Former 125GP winner and World Supersport rider Simone Sanna will wildcard for the Parkalgar Honda team at their home round at Portimao next weekend.

The Italian has tested at the track and, despite having not ridden for six months, was only a second off the pace set by the team's quickest rider Josh Hayes.

“Simone is a friend of the team and the Parkalgar circuit and it has been a pleasure to welcome him into the fold for this round. He has shown a remarkable turn of speed for someone who hasn’t ridden a bike in over five months. If he keeps it up he’ll be jostling with Josh at the sharp end in the race," said team boss Simon Buckmaster.

“The track is very challenging with a lot of blind crests and challenging corners, it is a real rider’s circuit. You can see a lot of it from the stands which has helped us spotting the riders and we have made fast progress.

“Josh has shown immense ability learning the circuit and going so quick. As it is a new circuit, it is a real leveller and he will start the race weekend in confident mood and for the first time without any disadvantage to the regular riders. We think a podium or a win is possible given his performance in the test."