Damian Cudlin, after making a surprising MotoGP debut as a substitute for Loris Capirossi at Motegi, is set to return to a Ducati Desmosedici for the upcoming Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island next weekend.
The 29-year-old rider has been named as the replacement for the injured Hector Barbera of Aspar Ducati, who suffered a collarbone injury in Japan.
“This is a fabulous opportunity for me, I honestly can’t believe it,” Cudlin expressed. “A week ago I debuted in MotoGP, which was already quite a surprise.
“Competing in MotoGP, the world’s best championship, brings me immense pride, especially alongside a great team like the Mapfre Aspar Team. My first experience in Japan was unforgettable, and now, just two weeks later, I have another chance.
“I am really happy; I consider myself a very lucky person and wish to make the most of every single minute of this opportunity.”
“The category’s level and the machinery are exceptionally high, as I discovered in Japan. Having never been to Motegi before, I had to absorb a lot of information quickly, but I am certain I can begin at a higher level in Phillip Island. My familiarity with the circuit will definitely aid in making a confident start.”
Cudlin, who usually serves as a test rider for Suter and competes in the World Endurance and IDM championships, started the Japanese GP without any previous experience on an 800cc MotoGP bike or the Motegi circuit.
The Australian consistently closed the gap to the front of the premier-class field throughout all track sessions; he shortened a 5.9sec gap in first practice to an impressive 2.7sec with his best race lap.
Although he did not finish the race, falling from 14th place—just behind local Honda wild-card Kousuke Akiyoshi—on lap 15 of 24, securing his first MotoGP finish and likely gaining points will be his primary focus for next weekend.
Previously, Cudlin finished seventh in his only other grand prix appearance, which was at the 2010 German Moto2 event.
