The FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship returned for further action-packed Race at Acerbis Italian Round but this time with Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha) storming to victory in Race 2, and leading the Championship title whilst doing so. Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) was in close contention for the win, however crashed out after a dramatic last lap clashwith  Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team). It was joy for Tayla Relph (TAYCO Motorsport) though as she stood on the rostrum alongside second place Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team).

HERRERA V CARRASCO: Championship dual

It was a battle to the very last lap between Championship rivals Herrera and Carrasco, as they continuously slipstreamed and performed thrilling overtakes throughout the 12-lap race. Italian home hero, Ponziani maintained a confident podium position ride throughout, managing to close in on the Spanish pair as they continued to battle for the victory. Sara Sanchez also begun closing in on the top three, hoping to continue her success in Italy after Saturday’s Race 1.

LAST LAP DRAMA: Sanchez and Herrera out

A stunning four-way battle entertained spectators during the penultimate lap, as both Ponziani and Sanchez made a charge for the two Spaniards. Turn 11 ended the Championship Title extension hopes for #6 rider Herrera however, as a dramatic clash of bikes with Sanchez resulted in both riders on the gravel and out of contention. Australian rider Relph was quick to take advantage, hunting down a rostrum result, and managing to cross the line in third, her first podium in the Championship.

NEW CHAMPIONSHIP LEADER: Just two rounds remain

Following the unfortunate crash for both Sanchez and Herrera, both riders were taken to the Medical Centre where they were checked for injuries. Sanchez walked away from the incident unharmed whilst Hererra is reported to have suffered a neck sprain and contusion and will be transported to Cremona Hospital for further assessments. Sara Sanchez has been penalised with a Long Lap Penalty for the next race following an incident review. As the Championship moves onto the final two rounds of the season, and with just nine points separating the top two riders, it promises to be a thrilling penultimate race weekend with all to ride for.

Top six from WorldWCR Race 2, full results here:

1. Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team)
2. Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) +0.195s
3. Tayla Relph (TAYCO Motorsport) +13.676s
4. Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) +13.858s
5. Avalon Lewis (Carl Cox Motor Sports) +14.358s
6. Pakita Ruiz (PS Racing Team 46+1) +22.431s
Fastest lap: Ana Carrasco, Yamaha – 1’40.649s

Championship standings:
1. Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team) 163 points
2. María Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) 154
3. Sara Sánchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) 128
4. Beatriz Neila (Ampito / Pata Prometeon Yamaha) 107
5. Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) 89
6. Pakita Ruiz (PS Racing Team 46+1) 70