#LionKingHuertas: The #99 Reigns as WorldSSP Champion, Dominating the Pride

22 October 2024

Adrian Huertas Secures His First WorldSSP Title and Makes History as the First Rider to Win Both WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 Championships

Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) became a two-time World Champion after clinching the 2024 FIM Supersport World Championship at Jerez. With this victory, Huertas, known for his lion emblem on his leathers, became the first rider to win both the WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 titles. His historic triumph comes after a remarkable comeback season, where he overcame an early points deficit and stormed into title contention with six consecutive victories.

Building Momentum: Huertas’ Path to Success

Huertas first gained recognition in the Red Bull MotoGP™ Rookies Cup and European Talent Cup, but it was in 2020 when he truly shined on the world stage. After a modest start with ProGP Racing in WorldSSP300, finishing 17th overall, his switch to MTM Kawasaki in 2021 marked a turning point. In just his second season, he claimed the WorldSSP300 title, earning a promotion to WorldSSP.

In his rookie WorldSSP season, Huertas quickly established himself as a top-ten contender with MTM Kawasaki. Though podiums eluded him, he ended the season in 12th place. His sophomore season saw improvement, but a series of near-misses kept him off the rostrum.

The Ducati Move: Following in Bulega’s Footsteps

Huertas joined the Aruba.it Racing team in 2024, stepping into the spotlight after Nicolo Bulega’s move to WorldSBK. The transition was initially challenging, with a retirement in the season opener in Australia setting him back 25 points. However, a podium in Race 2 and steady improvements kept him in the fight.

An Unstoppable Run: Nine Consecutive Podiums

Once the championship returned to Europe, Huertas hit his stride. He claimed his first victory in Barcelona and then embarked on a streak of nine consecutive podiums, including six wins in a row. This incredible run propelled him from 35 points behind Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) to a commanding 46-point lead heading into the final rounds.

Rivalries Heat Up: Battles at Portimao

Portimao saw intense competition, with Huertas and Stefano Manzi (Pata Prometeon Ten Kate Racing) battling fiercely. Despite Montella winning both races, Huertas managed to maintain his championship lead, though a crash in Race 2 forced him to recover for P12.

The Final Stretch: Huertas Holds His Ground

As the season progressed, Montella continued to challenge Huertas, reducing the gap in France. However, a pivotal weekend at Cremona saw Huertas extend his lead after Montella’s crash. By the time they reached the final rounds, Huertas was firmly in control, needing just a few points to secure the title.

The Crowning Moment: Jerez Triumph

Huertas sealed the championship in Jerez, securing his place as the youngest WorldSSP champion in history, surpassing Chris Vermeulen. He also became the first rider to win both the WorldSSP300 (2021) and WorldSSP titles, marking a new chapter in his career as he eyes future challenges in Moto2™.