Davies ‘happy to be back’ after missing first ever ‘complete race weekend’
After missing two full race weekends for the first time in his career at Jerez and Portimao, Chaz Davies is back for his and WorldSBK’s penultimate event of 2021 in San Juan, Argentina.
Davies, who was replaced in brilliant fashion by Loris Baz - claimed two podiums last time out in Portugal, will be back aboard his GoEleven Ducati machine for the first time since round nine in Catalunya.
While fighting for wins and podiums would surely have been Davies’ preferred way to end his World Superbike career - set to retire from racing after November’s season finale, that’s unlikely to be the case given the 34 year-old’s current physical condition.
But with that said, Davies is expecting to go well at a circuit ‘I really enjoy’, despite not having any training ahead of the event.
"It's good to be back! Before this time I never missed a complete race weekend, without even starting it. Sometimes I got injured during the weekend, and I had to miss races, but never did I miss a complete round since the beginning," added the Welshman.
"It has been a different experience, it's almost a little taste of the future, being at home and watching races from the sofa.
"But I am happy to be back in Argentina, a circuit that I really enjoy. I’m feeling much better than I was a few weeks ago, so I expect to be ok on the bike.
"Obviously being passed fit is the main thing, then the goal for the weekend is to go in progression, not do too much too soon, understand my condition on the bike and also my fitness and my strength.
"I missed a lot of races and I haven't been able to do any training, so for sure I am gonna suffer a little bit on that side, but I am gonna grit my teeth for the weekend. I am confident we can do something good and solid, so look forward to it!"
For Baz, the French rider once again demonstrated his ability in Jerez and especially Portimao, however, his future remains to be sorted for 2022.
It’s been confirmed that Baz will not return to MotoAmerica, meaning a return to World Superbike is likely, but whether that’s with Ducati or another manufacturer is unclear.
Based on his results over the last two rounds, Baz would normally be considered the odds-on favourite for the GoEleven Ducati seat, but with BSB series leader Tarran Mackenzie being touted for that ride, the former MotoGP and World Superbike rider might be looking elsewhere.
