BSB: Xavi Fores To Race In British Superbikes with Honda

Xavi Fores has signed for the Honda Racing BSB team for the 2019 season.

The announcement has ended weeks of speculation about the future of the Spanish rider, after he had been left without a ride in World Superbikes, when the Barni Racing Team decided to not renew his contract.

The 33-year old is under no illusions about the challenge he faces for next season. With the exceptions of Donington Park and Brands Hatch, he will have to learn all of the circuits on the calendar.

Furthermore he must adapt to all new machinery, having ridden Ducati machinery in the world championship.

With the old v-twin Panigale R being regarded as one of the most physically demanding bikes to ride, it is believed that the move onto the relatively stable Fireblade SP2 model should ensure that Fores gets up to speed quickly.

One man who is not so concerned by the challenges facing Fores is team manager Havier Beltran. Speaking at the announcement, he pointed to the rider’s experience and pedigree being among the key reasons for signing him.

These thoughts were echoed by Neil Fletcher (head of Honda Motorcycles UK) who described Fores as one of the most exciting and competitive riders on the market. Clearly there are already high hopes for success.

Fores will partner Andrew Irwin, after the Northern Irish rider was unveiled at the team earlier this month.