Brookes to substitute for Hopkins

TYCO SUZUKI'S Josh Brookes has been drafted in to substitute for the injured John Hopkins at the first World Superbike round at Phillip Island.

Hopkins broke his right hand yesterday whilst testing at the Australian circuit. After an initial X-ray it was discovered that the American had fractured a bone in the base of his hand, near to what is left of his fourth finger.

For the opening round of the 2012 WSB season, Crescent Fixi have recruited Brookes to stand-in. The British Superbike rider has experience on the World stage, on both Supersport and Superbike machinery.

Brookes said: “It’s not actually a complete shock that I’ve got the ride. Sure, John crashing wasn’t in Crescent’s plans, but based on the fact that I am a Suzuki rider in the UK it all makes sense that I would be the first in line to get the seat, especially because I am familiar with the bike and Pirelli tyres. I’m sure I will do a good job and give the Aussie fans another rider to cheer on.”

“I’m currently employed by Suzuki and have done a season racing on the GSXR 1000. I have to say I’m very grateful to Phillip Neil from TAS Suzuki for allowing me to ride. Without their support I couldn’t do it. I don’t put any extra pressure on myself, I’m just going to ride the best I can and make the most of the opportunity.”

Brookes will take part in the official two-day WSB test on 20th-21st February, before the first round on the 26th.