Hobelsberger was announced as part of the team’s Kawasaki-powered effort last December, but a decision was taken to call on a replacement, as Team Manager Kevin Bolliger explained.

“Patrick and the team have agreed together on a termination of the driver’s contract at the test in Navarra. We thank Patrick for his openness, it’s a shame it didn’t work as he would have fitted in very well with the team. On this note, we wish Patrick all the best and a successful season in the IDM.

“After a re-search, we found Pedro and are happy that he has turned out to be the perfect fit for the team and the three riders are wired to each other. Pedro also knows his way around the EWC, he has already competed in three 24-hour races.”

Pedro Nuno Romero Barbosa (pictured left), who is 22 and from Portugal, will partner Swiss Marcel Brenner (right) and Austrian Nico Thöni (centre) at Team Bolliger Switzerland.

The 24 Heures Motos opens the new EWC season from 13-16 April.

Photo: Facebook.com/TeamBolliger8