Checa returns to WSB Ducati – but only for testing

Former World Superbike champion Carlos Checa will return to the championship for the first time since his retirement at the end of the 2013 season – but only in a testing capacity, as he replaces injured Ducati test rider Luca Scassa.

Scassa, who was hurt during a wildcard appearance at the Misano round of the series, was due to take to Mugello for a tree day test starting tomorrow, but will now be replaced by the Spaniard.

However, Checa has also been quick to stress that, unlike former rivals Troy Bayliss and Max Biaggi, he is not considering a return to racing.

“I’m very pleased to have the opportunity to return to the track with the Ducati Panigale superbike. The project continues to develop and I’m honoured and happy to be able to make a contribution. I hope, once I’ve shaken off a few cobwebs, to be able to provide the team with useful feedback.

“It’s been a while since I rode a Superbike and I want to stress that I’m not thinking to return to racing. I just like the idea of experiencing some of the excitement that I enjoyed during my career and plan to be fully focused and committed during the three days of testing.”