Ruben Xaus welcomes British young guns in to WSB

Ruben Xaus has revealed that he can’t wait to race with the influx of young British riders entering World Superbikes next year after getting to see Tom Sykes, Leon Haslam and Jonathan Rea up close during their wild card appearances in 2008.

At the final round of the championship at the Parkalgar circuit in Portugal, Xaus spent the opening laps dicing with Rea, Haslam and Crutchlow in what was one of the best races of the 2008 season.

The Spaniard who switches to the new factory BMW squad in 2009 is renowned for his aggressive riding style, but even he was taken aback by the determination and forceful riding of the young Brits.

Speaking to MCN about five British riders joining WSB in 2009, Xaus said:
“Oh Shit! (laughs). I’ve seen them all together in one race so I’ve seen how they ride. In Portugal I saw their riding style, where they put their knees, where they brake and how they brake. One of them is flapping his legs when he brakes and one has his head really hanging off the bike when he corners.

“I’m always pleased to see new guys in the championship, especially as they are all so young. 

“It was good in Portugal and I like those kind of races because it shows that it’s open to everybody. I can’t wait to race them again next year.”