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Eugene Laverty began his GP career on a 125cc Honda in 2004, and after touring different classes, different series, and manufacturers (Honda, Aprilia, Yamaha, and Suzuki), he will return to the GP paddock in 2015 with Aspar Honda.

Eugene is another rider for whom I have a weak spot, as he was the first rider interview I did for MotoMatters. That was way back in 2009, when he was battling with a certain Cal Crutchlow for the World Supersport title and riding the Parkalgar Honda. I even happened to ask him about the possibility of coming to Moto2. I then heard some interesting thoughts about returning to GPs.

Over the years I’ve always kept an eye on Eugene as he has become a top World Superbike rider. After consecutive 2nd place finishes in the WSS championship, he claimed another 2nd with Aprilia in 2013. He’s currently 5th in this year’s WSBK chase on a Suzuki.

I so hope the 2015 production Honda is enough bike to put Eugene back on the same section of track as Cal. There was some great racing between those two a few years ago…

Whatever the level of his equipment, it will be great to have Eugene Laverty back in the GP paddock again.

Photograph: ©2011 by Scott Jones / PHOTO.GP – All Rights Reserved