Nurburgring WSB: Neukirchner out Muggeridge in

Australian Karl Muggeridge will replace German Max Neukirchner in next weeks WSB round at the Nurburgring. Neukirchner has been sidelined with injury since the fourth round of the championship at Monza when he was involved in a horrific first corner crash. The 26 year old Alstare Suzuki shattered his Femur and sustained serious ankle injuries in the crash.

Neukirchner made his comeback at the official SBK Pirelli test at Imola in July, but it was short lived when the two time race winner crashed on day two sustaining broken Vertebrae. Despite making good initial progress, Neukirchner will not race in Germany and could possibly be out until the final round of the championship at Portimao on 25th October.

Neukirchner’s slow recovery has opened the door to 35 year old Karl Muggeridge who has been rewarded a one race no pressure ride by Alstare Suzuki boss Francis Batta. The Australian rider started the season racing for the Celani Suzuki squad in WSB, but lost his ride following a serious back injury at Assen in XX. Muggeridge made his comeback ride standing in for fellow Australian Josh Brookes onboard the HMPlant Honda in BSB Brands where he secured fourth, seventh and sixth in the three races.

Muggeridge said: “This is an excellent opportunity; I know a lot of people from the Alstare team from my time with them in 2001. It’s nice to know that I have a good crew behind me. I hope I can help them team and give them as much feedback as possible in Nürburgring and get them a good result. I wish Max a speedy recovery and hope he’s back to his full fitness soon.”