Speedway Grand Prix: Kurtz's big day. Zmarzlik is no longer the leader

Brady Kurtz achieved a significant victory at the Speedway Grand Prix in Manchester, winning the second "British" round of the series. This triumph propelled the Australian rider to the top of the overall standings, unseating last year's world champion, Bartosz Zmarzlik, for the first time in his career.

Zmarzlik experienced a less dominant preliminary phase than usual, winning only one heat and accumulating 10 points, placing him fifth. He had to compete in and win the Last Chance Saloon (LCQ) to advance to the final, finally showcasing his speed. The preliminary phase was surprisingly won by Michael Jepsen Jensen, followed closely by Kurtz. Both riders secured direct qualification for the final after four rounds.

The final race was dramatic. Jepsen Jensen initially led from the first corner, but Zmarzlik took the lead by the end of the first lap. However, Kurtz, who had been in last place, mounted a remarkable comeback. He skillfully overtook Zmarzlik and then Jensen, with Zmarzlik even dropping to fourth at one point. Zmarzlik managed to regain third place from Jack Holder, a crucial move that impacted the overall standings.

This result means Zmarzlik lost his series lead to Kurtz. Their rivalry is reminiscent of last year's close competition, where Zmarzlik ultimately won by a single point after 10 tournaments. Despite reaching his 12th consecutive final, Zmarzlik has not won a Grand Prix in a year, with his last victory also being in Manchester.