Lucas Mahias was forced to wave the white flag at Jerez, unable to take part in the two SBK races in Andalusia. Following injury, surgery and a return to the track, the Frenchman continues to suffer. Hence, the decision for him to stop racing, to allow him the time to return to full fitness.

But Portimao is just around the corner. The Algarve track is hosting the final European round of the season and Kawasaki Puccetti Racing needs a valid rider. And so it has called upon Tito Rabat, the Spaniard having competed with team Barni up until the Magny-Cours round.

He and team Barni then split, and Samuele Cavalieri climbed aboard the V4 R, while the former Moto2 champion continued to train, albeit outside of the paddock. But he’ll be back in the mix in Portugal: "I’m very pleased”, comments the 32-year old, “because Manuel Puccetti and his team are giving me a great opportunity. I’ll do my best to make them happy, giving it my all from start to finish".

Track knowledge

Titone will need to get to grips with the Ninja, so different to the Ducati. But he does already know the track: "Yes, I do, having raced there in MotoGP. I like Portimao and will harness all my experience of the track. I can’t wait to start, I want to demonstrate my potential".

Puccetti is also enthusiastic, the team manager adding: "I am excited to welcome Tito and know we can do well together. Unfortunately, Lucas Mahias has physical problems to resolve and he needs time to recover, but we hope to see him back soon. In the meantime, we aim to do well with Rabat at Portimao".

Translated by Heather Watson

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