August 14th, 2020.


The Pata Yamaha WorldSBK Team has partnered with MEDsan UK, using the healthcare firm’s rapid coronavirus antibody testing kits to keep their riders, engineers, and staff safe during the Superbike World Championship.

Pata Yamaha, operated by leading UK dealership Crescent Motorcycles, returned safely to the Circuit of Catalunya in preparation for the re-start of the World Superbike Championship with the implementation of robust health and safety protocols to reduce the risk of infection and transmission of coronavirus in close and fast-moving working quarters. Alongside viral PCR tests to check for any current presence of the virus and the use of protective equipment, MEDsan’s antibody test kits form a vital part of the team’s approach, being used to detect any exposure in the time it takes to receive the viral test results.

Pata Yamaha’s riders and staff will be using MEDsan’s tests throughout the Superbike World Championship season, prior to and during races, which are expected to be held in Spain, Portugal, France, Italy and potentially Argentina this year.

Rapid antibody testing can generate on-the-spot results and be conducted outside of a clinical setting, removing pressure on the NHS. By establishing if anyone has (or has not) been infected by, and developed a degree of immunity to, coronavirus, regular use of rapid tests is the only way to get the team’s riders, engineers and support staff back to work safely and allow them to keep working by giving them up-to-date information on the risk of infection in the most efficient and practical way. Sports teams will require repeat checks that cannot realistically be done without tests that generate results quickly, on site and that can be performed routinely.

Millions of MEDsan UK’s testing kits are being used by governments, hospitals and businesses across Europe and North America. The Government of Monaco is testing each of its residents with the kit, in partnership with the International Red Cross.

Paul Denning, Team Principal of Pata Yamaha WorldSBK Team, said: “The professional motorcycle racing industry, and sports in general, need thorough testing to be able to return safely. This is important not only to racing enthusiasts but also in commercial terms, as our ability to be on the circuit again has a big impact on our sponsors, suppliers and employees.

“Alongside viral tests and protective equipment, the consistent, regular use of the antibody tests will help us to constantly monitor any potential signs of the virus, and allow us to keep our riders, engineers and whole team safe.

“We will be using the MEDsan tests throughout the season, prior to and during races, and as we travel between tracks and countries. We hope this will help us keep the show on the road and our fans entertained.”

Paul Hillman, CEO of MEDsan UK, said: “Testing is the only means to reduce the risk to the elite sports community’s professionals and the fans who support them. MEDsan is proud to help Pata Yamaha get back out on the racetrack safely as they prepare for the Superbike World Championship, after this disruptive time for global sport.

“Keeping celebrated sporting events open, and people safe is a delicate balance. Regular testing for antibodies is a necessary part of the solution and the most efficient way to achieve real time results and get sporting calendars, many of which require close contact between individuals, back on schedule.

“By quickly establishing who has had coronavirus, all sports teams – from motorbike racers and mechanics to rugby players and coaches – can develop a best practice for keeping their employees safe. Pata Yamaha WorldSBK Team is a leading example.”


www.medsanuk.co.uk