In the recent Valencia tests, Borja confirmed his arrival with the third fastest time on an ex-Troy Corser Ducati; and now the Spaniard hopes to take that form forward to Sunday at Kyalami.

Borja has at least enough talent to become a new name to figure regularly in the top 10 but his ambition will be questioned early in the 2000 campaign.

Lining up alongside the fired up Fogarty and Edwards will be a new experience for Borja and how the 30-year-old handles that will be an indication of his championship potential.

Borja also carries the hopes of World Superbike series promoter Maurizio Flammini. By tradition the championship has always lacked media coverage and interest in Spain - probably due to the high GP interest and GP promoter Dorna being Spanish.

With Borja in Superbikes, a round at Valencia and a new Flammini office in Madrid expect a big year in Spain for the Superbike championship.

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