Jonathan Rea says he would have ‘snapped your hand off’ had he been offered three podiums, including his first win of the season, during this weekend’s WorldSBK round at Most.

The Ulsterman ended his longest wait for a WorldSBK race win since joining Kawasaki in 2015 when he held his nerve in a tricky damp-to-dry Race 1 around the Czech circuit.

Opting for slicks despite the slippery surface, the pendulum of momentum eventually swung back towards him as the track dried and rivals ahead were forced to pit for new tyres.

Going on to finish second and third in the following two races, Rea’s triple podiums sees him ascend back up to third place in the overall standings.

>>> 2023 WorldSBK Championship Standings <<<

“I knew in these conditions, it would be a good opportunity to push for a race win. I got a good start and was with the guys on wet tyres at the beginning. I knew the intermediates were the right choice. The gap in the middle of the race was quite big to Toprak and the others. 

“The bike started moving a lot as the setup was quite soft, so I could benefit early on and then manage the race. 

“What can I say? It’s such a nice present for my team, my crew… all their hard work! We look forward to tomorrow now and try to get back on the podium then too.”

“I would have snapped your hand off if you told me I’d have these results at a track I don’t have much affection for. We came away with a big haul of points and a good feeling with the bike.”