Guintoli to get early WSB debut with Alstare Suzuki at Portimao

In the wake of his signing with the Suzuki Alstare team for the 2010 WSB championship, Sylvain Guintoli is set to make an early debut in the series next week, when he lines up for the final round in Portugal on October 25th. The Frenchman will join Yukio Kagayama, who will take his place next year in the Crescent Suzuki team in the BSB, for the race.

Before arriving at the Portuguese Round however, Guintoli underwent surgery last week to remove a screw from the plates used to repair the tibia and fibula smashed in an early-season crash at Donington.

"The operation is good because it means I can put more pressure on my leg and that should help the healing process. It's still not completely joined but it will be by next year. Over winter I'll have the rest of the screws out and everything will be good," declared Guintoli.

Barring complications the French rider should take part not only in the race but also in the two days of testing scheduled for the Portimao track on Tuesday and Wednesday.