Regis Laconi is expected to make a welcome return to the saddle after being invited by DFX Ducati to ride its machine during the two-day test in Portimao.

The Frenchman has not raced a bike since his the high-speed accident at Kyalami, one that left him in a coma and with a series of serious injuries.

Nonetheless, following a relatively speedy recovery, Laconi has already put in some demonstration laps at his home Magny-Cours circuit, even if it is only now that he will have the chance to get fully up to speed.

He is due to be joined on testing duties at DFX by young Superstock front runner Javier Fores, who finished fourth in the standings for Pedercini Kawasaki.

Elsewhere, both Althea Racing and Carlos Checa will be getting acquainted with the Ducati 1098 after two seasons working with Honda, while Squadra Corse Italia will test Vittorio Iannuzzo and Luca Scassa.