Yari Montella (3rd/Ducati): The Italian will never forget this podium

The first race of the 2026 Superbike World Championship at the Misano World Circuit ended with a big green, white and red party. The top six rode motorbikes from Italy (4 Ducati and 2 Bimota) and five riders in the top seven were Italian. Factory rider Nicolò Bulega, who took his first Superbike victory in Misano, and Yari Montella, who took his first podium in the top category ahead of his compatriots, were at the centre of the frenetic cheers from the Tifosi.

The Ducati privateer was particularly overwhelmed in third place, while Montella laid the foundations for a successful race with fourth place on the grid in Superpole. The 26-year-old maintained third position from the first to the last lap and was only under pressure at times.

"I was a bit surprised at the beginning when the others didn't get away from me faster. The second sector here in Misano really suits me, which is why I was able to keep up for a while," analysed the Barni Racing rider in a small journalists' round on Saturday afternoon. "I had Baldassarri behind me and I mentally prepared myself for a tough battle. I know Balda and he is a tough nut to crack in the race. I felt sorry for him when he crashed, but it made it easier for me to control the gaps."

Yari Montella: Cheered on the podium by family, friends and fans

Montella comes from Oliveto Citra, a sleepy village in the south of Italy. His family, friends and fans from the region made the 600-kilometre journey to Misano - and it was worth it.

"I am very proud - we have achieved something incredible in Misano, in front of my family and fans and at my team's home race. I certainly won't forget this day in a hurry," said the Ducati rider, struggling for composure. "I've finished second here before in the Supersport category, but a podium in the Superbike category is a different league. More emotional."

The podium was also emotional for team boss Marco Barnabo, who received Montella in the parc fermé with tears in his eyes. "It's my first Superbike podium in Italy, which is very special. Marco was also completely over the moon, just so happy," said Montella. "He is a very special person and I am proud and happy that he trusts me. We are a private team, but we do everything we can to achieve the maximum."

Also: Because Sam Lowes (Ducati) crashed and Alex Lowes (Bimota) finished fifth, Montella moved up past the twins to third place in the World Championship.