Hawk Racing has announced an all-new line-up in the British Superbike class for 2026, signing reigning Quattro Group British Supersport champion Rhys Irwin and Supersport rival Eugene McManus as the pair make their debut in the Championship, progressing from the Supersport class.
The pairing will compete for the Mallory Park-based team with the continued title sponsorship from MasterMac, with high hopes of making an early impact in the championship after their impressive performances in the Supersport class.
Irwin from Donegal, was crowned Quattro Group British Supersport champion this season after coming out on top in a season-long battle with three champions. The 23-year-old secured the title with 13 podium finishes including six race wins and now is set for his rookie campaign in the Superbike class.
26-year-old McManus, from Belfast completes the team’s Superbike line-up for 2026. He has also been a regular contender in the Quattro Group British Supersport Championship in recent seasons, claiming podium finishes and ending the season sixth overall in 2025.
Irwin said: “I couldn’t be more excited to be stepping up into BSB with a team that has a history of supporting some of the best young riders in superbike racing.
“Winning the championship last season was a dream come true for me and securing this ride is another one. I’m so happy to be making my debut in BSB and really looking forward to what the team and I can achieve together.”
McManus said: “This is a huge move for me and I can’t wait to get going. I’ve delivered consistently well over the years and have a lot of faith in my own ability, so it’s great to have the vote of confidence from Hawk Racing that I have what it takes to succeed on a superbike.
“We’ll take things one step at a time but I’m aiming to adapt quickly and achieve some strong results in my first season.”
Hawk Racing has long established itself as a springboard for young talent, with past riders including current Bennetts BSB champion Kyle Ryde and 2022 champion Bradley Ray.
Team manager Steve Hicken said: “I’m delighted with our 2026 line-up and I’ve no doubt both Rhys and Eugene have the talent and determination to adjust to their new environment and succeed in BSB.
“Rhys is on a high off the back of a brilliant championship winning campaign, while Eugene has regularly shown he can compete with the best Supersport riders.
“It’s always important to be patient with riders as they progress into a new category but we’ll give them the best support we can and, along with Dan in the Superstock series, hope to deliver some great things together.”
Roger James, Managing Director title sponsor MasterMac Surfacing, concluded: “It’s a real coup for the team to have brought Rhys and Eugene on board, and I know a lot of fans will be getting right behind them to make an impact in the championship.
“We’re proud that a team with such an impressive history of bringing through young riders continues to carry the MasterMac name, and can’t wait to be trackside to see how they all get on next year.”