After months of speculation and an announcement from Eugene Laverty that he has switched to the World Superbike Championship with Aprilia, Shaun Muir Racing has confirmed a two-year deal with the Italian manufacturer as a works-backed team.

SMR, which currently runs under the Milwaukee BMW banner, will become Milwaukee Aprilia and field Laverty and Lorenzo Savadori which leaves current riders Josh Brookes and Karel Abraham looking for new deals in 2017.

“For SMR, collaboration with Aprilia Racing for 2017 and 2018 means a real chance to fight for the win. Aprilia has a strong and victorious history in World Superbike and we are determined to continue on the same path. Having Eugene and Lorenzo on board makes this a dream team,” said Muir.

“Without a doubt, Eugene is coming back to WorldSBK for one reason only - to win. Lorenzo, on the other hand, is the fastest rookie and a sure protagonist. I wish to thank Milwaukee, Gulf and all of the partners who are supporting our project.”