2010 World Supersport Preview: Portimao, Portugal

Going into the first race of the season at Phillip Island, not many people were talking about Eugene Laverty. His mediocre performance during the testing, made most people believe that Joan Lascorz would be riding to victory. Not only did Laverty prove people wrong, he dominated the opening round and won the race at Phillip Island by more than 4 seconds.

Laverty might not be racing in his country of Ireland, but since the Irishman is racing with Parkalgar Honda, he will be getting home track advantage at Portimao.

“It is great to get the support of the local fans in Portugal; they really get behind the whole team. I have been training hard in the nice spring weather and I am refreshed and ready for the race.”

Laverty is the clear favorite to win at Portimao, but he will be challenged by Lascorz, Kawasaki Provac Motorcard.com, and former champion Kenan Sofuoglu, Ten Kate Honda.

The WSS has a small field of competitors this year, and everyone has their eyes on the prize. There are four rookies in this years WSS, and all of them got some good experience at Phillip Island. Gino Rea made an impressive debut and had an 8th place finish at the opening weekend. He will be looking to better his position.

With only a day away from the Portimao race, teams are making last minute substitutions and fixes. Sebastien Charpentier dropped out of the WSS series after a disappointing round at Phillip Island. The Triumph BE1 Racing Team will be replacing him with Matthieu Lagrive. Lagrive has a lot of experience, but only one podium finish. Also, Bastien Chesaux will be making his WSS debut for the Harms Benjan Honda team. http://www.allaboutbikes.com/sport-mainmenu-34/superstock-mainmenu-39

Points

Riders

1. Laverty 25; 2. Lascorz 20; 3. Sofuoglu 16: 4. Salom 13; 5. Foret 11; 6. Roccoli 10; 7. Harms 9; 8. DiSalvo 8; 9. Praia 7; 10. Rea 6.

Manufacturers:

1. Honda 25; 2. Kawasaki 20; 3. Triumph 13.