Kawasaki will only supply Puccetti with material in the 2024 World Superbike Championship apart from its own factory team – Tito Rabat confirmed as rider
Puccetti will be the only Kawasaki customer team in the 2024 Superbike World Championship. This became clear after the WSBK officials presented the entry list for the new season. Pedercini and Orelac will therefore no longer be part of the Superbike World Championship from the 2024 season
In the course of the 2023 WSBK season, Puccetti also considered ending its collaboration with Kawasaki. The lack of development of the Ninja ZX-10RR set Kawasaki back in the Superbike World Championship. Record champion Jonathan Rea decided in the summer to terminate his Kawasaki contract prematurely and take over from Toprak Razgatlioglu at Yamaha.
Puccetti flirted with Ducati and BMW, putting pressure on Kawasaki. Kawasaki reacted and provided Puccetti with factory material for the season finale. Apparently this was enough to persuade Manuel Puccetti to continue
Puccetti aims for top 10 results with Tito Rabat
In the 2024 WSBK season, Puccetti will continue to rely on Kawasaki and also remain loyal to Tito Rabat, who has been appointed as a regular rider. Until now, the Spaniard has only acted as a long-term replacement rider.
“We are delighted to continue our collaboration with such a talented and professional rider, with whom our entire team immediately got on well,” commented Team Principal Manuel Puccetti.
“So far, Rabat has filled in for other riders without us having the opportunity to test together. That’s why we’re looking forward to contesting a full season with him in 2024. Our preparation includes winter tests in January, both in Jerez and Portimao, where Tito can build up confidence with the bike,” reports the team principal of the Kawasaki customer team.
Puccetti is convinced that the 2024 version of the Kawasaki “will be even more competitive than the 2023 machine”. The new freedoms in the regulations and the concessions that Kawasaki receives thanks to the concession rule provide hope. “Our goal is to regularly finish in the top 10,” explains the Puccetti manager.
Tito Rabat expects technical progress from Kawasaki
For Tito Rabat, WSBK 2024 is another opportunity to establish himself in the production-based championship. “I am very happy that we have reached an agreement that allows me to stay with Puccetti-Kawasaki. I have always had a good relationship with Manuel and the whole team,” commented the former Moto2 champion.
“In the past, I was brought in as a substitute rider as soon as the season started. I am sure that our results will be even better if I can take part in the winter tests and all the races. I’m expecting an even more competitive bike and I can’t wait to start my 2024 season,” said Rabat, looking forward to WSBK 2024.
