Fores gets MotoGP debut as sub for injured Baz
World Superbike regular Xavi Fores will race for Avintia Ducati in this weekend's Misano MotoGP round, replacing injured team regular Loris Baz.
Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
Baz was involved in a nasty high-speed crash with Pol Espargaro on the opening lap of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
While both Baz and Espargaro escaped serious injury, the Frenchman was eventually diagnosed with small fractures on his right foot and has been ruled out of action for Misano.
For Baz, who has already been re-signed by Avintia for 2017, this will mark his second spell on the sidelines this year after he was injured in a three-bike crash at Mugello and replaced by Michele Pirro for two rounds.
"It is a real shame the news I got once I came to visit my doctors in Switzerland. I didn’t expect this," Baz said.
"I am still fortunate to not have serious injuries following the crash at Silverstone. I feel bad and sorry for my team, because we were coming back and improving in the last few races.
"It’s a shame, but I’ll try my best to come back as soon as possible and finish the year in the best possible way. This was another hard blow in my season after the one from Mugello, but I have to be positive and look forward."
With Pirro running as a Ducati works wildcard at Misano, 30-year-old Spaniard Fores will act as replacement rider for Avintia on this occasion, making his MotoGP debut.
Fores, a former champion in European Superstock and German Superbikes, is currently 11th in the standings in his first full season in WSBK aboard a Barni-run Ducati 1199 Panigale R.
He is the second Superbikes regular to be confirmed for a replacement rider role for Misano, with Yamaha's Alex Lowes continuing to serve as Bradley Smith's sub at Tech 3.
"My aim is to enjoy the maximum and leave the pressure at home," Fores said.
"I have nothing to demonstrate, the bike is completely different to anything I’ve ridden before. I have to be clever because everything will be new for me, so I only want to enjoy. Riding a MotoGP bike is a dream for every rider. It will be crucial not to make any mistake and not get hurt."
Added Baz: "I wish for Xavi to enjoy this weekend. MotoGP bikes are incredible, and I’m sure he’ll enjoy it a lot. He’ll also have a great team behind, and I’ll be there in case he needs any advice."
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