Tom Sykes has been confirmed to ride for the PBM Kawasaki squad in the 2010 World Superbike Championship.
Sykes is no stranger to this team, having raced with them in the British Superbike Championship back in 2007, gaining numerous podiums on the way.
“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.”
Sykes will join former World Supersport champion and ten time WSBK winner Chris Vermeulen at the team.
“I’m absolutely delighted that we have managed to sign both Chris and Tom, as they are both fantastic riders and I know they’ll do a great job for us next season,” said team boss Paul Bird.
“Chris has proved how competitive he is on a Superbike as his results demonstrate and I’ve always rated Tom highly, that’s why I handed him his first proper Superbike ride back in 2007.
“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 [Parkes] and Makoto [Tamada] for their hard work, professionalism and dedication during the past season and myself and the whole team wishes them both well for the future.”
2009 has been the first year for PBM as the official Kawasaki World Superbike team and will be announcing a new title sponsor shortly.
