SBK, Toprak returns with operated finger and is immediately 1st at Portimao: 4th Bassani, 5th Bautista

Shortly after 2 p.m. the real action began in Portimao. After the early morning rain, the first rays of sunshine made their way through the clouds, allowing the track to slowly dry.

The riders then waited for the early afternoon improvement, kicking off the dance. At the stroke of 2:30 p.m., there was Toprak's BMW in front of everyone. Recovering from hand finger surgery, as you can see from the photo, the champion immediately played the leading role, setting the benchmark in 1'43"067.

Behind him then came the Bimota of Lowes, almost half a second behind, followed by the Yamaha of Gardner. In fourth position can be found the KB998 of Axel Bassani, chased in turn by the first of the Ducatis, namely that of Alvaro Bautista, distanced by a second from the top. Behind the Panigale of the #19, there is the Honda of Xavi Vierge.

Among the top riders, Petrucci, Rea, Bulega, Iannone have yet to get into action, so of course, we are all remaining on standby. Remember that in addition to Toprak, on the track in Portimao we can also find Iker Lecuona, who was absent last week at Jerez.