John Hopkins joins Tyco Suzuki

Former MotoGP star John Hopkins will return to racing in 2014 after signing for Tyco Suzuki in the MCE British Superbike Championship.

The 2011 BSB runner-up, who lost out on the title by 0.006s to Tommy Hill in the Brands Hatch finale, has agreed terms with the Northern Ireland-based team; after spending 12 months-off racing to recover from operations to repair old injuries.

"I'm really excited to be coming back to British Superbike in 2014 and delighted to be joining Tyco Suzuki," said Hopper, who rode for Crescent Suzuki during his previous BSB season.

"It's been a long year away from racing getting my body healthy. I'm feeling good and I've also become a brand-new dad. I feel better than I have done in a lot of years and I'm really excited to be getting back out on track; especially on the Suzuki GSX-R1000."

Looking at the challenge ahead, he added: "I really feel like I've got a point to prove in the British Superbike Championship, so as I say; I can't wait to get out there on track and do some riding."

"Hopper really was the man we wanted for 2014 and we are excited to announce this agreement," declared team manger Philip Neill. "John has been a part of the Suzuki family for many years and having him back on a GSX-R1000 next year provides a shot of motivation to everyone at Suzuki GB, our title sponsor Tyco Security Products; and indeed all our crew members at TAS Racing.

"BSB is such a high-profile championship and produces some of the best racing in the world, and I sincerely hope the return of John Hopkins is positive news for all the BSB fans. From a Tyco Suzuki point of view, we simply can't wait to start the new season."

As well as MotoGP (2002-2008) and BSB, Hopkins raced in WSBK in 2009 and 2012.

Josh Brookes and PJ Jacobsen rode for Tyco Suzuki in BSB this season.