Sykes fastest without ‘focusing too much on lap time’

Tom Sykes fired out a warning shot to his rivals ahead of qualifying for Round 8 of the 2019 World Superbike Championship at Donington Park as he topped the timesheets in both Friday free practice sessions.

Fresh from his podium performance at Misano – the 109th of his career but his first since swapping from Kawasaki to BMW – Sykes was on blisteringly quick form in warm conditions at Donington Park, setting the quickest time in both sessions

A venue he enjoys an exceptional record at with nine wins from his last 12 starts, the quick opening day at Donington Park appears to put the 2013 WorldSBK champion in a strong position for qualifying and Saturday’s first race.

“I am very happy with how our Friday has gone. The first session this morning was very nice, I was riding very relaxed and the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team have given me a very well-balanced machine.

From the very first laps this morning, I was feeling very comfortable and here at Donington Park, it is a circuit of two halves. The BMW S 1000 RR is working very well in all sectors, so it makes my life a little bit easier!”

“I enjoyed it this afternoon and didn’t focus too much on lap time; we made roughly three changes, just so we can get some direction for tomorrow.

“I’ve been struggling a little bit with things this week, so hopefully, I am a bit physically better for the weekend!”