Toni Elias has received an invitation from World Superbike team BMW Italia to test their S1000RR machine tomorrow and Wednesday at the Misano World circuit.
The reigning Moto2 champion who is enduring a tough return season in MotoGP with LCR Honda is highly expected to be axed at the end of the year (Andrea Dovizioso is relunctantly in talks to take his place), will now get a chance to see how he adapts to the 1000cc Superbike.
BMW Italia is currently looking for a rider to replace James Toseland who announced his retirement due to injury, however if Elias turns in some interesting lap times, theoretically he could get a wildcard chance at at Imola September 25th as MotoGP and Superbike schedules don’t clash that weekend.
Serafino Foti, Sports Director of BMW Motorrad Superbike Team Italy, said, “James good-bye to racing certainly was not something we were happy about, because James is a champion! But obviously we also have to look forward.
The tests on September 13th and 14th were already scheduled some time ago and we wanted to invite Toni in order to satisfy his interest as well as to take advantage of his experience and riding skills.
”“The upcoming test is not aimed at replacing James in the championship, because Toni is already riding in the MotoGP championship.
However, over the next few days we will find and officially name the rider who will be riding in the last three races.
I’d personally like to thank Lucio Cecchinello and Honda for going along with his request.
” BMW Italia won’t be the only Superbike team testing at Misano on Tuesday and Wednesday; also present will be Aprilia, the BMW factory team, Kawasaki Racing Team, Yamaha, Castrol Honda and Althea Racing.