TONI ELIAS will test with the BMW Italia squad for two days at Misano starting Tuesday, perhaps with a scope for joining the Italian team in 2012?
In a press release from BMW it is said a set of circumstances led to this test ride, mainly the retirement of James Toseland from an irreparable wrist injury and the 'curiosity of Toni Elias to try out a Superbike'.
The ride comes through the friendship between BMW Motorrad Italia SBK Team Sports Director, Serafino Foti, and Lucio Cecchinello, owner of the Team LCR, along with the Honda’s willingness to grant the rider permission to participate.
Forti commented on the upcoming test: “James’ farewell to racing certainly was not something we were happy about. After all, James is a champion! But obviously we also have to look forward. The tests on 13 and 14 September were 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, partly because Toni is already committed to the MotoGP championship. However, over the next few days we will identify and officially name the rider who will be competing for us in the last three races.
“I would like to express my personal thanks to Lucio Cecchinello for his willingness to cooperate and to Honda for going along with his request.”
Elias has struggled in his return to MotoGP after winning the inaugural Moto2 championship, so much so that he was in trouble of losing his ride at LCR Honda.
