Chaz Davies is confident he will be in a better position to challenge the Kawasaki riders at this weekend’s Portuguese round of the World Superbike Championship. The Aruba.it Ducati rider was a distant third behind Tom Sykes and Jonathan Rea at Donington Park but believes the Panigale R will be more competitive while also stressing that he enjoys the Algarve circuit much more.
“I really like the Portimao track and think it is one of the best tracks in the world. It has elements that are similar to a motocross track and in certain sections it’s a little like a BSB track. We had a solid weekend there last year and I’m optimistic that we can do well and put up a good fight against our biggest rivals. We continue to aim for podium finishes at every round, something I’ve achieved in every race that I’ve finished so far…”
Davies’ teammate Davide Giugliano is also relishing the challenge of Portimao and expects to be a contender at the sharp end of the field on Sunday.
“Portimao is a fun track but also, I think, one of the most difficult tracks of all. Last year we achieved a significant podium finish in Portugal and this season, considering all of the improvements that have been made to my bike, I would hope to be able to do better. After the Donington weekend my motivation is even higher and I hope that Sunday can bring two strong results.”