Future not yet announced for Australian Josh Waters.
Suzuki GB has announced its partnership with Halsall Racing for the 2015 MCE British Superbike season.
Having agreed terms just last week, Suzuki has confirmed that it will entrust the company’s BSB effort going forwards to Halsall Racing, competing on the GSX-R1000 with a two rider line-up.
Suzuki GB general manager, Paul de Lusignan, said: “We are very pleased to agree terms with Halsall Racing for next season. With the obvious enthusiasm and professionalism of team owner Martin Halsall combined with the unrivaled experience of Jack Valentine as Team Manager, we believe we have a strong foundation to build on for next season and beyond.”
Having already taken delivery of 2015 GSX-R1000s, Halsall Racing will commence development with the assistance of Suzuki Motor Corporation, with the first test planned in the new year.
“We entered into BSB with clear objectives,” said team owner Martin Halsall. “We always intended to be here long-term, but our ultimate goal was to represent a manufacturer at the highest level.
“While our agreement with Suzuki meets that objective, this is really the beginning of a new future for us as a team. I would like to thank Suzuki for the faith they have put into everyone at Halsall Racing and look forward to the season ahead.”
Team manager Jack Valentine brings not only a wealth of racing experience, but particular experience of Suzuki, having managed both World and British Superbike teams for the brand.
“It’s fair to say that this deal is like coming home for me”, commented Valentine. “I know the team at Suzuki well and I also know what the GSX-R1000 is capable of. We have a great team of engineers at Halsall Racing and with the support of Suzuki and the knowledge I can bring from my previous experience, I’m confident we can hit the ground running at the start of the season.”
After 14 consecutive seasons as Suzuki’s official representative at various levels in British championship and also on the International Road Racing scene, Northern Ireland-based TAS Racing will take on a new challenge for 2015 – expected to be equipped with BMW machinery.
It remains unclear where multiple Australian Superbike Champion Josh Waters will end up next season, having finished out 2013 as part of Halsall Racing and enjoying a strong 2014 campaign with Tyco Suzuki.