Team Barni Racing was on track earlier this week at Jerez for a two day private test with STK1000 Champion Leandro Mercado, who will make his eni FIM Superbike World Championship next year. The Argentinean rider felt at ease aboard the WSBK-spec 1199 Panigale R but unfortunately crashed towards the end of the second day on dry track, eventually dislocating his left wrist and fracturing the scaphoid bone. Mercado immediately flew back to Italy and then underwent  a successful surgery at Florence’s Maurizio Bufalini hospital, performed by Dr. Bigazzi with estimated recovery time of six weeks.

Leandro Mercado: “It was a positive two day test. The bike is really different to the one I used in STK1000 and I have to admit I found a good feeling with it straight away. Weather conditions did not allow to push to the limit, but we worked well and set some good lap times. It’s a shame for the crash, which ruined our plans. Fortunately in few weeks I will back to full fitness.”

Marco Barnabò: “We tried many settings during the two days and we got away with some good results. It all looks very promising. Mercado has been very professional and felt immediately at ease aboard the bike. Unfortunately he crashed out, meaning he will take some time off in the upcoming weeks. I would like to thank doctors Massimo Corbascio and Monica Lanzarotti who helped us coordinating a quick and successful surgery.”