Motorpoint British Supersport title challengers Mar-Train are close to confirming a deal which will see them roll out a manufacturer-backed Yamaha R1 Superbike  in next year’s BSB Championship.

The Superbike is due to be prepared by Shaun Muir’s SMR outfit, who are behind the Swan Yamaha team,  and two riders mentioned to be in discussions with the Irish team are current Supersport title fighter Jack Kennedy and struggling Tyco Suzuki rider Alastair Seeley, who may get the team's Supersport ride.

“We have had the letter of approval from Yamaha UK, the only stumbling block now is finance. Our favoured choice would be Jack but we have been speaking to two or three other riders as well,” said Mar-Train team principal Tim Martin at Silverstone.

Kennedy added: "I have a tough decision to make. Stay with Mar-Train in Superbikes or move up to World Supersport where I have had a few offers.I know I can ride a bigger bike just as well if not better and it is financially more viable to stay in Britain but there will always be the lure of world championship racing. However, first I must concentrate on Brands Hatch and trying to win this Supersport title.”