Source: Supplied.

Former Australian Superbike champion Mike Jones made an impressive start to his Superstock 1000 FIM Cup campaign at MotorLand Aragon, in the battle for a podium until a minor mishap dropped him down to finish ninth.

In his European return, the Aruba.it Racing – Junior Team Ducati rider encountered a gear-shift issue in the closing laps, but soldiered on for an encouraging top 10 result aboard the factory-supported Panigale.

“It was a great race,” Jones reflected. “I got off one of my best starts ever, then simply tried to stay focused and calm and I was able to set myself within the podium fight. Unfortunately, with three laps to go, we had an issue while back-shifting at the end of the straight and I ran off the track, losing many positions. We’ll analyse it, but there’s still room for improvement both for myself and the bike anyway. I got plenty of feedback and this round represents a good building block for us.”

Team owner Daniele Casolari commented: “The ninth place isn’t representative of his potential. Beside the gearshift issue, he was riding a solid race and was already fighting for the podium at his debut in the championship. We want to stay on this course at Assen.”

Jones’ Aruba.it Racing – Junior Team teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi won the opening round of the season in commanding fashion, while countryman Glenn Scott rode his Agro-On Benjan Kawasaki to 22nd position.