BSB: Glenn Irwin signs new two-year PBM Racing Team contract

Glenn Irwin has signed a new two-year contract with the PBM Racing team which will keep him onboard the Ducati V4 R until at least the end of the 2026 Bennetts British Superbike Championship season.

Irwin re-joined PBM in 2023 and finished runner-up to then teammate Tommy Bridewell by half-a-point after an intense season-long fight. Following the death of team owner Paul Bird that year, Paul Bird Motorsport evolved into PBM Racing Team for 2024, with Bird’s children, Jordan and Frank taking over.

Irwin remained as the team’s sole rider and was once again in title contention for the majority of the season, eventually finishing third overall after winning eight races. The Northern Irishman’s new contract means that he’ll have the opportunity to race the brand-new Ducati V4 R in 2026.

“First of all, to re-sign with PBM and to continue onboard the Ducati was an absolute priority; to be honest it didn’t take much negotiation,” Irwin said. “Jordan, Frank and Johnny came to my motorhome at Donington Park and everyone is on the same wavelength.

“We all want to win; we are all working hard, purely to win championships. I think also after my recent announcement with my career, my sole goal is to win the British Superbike Championship. We know that is the goal of the team too as they chase their tenth title.

“To have a two-year contract is cool, as in one sense you have security, but what makes it so cool is that we have consistency, something that I will be working hard on myself too. Hopefully, the stars align a little better as this year was a little bit tough at times, but we have put that behind us and are working hard towards 2025 and 2026 with Ducati.

“I have to say thank you to the team and all of our sponsors for making it happen. To Jordan and Frank, to Johnny and the entire team let’s go and continue where we have left off the past two seasons. For me, I am looking within myself for more and seeing what I need to bring to the table in the search for that elusive first championship.”

The two-year contract also shuts down any rumours about the future of the PBM team in BSB, providing security for everybody involved in the project.

“It is fantastic that we can announce that Glenn will remain with the PBM Racing Team for the next two seasons, ensuring we have consistency and stability as we strive to achieve our tenth title,” Jordan Bird added.

“This season was a big year for myself, Frank and the entire team and I am so proud of what we have all achieved in our first full season together. I also want to thank again all of our loyal partners who made it happen. Now we are all focused on the new season and are working hard behind the scenes in preparation to come out fighting for the Championship in 2025. We can’t wait to get started!”

The sole focus for Irwin and the team will be on BSB this season following the former’s decision to retire from road racing.