Friday, 2 June, PORTO CESAREO, (Italy): A recurring back injury is threatening to spoil Mickael Poret’s race weekend and possibly derail his season.

The French rider took a tumble last week and is apprehensive about how his back will hold up. “I fell while competing and took a big hit recently and aggravated an old disc injury to my back and now I have squeezed a vertebrae which is causing me big problems down the back of my leg,” Poret said. “I am really not sure if I can start, but will see how it goes in practice and qualifying. For sure after these races I will need an operation.”

A no show for the opening races would be a big blow for the two-time world champion who, ahead of the opener in Porto Cesareo, was very optimistic about being able to mount a serious title challenge this year after switching to a new ski. “Kawasaki has launched a new ski. It is very different and to be competitive we have no choice but to switch,” he said. “Racing with an old ski is like a ski racing a Runabout. You will see. There will be many Kawasakis on the start line.

“I really feel confident that this new ski gives me the opportunity to be super competitive this season. The engine is a 1500 4-stroke, has more power, the ski is longer so this gives you more stability in all conditions, especially in the rough because it is slightly heavier, can cut through the water and big waves and it is easier to drive.”

Poret will make his final decision after qualifying..if he makes it that far!!