Nicolo Bulega described his Estoril WorldSBK Superpole win as “one of my best races” of his career.
The Italian rider made history by claiming Superpole victory ahead of Toprak Razgatlioglu, with both riders going toe-to-toe on the start-finish straight.
Only 0.003s separated the two riders, making it the closest finish in WorldSBK history.
Bulega was waiting in the wings to try and forge his way through in the final Laps, but Razgatlioglu’s notorious late-braking led Bulega with other ideas.
Bulega noticed Ducati’s superiority in the final sector, which he used to his advantage, surpassing the championship leader on the line.
“I’m thrilled with the results this Sunday. In particular, I feel that this morning’s Superpole Race was one of my best races, not only this season.
“I had a good feeling, I could push like I wanted to. Toprak did an incredible race, always no mistakes, very fast.
“I said ‘Ok I have to try to follow him’, but I was a bit worried for my tyre because after five laps I felt the drop, but then I was lucky because I could manage until the end.
“It was quite good and the last lap I gave my all, and in the last corner I tried to do the best I could. I exit very good and I overtake him just before maybe thousands, three thousandths. Not bad.”
Nicolo Bulega “pleased” to take WorldSBK title fight to Jerez in rookie season
Despite Razgatlioglu going on to win Race 2 later on Sunday, Bulega still has a mathematical chance of winning the world championship.
Both Razgatlioglu and Bulega are separated by 46 points, with a maximum of 62 points on offer.
The 24-year-old could win the championship in his debut WorldSBK season and has a chance to become the first Italian rider to win the championship since Max Biaggi won with Aprilia in 2012.
“It’s very difficult but, for me, it’s already an incredible result to be here and I can say I’m still fighting for the Championship at the last round in my first year. It’s something incredible but unexpected.
“I’m really happy and proud of what I did and what my team did for my in the whole season.
“I’m happy because I’ve brought the Championship to the last round. I’m really happy also because Toprak is difficult to beat, especially the last lap.
“I did it this morning and it was one of the best races of the season, maybe the best, and one of the most beautiful wins for me.”
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