Johnny Rea won't be in Cremona. Following his nasty injury in Saturday's Race 1 at Magny-Cours, the Cannibal was forced to raise the white flag upon doctors advice. His index thumb, which was reconstructed after he fell in France, still hasn't healed. In fact, Johnny is undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions to promote healing.
Since #65 will be absent, Yamaha had to go in search of a replacement, namely Niccolò Canepa.
Back from the last round at the Bol d'Or of the World Endurance Championship, the Lombardy round will be the last race of his career before hanging up his helmet. This is going to be a statement of gratitude for Niccolò in front of all the Italian public, with his final performance on the Yamaha R1, which he's ridden for so many years in the role of both rider and test rider.