Ian Hutchinson confirms National Superstock 1000 return on BMW in August

The 16-time Isle of Man TT winner, who was unveiled as Northern Ireland team TAS Racing’s rider for the 2020 road racing season earlier this year, is gearing up for his first outing in the series on the S1000RR, which has been prepared by Shaun Muir Racing.

Hutchinson said: “It’s been a long time talking about this new project, so to head up and see the team and the bike in its colours is exciting. It’s been three years since I rode in the National Superstock class, so it’s a bit of an unknown again for me but I’m hoping that we can be competitive right from the off.

“At this stage it’s hard to gauge where we will be at having comeback from injury quite a few times and it’s not until I jump on the bike we can do that. In 2017 I was able to be competitive so if I can pick up from there I think we will be on for a good season.”

Team Manager Richard Arundel added: “After what has been a difficult and uncertain time for everyone in racing as well as business, we are very pleased to finally be able to announce our plans and go racing for the coming season.

“We are delighted to be working with Ian Hutchinson. Hutchy needs no introduction from me as his record speaks for itself but his dedication, commitment and fighting spirit over his racing career is something we all take great inspiration from.

“I need to say a huge personal thank you to Shaun Muir, BMW and the team at SMR for their professionalism in providing us with a great package and finally to all of our sponsors for sticking with the project in these challenging times, said Arundel.

“We now look forward to going racing, getting some great results and putting a few smiles on faces.”

Following an enforced postponement due to the coronavirus pandemic, the British Superbike Championship is set to commence at Donington Park from August 7-9.