Josh Brookes to remain with Milwaukee Yamaha in BSB

Josh Brookes has surprised the MCE British Superbike paddock by agreeing a new deal that will see the Australian remain with Milwaukee Yamaha for the 2015 BSB season.

Having made it clear he wanted to return to the world stage, Brookes was previously believed to be part of Troy Corser’s new WSB BMW team.

Instead, the 31 year old will now help Yamaha launch their new R1 machine rumoured to be unveiled early next month at EICMA. With MCN sources saying a revolutionary bike is expected to be revealed at the show, Brookes could well have positioned himself as a very strong title contender for next year.

Brookes said: “I would feel like a quitter if I left the championship now without winning the BSB title and I believe it has just been circumstances that have prevented that happening at times. I know there was talk of me leaving BSB, but with potentially a new bike and high expectations I want to win this championship before moving on.

“Naturally the second consecutive season with a team is always better than the first because you have experiences to build on, so hopefully next year we can reach our potential of winning the championship. We need to come back next year and we need to crack it.”

Team Owner Shaun Muir said: “I’m delighted that we have Josh on board with us for a second year because retaining him in BSB was always our prime focus. There are lots of positives coming from Yamaha and the future is very exciting. Josh understands this and also recognises that Yamaha YME and YMUK have made every effort to give him a longer-term future and are especially keen to see him progress within the Yamaha ranks. Deliver the results and we will both reward that success. I’m certain we will see a stronger and more polished racer with a second year on the R1.”

Muir said that the team’s second rider for MCE BSB in 2015 will be announced very soon.

For an exclusive interview with Brookes, plus more exclusive WSB and BSB news, see tomorrow 15 October’s Motorcycle News.