Everyone knows what Noriyuki Haga is capable of, but so far this season, he has only shown glimpses of his potential. Today, Haga reminded racing fans why he is called Nitro Nori, as he closed in on the track record. Haga finished first for the day, setting a 1'59.277 time around the BRNO track, less than a second from the track best.
Cal Crutchlow and Michele Fabrizio were also able to keep their times below the two minute mark. Crutchlow finished second, three tenths behind Haga, while Fabrizio finished a half a second behind the leading man.
Fabrizio took the win during the free practice session, and the factory Ducati riders both look to be back on track at BRNO.
Carlos Checa rode his privateer Ducati to fourth, followed by season leader Max Biaggi.
World Superbike - BRNO - First Qualifying
1 41 Haga N. (JPN) Ducati 1098R 1'59.277
2 35 Crutchlow C. (GBR) Yamaha YZF R1 1'59.571
3 84 Fabrizio M. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 1'59.730
4 7 Checa C. (ESP) Ducati 1098R 2'00.153
5 3 Biaggi M. (ITA) Aprilia RSV4 Factory 2'00.174
6 111 Xaus R. (ESP) BMW S1000 RR 2'00.273
7 96 Smrz J. (CZE) Aprilia RSV4 1000 F. 2'00.348
8 65 Rea J. (GBR) Honda CBR1000RR 2'00.442
9 52 Toseland J. (GBR) Yamaha YZF R1 2'00.451
10 99 Scassa L. (ITA) Ducati 1098R 2'00.463
