Bonovo BMW’s Eugene Laverty is hoping Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will bring a solid return to WorldSBK form this weekend.

Having suffered from injury in the first half of the season, and technical issues last time out in France, Laverty is aiming for a stronger and more stable weekend abroad the BMW M1000RR as the FIM Superbike World Championship returns to Montmeló.

While Laverty tested at the Catalan track across the summer, this will be the Northern Irishman’s first race appearance at the venue since 2020 - with seventh in Sunday’s race two providing the highest finish - after his unscheduled mid-season sabbatical last year.

"We had a good test in Catalonia during the summer break, so I am looking forward to this race weekend,” Laverty said ahead of round eight. “The asphalt in Catalonia is very slippery, which will provide some interesting racing.

“When the others start to lose grip towards the end, I am usually on par with them, so I hope I can be stronger than in the other races.

“The engine of the BMW M1000RR is very strong too, which of course is a help along the one kilometre long straight, so it is good to know to have a little extra in the fight."