Strong Start for Moto Rapido Racing at Oulton Park with Triple Podium Finish

Moto Rapido Racing made an impressive start to the 2026 Bennetts British Superbike Championship at Oulton Park, leaving the opening round second in the championship standings after securing a hat trick of second place finishes across the weekend.

Leon Haslam delivered a standout performance throughout the event, demonstrating consistency, pace and determination in every race. The experienced rider kept the pressure firmly on reigning champion Kyle Ryde from lights out to the chequered flag, ensuring the battle at the front remained intense across all three races.

The entire Moto Rapido Racing team played a key role in the strong opening weekend, working tirelessly in pursuit of victory and showcasing the strength, unity and ambition that will be vital as the championship season unfolds.

Team Manager Ian ‘Hammy’ Darbyshire reflected positively on the team’s performance following a highly encouraging first round.

“Overall, we are buzzing with how the weekend went,” said Darbyshire. “To come away with a hat trick of second places shows the level we’re operating at right now. Leon Haslam was outstanding all weekend, consistent, fast and completely committed every time he went out on track.”

“We know how strong Kyle Ryde is, so to be right there pushing him in every race is a big positive for us. The whole team has worked incredibly hard and that effort is showing in our results.”

“There’s still more to come from us and we’re fully focused on taking the next step and turning these seconds into wins as the season progresses. The aim in this game is to always keep progressing and that’s exactly what we did, so it’s been a top weekend for us.”

Darbyshire also highlighted the growing confidence within the garage as the team continues to develop its new package.

“Wilf’s understanding of the bike is growing every session and I think we even had six smiles from him this weekend — yes, I counted. We don’t normally get that at round one, never mind with a new bike… I joke.”

With strong momentum established from the opening round, Moto Rapido Racing now heads into the next stage of the championship full of confidence and firmly in the fight at the front of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship.