WSS: Polita returns with Hoegee Suzuki

World Superbike exile Alessandro Polita will return to the paddock for the upcoming event at Assen after securing a World Supersport Championship berth with the Hoegee Suzuki team.

The former Superstock 1000 Champion was being lined up to race for Sterilgarda Ducati in the Superbike class this season, but financial woes left him on the sidelines before the opening round of the year.

Nonetheless, Polita will take up his place on the Suzuki GSX-R600 from Assen onwards as a replacement for Shaun Geronimi, who has been dropped after a series of 'insufficient and inadequate results'.

The Italian, who last raced in the Supersport class six years ago, was delighted to be back on the grid after his Superbike deal fell through.

"I nearly had given up hope, but finally.... I'm very happy about the opportunity that Mr Marc Hoegee gave to me. I would like to reciprocate this chance by doing my best. The past months were very difficult for me and for my confidence but now I am in an excellent team and I'll work hard to confront myself in this class that will be a new challenge.

"I think it is early to speak about results before I start, but the Hoegee team definitely demonstrates to be at the top in the Supersport World Championship.

"I would like to grow with the help of my new team and with the help of my team-mate Barry Veneman who is extremely fast with the Suzuki prepared by Marc. I'll do and give my very best for it and nothing less."

Team manager Marc Hoegee was also pleased to have secured the services of Polita, who comes to the Supersport category with a series of strong Superstock seasons behind him.

"Following insufficient and inadequate results by Shaun in the first 3 rounds we decided to strengthen the team with an appealing rider. With Alessandro we have an absolute ace from FIM Superstock in house, who I believe will make his reputation in Supersport as well.

"We'll support him in any way to get him quickly familiarised with Suzuki and start pursuing championship points. Also for the future our engagement with Alessandro offers great perspectives."

Hoegee, which is the sole Suzuki representative in the Supersport class, currently sit tenth in the overall standings with Barry Veneman.