BSB: Joe Francis signs with GR Motorsport for 2022 Superstock campaign

Joe Francis has joined STAUFF Fluid Power Kawasaki (GR Motorsport) in the Pirelli National Superstock Championship ahead of the 2022 season.

Francis has spent the last three years in the Superbike class after initially making his debut towards the end of the 2018 season with PR Racing. He remained with that team until September last year when a tough season ended in both parties going their separate ways.

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There were still some highlights. Francis clinched a career-best result of fifth in mixed conditions at Donington Park. The 24-year-old also joined FHO Racing BMW for the final two rounds of 2021, replacing Xavi Fores, and secured another top six result in wet conditions at Donington. Whilst believed to be in contention for a seat at FHO Racing for 2022, that spot was taken by Ryan Vickers.

As a result, Francis returns to Brent Gladwin’s team, having last worked together in 2013 when they celebrated title winning success in the British Motostar Championship.

“I am really looking forward to this season and a new challenge in the Superstock class,” Francis said. “It is something I am excited about; my goal is to challenge for the championship title, and I am really motivated for the season ahead.

“It is nice to be back with Brent and the crew, working with the same team members I had back in 2013 when we won a championship together, and now we want to make it two. I am confident that with the programme and team around me that we can make it happen. I can’t wait to get going in a new class and I am thankful to Brent and all of my sponsors who have put me in this position for the 2022 season.”

Francis is also a British Supersport race winner and was the 2011 Aprilia Superteens champion. As a youngster, Francis won the British Metrakit GP50 and GP70 crowns.

“It really is great to welcome Joe back to the team,” Gladwin added. “We had a tremendous last season together in 2013 when STAUFF first joined us, in a championship battle with current BSB champion Taz Mackenzie to take the Motostar title. Joe has gone on to develop his skills and get good results on the bigger bikes and I am putting back together his title-winning crew to looking forward to a successful season ahead.

“I am so really proud that STAUFF UK will continue into its tenth season as Title Sponsor of the Superstock team. Their continued support is invaluable, we all feel a part of the STAUFF family.”