Only a few weeks ago it looked like the team wouldn't be racing due to the new 1098R needing to run modified pistons. The MCRCB, the organization behind BSB, needed an explanation from Ducati as to why they had to use non-standard parts. At the time Ducati hadn't clarified this point, since then they have agreed to build the bikes to meet the required specification.
Former British Superbike Champion Byrne, who came fifth in this years championship, will be riding alongside 21-year-old Camier in a new look Airwaves Ducati team.
Team Manager Colin Wright is thrilled to have secured the services of two such talented riders. “We are really pleased that we will be back in the British Superbike Championship next season with our title sponsor Wrigley's Airwaves supporting us for a fourth year,” he said. “There has been a great deal of work going on behind the scenes since
Brands Hatch and a lot of speculation but I am pleased to say that everything has worked out and we are looking forward to getting back on the grid in 2008.”
It is a fresh start for everyone and Wright is sure of success, “With a proven race winner such as Shane Byrne and a young up and coming talent in Leon Camier we are confident that it is going to be a very successful and enjoyable year for GSE Racing and Airwaves Ducati,” he concluded.
‘Shakey' Byrne brings immense experience to the team having won the BSB title on a Ducati in 2003; he then raced in
MotoGP for two years before returning to the domestic championship with Rizla Suzuki in 2006, followed by Stobart Honda in 2007. He is looking forward to getting on the Ducati 1098R.
“I'm delighted, it has all come about very quickly but I am really pleased and it's onwards and upwards from here,” he smiled. “It is really exciting to be racing in a team like Airwaves Ducati; the last time I was on a Ducati I was pretty successful, so if we can go some way to emulating that then I'll be happy!”
