WorldSBK exile Xavi Fores will return to the Barni Ducati team in Argentina as he replaces Luca Bernadini.

Fores will climb aboard the Italian squad’s Ducati Panigale V4R for the last three championship rounds, set to run in Argentina, Thailand and Australia while Bernardi will the season with the CM Racing team in Supersport, riding the Panigale V2.

"It has been a difficult decision, but I think we’ve made the right choice, for the team and for Luca too. I put my faith in him at the start of the season, despite his back injury in 2021, because I believe in his qualities but after eight rounds, unfortunately, the results have failed to meet with expectation," said team boss Marco Bernabo.

"Having also supported him during the surgery to remove his spinal implant, I believe that the best solution is for Luca to continue on his growth path in Supersport and I have taken action to ensure that this can happen.

"We collaborate with team CM for the development of the Panigale V2 and they needed a rider who can exploit the bike’s potential. Why who choose Xavi? He already knows our team and the Panigale V4R, and he’s shown to be strong with this bike in Endurance.”