The Integro Yamaha team have unveiled their 2020 British Supersport Championship line-up, with Brad Jones returning to the team alongside Rory Skinner after securing the leading two positions in this year’s title chase.
The Yorkshire based Colin Appleyard/Macadam team are looking to extend their winning streak to a fourth consecutive title and develop two talented young riders along the way.
21-year-old Jones remains with the team for a third season after a standout 2019, which saw him take his first win among an incredible 23 podiums. He battled his ultra-fast teammate Jack Kennedy, throughout a superb and consistent campaign to finish as runner-up in the series in only his second year.
Scotsman Skinner was the inaugural British Talent Cup champion but he has also been victorious through numerous junior racing classes culminating in the renowned Superteens Championship. Last season Skinner finished seventh, with a podium, in his Rookie year in the series.
Jones said: “I can’t wait to get going, it already feels like a long winter, fixing boilers isn’t the same as dicing for race wins! We had an amazing year and I feel like I’ve learnt a lot from battling Jack and our WSB outing in particular. It’s clear we have the winning team and machinery, so this is my best shot at winning the series. Basically it’s down to me to maximise this opportunity. I’m really happy to be staying with the team and I think continuity and consistency will be key. I don’t think it will be easy this year but to win a title shouldn’t be easy.”
Skinner said: “I’m really excited to be riding for Integro Yamaha; it’s a very successful, professional team but it also seems like a really good, positive working environment. It’s great to be picked up by Robin for such a proven ride with a well-developed bike, which means I can concentrate on refining my own technique and race craft which I know the team can help me with.”
Team owner Robin Appleyard commented: “This year we were expected to win the title and Jack was dominant but 2020 will be a very interesting challenge with two ultra talented young riders in our garage. We’re really looking forward to helping develop these lads to push themselves and us through the season.
“I’m really glad Brad is running with us again, he came on so much and ended up pushing Jack at most circuits, so we think he’s ready to take on some of the other big names returning to the series.
"Rory is an exciting prospect with so much natural talent, we just need to help him refine his style and he will be right up there also. Can we take a fourth title next year? It’s not going to be easy but we’ll give it our best shot! As ever a massive thanks to Integro, Yamaha, Macadam, Rock Oil and all of our other supporters who help us go racing.”