It has been a relatively long wait to get back into competitive action for Öncü, given that the opening round took place in Australia in late February. Unlike the WorldSBK category, there was no ‘all-out’ WorldSSP test at Catalunya recently.

The first race weekend of the current year was a tough one for Can to endure, after he was knocked off by another rider in Race One and then pushed off track by another rival in Race Two.

Öncü’s immediate goal is to qualify well and take away two strong points scores to restart his 2024 campaign. Can is a proven race winner and serial podium scorer in the WorldSSP class. Even though he suffered a serious injury early last season he was able to score a podium finish in the final round at Jerez. 

Can Öncü, stated: “It's been a month since the previous round at Phillip Island and I can't wait to get back on my Ninja ZX-6R. During this break I worked a lot in the gym and improved my physical shape. The Barcelona track is one of my favourites and I hope to confirm that again on this occasion too. With this new weekend format, which sees the Superpole already taking place on Friday afternoon, it will be important to immediately find the right set-up. Then we will be able  give our all in the two races and achieve the best possible results.”

Marcel Brenner (Viamo Racing Kawasaki) and Hikari Okubo (Vince 64 Kawasaki) will take part in the second round of the WorldSSP championship, but for WorldSSP Challenge rider, Gabriele Giannini (Prodina Kawasaki), Catalunya will be the first round of his season.

After the Catalunya weekend has been completed an old favourite venue will host the third round of the championship. Assen, in the Netherlands, will feature a full race line-up between 19-21 April.

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