Scars Racing Ducati returned to winning ways at the ultra-fast Thruxton Circuit this weekend, with Luke Stapleford taking a hard-fought victory in Race 1 before adding a third-place finish in Race 2 to extend his Championship lead to 55 points. With a host of World Supersport riders joining the field at Thruxton, the weekend was always expected to be a significant challenge. Stapleford arrived determined to make a statement following the rule changes earlier in the season and was immediately on the pace aboard the Scars Racing Ducati. Luke delivered a superb performance in qualifying, securing pole position by three-tenths of a second. Everyone knew Race 1 would be a demanding affair, as is always the case at Thruxton, and Luke made the perfect start, placing himself firmly within the leading group.

What followed was an intense, fast-paced battle, with positions changing almost every lap. As the race reached its dramatic conclusion, Oncu and Bayliss made a mistake at the final corner on the last lap. Luke remained composed, held his line and capitalised to secure a fantastic victory his best race win of the season. For Race 2, Luke started from fourth on the grid and was once again drawn into an epic battle, with around 13 riders involved in the fight. The leading five riders eventually managed to create a small gap, with Luke firmly in contention. Showing maturity and Championship awareness, Luke rode a measured race, managing the situation intelligently to secure third position and another valuable podium. The result also saw him extend his Championship advantage to 55 points.

Luke Stapleford

“It’s been a bit of a crazy weekend with a number of World Supersport riders in the mix to shake things up a bit. We all had to get involved this weekend and do what we could to continue our fight for this Championship. The win yesterday came at a perfect time and the whole team have worked tirelessly to turn things around and get the bike working well. It was so good to take the win in a race like that. It was a bit hectic, but we managed to keep it together, stay on line and reap the rewards.

“I knew today was also going to be slightly manic and I was prepared for the dogfight. The bike was going really well and I think I could have pushed for the win again, but we must play the long game now at this stage in the season and be sensible. We’ve managed to once again extend the Championship lead and that is the main aim. I can’t thank the Scars Racing Ducati team enough. They have done everything and beyond to get everything perfect for me to ride here, and to walk away with a win, third and more Championship points really is down to them and their efforts.”

Leigh Finlay – Team Owner

“We came to Thruxton this weekend fully prepared to battle boy, did we have a battle! Luke rode exceptionally well in both races to take two podiums away from here, and to extend the Championship lead is fantastic. We are all working on the same page, towards the same goal. We just have to remain as consistent as possible at the remaining rounds and keep pushing as hard as we possibly can.”

A Weekend to Build On

The Thruxton weekend delivered everything expected from one of the fastest and most challenging circuits on the calendar. For Scars Racing Ducati, two podium finishes, a race victory and an extended Championship lead provide a major boost as the team heads into the remaining rounds. The focus now turns to maintaining momentum, consistency and Championship pressure as the Scars Racing Ducati team continues its fight for the title.

Scars Racing Ducati would like to thank all of its sponsors, partners, supporters and the entire team for their continued hard work and commitment.