German rider Max Neukirchner will partner Britain's Jonathan Rea in the Ten Kate Honda squad for next year's World Superbike Championship and has been passed fit to ride by a panel of medics.

There was some confusion between Neukirchner and his former team Alstare Suzuki as to whether he would be able to take part in the Portimao post-season tests next weekend but Ten Kate have said he has been given a clean bill of health.

“I have to say that my feeling is really good right now. The Ten Kate team is so big and experienced and the CBR1000RR is clearly such a strong package," said Neukirchner.

"Jonathan has proved that with his victories this year and I’m really looking forward to being his team-mate as we are good friends. It feels really great to be back on a Honda; I am feeling fit and I’m determined to put a good season together next year.”

Where this leaves current riders Carlos Checa and Ryuichi Kiyonari is not clear.