Taiyo Aksu takes double opening round podium to lead ESBK STK600 series

Taiyo Aksu had an almost perfect start to the 2025 ESBK Superstock 600cc championship.

Round One, which took place at the Jerez circuit in southern Spain saw the talented eighteen-year-old Aussie race to a double podium, taking with it the championship lead.
After finishing inside the top five in Fridays Free Practice session, Taiyo was confident of a strong showing in qualifying and both races.

Improving his lap time in the sole grid deciding session on Saturday, Taiyo qualified fifth before racing to a maiden Spanish championship podium, second place, in the opening sixteen lap encounter on Saturday afternoon.

Buoyed by the results, Taiyo went into Sunday’s second race confident of a repeat performance. Once again in the mix from lights out until the checkered , the teenager once again displayed his natural skill and racing ability. He took another well-earned second place.

With forty championship points secured Taiyo heads to Round two of the series at the Catalunya circuit in the middle of June, with a two-point championship lead over his nearest rival.

Taiyo Aksu:

“Going into the weekend I didn’t have any real expectations as it was just the first round, and I knew you cannot win the championship at round one. In saying that we found a really good momentum in Free Practice placing P5. The bike felt good, and I was comfortable and confident. In Saturday’s qualifying I knew I could be close to the front although the drying track made it difficult to predict which tyre would be the best for the session. In hindsight running a wet front and dry rear tyre probably wasn’t the best decision but I was still able to qualify in the top six. Going into race one I knew I could fight for the podium, but I didn’t want to make any mistakes so early in the season, and so I was a bit nervous. I was able to make up places in the opening laps before a big contact with another rider put me out of contention for the win. The focus then changed to managing the gap behind to ensure I was able to finish second for my first ESBK podium. I cried the whole in lap. I was just so relieved and happy to finally achieve a top three result. I wanted to share the moment with my mum and dad but they are still in Australia and so I had to call them after the podium. On Sunday we had our second race. I knew we could have another good result, but I was also aware that points make prizes. I made another good start and was soon into third. I found my rhythm and was once again in the fight for the top three. I was able to finish second again and I was relieved that I was able to show that Saturday’s result wasn’t a fluke. Overall, I am happy to be leading the championship, and we have made a big step with both the bike and my own performance compared to last year. I want to thank the team for all their hard work, and I can’t wait for Catalunya!”