Marco Simoncelli to race Aprilia in Imola WSB clash?

Speculation is increasing that reigning 250GP world champion Marco Simoncelli could make a shock World Superbike debut on a factory Aprilia RSV4 in Imola this weekend.

The Italian is reportedly testing an RSV4 at the Mugello circuit in Italy today ahead of a possible WSB debut alongside veteran Max Biaggi.

Simoncelli, who has signed for Fausto Gresini’s Honda MotoGP squad in 2010, could replace Japanese rider Shinya Nakano, who will miss the next two rounds to try and recover from a persistent neck injury.

Simoncelli is willing to take the RSV4 ride this weekend with his hopes of retaining the 250GP crown all but vanished after his recent crash in Misano.

Just four races of the campaign remain and he trails series leader Hiroshi Aoyama by a massive 40-points.

If a deal with Simoncelli isn’t finalised, German test and development rider Alex Hofmann will step in and replace Nakano.