Top Carrick rider Glenn Irwin welcomed the light at the end of the tunnel for motorcycle racing yesterday after the Bennetts British Superbike Championship organiser MSVR announced an updated calendar for the 2020 series with six triple-header events, all of which will be broadcast live on Eurosport.

After extensive consultation with teams, broadcasters, partners and circuits, organisers are optimistic of a scheduled start at Donington Park National Circuit on August 7-9.

It will then run every other weekend through to the traditional season finale at Brands Hatch GP circuit on October 16-18, visiting Snetterton, Silverstone National, Oulton Park and the Donington Park GP Circuit along the way.

There will be no Showdown format with every race a title fight to determine the 2020 British Superbike champion, while all other support classes will also be catered for.

Series director Stuart Higgs said:

"This has been an incredibly challenging period but the determination, enthusiasm, commitment and passion from everyone involved in the Championship has been outstanding.

"We are disappointed that some of the traditional circuits have had to be omitted, the result of very detailed assessment of the operational, logistical and economic consequences pertinent to all circuits arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"We are optimistic we will be able to welcome fans to BSB enjoying these large outdoor circuit venues with plenty of room to social distance.

"We are working with the circuits to agree protocols that meet all relevant guidance and will continue to do so as the guidance evolves over the coming weeks. The focus in the coming weeks is on preparing the various protocols and operational detail to ensure the safety of everyone in the BSB community."

Carrickfergus brothers Glenn, Graeme and Andrew Irwin are chomping at the bit to get back into action with a possible official test taking place at Donington prior to the scheduled running of round one.

Glenn commented:

"This is great news, just what we have all been waiting for. I cannot wait to get out on my new Honda Fireblade and get back into competitive action after this necessary prolonged time on the sidelines."

It was also announced Eurosport will renew their long-standing partnership with BSB for another seven years from 2021.

Roy Harris