This was remarkable.
The Misano World Superbike got underway in Italy earlier today, with no shortage of drama during the opening race.
There was plenty of action right from the off, with a thrilling start seeing a number of overtakes right out of the traps.
'Look how close it got again!' 😲
It was a brilliant start to the #ITAWorldSBK in the opening lap. pic.twitter.com/w3hF5Sb73J— Eurosport (@eurosport) June 12, 2021
However, the most remarkable moment was provided by Jonathan Rea.
The Antrim native lost his balance going around a corner, unable to get his knee back up off the tarmac.
It seemed certain to develop into an unsavoury incident, but Rea somehow managed to recompose himself and avoid what could have been a rather nasty crash.
The Eurosport commentators couldn't believe what he managed to pull off.
'He was on his knees for what, about 50 meters there?!'
We are still in disbelief! What a spectacular bit of improvisation form Johnathan Rea 🙌
🇮🇹 #ITAWorldSBK pic.twitter.com/j7sK44zvoV— Eurosport (@eurosport) June 12, 2021
It is incredible that he only went down one positions in the standing.
The replay of the incident looked even more remarkable.
'That was unreal!' 🤯
What an incredible save from Jonathan Rea - take a bow! 👏
🇮🇹 #ITAWorldSBK pic.twitter.com/WHmVPld6P8— Eurosport (@eurosport) June 12, 2021
He has gone completely.
Watch, he's on his and his elbow, he is shoving and pushing.
That was unreal! These are heavy, heavy bikes compared to anything you would race with this sort of power. They are 180 kilos at this point with the fuel in.
Rea is the most storied rider in World SBK history, winning the world championship in each of the last six years.
The 34-year also finished second in BBC Sports Personality of the Year voting in 2017.
SEE ALSO: Has Lewis Hamilton Met His Match With Max Verstappen?
