Former World Superbike Champion Max Biaggi says he is well aware of the difficulties in making a return to competition at this weekend’s Misano round after not having raced since the end of 2012.

But Biaggi, who is an official Aprilia test rider, joins Leon Haslam and Jordi Torres in the Red Devils squad after reportedly setting his fastest-ever lap times at both the Circuit Marco Simoncelli and at Mugello, so he will be on the pace.

It is truly very exciting for me to return to racing, to taste the adrenaline of competition again, especially on a circuit as special to me as Misano. In my work as a tester I'm helping Aprilia develop the new RSV4 RF, working very well with the guys that I know well and who by now understand me at first glance,” said the self-styled Roman Emperor.

“The wild card is a 'cherry on the top' so to speak, a chance where I definitely plan on giving my all. I am also well aware of the difficulties. Our rivals are in grand form and for me it won't be easy at all.

“The goal is first and foremost to have fun, not to predict any results, but to give 100 per cent to bring a smile to the face of Aprilia, the fans and all enthusiasts. Sunday after race two we'll draw our conclusions.”