Guintoli to Alstare Suzuki WSB

Sylvain Guintoli will make a dramatic switch to WSB with Alstare Suzuki – replacing Max Neukirchner, who has signed for Ten Kate Honda.

Guintoli’s move has been sanctioned by the Suzuki factory – even though the 27-year old has already signed a contract with the British-based Crescent Suzuki team that runs the BSB operation.

And Guintoli’s departure has opened the way for Yukio Kagayama to rejoin the Verwood-based Crescent Suzuki team in BSB.

Suzuki GB managing director Yasuhara Osawa said: “Sylvain has proved to be an incredible asset this year for Suzuki, despite his unfortunate injury.

“Following Alsatre’s request we have unanimously agreed for him to move to WSB for 2010.

Worx Suzuki team boss Jack Valentine added: “To have Yukio back in the UK is great news. He is still a class act and was incredibly popular with the UK fans.”

Guintoli had played down the potential move to the Alstare team when MCN put it to him during the weekend. “That’s a good rumour,” he laughed. “Don’t ever deny the good rumours. It’s all positive when people are talking good things about you!”

But then he became serious and hinted at the reality of the situation when he added.

“I have a contract with Crescent but Suzuki is a big family. For now I’m saying nothing is done. What is completely sure is that I will be racing a Suzuki next year.