The much-revered French circuit of Magny Cours will host the climax to the 2018 International Bridgestone Handy Race this coming weekend, with both class titles up for grabs. This important championship will reach its conclusion thanks to the continued collaboration between the FIM, Handi Free Riders and Diversamente Disabili. The success of this year’s three round series follows on from the inaugural event held at Le Mans, back in May 2017 as part of the 2017 French Grand Prix.
The 2018 season again got underway at Le Mans back in May before it then visited Mugello last month in conjunction with the FMI Cup. The climax will take place as part of the FIM Superbike World Championship this weekend, where the International Bridgestone Handy Race will feature as a support race.
Twenty-four riders from ten different countries – including Columbia, Finland, Italy, France, Belgium, Austria, Czech Republic, Spain, Great Britain and Bulgaria – will compete this weekend in two classes (600cc – 1000/1200cc) over the thirteen lap race. Qualifying practice will take place earlier the same day and following Friday afternoon’s two free practice sessions.
Daniele Barbero (ITA), Peter Rohr (AUT) and Emiliano Malagoli (ITA) are set to fight it out for top overall honours in the 1000cc class, whilst Stephane Paulus (FRA) will look to play his part in the pursuing battle as he looks to re-establish himself back in the top five of the series following his crash at the opening round. In the 600cc division, Spanish rider Alejandro De La Cruz (ESP) will have to see off the attentions of Talan Skeels-Piggins (GBR), Christophe Bernard (BEL) and Maurizio Castelli (ITA) if he is to clinch the smaller capacity crown.
The International Bridgestone Handy Race is open to riders with the following qualifying conditions: Amputation of an upper or lower limb / Hemiplegia / Paraplegia / Complete Plexus brachial.
Speaking about this much anticipated showdown FIM Programmes Director Damiano Zamana said. "It is thrilling to arrive at the last race in the calendar having at least four riders battling for the first place of the 2018 International Bridgestone Handy Race. This symbolises the high level of the athletes and competitive spirit. I applaud all the riders who took their place on the grid this season, they are without question true athletes and fair competitors, embodying the spirit of motorcycle sports. Following this successful season, we will double our efforts for the future, this month we will meet again at the FIM HQ in order to refine a draft regulation encompassing medical, technical and sporting angles for the future. This will allow our National Federations to further develop motorcycle sport for disabled athletes giving to all a chance to be racers”.
The weekend’s activities will also include a meet and greet session on Saturday evening where the Handy riders will be joined by the stars of the FIM Superbike World Championship in an interactive session, where the public and media will be able to pose questions to these amazing and brave athletes.
FIM Communications