Jonathan Rea will not be racing at BRNO on July 7. Rea suffered a fracture and some ligament damage to his right arm during a crash at Misano last week. The Castrol Honda rider will be replaced by Alex Lowes while he recovers.
“The first thing I want to say is that I hope Jonathan's injuries heal quickly and that he's back on the bike soon," Lowes said. "It's never ideal getting a ride because another rider has been hurt, but it's now happened to me twice this season.”
Lowes is also filling in for an injured Stuart Easton in the British Superbike series.
“Having said that, this is an incredible opportunity for me,” Lowes continued. “I keep pinching myself because I'm riding for one of the world's best race teams in the World Superbike championship. I know I have a lot to learn but I want to make the most of this and repay Castrol, Honda and the whole team for the faith they've shown in me."
Lowes started the 2011 racing season aboard a Honda CBR1000RR in the EVO class. Castrol Honda Team Manager Ronald ten Kate was impressed with Lowes performance in the British Superbike series.
"At the beginning of this season, Alex made quite a stunning impression riding an Evo specification Honda in the British Superbike championship,” Ronald ten Kate said. “Of course, we're grateful to his current team MSS Kawasaki. The combination of Alex's sheer riding ability, his young age and a strong ambition make us believe that he will be an ideal substitute while Jonathan is recuperating from his injuries."
Rea will continue to ride with the MSS Kawasaki team as he fills in for Rea in the World Superbike series.
