Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha considering second WorldSBK seat

WorldSSP or SSP300 seat unlikely for Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha, however, a second WorldSBK ride is being considered beyond 2023.
Christophe Ponsson, Catalunya WorldSBK, 17 September 2021
Christophe Ponsson, Catalunya WorldSBK, 17 September 2021
© Gold and Goose

WorldSBK team Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha has given its first indication that a second seat is being considered beyond next season. 

A family-run team, Christophe Ponsson is set for his second full season in WorldSBK - second for the team as well - while it’s already likely that the Frenchman will continue in 2023 should Gil Motor Sport retain their place on the grid. 

Managed by his sister Ophelie Ponsson, the Yamaha outfit could be looking at an expansion following the 2023 season, something that’s already been done by MIE Honda Racing and Bonovo Action BMW for 2022. 

Ponsson told WorldSBK.com: "We’re focused on our year, so we’re not thinking about the future and the next seasons yet. A bike in another class is not something we have considered yet. However, a second seat in WorldSBK is a possibility, maybe not in 2023, but in the future…"

In regards to Christophe Ponsson, 2022 is a year where improvements are expected and need to be made after having scored just 36 points over 34 races in 2021 - missed round five at Assen. 

Playing against the former MotoGP stand-in is the fact many riders around him are either on full factory machinery, or at least more developed packages than his R1. 

Nevertheless, Ponsson is aiming for regular top ten results after stating P15 at next month’s season opener in Aragon would be a disappointment. 

Ponsson added: "I’ve also set that goal. There are 24 riders in the field and there are a lot of official machines. Taking into account our progress over the second half of last season, it would be stupid to only aim for the points… 

"If I finish 15th twice at MotorLand, I would be disappointed. Even though it might not be the Yamaha’s playground, I’m not going there for that kind of result and I want to finish in the top 10 as soon as possible. 

"There are a lot of people there, it’s true, but I’m putting all the chances on my side to achieve that.

"Of course, my dream would be to win a race, to finish on the podium… but you have to keep your feet on the ground, we are a private team. 

"But I really feel that right now is when everything is going the best for me and my career."

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