BSB: Tommy Bridewell: “Life complete” after becoming Champion

Tommy Bridewell has been crowned the 2023 British Superbikes Champion.

Tommy Bridewell finished second at the final race of the season at Brands Hatch, behind Glenn Irwin. This finish was enough for Tommy Bridewell to wrap up the Championship by 0.5 points.

Bridewell took to the top step of the podium eight times in 2023, taking a total of 17 podiums. It was a year full of ups and downs for Bridewell with conflict, contact, and celebrations with his teammate.

The PBM duo have been through a lot this season with the loss of PBM team owner, Paul Bird. After his passing, his daughter Jordan Bird helped run the team and bring the team a 1-2 in the standings.

Tension was high in the PBM camp after the safety incident at Oulton Park involving Bridewell and Irwin. The two riders also came together at Donington Park, ending both their races prematurely. At Donington Park, Glenn Irwin scored 0 points while Bridewell scored just eight across the three races.

Tommy Bridewell said: “Everything in my life has been built towards this and I’ve dedicated every day to my late brother Ollie and to become BSB champion, so for it to finally happen has made my life complete.

“Full credit to Glenn, he’s brought both the best and worst out of me and he’s pushed me like no teammate has ever done before – he’s an unbelievable rider and certainly knows how to ride a bike!

“When Paul Bird took me on, I told him I’d give everything, so the title is dedicated to both him and Ollie and I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone involved in the team for the opportunity. Today was tough and tense, but we got it done.”

Glenn Irwin won the final race of the season but would lose the title by 0.5 points after Kyle Ryde dropped down to third – behind Bridewell. Irwin took nine race wins across the year and a total of 17 podiums.

Glenn Irwin added: “The maths were simple today; I had to win both races and although I did that, it wasn’t quite enough so hats off to Tommy. I tried every trick in the book, especially in the last race, and positions changed regularly, sometimes in my favour and sometimes not.

“The most important thing though was that I gave it everything and that’s all I can ask so full respect to Tommy. You had two guys from the same team giving it everything and all for the same reason and whilst there were ups and downs along the way, you could see today the respect we have for each other.

“Saturday’s race was probably what cost me, but I feel in the form of my life and a 1-2 in the championship is the best possible outcome for the Birdman.”

Image credit: britishsuperbike.com