John Laverty - Photo Credit: Bonnie Lane
John Laverty admits he “can't wait” to make his racing return this weekend when the British Superbike Championship gets underway. The Ulsterman suffered multiple injuries in a crash at Oulton Park last July, putting his career in doubt, and Laverty is eagerly anticipating his debut with Splitlath Redmond Racing.
“I can't wait to get out there and race on Easter Monday. Eight months ago I was in a critical condition and I always had a target to get back on a bike again as soon as I could. To now be in a position where I am actually going to be out there racing so soon, is pretty special.”
“We've had a few tests and I like the bike. I'm comfortable with the team and everyone is 100% supportive of me and has never put me under any pressure. It's always been about taking it at my pace and I'm just over the moon to be able to say I'm racing in the opening round at Brands Hatch. I'm feeling strong and I'm ready to go.”
Florian Marino will partner Laverty for his maiden British Superbike campaign and the Frenchman is proud to be competing in such a strong championship.
“I am looking forward to racing here in BSB. It is such a strong championship and I am excited to be here and be a part of it. I have tested the Aprilia RSV4 at a few tracks now as I need to learn them all. I tested on the Brands Hatch Indy circuit last month in the wet so if it rains this weekend at least I know what to expect. I can't wait for the weekend to begin, I am very excited about my first British Superbike race.”
Team co-owner John Dimbylow is excited by the line-up he's put together and expects them to get stronger and stronger as the season goes on.
“We've got a brand new name, a brand new team, two brand new riders and we're ready for a brand new start here at Splitlath Redmond. I believe with our talented crew with Tom Larsen at the helm we will really make some incredible progress with the development of the Aprilia RSV4 this season, and John and Florian are the men who can do it.”
