P1racenews AI automatic summary:
It has been announced that Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernandez will replace Jonathan Rea at the WorldSBK Portimao round.
The 2022 Moto2 champion Fernandez will participate in both the Portimao test and race weekend in March. Rea suffered multiple fractures in his left leg at the Phillip Island test and returned home to Northern Ireland for surgery. Being sidelined, Fernandez will make his WorldSBK debut after previously racing in MotoGP. Fernandez expressed gratitude for the opportunity and is excited to race with the R1 in WorldSBK. Canepa from Yamaha Motor Europe confirmed Fernandez’s participation and wished Rea a speedy recovery. Rea underwent successful surgery and thanked his medical team, family, and fans for their support.
