The World Superbike Championship (WSBK) concluded its first race at the Misano circuit in Italy. Nicolo Bulega, who took a holeshot from pole position, lost the lead to Iker Lecuona shortly after the first run; however, he overtook his rival before the end of the first lap, regaining the lead and finishing the race in first place. Türkiye's representative, Bahattin Sofuoğlu, finished in 16th place.
Lecuona was leading, but Bulega pulled it back with an early move.
After Lecuona took the lead in the opening section of the race, Yari Montella moved up to third place. Bulega, giving his rival little time, pulled ahead with an aggressive overtaking maneuver and never relinquished control. The battle for fourth place continued fiercely at the back of the pack in the later stages of the race. Bulega secured pole position by breaking the track record in Misano. It was a harbinger of victory.
Bahattin remained far from the points zone.
Turkish rider Bahattin Sofuoğlu fought hard throughout the challenging race, but finishing 16th was a disappointing result. Falling far behind the positions needed to score points, Bahattin will aim to perform better in the Superpole and Race 2 races later in the day. With three different race formats at Misano weekend, each stage offers a unique opportunity for the riders.
According to the completed podium standings, Bulega finished first, Lecuona second, and Montella third. The overall championship lead will continue to unfold after Misano.
Nicolo Bulega finished the first race in Misano at the top! 🏁
Bahattin Sofuoğlu finished the race in 16th place! 🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/ZFbth1HAyS
— S Sport Plus (@ssportplustr) June 13, 2026