Source: Supplied.

Italian local Niccolo Canepa will take the position of Sylvain Guintoli at Pata Yamaha this weekend in the Misano round of the 2016 Superbike World Championship.

Canepa claimed a Superstock 1000 podium for Pata Yamaha at Donington Park last time out, earning him a prized replacement ride in the official WorldSBK team for his home round.

“I’m really happy to be back in WorldSBK and with the Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team,” said Canepa. “After the STK1000 podium this is a very good present! It is also great to have this opportunity in Italy and to race in front of the Italian fans.

“After completing the test with the Pata Yamaha team 10 days ago I feel ready to ride the WorldSBK-spec YZF-R1. For sure the level in the championship is very high, but I will fight as usual to do my best. I’m sorry for Sylvain, but it is good that he will be joining the team for the event and I wish him a fast recovery.”

Canepa will partner with team regular Alex Lowes in the Pata Yamaha squad for Misano, before 2014 world champion Guintoli is expected to return in time for the Laguna Seca round in America on 8-10 July.