Reigning and five-time MCE British Superbike Champion Shane Byrne has done an unprecendented deal with old friend and team boss Paul Bird, and will remain with the Be Wiser Ducati team for two more seasons.

It is the first time Byrne and Bird have ever reached an agreement between themselves or with anyone else for more than a single season, and the Kent rider says it is a sign of the commitment shown from both parties.

“I think this announcement is the icing on the cake of what’s been another great year. It’s an absolute show of commitment between Paul Bird and myself, a team second to none, as we know each other so well. Whilst this is a ground-breaking deal in BSB, with it being a multi-year appointment, it’s literally two mates with a desire to win securing their future together,” said Byrne.

“I’m personally feeling remarkably proud of everything we achieved, not only this year, but in all the years I’ve ridden for Paul. He’s played such a massive part in my success, and together we now have another shot at two titles, and who knows how many more. I’ll work as hard as possible to try to achieve that goal to repay the faith which Paul has once again shown in our partnership.

“It has been an amazing season; to take a brand new bike and turn it into a championship winner is a testament to all the hard work myself and the team put in during the season.

“I am so, so happy to have the opportunity to fight for another two titles; the fifth one was the groundwork, the foundations, and now I want to continue the success. I only ever want to line up on the grid to win races and fight for championships.”

The team will make further announcements on the rest of the line-up shortly.