Brookes returns to BSB

Aussie racing talent Josh Brookes has his second British Superbike Championship title in his sights, with the 33-year-old returning to the BSB grid this year to battle it out in one of the world's most hotly contested series.

Once again fronting the starter aboard the Anvil Hire TAG Racing Yamaha, Brookes returns to the series after a lacklustre season in the World Superbike Championship. Brookes struggled to find form on the world stage during his tenure with the Milwaukee BMW team, ultimately finishing the season in 14th place.

In 2017 the Sydneysider is hoping to emulate his success in the 2015 BSB, when he claimed 13 wins and a further 10 podiums to defeat Shane Byrne.

The 2017 championship will get underway at Donington Park from March 31 to April 2, with Brookes about to embark on testing in Spain.

"I am happy to be back in BSB; it is all really positive for me as I have probably raced more years in this championship than any other so it is my most familiar territory," said Brookes.

"I am looking forward to coming back, racing on the tracks and meeting the fans again.

"I was exploring a lot of different possibilities but the deal that Rob and the team have put together was the best option for me. To be riding the Yamaha again is the icing on the cake; I know what it is like to ride, I found my rhythm with it before and I know it suits me.

"I think for me to win a second title would mean as much as the first because I have a constant hunger and desire for racing and remain as passionate as ever to leave Australia behind for the season to pursue a championship. I am always in search of results and improving on previous years.

Team Owner Rob Winfield said the addition of Brookes is a massive boost.

"This is certainly the biggest deal we have put together as a team, and I'm extremely proud of how far we have come and signing Josh certainly shows our intention for this year," he said.

"We want to show the potential we know the Yamaha has, and bringing in the 2015 champion who won the title on board this very bike is a very exciting prospect."