Elias moves from Moto2 to WSBK
Moto2 championship winner and MotoGP stalwart makes a move to production-based machinery
2010 Moto2 World Champion and MotoGP race winner Toni Elias has parted company with Blusens Avinitia Kalex and will be joining Red Devils Doma Aprilia in World Superbike for the remaining 2013 season.
Elias will make his debut at the Istanbul Park circuit in Turkey, the first time this circuit has been on the WSBK calendar and the only circuit out of the final four rounds that is Elias is not familiar with.
Red Devils Doma Aprilia released this statement: “Red Devils Team is proud to announce a deal with the Spanish rider Toni Elias, 2010 Moto2 World Champion.
“The Spanish Champion will ride the Aprilia RSV4 for the rest of the 2013 season, starting from the Turkish round this weekend.
“223 GP races, 17 victories, 43 podiums, 12 pole positions and fast laps in his 12 year career for Toni Elias who has chosen Red Devils and Aprilia for an historical transition (never during a running season) from prototype to superbikes.
“Red Devils wishes to thank rider Michel Fabrizio for being so professional in his words, pusing the team in the leading position amongst the private ones in the World Superbike Championship. The whole team sends their best wishes to Michel’s final season in line with his expectations.”
The experienced Spaniard became the first Moto2 World Champion in 2010 in its inaugural year to be followed by a disappointing return to MotoGP in 2011. This has then seen Elias return to the intermediate class for the past two season.
Elias explained: “I’ve been wanting to try a Superbike Aprilia for a while and it is currently one of the most competitive, at the moment.
“I’m flattered by the interest and willingness shown to me and I will do my bests to reciprocate the trust that I have been granted.
“I’ve found a championship which is coming to an end for 2013 with many riders aggressive and determined. I will try anyway to find my spaces in order to show my value.”
