Kiwi Rider November 2024 Vol.1 | Page 41

WORLD WCR FINAL STANDINGS 1 Ana Carrasco ( ESP ) 244pts 2 Maria Herrera ( ESP ) 215 3 Sara Sanchez ( ESP ) 191 4 Beatriz Neila ( ESP ) 172 5 Roberta Ponziani ( ITA ) 135 history in 2018 by becoming the first woman to win a motorcycle World Championship . Ana continued to excel , finishing third in WorldSSP300 in 2019 and racing in the class for two more years before returning to Moto3 for the 2022 and 2023 seasons . In 2024 Ana competed in the inaugural WorldWCR season and faced fierce competition from main rival Maria Herrera , particularly during Race 2 at Portimao , where the last lap battle for the lead was intense . Their rivalry not only showcased their incredible talents but also captivated fans and added excitement to the Championship . Carrasco was the only rider to reach the podium in every one of the season ’ s twelve races , the 27-year-old amassing four wins , eight podiums , two pole positions , as well as four best laps . “ I ’ m super happy , honestly . Really , happy because it ’ s been a difficult season . We had to manage a lot both on and off the track . I gave my best in every race , every weekend , to try to achieve this result . I couldn ’ t be happier right now . Being World Champion once is incredible , but twice is something else entirely , crazy , even . My team did a fantastic job all season . They pushed me a lot to achieve this , and for me , they are the best . I want to say thanks to them and to all the people around me because I came from a difficult season with injuries and bad results . At times , it was hard to keep believing , but I had many people around me helping me improve . This title is for all of them . The championship was something really new for everyone , and we had to adapt . Everyone was a bit nervous at the start because it was such a new experience , but I think Dorna and the FIM did an amazing job . We had a really good championship , with a high level of competition and a lot of great races . I think the fans , especially those watching on TV , enjoyed it a lot . So for me , it was a successful season for everyone .” Looking ahead , Carrasco ’ s plans for next season are still to be confirmed , but fans and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate what she will accomplish next .
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