Andrew Irwin will return to the British Superbike Championship [BSB] for the final two events of the 2023 season after being signed off to get back on a bike at Donington Park this weekend.

The Honda Racing rider has been sat on the sidelines for six events after suffering a broken humerus (upper arm) in an accident during mid-season testing at Knockhill.

With the complexity of the injury forcing a longer absence than expected, the lay-off has spoiled Irwin’s season but he is determined to end his year on a high in the final two events at Donington Park and Brands Hatch.

“I am really excited to be back again and I am looking forward to Donington! It is a weekend that I go into with absolutely no expectations. But one that I will enjoy because it is a weekend when I get to jump on a plane with my family and head to a racetrack. 

“I have always said I am happiest when I am at a racetrack, but I am definitely happiest when I am racing at a racetrack!

“The goal for the weekend is just to enjoy it, and try to build throughout the weekend and the remaining two rounds. I want to be consistent and keep moving forward. 

“I don’t expect any great results but the main thing is that I am back on two wheels and hopefully I can do the best job that I can given the situation that I am in. 

“I have not raced in four months, and for sure I will be rusty but I look forward to going racing again. Thank you to everyone who has helped with my recovery and getting me back to this point.”

Irwin scored a best finish of fourth during Round 2 of the season at Oulton Park. His brother Glenn Irwin currently leads the overall standings by half-a-point from BeerMonster Ducati team-mate Tommy Bridewell.