News

Kawasaki fielded one of their strongest line-ups ever in the Supersport class in 2012, and their policy paid off handsomely as Kenan Sofuoglu took the title for the Akashi manufacturer for the first time since 2001. But another key note of interest came mid-season with the arrival of the MSD R-N Kawasaki team, an Indian-backed and managed outfit that has high hopes and expectations for the future. Riders Dan Linfoot from the UK and Florian Marino from France were only mid-field runners as the team gathered experience from Brno onwards, but eventually it was the 24 year-old British rider who made the breakthrough result with a well-deserved podium finish at the final round of the season. WorldSBK.com spoke to British rider Dan Linfoot about his Supersport year.

What a great finish to the season! You came back from an injury and started with a brand-new team in a championship that you had never taken part in before. How do you feel about getting onto the podium at Magny-Cours?
"I feel very happy with the achievement we made as a team in the final round at Magny-Cours. To be on the podium is a great achievement for a new team, in only 5 races. I started at Silverstone after injuring my hand. Of course, it's down to hard work from everyone in the team."

Are you happy to be back on the world stage? Is it somewhere you feel you belong?
"I am very happy to be racing in World Supersport, to be honest, this is where I have wanted to race since leaving 250GP in 2007. I've had a difficult few years in BSB, but this only makes me more determined to succeed here in WSS. Yes I do feel comfortable in this class, I feel at home, and know I can deliver results."

Did you enjoy this half season or so with the MSD R-N Team India Kawasaki?
"Yes, I really did enjoy this half season with MSD R-N, I met and am working with some great guys, the involvement of management from India is a great addition to the team, which I'm sure will succeed. It's a fantastic new team, and I feel very proud to have delivered their first podium."

What's the plan for next season? Stay with the team or look for something else?
"I am hoping to stay with MSD R-N racing team India for the full World Supersport Championship, and should know in the next few weeks if this is possible."

What was your impression of the World Supersport level last season?
"It always has been a great championship, close racing, exciting and well subscribed in terms of manufacturers, and this proved to be the case again this year. To have Kenan three times a World Champion in the class, proves the level is still very high."