Iker Lecuona took third place in WorldSBK Race 1 at Jerez after a race in which that result was far from secure. The Spaniard came under pressure from Yari Montella and had to manage two front-end losses within a few laps before finishing behind Nicolo Bulega and Sam Lowes. It was also Lecuona’s worst result since the Australian race.

A set-up change during FP3 had improved the situation, while Lecuona chose a harder front compound for the race. That was not enough to prevent a major moment on lap four, when he lost the front completely at Turn 11 but stayed on the bike, tearing his leathers in the process. Two laps later he lost the front again at Turn 12, and Montella used the incident to pass him.

Lecuona said the bike’s behaviour changes sharply with the condition of the tyres. Once the tyres are used, he considers himself one of the fastest riders on track. With new tyres, however, he struggles heavily even when trying to ride gently and preserve them. He described that as an issue he still needs to understand.

Rain changes Sunday’s priorities

A small mistake at Turn 8 in qualifying cost Lecuona one tenth, which he believed was enough to put second place within reach. He also described Bulega as the fastest rider at the moment and identified Lowes as his leading rival. With rain forecast for Sunday, Lecuona’s priority was to complete the weekend without a crash and enjoy the race with his team, family and friends.