Image: Supplied.

Xavi Fores will make a return to the Motul FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) in 2020 after signing with Kawasaki Puccetti Racing.

The 34-year-old took part in 91 WorldSBK races before spending the 2019 season in the British Superbike Championship (BSB), scoring four rookie-season podiums in the competitive series.

“I am really happy to rejoin WorldSBK with the Kawasaki Puccetti Racing team for next season,” said Fores. “Manuel and Kawasaki have built a very strong team in the last few seasons and it was very easy to make a deal with them. The bike is very strong and I think it can suit my riding style very well, so I was pushing hard to close the deal with Manuel.

“I can’t wait to jump on the bike and start to work hard to prepare for next season to make sure we start Round One in Australia with a strong package and in good shape. I want to thank Kawasaki Europe for their big effort and their support, and I also want to thank Manuel for his trust in me.”

Team manager Manuel Puccetti added: “We are very motivated to have Xavi ride for our team next season. He is an experienced rider and fast in all conditions as he has shown many times in the past. I believe we have all the ingredients for another great season in WSBK and we are all keen to get started.”