WSB: Bayliss gives Portimao the thumbs up

Bayliss has given Portugal's new circuit the thumbs up

NEWLY CROWNED World Superbike champion Troy Bayliss has given Portugal's new Autodromo Internacional do Algarve circuit the thumbs up, ahead of this weekend's final round of the 2008 WSB series.

"It has a bit of everything and, although there isn't a real chicane, it has fast corners, slow corners, a lot of undulation and a lot of character. It's so new that it's still slippery and quite dirty, but the surface will only get better and better over time."

Bayliss takes to the track for the final time before retiring and is determined to end his career on a high note - even though the 39 year-old Australian has already clinched his third WSB crown.

"I am a lot more relaxed now that I know that we have done what we set out to do," Bayliss said. "It's been a long and stressful year and I'm tired, and I feel I have just enough energy left to complete these last two races. I would love to finish the season and my career with a win so that's my goal this weekend, to ride with no pressure and just enjoy my final two Superbike races."

Championship Standings after 13 of 14 rounds:

1. Bayliss (Ducati) 410
2. Haga (Yamaha) 325
3. Corser (Yamaha) 316
4. Neukirchner (Suzuki) 298
5. Checa (Honda) 284
6. Biaggi (Ducati) 235
7. Nieto (Suzuki) 234
8. Fabrizio (Ducati) 203
9. Kiyonari (Honda) 193
10. Xaus (Ducati) 171

Manufacturers' Title

1. Ducati 520
2. Yamaha 461
3. Suzuki 384
4. Honda 379
5. Kawasaki 82