The Gearlink Kawasaki team have announced their line-up for the 2023 Quattro Group British Supersport Championship with both former champion Luke Stapleford and Zak Corderoy returning to Team Green in preparation for next year’s title fight.
2015 champion Stapleford returned to the grid with the team this season, claiming six podium finishes as he bids for a second title next year as he prepares to build on the continuity of remaining with the team.
The 2022 season started out with so much promise for Supersport rookie Corderoy until an unfortunate accident ruled him out for the remainder of the year. Gearlink has always thrived on mentoring and developing young riders, recognising his potential, the team retained him for a second season and aim high for the 2023 season.
Stapleford said: "I’m really happy and motivated for the 2023 season, after the unexpected return this season it was clear I was still enjoying my riding and the opportunity for next season gives me the time to prepare correctly.
“Our target for next season is clear and the motivation for me is to try and bring Michael the championship trophy. I’ve had lengthy conversations with Michael and Ben and we know where we need to be with the bike to put ourselves in that position, so with a whole winter ahead of us I see no reason why we can’t start the season strong and work towards achieving our goal."
Corderoy added: ‘‘Off the back of a tough year I’m truly grateful for Gearlink to take me back for another stab at it. The team have been working really hard in the background to give us the best chance possible to do the job. I am back to full fitness and ready to take it to the championship! Many thanks to all for making this possible."
Team Manager Ben Wilson concluded: "The 2022 season was a little bit of a mixed bag with some success, but we never really showed our true potential. I’m really pleased with the rider line-up we have for next year with Luke and Zak.
“I'm sure Luke will come out of the blocks fast at the start of the year and show that he is a championship contender. Zak was showing great potential at the start of this season before his crash, and I know with enough time on the bike, he will return stronger than ever. I’m really looking forward to working with KMUK again as I know with the new upgrades we will be getting for next season we can put the Kawasaki ZX6 back on top."