British Superbike Champion Tommy Bridewell has announced won't remain with Paul Bird Motorsport to defend his title in 2024.

In a shock announcement, the Devizes rider says he fully intends to contest the 2024 BSB season in an effort to hold onto his hard-earned title crown, but declined to reveal more details about his new plans.

Either way, it means Bridewell won't extend his stay at PBM beyond just a single season despite finally breaking through to glory with the multiple BSB title-winning team some 16 years after his debut in the series.

Clinching the title by just half-a-point over BeerMonster Ducati team-mate Glenn Irwin at the end of a gruelling season-long duel, Bridewell's hugely successful campaign with PBM culminated in a career-defining nine wins and 18 podiums.

“There has been a lot of speculation on my future and where I am going to be doing for the 2024 season, obviously it has taken some time after the season to enjoy it and reflect on it and then look at the options for next year.

“I will be in BSB and it will be amazing to say that I will run the number one which is cool, unfortunately I will not be with PBM for the 2024 season. It is obviously a massive shame because we had a such a great year and it has been a blast for sure.

“When Paul phoned me to offer me the ride for this season, it was an honour to take that call. I have been lucky and privileged enough to give him his ninth BSB Championship and also my first and I will be for every grateful for the opportunity that he gave me.

“I want to take the chance to thank the PBM team, Paul and everyone involved - my crew have been absolutely flawless all season. I want to thank Frank Bird Poultry, as he is a massive part of the team history. I also want to thank Ducati UK and Ducati Corse."

With many top seats on the provisional 2024 BSB grid already filled, it remains unclear what Bridewell's plans for next season will entail. However, he promises news soon.

“I should have some exciting and positive news coming soon about 2024 BSB. I am very motivated to come back and defend my title and I know I will have the package to do that.”