The MasterMac Honda Hawk Racing team has announced its rider line-up for the 2026 BSB season, with two rookies joining the team.
Both Eugene McManus and Rhys Irwin will make the step up to the British Superbike Championship next year after campaigning in the Supersport class in 2025, Irwin, of course, taking the title aboard the Gearlink Bike Performance 15 Suzuki GSX-R750.
The two come in in-place of John McPhee, whose future at the moment remains unconfirmed, and Charlie Nesbitt who has joined the TAG Honda team for next year's BSB campaign.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be stepping up into BSB with a team that has a history of supporting some of the best young riders in superbike racing,” said 23-year-old Irwin.
“Winning the championship last season was a dream come true for me and securing this ride is another one. I’m so happy to be making my debut in BSB and really looking forward to what the team and I can achieve together.”
26-year-old Eugene McManus added: “This is a huge move for me and I can’t wait to get going. I’ve delivered consistently well over the years and have a lot of faith in my own ability, so it’s great to have the vote of confidence from Hawk Racing that I have what it takes to succeed on a superbike.
“We’ll take things one step at a time but I’m aiming to adapt quickly and achieve some strong results in my first season.”
Team Manager Steve Hicken said: “I’m delighted with our 2026 line-up and I’ve no doubt both Rhys [Irwin] and Eugene [McManus] have the talent and determination to adjust to their new environment and succeed in BSB.
“Rhys is on a high off the back of a brilliant championship winning campaign, while Eugene has regularly shown he can compete with the best Supersport riders.
“It’s always important to be patient with riders as they progress into a new category but we’ll give them the best support we can.”
The Hawk Racing team also announced that Dan Brooks will stay with them in the National Superstock class next year.
“I’m really pleased to be continuing with Hawk after making good progress and consistently scoring points in 2025,” said Brooks, who finished the 2025 Superstock season 14th overall.
“It’s a brilliant team to be a part of and I’m determined to get us higher up the championship standings next year.”
