BSB: 2019 grid begins to fill up

While Be Wiser Ducati become the first team to firm up their 2019 line-up officially, the rest of the 2019 Bennetts BSB grid is starting to take shape with announcements expected in coming weeks.

Glenn Irwin’s move to Kawasaki was confirmed two weeks ago with the Northern Irishman expected to be joined by British Supersport star Ben Currie. 

Bradley Ray will remain with the Buildbase Suzuki team for a third successive year while Danny Buchan also stays put at FS-3 Racing Kawasaki. 

Jason O’Halloran is hotly tipped to replace Brookes at McAMS Yamaha with rookie sensation Taz Mackenzie set to stay for a second year. 

Runaway Superstock 600 champion Ryan Vickers is understood to be in talks to replace Moto2-bound Jake Dixon in the RAF Regular and Reserves squad, while Danny Kent is set to ride the Halsall Suzuki at Brands Hatch this weekend as he seeks a ride for 2019. 

It’s likely Peter Hickman will remain with Smiths Racing, leaving two rides at Tyco BMW and Honda up for grabs, but Andrew Irwin has been linked to both after losing his spot in the PBM team.

James Ellison is expected to confirm his BSB future in coming weeks, with the Cumbrian opting not to leave the series in 2019 but instead commute from America.

WSB-reject PJ Jacobsen could be set for a return to the series, as could Loris Baz who has said he is unsure on his options in World Superbikes for 2019.

2019 CONFIRMED RIDERS… 

Be Wiser Ducati – Scott Redding & Josh Brookes
Bournemouth Kawasaki – Glenn Irwin 
FS-3 Racing Kawasaki – Danny Buchan 
Buildbase Suzuki – Bradley Ray 
PR Racing BMW – Joe Francis