North West 200: FHO Racing suspends international road race but Hickman will compete

2 hours ago

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Peter Hickman and Josh Brookes will continue to form the FHO Racing BMW team in 2024

The FHO Racing team has announced that it will not be taking part in the North West 200 international road race this year.

Faye Ho's British Superbike team will instead focus its efforts on the BSB Series and the Isle of Man TT as an official BMW team.

The team will again use Peter Hickman and Josh Brookes at these events.

Lincolnshire rider Hickman will compete in the North West, but on his own Superstock, Supersport and Supertwins machines prepared by PHR Racing.

Last year the FHO Racing team pulled out of the North West after being told the carbon wheels on its BMW Superstock bikes did not meet Motor Cycle Union of Ireland regulations.

In a statement, the FHO Racing team said it would not be attending this year's May 8-11 meeting at the 9.7-mile Triangle track for logistical reasons, but acknowledged last year's controversy “was taken into account in our decision”.

Team boss Faye Ho explained: “Of course the decision not to take part in the North West 200 this year was not an easy one for us. We are a road racing team and it is an important event leading up to the Isle of Man TT.

“However, after careful consideration and discussions with myself, Josh, Pete and the team, the decision was made not to participate, simply due to logistics and the fact that the event falls between the BSB rounds.” [at Oulton Park, 4-6 May and Donington Park [May 17-19]then straight to the TT.

“Last year we didn’t feel 100% ready as a team going into the TT and that’s something none of us want to have going into it.”

“Of course it is last year’s event situation that we took into account when making our decision, but ultimately the main reason is simply that the calendar is very tight.”

“I have agreed with Pete that he can take part in the event with his own team and I fully support that,” she added.

“Myself and the whole team will miss the event and the Irish fans this year; We always receive such wonderful support at the North West 200 and I hope everyone has a safe and successful event.”