Sykes confirmed with Kawasaki
Added on Wednesday, October 21st, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
Sykes confirmed with Kawasaki
Tom Sykes has been confirmed as the second Kawasaki rider for the 2010 World Superbike season, partnering former MotoGP rider Chris Vermeulen.
Sykes, who lost his ride with the Yamaha factory team to Cal Crutchlow after just one season in WSB, will move to the ambitious Kawasaki factory team after signing a one-year contract.
The Yorkshireman, whose best finish so far is a fourth at Assen, will replace Broc Parkes, who yesterday confirmed that he would be leaving the team.
“The team has big plans for World Superbikes next year so I’m really looking forward to being part of them,” said Sykes. “The big factor for me was that I have worked with the team before and know how good they are, they’re one of the best teams I’ve ridden for and I’ll have the same crew chief as I had in my rookie season in BSB.
“I’ve learned a hell of a lot this year and the intention is to put that experience to good use and I’ve every confidence that the package will be very competitive in 2010.”
“I’ve always rated Tom highly, that’s why I handed him his first proper Superbike ride back in 2007,” added team manager Paul Bird. “The team has made huge strides forward this year and we can now put into practice what we have learned and I fully expect us to be challenging at the sharp end in 2010.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to say a special thanks to both Broc and Makoto for their hard work, professionalism and dedication during the past season and myself and the whole team wishes them both well for the future.”
