Busy Weekend For Steve At Brands Hatch

It will be a busy weekend Steve  as he has been drafted into the HM Plant British Superbike squad to deputise for Josh Brookes who was not permitted to enter the UK from his native Australia because of visa problems.  will contest both 30-lap Superbike races at the Kent circuit for the team plus campaign his regular championship with HM Plant Honda in the opening round of the British Supersport championship.

“It is going to be a busy weekend in the office for me,” said Steve. “But I thrive on being kept busy so am sure I can do justice to both classes. I haven’t actually ridden the bike as yet but have been on a similar Honda Fireblade this week as I have been in France testing for the Le Mans 24-hour race. I was called up to ride for the Honda France team after Jean-Michael Bayle was sidelined with a knee injury that prevents him racing at Le Mans.”

Josh Brookes flew into the UK early today (Tuesday) but was refused entry at immigration, as he did not have the correct paperwork. He is now on his way back to Australia and is to be replaced by  who will contest the Brands Hatch races. It is hoped the matter will be resolved before the second round at Oulton Park at the beginning of May.

HM Plant team manager Havier Beltran said: “The laws have changed regarding visas and this is where the problem lies. It is devastating that this should happen just prior to the first round but our British Supersport rider Steve  is to ride in both series for us this weekend.”

The campaign begins with two days of testing at Brands Hatch on Good Friday and Easter Saturday followed by qualifying on Sunday. The first leg of the British Superbike championship will set off at 1pm with the second 30-lap race due at 4pm.

The Fuchs Silkolene British Supersport race, run over 25 laps of the Indy circuit is set to begin at 3.15pm and both classes will benefit from live television coverage on British Eurosport with the broadcast window being 12.30pm – 5.15pm on race day.