Brookes re-signs with Tyco Suzuki for 2013

The 2012 MCE British Superbike Championship 'Title Showdown' may not have started yet, but Josh Brookes has already firmed his plans beyond that after it was announced he will remain with Tyco Suzuki for 2013.

The Australian has been a consistent front runner since making his BSB debut in 2009 and is currently well in contention for the 2012 crown after cruising into the three-round 'Title Showdown', which gets underway at Assen this weekend.

Following two years with HM Plant Honda, Brookes joined the TAS team at the start of 2011 (when it raced in Relentless colours) and remained with it into 2012 when Tyco came on board as a title sponsor.

With Tyco also extending its agreement into next season, Brookes says it was an 'easy decision' to pledge his commitment to the team even before the 2012 season had concluded.

"I'm with the best team in the BSB paddock, so I'd have to say: 'why would I leave?' It was all pretty straightforward and an easy decision to make if I'm honest. Philip put a deal in front of me that for me, proved my value to the team and made me realise that they really wanted me there for 2013.

"It's nice to know they value me as the rider they want to win a championship with, and I appreciate that. It took me a while to begin with, but I'm very happy riding the GSX-R1000 and they've built a good team around me - so for me, continuing was the only option. It's important for me to be in a comfortable environment as there's enough stress during the year, and Tyco Suzuki provides that."

An opportunity for both rider and team to now focus fully on the job in hand, manager Philip Neill is delighted to be retaining the Australian for another year.

"While we still have a lot of work to do this season and our focus is one hundred percent on the job in hand, which is to try and win the BSB title with Josh in October - I must admit it is really satisfying to have secured his services for 2013 at this early stage. It is also reassuring for us to have maintained our position with Suzuki and our title sponsor, Tyco Security Products for another year.

"It really was an easy negotiation with Josh, and I would go as far to say, it was never in any doubt. When the rider is happy with his team, and the team, manufacturer and sponsors are comfortable with the rider, the outcome is usually inevitable - as it was in this case."

Brookes has won three races with Tyco Suzuki in 2012 and heads into the 'Title Showdown' in second position, just ten points behind Tommy Hill.