Takahashi: It won’t be easy as Camier stand-in at Honda

Yuki Takahashi has already accepted acting as stand-in for the injured Leon Camier at the Jerez World Superbike round will act as a tough test but is eager to provide valuable feedback and information to the Moriwaki Althea Honda squad.

The former Moto2 race-winner returns to the Spanish circuit for the first time since 2013 ahead of his World Superbike debut filling in for Camier who is out with left shoulder ligament damage sustained in an off during qualifying at the Imola.

The Japanese rider, who currently competes in the All Japan Road Race JSB1000 championship, is optimistic for a positive showing on his return at Jerez despite his length period away from racing in Europe.

“First of all, I am very sorry about Leon’s injury, which wasn’t even his fault, and I wish him a speedy recovery,” Takahashi said. “I’m also grateful and wish to thank the Moriwaki Althea Honda Team for giving me the chance to race for them at Jerez.

“I have raced several times at Jerez in the past [best result of third place in the 2008 250cc race] but last time I rode there was back in 2013, so it won’t be easy. Having said that, I like the track and I’ll try to provide the team with some useful feedback. I’ll try my best and will no doubt really enjoy the experience.”

Takahashi partners fellow Japanese rider Ryuichi Kiyonari for Jerez, with Camier targeting a return to action at the next round at Misano (June 21-23).