Italian Gabriele Giannini will make his Bennetts British Superbike Championship debut at Thruxton this weekend (August 8/9/10) with DAO Racing Honda, deputising for Lee Jackson who is sidelined through injury following his Brands Hatch crash.
The 22-year-old has been a multiple title-winner in his native Italy, winning the 2014 Italian MiniGP 50 Championship, the 2016 Italian Premoto3 Championship, and in the CIV 1000 class in 2022 and 2023. He has also gained experience in the Supersport World Championship and also in the FIM Endurance World Championship.
Giannini said: “I’m excited to take part in a round of BSB, a championship renowned for its competitive level within the Superbike world. I want to thank DAO Racing for this unique opportunity, it means a lot to be brought onto the British scene by such an excellent team. I know it won’t be an easy challenge, as I’m not familiar with the Thruxton circuit.
“The Honda specification is slightly different from what I’m used to. Still, I’m ready to give it my all and make the most of this opportunity. I can’t wait to take on this challenge and turn it into a valuable learning experience, improving with each session on track.”
Jonny Bagnall, Team Manager commented: “Unfortunately, with Lee’s injures revealing themselves to be worse than initial thought, DAO Racing were keen to find a replacement for this weekend’s round at Thruxton.
“Initial discussions were made out in Japan during the Suzuka 8 Hours event last weekend and with Gabriele already riding the Honda Fireblade, and currently holding second place in the CIV Italian Championship, it’s a great combination while the team is developing the bike in its first year running with the Honda machinery.”
