Current Ducati 848 Challenge series leader Robbie Brown will make a step up in class next weekend when he joins Kev Coghlan in the Ducati Manchester European Superstock 1000 team to contest the first of two rounds starting at Brno.

Brown is running away with the domestic series with a 62.5-point lead and this has led to him being drafted in as a replacement for the injured Alexey Ivanov who crashed heavily at Misano. Brown will race in the Czech Reublic and then again at Silverstone in early August.

"To be even offered this chance is just amazing. I have worked hard all year in the UK and when I was offered to ride in Brno and Silverstone I contacted everyone I knew to get the support required to compete," he said.

"Obviously, my main priority is the 848 Challenge and I don't want to sacrifice that but it will be great to ride the 1199 Panigale to keep me fresh over the six week break between now and Cadwell Park.

"Brno is going to be treated as a test for me. I have never ridden the bike or the circuit so I just want to come away with some positive data to hit the ground running at Silverstone for the home fans. It's all credit to Ducati Manchester for making this happen and all the sponsors who have supported. I can't wait."