BSB: Irwin to stay with PBM for 2019

Glenn Irwin will remain with the Be Wiser Ducati team for the 2019 Bennetts British Superbike Championship.

The deal comes after Irwin found himself unexpectedly elevated to the top spot in the Penrith-based squad following team-mate Shane Byrne being ruled out of action after an accident while testing at Snetterton.

Currently sitting sixth in the championship, Irwin is now hoping to mount a title challenge after a strong second place at Snetterton last time out.

The Ulsterman is the first rider to be confirmed on the Bennetts BSB grid for 2019.

“I thought things were moving fast this year and a few other teams had been in contact in the run up to Knockhill but my heart and head were at PBM. I knew we’d be having discussions in the coming weeks, but not much had been said!

“I got a text 25 minutes before the first session telling me to go to the truck, I wondered what I’d done wrong! Turns out I’d done a lot right and they offered me a deal for next year. I’m really grateful to the team for the opportunity.

“I’m stepping up, they see that and I see that so I’m really excited about continuing to work together. I’m looking forward to 2019, but I’m really looking forward to the rest of 2018… It’s rumoured that Leon is going to factory Kawasaki in WorldSBK next year and I’d love to be the man who beats him to the championship before he goes.

“There’s a big target on his back now, so that’s given me a little bit of extra motivation and knowing I’m sorted for a ride next year I can focus solely on that.”