Yanagawa to Replace Vermeulen in WSB

With Chris Vermeulen out of commission for the remainder of the World Superbike Championship, the Kawasaki Racing Team has announced that longtime Kawasaki racer and development rider, Akira Yanagawa, will fill-in for Round 10 of the series being held at England’s Silverstone racing circuit.

“We are delighted to welcome Akira to the Kawasaki Racing Team for our home race at Silverstone later this month, “ said Paul Bird, owner of the racing squad. “To have someone of his experience and racing history join my team is an honor. He is probably one of the most famous Kawasaki riders and someone who has a very competitive, fighting spirit which will be greatly received on this side of the garage.”

“Obviously Chris has struggled ever since his crash at Phillip Island,” continued Bird, “Although it is a shame to not have his presence in the garage, we wish nothing more than to move forward and get both bikes back inside the points again.”

For the last few years, Yanagawa has been an test rider for Team Green and has been instrumental in developing its Ninja ZX-6R and 10R sportbikes. Previously the 39-year-old Japanese rider competed in the All-Japan Road Race and World Superbike Championships.

“I feel sorry for Chris Vermeulen for his injury and I wish him the best of luck for his recovery,” said Yanagawa. “I am very happy to help the Kawasaki Racing Team in his absence. It has been many years since I raced in World Superbikes so it will be a pleasure to be part of this series once again and attend the Silverstone event. I have a long-standing relationship with Kawasaki and the Ninja ZX-10R machine so I am sure I will fit in to the team just fine and hopefully make a good result. I am very excited to return to England and to race again in this Championship.”