Two more podiums for Rea

Third fastest in practice, Jonathan Rea came out fighting on Saturday afternoon by taking and holding the lead for ten laps in the first race. “Unfortunately, it was really hot this weekend in Misano and the end of the race was difficult," admitted the six-time world champion. “Alvaro managed his tyres better and that made the difference over the last laps.” Second at the chequered flag, Rea returned to the podium in the Sprint race the following day before finishing fourth in the second round of the Italian weekend. “I didn't have the same pace as the leaders," confirmed the Brit. “Clearly, I suffered more than them from the track’s lack of grip. I was sliding coming into corners and this was causing some front end dribble. I think I did the best I could this weekend.”

The Elf rider continues to be strong in difficult circumstances and consolidated his second place in the overall standings. Alex Lowes got off to a good start at Misano with his best result of the season in the first race, scoring a fifth place. The British rider then went on to take two eighth places, while also suffering from a lack of grip on the Italian track. Lowes lost two places in the final race after being forced to take a long lap penalty following a yellow flag overtake. "I lacked confidence in the front of the bike all weekend because of the heat."