Karl Muggeridge

Fellow Australian Steve Martin may have endured a torrid time with DFX Honda in 2007, but that hasn't stopped countrymen Karl Muggeridge and Russell Holland joining the outfit for 2008.

Martin left the squad mid-season after it struck financial problems, while Muggeridge's season with Alto Evolution Honda was almost as dramatic.

The former World Supersport champion and team-mate Josh Brookes were forced to miss the Misano round following the 'hijacking' of the team's truck and, while Brookes subsequently switched to Supersport, Muggeridge battled on to end the year 16th in the standings.

The Australian, who will start his fourth WSBK season in 2008, will now hope to use his considerable CBR1000RR experience - and some team stability - to finally snare a premier-class podium.

After a measure of success in the Australian Championships, Muggeridge took the British route to success on the world stage. 

A few Honda privateer races in 1997 paved the way for a full Castrol Honda British season in 1998 and '99, with the latter delivering him a strong 4th place overall. 

Muggeridge raced for the Ten Kate Honda team in 2000 and enjoyed his best yet championship season. He finished fifth in the championship scoring his maiden victory at the last round at Brands Hatch in October.

Karl moved to Suzuki for the next campaign and finished in seventh place, scoring three podium places but no wins. He joined Honda UK for 2001 scored a podium place at Silverstone and ended the year in 14th place. 

The likeable Australian was then reunited with championship winning Ten Kate Honda team and eventually wins the WSS championship for the Dutch team in 2004 - resulting in a WSBK ride with the same team in 2005.

Finishes 12th in his debut SBK season as he learns the Fireblade and just misses out his on goal of a podium finish. Lucky to escape serious injury when he becomes trapped in the rear wheel of Andrew Pitt's Honda at the season ending Magny Cours round. 

With Chris Vermeulen off to MotoGP, Muggeridge was re-signed by Winston Ten Kate to join James Toseland in 2006, but continued to be denied a much needed debut podium and again finished 12th in the standings. 

Muggeridge lost his seat to Roberto Rolfo for 2007 and was rumoured to be returning to World Supersport, but secured a ride with the Bertocchi team alongside young countryman Josh Brookes.

Career highlights:

1995: Winner 250cc Production race at Phillip Island
1996: 10th 250cc Australian Production Championship
1997: Contested no championship series in 1997
1998: 13th British Supersport Championship
1999: 4th British Supersport Championship
2000: 5th World Supersport Championship
2001: 7th World Supersport Championship
2002: 14th World Supersport Championship
2003: 4th World Supersport Championship
2004: 1st World Supersport Championship
2005: 12th World Superbike Championship
2006: 12th World Superbike Championship
2007: 16th World Superbike Championship