Checa completes successful Ducati WSB test

Carlos Checa has completed a successful return to World Superbikes for the first time since his retirement at the end of the 2013 season, completing a three day test on the factory Panigale at Mugello.

Deputising for injured test rider Luca Scassa, the former World Champion says that it was hard work getting up to speed again – and emotional to be reunited with many of his old team – but that he loved the experience.

“I was pleased to ride the Panigale again and to be fast right away. It was really emotional to work with those people who helped me achieve my past results. I hope that my work over these three days has helped the team to further improve the bike, which has really grown a lot recently. I thank Ducati and the whole development team for having given me the chance to enjoy the excitement of the track once more. I had a lot of fun and who knows, perhaps I’ll have another chance to test in the future.”

Ernesto Marinelli, Ducati SBK Project Director, agreed, saying that the amount and quality of feedback provided by Checa, who completed some 150 laps of the Italian track, was excellent.

“It’s been emotional and informative working with Carlos once again. There is always something to be learned from a rider with his level of experience and, as is usual with him, feedback has been clear and precise. We have carried out an intense testing programme and the fact we’ve had high temperatures this week has allowed us to work on rear grip and race consistency in extreme conditions such as these. Work that will undoubtedly prove useful in the next races. Carlos came here in good shape, to complete more than 150 laps at Mugello with these temperatures is certainly not easy but he’s been very consistent throughout.”