Former British Superbike star Barry Burrell will make his debut at the Daytona 200 in March after signing to ride with a Hornee Jeans-backed AMA Pro Racing team.

Burrell, who put in storming performances at the final Brands Hatch round in 2012, has been unable to secure a seat for the 2013 season citing sponsorship problems but Gary Mason, who is not racing this year, has thrown him a lifeline.

“I’m incredibly excited to be flying out and taking part in the big race at Daytona. I have been there before to ride in the BMW Boxer Cup but to be in the main event this year is fantastic,” said Burrell.

“Of course, I am a little disappointed to not have kept a seat in British Superbikes for 2013 and am still looking at an option which may come off but in the meantime, I must say a big thanks to Gary for giving me this opportunity.”

Mason is taking a year out of racing to concentrate on building his Hornee Jeans business both in the UK and in the States and sees Burrell as a rider who deserves a good ride in a good championship.

“We are running Barry at the Daytona 200 because I think he deserves a chance again. He’s a guy who did well at Brands Hatch at the last BSB meeting. I know what he is like – he’s like a bull terrier to race against, he never gives up and I like that. Some people need an opportunity and he hasn’t got a ride so I’d rather give it to someone who hasn’t got a ride,” said Mason.

The Lichfield rider has teamed up with David Anthony, who runs Aussie Dave Racing in America, and will field a Yamaha R6 in the Floridian season opener on March 16. Mason doesn’t yet know if it will lead to a full time entry in the Supersport championship.

Get the new issue of Bikesport News, on sale Thursday, to read more on the story behind Mason’s year out.