Smiths Racing, which entered the British Supersport race arena just two years ago, has been confirmed as Triumph Motorcycles' official factory team for the 2013 season. The new team will be known simply as Smiths Triumph.
The backing by the Hinckley-based manufacturer will add further impetus to the team, which has already seen two riders, Dan Cooper and Luke Mossey, finish in the top ten rankings in the 2011 season. This year, Smiths Racing is running three riders in the Motorpoint British Supersport Championship, Glen Richards, Billy McConnell and Luke Mossey. While Richards is currently leading the championship, McConnell is in a solid position in third place. Both Richards and McConnell are confirmed as staying with Smiths Triumph for 2013.
Smiths' elevation to factory team status will enable it to work more closely with Triumph on race bike development, while supporting the UK manufacturer's ongoing investment in grass roots British motorcycle racing. The closer ties to Smiths cements Triumph's commitment to UK racing, which sees the manufacturer also supporting young talent through its Young Guns initiative (now in its second year) and more experienced riders via the Triple Challenge series.
Guy Masters, general manager of Triumph UK, said: "We're obviously delighted to have formalised this relationship with Smiths, who have proven to be a thoroughly competitive, passionate, yet business savvy team both off and on the track. We like the team's professional attitude to racing and are confident we will work well together over the coming seasons."
Rebecca Smith, team manager of Smiths Racing, said: "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to further develop our team with the commitment of the Triumph factory. After only two years in the British Supersport class, this is a huge testament to all of those who have been involved. We are eagerly anticipating the 2013 season and working alongside Triumph UK."
The appointment of Smiths Racing as Triumph's first official factory team since 2008 also signals an intention on the part of the UK's best-selling big bike manufacturer to bring the racing experience closer to customers.
