Niki Tuuli, Bahattin Sofuoglu confirmed at MV Agusta for 2022 WorldSSP season

Niki Tuuli will return for a second WorldSSP season with MV Agusta in 2022, while Bahattin Sofuoglu makes the step-up from WorldSSP300 alongside the Finn.

Robert Jones

17 Dec 2021

Niki Tuuli, Argentine WorldSSP race1, 16 October 2021
© Gold and Goose

Niki Tuuli will officially remain with MV Agusta for the 2022 WorldSSP season, while Bahattin Sofuoglu will make the step-up from WorldSSP300 alongside the Finn.

11th in the 2021 championship standings, Tuuli’ return to the Italian manufacturer also means a second year on F3 800 machinery.

Although the former Moto2 rider was unable to claim a win as he did in 2017, Tuuli did manage his highest podium total in a single season (3), including a second place during the final race of the campaign in Mandalika.

"It’s great that MV found trust in me. It’s easy to continue with the familiar brand, and the new bike makes the job even more interesting," said Tuuli.

"The first tests we did felt really good. The new engine will give you what you need for optimising riding.

"You don't need to push with such a limit in every opening and bend. The engine has more power with low rpm, which makes it easier to ride the bike. It will allow me to use potentially tighter lines and hope it makes it easier to overtake.

"Various parts were also tested, and I think we can definitely build a really good and competitive package for next year. Now let's wait for the last rules for these new bikes."

While Tuuli was always set to have a first-time team-mate in 2022, it was unsure as to who would get the ride following the season.

Sofuoglu and Lorenzo Baldassarri both tested for the team in Jerez three weeks ago, however, with the team officially announcing Sofuoglu, it now means Baldassarri’s hopes of a WorldSSP ride rest elsewhere.

Speaking about his deal with MV Agusta, Sofuoglu added: "I feel proud of myself to have concluded my experience in the WorldSSP300. I had a great time and I learned a lot.

"Moving forward, I'm super excited to compete in the WorldSSP Challenge, especially having been given the privilege to be a part of this project with MV Agusta Reparto Corse.

"In this period, we are working and testing in preparation for my future with the team. I would like to thank the team principal Andrea Quadranti and my mentor Kenan for believing in me and giving me this opportunity.

"I am determined to do the best I can. Looking forward to a very successful future with MV Agusta."