Hotels, Resorts, Villas & Holiday Rentals
#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
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™.
All New Releases
Spooctacular Carnival at Mai Main Canggu
1 November 2024 Trick or treat! As October 2024 draws to a close, it’s time...
MoreNov
Get Ready for Extra Fun, Join Us at Mai Main Canggu’s Grand Opening Party on September 14!
11 September 2024 Mark your calendars for September 14, 2024, as Mai Main is set...
MoreSep
Experience Balinese Heritage Culture at the Best Family-Friendly Restaurant in Sanur: Shotgun Social’s Balinese Magical Theatre
At our family-friendly restaurant in Sanur, you can also indulge in our Local Pride Menu,...
MoreAug
Experience the Ultimate Sunday Funday at Shotgun Social – The Best Kids-Friendly Restaurant in Sanur!
While the kids are immersed in fun, parents can relax and indulge in Shotgun Social’s...
MoreAug