McManus gears up for Superbike campaign

RANDALSTOWN rider Eugene McManus will join Rhys Irwin in the British Superbikes in 2026 with MasterMac Honda by Hawk Racing.

The local man took part in the Sunflower Trophy for the team in October and won a thrilling Superbike race.

The 2026 British Superbike season begins at Oulton Park at the beginning of May and the 11th and final round takes place at Brands Hatch in October.

After making his debut at Bishopscourt in November, McManus is looking forward to the step up to BSB.

He finished sixth in the British Supersport standings in 2025 and said it was a ‘great opportunity’ to take the next step in his career.

“This is the best domestic championship in the world,” he said.

“It’s not going to be easy by any means, but I’m ready to learn and take it step-by-step each race to improve. I’m really excited.”

Steve Hicken, team manager of Hawk Racing who previously gave future BSB champions Bradley Ray and Kyle Ryde their full-time debuts in the series, said Irwin and McManus were the ‘two hottest prospects’.

“The message to them is that anything is possible, but to enjoy it,” Hicken said.

“They’ll settle in and see where they pan out. Brad took podiums in his first season and Kyle won races, and these two lads definitely have a chance of doing that.”