Food & Wine
Sat, October 18, 2025
Scott Redding: "I feel like I'm red wine" as he grows performance into race one win at Brands Hatch
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Published in Food and Wine on Saturday, October 18th 2025 at 15:51 GMT by Crash🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Scott Redding’s Brands Hatch Triumph: A Vintage Performance
Scott Redding secured a commanding victory in the opening British Superbike Championship race at Brands Hatch, demonstrating a maturity and consistency that he believes mirrors the aging process of fine red wine. The Ducati Panigale V4 R rider dominated from pole position, showcasing a clear advantage over rivals Leon Haslam and Bradley Ray, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing season.
Redding’s win wasn't simply about raw speed; it was a testament to his evolving approach to racing. He acknowledged that while he still possesses the aggressive edge that characterized earlier stages of his career, he now prioritizes race management and strategic execution. “I feel like I’m red wine,” Redding stated in an interview following the race. "The older you get, the better you get." This analogy highlights a shift from youthful exuberance to refined performance – a gradual improvement fueled by experience and self-awareness.
The Brands Hatch weekend saw Redding consistently at the front throughout qualifying and both races. His pole position time of 1:25.483 underscored his confidence and control, setting him up for a strong start in Race One. While Haslam (Yamaha) and Ray (Suzuki) attempted to challenge, Redding’s pace proved relentless. He built a lead that ultimately proved insurmountable, crossing the finish line with a comfortable 1.6 seconds ahead of Haslam.
The race wasn't without its complexities. The weather conditions at Brands Hatch were changeable, adding an element of unpredictability. While dry for qualifying and Race One, forecasts suggested potential rain showers throughout the weekend. Redding’s team made adjustments to his bike setup based on evolving track conditions, demonstrating a proactive approach that contributed to his success. He emphasized the importance of adaptability in modern racing, noting that teams must be prepared to react swiftly to changing circumstances.
Redding's victory also comes after a period of adjustment following his move from WorldSBK back to the British championship. While he has enjoyed successes internationally, including a World Superbike title in 2019, returning to BSB presented new challenges and required him to recalibrate his strategies within a familiar but evolving landscape. The Ducati Panigale V4 R is a powerful machine, but Redding’s ability to harness its potential – coupled with the team's meticulous preparation – was crucial for the win.
The race also highlighted the ongoing competitiveness of the BSB championship. Haslam, despite finishing second, demonstrated his continued relevance as a top contender. Ray, securing third place, proved that Suzuki remains a force to be reckoned with. The close battle between these three riders suggests a season filled with intense competition and unpredictable outcomes.
Following Race One, Redding faced further challenges in Race Two. While he initially led, a mechanical issue forced him to retire from the race, handing victory to Haslam. This setback underscored the inherent risks of motorcycle racing and served as a reminder that even the most dominant performances can be abruptly halted by unforeseen circumstances. Despite this disappointment, Redding remained optimistic about his championship prospects, emphasizing the importance of learning from setbacks and maintaining focus on the overall season goal.
The success at Brands Hatch reinforces Redding’s position as a leading contender for the 2024 BSB title. His "red wine" analogy isn't just a catchy soundbite; it reflects a genuine evolution in his racing style, characterized by experience, strategic thinking, and an unwavering determination to succeed. The championship promises to be closely contested, but Redding’s early dominance suggests he is well-equipped to challenge for the crown.
Read the Full Crash Article at:
[ https://www.crash.net/bsb/news/1084557/1/scott-redding-i-feel-im-red-wine-he-grows-performance-race-one-win-brands-hatch ]