Former British Superbike rider Steve Mercer will return to the series at Brands Hatch this weekend as he joins the MIST Suzuki squad to replace the retired Matt Bond.

Mercer has been concentrating on his roads programme this season and was fastest newcomer at this year's Isle of Man TT. The MIST team have finally got the parts they have been waiting for all season and reckon they have a package to allow Mercer to stand on the Superbike Cup podium

"Trying to find a rider to replace Matt was a difficult one but we think Steve has what it takes to do well. We have plenty of track time at the weekend so will take it slowly so that Steve has time to adjust to the nature of short circuit racing," said team boss Mike Edwards.
 
"The bike development is coming along and, although we are still waiting for some parts, we are finally approaching the bike we hoped to have at the start of the season. We are hoping that Steve and MIST Suzuki can help each other and encourage new sponsorship to allow us to complete the season."