Roberta Ponziani (30), who finished fourth in the World Championship, asks herself: “Is it worth the effort?”

Since the Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship was founded in 2024, Roberto Ponziani has been a regular contender at the front of the field. The Italian has finished in the top five in all three seasons and, with one win and six podium finishes, is the most successful non-Spanish rider.

In the 2026 WorldWCR, Ponziani posted an impressive record. She finished in the top five in ten out of twelve races, including three podium finishes. The low point was a crash at her home race in Misano whilst lying in third place. “It was a season full of ups and downs, successes, defeats, podium finishes and moments when everything seemed more difficult than expected,” said the 30-year-old from Teramo, summarising her feelings about the six race weekends. “After the crash at Misano and on many other occasions, I asked myself whether it was still worth the effort – especially given the ever-increasing costs. Beyond the result, I took a lot home with me: lessons, insights and the certainty that, despite everything, I am still deeply grateful to be part of this sport.”

It was only at the season finale in Jerez that Ponziani lost third place in the World Championship to her team-mate Paola Ramos, who celebrated a flawless one-two finish at her home race. “I can only congratulate Paola on her incredible pace throughout the season. I tried to learn the ease with which she approaches the races and the determination she brings to every opportunity,” said the Klint Forward rider appreciatively, thanking her team and supporters. “I am grateful to them all for their patience, professionalism and hard work in consistently putting me in the best possible position, and for giving me a sense of calm and confidence in every session and every race.”

Just like a year ago, Ponziani is faced with the question of what lies ahead next year – at least not with the Forward team. “It’s a question I can’t answer at the moment,” said Ponziani, who works in her family’s bakery, with a sigh. “2027 will bring many changes and a new challenge. With just a few days to go before the registration deadline, I find myself without a team and facing a great deal of uncertainty about my future. Even though I don’t have an answer yet, I hope there will be another chapter to come.”