Steve Martin's short time at DFX Honda looks over following the news that they will not field a bike for the Australian at Assen this weekend - but Martin will still be present, replacing injured countryman Kevin Curtain at the Yamaha World Supersport Team.
With 2006 title runner-up Curtain still suffering the effects of a broken collarbone at
Donington Park, and further injuries sustained at Valencia last time out, Yamaha's top WSS team contacted Martin to ask if he was interested in riding their factory-supported R6, alongside Broc Parkes, at Assen.
It was perfect timing for Steve: He had just received confirmation from DFX that they would not be fielding a Superike for him at Assen, as previously agreed, making it an easy decision.
"I can't believe the way this all came about, but when Kev asked me personally to fill in for him I was in shock as it was the last phone call I was expecting," said Steve, who had been riding on a race-by-race basis for DFX after the team revealed an unexpected lack of sponsorship. "No one likes to fill in under these circumstances, especially when its one of your mates, but I will do the best job possible to help Kev, Brock and Yamaha.
"It has been a long time since I have had an association with Yamaha but I have only good memories starting my racing career on them," he revealed. "The team is very professional so I'm sure they are going to make it as easy as possible for me in every way. Already from the small dealings I have had I feel more settled than I have all year."
Martin will hope that he can emulate the recent performance of fellow countryman Andrew Pitt who, having suddenly lost his
MotoGP ride, was asked to replace injured WSS champion Sebastien Charpentier at Valencia last time out. Pitt finished an excellent second behind team-mate
Kenan Sofuoglu and has been rewarded with a further ride for Ten Kate Honda at Assen this weekend.
Practice at Assen starts on Friday morning.
