Former World Superbike Champion Sylvain Guintoli will return to the MCE British Superbike paddock after signing a deal with the Bennetts-backed Hawk Suzuki team for 2017.

The 2014 WorldSBK king champion is back in the Suzuki fold to race the all-new GSX-R1000R, after riding for the Japanese manufacturer in the British Championship in 2009, when injury curtailed his title campaign. A second rider, that could be Tommy Bridewell, Josh Brookes or Taylor Mackenzie, will be announced shortly.

“I’m really happy to be back in British Superbikes. Even though it was short, I enjoyed my time in the series in 2009 with Suzuki. I had a really good start to the season on the GSX-R1000, with a win and three more podiums in four races, and I feel like I have unfinished business after that year,” said the Frenchman.

“I’m now looking forward to working with Hawk and the Bennetts Suzuki team for 2017 and getting my first taste of the new GSX-R1000, and I’m sure we can fight at the front from the start.”