The ‘Magnificent Seven’ ride into Silverstone - Leon looking forward to home race
Britain’s ‘Magnificent Seven’ World Superbike riders will ride into Silverstone next week for the UK’s only round of the FIM Superbike World Championship (Friday 30 July to Sunday 01 August). Rather than protecting the Silverstone crowd from marauding Mexican bandits, our Magnificent Seven will be searching for glory of a different kind; going all out to clinch race wins and podium finishes aboard their trusty 1000cc two-wheeled steeds.
The seven British regular World Superbike riders got together at the last round of the series in Brno, Czech Republic, to pay homage to the classic John Sturges film that celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Donning cowboy hats, the seven Brits lined up in their current championship positions to publicise their imminent arrival at their home circuit – the new 3.666 mile Silverstone track.
Cast as the ‘bandit’ in our scenario is veteran Italian rider Max Biaggi. Biaggi is a four-time 250cc World Champion and former MotoGP front-runner. He currently heads the championship standings with Leon, second, in hot pursuit. With only three rounds of the season remaining after Silverstone Leon will be looking for strong results in the weekend’s two Superbike races.
“I am looking forward to Silverstone as it is the only time we get to race at home,” said Haslam. “With the new developments it is effectively a new circuit for everyone so there is no real track advantage, but hopefully the home advantage and the fans will give us a boost to get us onto the top step of the podium.”
“My Dad and I had a couple of laps round the circuit on standard bikes when it was opened. I had a Formula One car driven by David Coulthard right behind me, so it was a bit nerve wracking, but it is an awesome layout and I can’t wait to get racing round there. Should be good racing, high speed flowing corners and some good overtaking opportunities.”
The Magnificent Seven World Superbike regulars will be joined at Silverstone by wildcard Thomas Bridewell from Wiltshire. In addition to the British interest in the two main Superbike races, Chaz Davies and Gino Rea will be joined by wildcards James Westmorland, twin brothers Sam and Alex Lowes, Christian Iddon, Jenny Tinmouth, Max Hunt and David Jones in the World Supersport Championship race. Barry Burrell, Gavin Hunt, Peter Hickman and Victor Cox fly the flag as wildcards in the Superstock 1000 FIM Cup, while Joshua Elliott and wildcard Luke Mossey will take to the track for the Superstock 600 European Championship race.
To download images click on the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/silverstonecircuit/sets/72157623468437875/detail
