Federico Caricasulo couldn’t hope for a better start of his home round at Misano. The GRT Yamaha rider topped FP1 in the morning and the rain fallen during FP2 prevented the others to attack his leading position. Finally, “Carica” topped Friday standings with one lap in 1’38.204.
Second place for reigning World Champion Lucas Mahias, while Jules Cluzel ranked third. Something has to be remarked about Cluzel: since Nerds Racing Team seems to be struggling due to financial issues, the Frenchman’s manager is already looking for another team and the most likely destination is Kawasaki Puccetti Racing. The Italian squad may sign “Julo” to replace Sheridan Morais and this would be a good move to secure a top rider. “We put no pressure on the team and the rider, but if he remains unemployed, we would be happy to welcome Jules“, said Puccetti, who was already interested in Cluzel for 2019 season.
Going back to Friday classification, Raffaele De Rosa (MV Agusta Reparto Corse by Vamag) finished fourth ahead of Sandro Cortese (Yamaha Kallio Racing). Kyle Smith, Anthony West, wildcard entry Stefano Valtulini, Randy Krummenacher and other wildcard entry Marco Bussolotti (Yamaha Rossocorsa Edard) closed the top 10 and the list of who goes straight to Superpole 2. 17th place for Rob Hartog, first ESS rider in the classification.
Just six riders improved their laptimes in FP2, compared to the morning: Lucas Mahias, Sandro Cortese, Sheridan Morais, Thomas Gradinger, Eemeli Lahti and Richard Bódis.
Photo Credit: Marco Lanfranchi