Motorsport Vision's takeover of the British Superbike Series may have come as a shock to some, but the move has been widely welcomed as favourable for the championship.
Among those speaking out in favour, the Rizla Suzuki team is optimistic that the recent ten-year appointment will herald a new 'glory age' for the series as Jonathan Palmer's group has already achieved a long list of improvements in circuit facilities since it took ownership of
Brands Hatch,
Snetterton, Cadwell Park and
Oulton Park.
“I think this is a good positive move for the championship," team manager Jack Valentine commented, Jonathan and MSV have an opportunity to raise the profile of the championship and increase its appeal to the general public. He is a consummate professional and will be determined to make it work. He is very hands on and in touch with what is going on.
“The championship needs to be promoted properly, [and] the riders and teams need to become household names. With Jonathan at the helm, ably supported by the very experienced Stuart Higgs as series director, I am optimistic they will steer the championship in the right direction. This is a new dawn and fantastic opportunity for BSB and its fans.”
Mallory Park - one of the few venues not under MSV control, also spoke positively about the changes. The self-styled 'friendly circuit' will host the sixth round of the BSB in June and has said that it is ready to assist the new organisers in anyway possible to make the event, and the championship, a success.
“I'm thrilled that Jonathan is on board and managing the promotion and organisation of one of the most exciting motorsport championships in the world," general manager John Ward said, "He has a very professional approach and will no doubt ring in the changes for the good of the sport. I am also pleased that Stuart Higgs and the MCRCB Events team will continue the superb job of running the actual race meetings.”
