Can Öncü after his BSB outing: “I feel very much at home with McAMS Yamaha”

Stepping in for the injured Ben Currie, Ten Kate ace Can Öncü took part in last weekend’s British Series round at Thruxton. Riding for the top Yamaha team McAMS, the 23-year-old secured a second place and a win, making him the most successful rider of the weekend.

Remarkably, in preparation for his one-off appearance, Öncü undertook only a brief test to familiarise himself with the iconic circuit and the Yamaha R9 in BSB specification.

Two podium finishes, including a win, will give the Turkish rider a real boost heading into the final four rounds of the World Championship!

“I feel really good after my weekend at Thruxton with McAMS Yamaha,” said Öncü, praising his hosts. “We made an incredible leap forward from Friday to Saturday and significantly improved the overall package over the last few days. I’ve found a good feel on the bike and built up a great rapport with the team. I’d like to thank them for this opportunity – it’s brilliant to finish the weekend with a win and a podium finish, especially considering it was my first time riding on this circuit!”

Even though team boss Steve Rodgers would have preferred to score points with his regular rider, there’s huge delight at Öncü’s results. Should Currie still be unfit for the race weekend at Cadwell Park at the end of August – which currently looks likely – the Ten Kate rider is likely to get the nod once again.

“He’s made us proud. To come to a new circuit, with a new team and a new bike, and then put in a performance like that was simply exemplary. Hats off to him,” said Rodgers, lavishing praise on Öncü. “He and the team can be very proud. We’re heading to Cadwell Park on a high and can’t wait to get back to work there.”