The 2026 FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship is heating up as we approach the penultimate round at Donington Park. With only two rounds left, the title race is far from over, and the tension is palpable among the riders. Maria Herrera, currently leading the standings, is on the cusp of becoming a two-time champion, but her rival, Beatriz Neila, is not giving up without a fight.
Herrera's consistent performance this season has been remarkable, with multiple podium finishes and only one race outside the top two. However, Neila is determined to challenge her, and the two riders are separated by a mere 24 points. Neila's best chance to reclaim the title is to beat Herrera head-to-head in the remaining races, a feat she has only managed once this season. The pair's history at Donington Park is intriguing, with both riders having won races there in the past.
The battle for the championship is intense, but it's not the only exciting contest. Paola Ramos, a rookie, is in the running for the title, although her chances are slim. She would need to win every remaining race while Herrera scores no more than 15 points. Similarly, Roberta Ponziani and Muklada Sarapuech are in the mix, but with even slimmer margins. The battle for third place is also fierce, with Ramos leading Ponziani by eight points and Sarapuech a further six points back.
Among the experienced riders, Chloe Jones has been on a roll, taking five podiums in the final six races of the 2025 season. She aims to build on her maiden podium at Donington Park in 2025 and is currently five points behind Natalia Rivera, who has been consistently inside the top ten. Pakita Ruiz, another Spanish rider, is close behind Rivera, but a crash at Assen has set her back.
Yvonne Cerpa, another rookie, is making waves with her recent podium finishes. She is just one point behind Ruiz and is a strong contender for a podium finish in the final rounds. Astrid Madrigal, currently in 11th place, is also in the mix, hoping to break back into the top six at Donington Park.
The wildcard replacements include Justine Pedemonte, Ornella Ongaro, and Julie Ritaine, who will be stepping in for injured riders. The championship is accessible to fans through various social media platforms and the WorldWCR YouTube channel, offering free access to Superpole sessions and races.
In summary, the 2026 FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship is a thrilling spectacle, with multiple riders in the running for the title. The final rounds at Donington Park will be a test of endurance, skill, and determination, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the outcome.
