Struggling German WorldSBK star Markus Reiterberger has walked away from his Althea BMW team and the championship, saying he needs some time out as he hasn’t fully recovered from the two fractured vertabrae sustained at Misano last year.

However, the youngster is into his second season with the difficult S1000RR and can’t get anywhere close to the results of team-mate Jordi Torres - the only rider that has been able to make the bike do anything of any consequence which tells you more about the bike than the rider, and Reiterberger’s situation.

“After serious consideration, I have decided to step away from participating in WorldSBK. We made a strong start last season but then couldn´t keep up the good results. I have therefore opted to refocus on making a complete recovery and on my racing career. I am very thankful for the experience in WorldSBK with Althea BMW Racing Team and I am now very much looking forward to new challenges,” said Reiterberger.

“I feel the need to thank my sponsors for having allowed me to take part in the world championship, BMW Motorrad for their trust and passion, and my appreciation also goes out to the whole Althea BMW Racing Team crew for their work. I was very much encouraged by the positive reception from my friends, family and fans – I am very thankful for that. It was always my dream to participate in WorldSBK and with the experience I’ve gained, I will work very hard to return to the championship.”

He will be replaced by Raffaele de Rosa from Assen onwards.