Superbike returns to Valencia: Iker Lecuona gets a home race

The Superbike World Championship has always had a tough time in Spain, as MotoGP has traditionally been far more prominent on the Iberian Peninsula. Whilst this is no different in Italy or the UK, the production-based world championship also has a large fan base in those countries.

However, if there is one region in Spain where the Superbike World Championship is better known, it is Valencia. Between 2000 and 2010, eleven consecutive rounds took place at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. It was the era of icons such as Noriyuki Haga, Frankie Chili, Colin Edwards, Troy Corser and Troy Bayliss. The strongest Spanish riders in the field were Ruben Xaus and Gregorio Lavilla.

When the Superbike World Championship returns to Valencia next year, Iker Lecuona will be the star attraction for the event. The 26-year-old was born and raised in Valencia – and, riding for the Aruba.it Ducati factory team, he is among the title contenders for 2027.

“As a child, we always used to go to the Superbike races in Cheste,” Lecuona recalls vividly. “I always wondered why we didn’t go back there – that would be perfect. I was told about it a few months ago, when the deal was becoming more concrete. I was really pleased about that, because I was still racing here a few years ago and nothing beats a proper home race. I think people will love it. Unlike in MotoGP, the paddock is open and you can meet up with people. Everything’s more relaxed.”

It’s astonishing: of the 19 riders who have won a Superbike World Championship title, only Carlos Checa is from Spain. Now aged 53, he won the 2011 World Championship with the Ducati-backed Althea Racing team. Lecuona uses the same race number as his compatriot.

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“Early on in my career, I was a fan of Carlos Checa,” Lecuona revealed. “We went to Valencia for the Superbike World Championship to watch him race there – with the number 7. I’ve always liked that number.”

2027 Superbike and Supersport World Championship calendar: