WSB: Haslam looking to mix it with factory boys

Leon Haslam has his sights set on the podium as he makes a welcome return to the Superbike World Championship at Donington Park this weekend.

Making a wildcard appearance with the Puccetti Kawasaki team, who are thought to be seeking the BSB star’s signature for the 2018 season, Haslam believes he can push towards the front this weekend after he decimated the British Superbike field at Donington earlier this year.

While the 33-year-old remains realistic about challenging the factory riders, he believes a podium goal is well within his reach after finishing fifth in Qatar on what he believes wasn’t as strong a package as the one the Italian outfit will field this weekend.

“We had a flawless BSB weekend at Donington and hopefully we can get close to the factory boys in World Superbikes and give the British fans something to shout about,” he said.

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“I’ve raced and won in WorldSBK before, so I know I am capable of winning more. The Puccetti Kawasaki team may be new to the championship, but we had a test in Portimao and we were already at a very high level, and we just need to wait and see how high we can go compared to the factory bikes, but from my perspective I want to be challenging top three.

“Donington is my local circuit, my favourite circuit, and I know it like the back of my hand. I’m very grateful to Puccetti Racing and JG Speedfit for giving me this opportunity. A wildcard win is going to be difficult with the rules of today and how strong the factory riders are, but I’ll give it all I’ve got!” 

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