BSB: Kent to make BSB debut at Brands after successful test

Former Moto3 World Champion Danny Kent will make his Bennetts British Superbike debut at Brands Hatch this weekend as he looks to secure a ride for the 2019 season.

Kent was unceremoniously booted out of his Speed Up Moto2 team for the final five rounds of the 2018 season, replaced by Edgar Pons, leading him to visit the Assen BSB round in order to look to the future.

As reported by MCN during the Assen weekend, Kent agreed to participate in a last-minute test with the Movuno.com Halsall Racing squad with a view to racing at Brands Hatch.

That test took place yesterday on the Brands Indy circuit, with the team receiving special dispensation to test within the seven-day rule that usually forbids testing at a venue in the week prior to an event.

With the test considered a success, Kent has been given the keys to the Movuno Halsall Suzuki GSX-R1000 for this weekend’s upcoming Brands Hatch finale, but is aware of the magnitude of the task he’s taking on.

“It was a big, new experience getting on the bike because I’d never ridden it before, I was completely new to Pirelli tyres and I haven’t ridden at Brands Hatch since 2009,” he said.

“It was a general track day so I didn’t really get chance to push it as much as I’d have liked, but it was a great chance to get to know the bike, the tyres and the team.

“I’m coming into this with an open mind. I’m not putting any pressure on myself, I just want to learn as much as I can. I want to use the whole weekend as further testing ahead of whatever may come next year. I’m looking forward to it, and grateful to Colin Wright and Martin Halsall for the opportunity.”

Venerable team manager Colin Wright added: “Danny’s been great, we’ve loved having him with us and I think he’s the perfect guy to ride the bike this weekend. I’m feeling optimistic, but there’s no pressure coming from the team. It’s all very new to him, and he’s having to learn the new tyres as he goes so it’s a lot to take on board.

“Danny is a Moto3 World Champion and we’re thrilled to have him here with us for the weekend. I’m confident we can end the season well.”