BSB: Sam Cox set for first full-time campaign with NP Racing BMW

Sam Cox will make his full-time Bennetts British Superbike Championship debut this year after signing a new deal with NP Racing BMW.

Cox made his BSB debut at Silverstone last season in a one-off appearance with the team, having previously competed in the Supersport and Superstock classes, as well as the Ducati TriOptions Cup.

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Cox secured two top five results in the Ducati class in 2021, ending the year in 12^th place overall. His return to the BSB grid will follow the conclusion of his cancer treatment, which comes to an end at the end of January.

“I’m really excited to be stepping into the most competitive motorcycle racing championship in the country with NP Racing,” Cox said. “They are a new and developing team in the championship and I can’t wait to get started with them and help to continue their progression in the championship. I have toiled and worked incredibly hard for many years in the British paddock, and I intend to make the most of this amazing opportunity.

“I’m working hard and staying focused on getting myself back to full fitness after my recent cancer diagnosis, which has only given me more drive and motivation to make a success of this coming year. I finish my final treatment at the end of the month, so I’ll have a good few months to hit the gym and get ready for round one.”

Cox’s spot on the grid means that there are now five confirmed BMW entries this year. Ryan Vickers joins Peter Hickman at FHO Racing, whilst the German manufacturer’s official team, SYNETIQ BMW, have re-signed Danny Buchan and Andrew Irwin for a second campaign.

“I’m excited about the 2022 season, moving forward with a rider that has so much potential,” NP Racing BMW team owner Neil Pearson said. “Sam showed what he could do at Silverstone last year with no testing, so with the additional time I am eager to see what we can achieve together. With everything that has happened, both the team and Sam will keep pushing forward towards a common goal for the season.”

The first official test for the 2022 BSB season takes place at Snetterton on March 26-27, and will be followed by further tests at Donington Park (March 31), Silverstone (April 6-7), and Oulton Park (April 21).