Max Neukirchner is set to partner British rider Jonathan Rea at the Ten Kate Honda squad for next year’s World Superbike Championship after being passed fit by medics.
The German was sacked earlier this week by the Alstare Suzuki squad after failing to turn up to a meeting with his team and doctors to clarify his fitness after suffering a horror crash at Monza followed by another at the Imola test.
“I have to say that my feeling is really good right now. The Ten Kate team is so big and experienced and the CBR1000RR is clearly such a strong package,” said Neukirchner.
Talking about his new team-mate Rea he said “Jonathan has proved that with his victories this year and I'm really looking forward to being his team-mate as we are good friends.”
“It feels really great to be back on a Honda; I am feeling fit and I'm determined to put a good season together next year.” He added.
Team boss Ronald ten Kate was delighted to confirm his ‘dream team’ after the opportunity to sign Neukirchner came up.
“As much as anyone else, we were caught by surprise when we found out about Max’s availability,” he said. “We immediately saw a ‘dream team’ line-up with Jonathan Rea, which is probably the youngest pairing ever in a World Superbike championship team, with both riders already having wins under their belts.
“We understand that Max may need some time to find his full race-craft again but we are quite sure that his talent, motivation and determination will get him quickly back up to speed.”