As predicted, Sterilgarda GMB Racing has completed its 2009 World Superbike line-up by promoting Superstock rider Alex Polita to partner BSB champion Shane Byrne.
Polita, the 2006 Superstock champion, raced a partial WSBK season for Celani Suzuki in 2007, but struggled after sustaining a broken collarbone during round three at
Donington Park and split from the team after ten race starts.
The 23-year-old bounced back by returning to Superstock, with Sterilgarda, this season - where he has claimed four podiums, including victory at Misano, and heads to the Portimao season finale just four points behind title leader Xavier Simeon.
Polita and Byrne will be replacing
Ruben Xaus and Max Biaggi, who are moving to
BMW and Aprilia respectively next season.
"I am really happy that Marco Borciani has given me this big opportunity," said the Italian. "I will return in Superbike with an excellent chance to prove myself. I know it will be difficult to replace Max and Ruben, but this does not frighten me. I can't wait to begin this adventure, although I will continue to concentrate on winning a second Superstock title."
"Alex deserves this promotion," said team manager Borciani. "He is a person of large talent and humility. He has grown within our team and, if he continues to work as he has this season, then he will confirm our belief in him next year."
Sterilgarda has taken nine WSBK podiums (seven for Biaggi, two for Xaus) so far this season, including a dream one-two finish in race two at Misano.
