Elias’ move to SBK confirmed

After Monday’s news that Michel Fabrizio had left the Red Devils Roma Aprilia team, it was only going to be a matter of time until the Italian squad names Toni Elias as his replacement for the remainder of the season.

The 2010 Moto2 World Champion will join up with the Italian squad, and will ride a Aprilia RSV4 for the rest of the season, making his World Superbike debut this weekend at Istanbul Park.

In a press release Elias said: “I’ve been wanting to try a Superbike for a while, and Aprilia is one of the most competitive ones, at the moment.

“I’m pleased for the interest and for the kindness of the team and I will put all my commitment to return all the trust. I find myself in a championship that is drawing to an end for 2013, with still a lot in stake and many competitive riders. I will try anyway to find my spaces in order to show what I’m capable of.”

The 2006 Portuguese MotoGP winner was sat in 18th position in the Moto2 championship, and couldn’t find the form that saw him claim the Moto2 crown back in 2010. Needless to say the Blusens Avintia team weren’t best pleased with Elias’ results, and said that in a statement released today regarding Elias’ departure.

“It is no secret that the results achieved so far this year were not enjoyed by anybody, although the team provided all of the necessary needs and Elias had given it his maximum on the track. Toni had already set his sights on World Superbikes for next season, but an immediate offer which involves finishing this year in that championship has accelerated the process.”