Haga brings maiden BSB season to a close

After the fanfare of his much anticipated British Superbike Championship arrival, Noriyuki Haga's maiden season in the domestic series came to a fairly unspectacular conclusion as he sealed eighth in the overall standings.

The World Superbike legend came into the season expected to follow in the footsteps of John Hopkins before him and challenge for the title in his first year, but while he showed flashes of the form that made him a legend on the international stage, he only managed a single podium throughout the year.

Hampered by a collarbone injury that prevented him from reaching the 'Title Showdown', Haga's season tailed off in the latter stages, leaving him to end his season with eighth, ninth and tenth finishes at Brands Hatch.

With no hint as to whether he will return to Swan Yamaha or BSB in 2013, Haga thanked the team for offering him a ride this season.

"[It] was difficult again and we tried for a good result. In both races I pushed hard but with a bad grid position it made it not easy. I want to thank the team for their support this season."