The last lap of the 2016 Motul FIM Superbike World Championship at the Losail International Circuit on Sunday night saw Tom Sykes clinch second place in the final standings courtesy of his Kawasaki Racing Team colleague Jonathan Rea.

With newly crowned 2016 World Champion Rea realising that the unstoppable Chaz Davies (Aruba.it Racing –Ducati) could not be caught for victory at the front on the last lap the KRT man allowed his teammate to pass him for second in the final stages, meaning Sykes got the points to beat Davies for the runner-up spot in the standings.

Kawasaki confirmed that there had been no team orders for Rea to do so and it was the rider’s decision in a sporting gesture, which clearly meant a huge amount to Sykes as he reflected on the race and the conclusion to an enthralling season in Qatar.

“I am quite speechless and being a gentleman I really, really appreciate this kind of gesture,” said an emotional Sykes in parc ferme. “I will remember it until I am very old. We have lost championships in the past from team orders from other manufacturers so to have this and for it to gift us second in the championship, a one-two for Kawasaki in the championship. It has been a heck of a season for Kawasaki!”

Reviewing the restarted race after a red flag interrupted initial contest, Sykes also stated, “I knew we were a little bit in trouble because we have missed some pace all weekend. I dug deep and had good initial speed but Jonathan pushed hard and was going for the win and I could see what was happening. He was closing Chaz down and Chaz was responding. It was a fantastic gesture by the other side of the garage to do this you know.”

Rea gave his view of proceedings, saying, “The red flag saved us and starting again from ninth I was completely pumped to make a good race. The pace was good, I felt really good on the bike and then on the last lap I knew that barring a mistake from Chaz that there was no way that I could get through cleanly so I played the clever game. I knew the maths and wanted to be a team player.”

“Without team orders, speaking inside the team like gentlemen I knew that it was more important for the big picture that we have a one-two. So I am very happy for myself because I have achieved my target. I am happy for Kawasaki with the one-two in the championship because I think it is the first time. I am also happy for Tom because he has played a key role in Kawasaki’s success. Thanks to everybody. I am looking forward to going home now to recharge my batteries for 2017, but I enjoyed that race!”