Tardozzi backs Xaus for Portimao return

BMW Team Manager Davide Tardozzi has given his backing to Ruben Xaus to make a return to racing in Portimao following his nightmare weekend at the season opener in Phillip Island.      

During the first round, Xaus crashed four times including a 160mph spill during morning warm-up when he wiped out Noriyuki Haga going into turn one. Xaus was given the all clear to race by SBK doctors but was ruled out by BMW’s own doctor due to suspected concussion. 

Tardozzi is currently in Spain with the BMW test team who are continuing to evaluate new parts and settings on the improving S1000RR. He also used the opportunity to meet with Xaus to discuss his Portimao return.

He said: The main issue at this moment is to have Ruben on form in Portimao. We are working on that, it is my priority so far. Ruben is not so bad so far. I am in Spain now and I spoke to him here. I think Ruben still thinks he can be fast and do well, and I have seen he is very well in these two days, so I think he will be ready for Portimao.”