South African Scholtz signs for PTR

PTR Honda has now announced that 19-year-old South African Mathew Scholtz will join young American Patrick 'PJ' Jacobsen, British Superbike regular Martin Jessopp and the retained Sam Lowes in its 2012 World Supersport Championship line-up.

Scholtz made his mark on international racing in 2008 when he was selected to contest the Red Bull Rookies MotoGP Series, taking a win and three podiums that year. He then moved on to racing in the Spanish and German 125cc Championships as well as Moto2.

The title contending PTR Honda team is testing on January 19-20 at Almeria in Spain before travelling to Australia in February for a test at Phillip Island, where the opening event of the season will be held on February 26.

"PTR has a reputation for bringing out the best in young riders and this is a dream come true for me," said Scholtz. "Just look at what Eugene Laverty achieved and how after one season Sam Lowes is one of the favourites for the 2012 Championship.

"I know with PTR that I will have the bike, team and structure to show exactly what I am capable of and I am ready to make this step up. It will not be easy but I will have every opportunity and am determined to be a challenger in the World Supersport Championship."

Team manager Simon Buckmaster added: "Mathew has good experience in Europe and already knows some of the tracks. Although only 19 he has experience at a high level so shouldn't be influenced by the pressure of competing in a World Championship. He has the backing of a team that will do whatever it takes to help him succeed. He has the potential and together we are going to maximise it."