuertes secured his first career podium with a third-place finish and will start Sunday’s race from pole position. The championship title remains undecided; Artigas can be crowned champion in the final race through several specific finishing scenarios involving his position relative to Salvador.

In the Superbike category, Xavi Vierge of Pata Maxus Yamaha finished the opening practice sessions within the top 10. Meanwhile, the FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship returned to action, with Beatriz Neila qualifying on the front row in third place.