Kent’s Tom Ward will line up for the Rapid Honda team in the final two rounds of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship at Donington Park and Brands Hatch as Franco Bourne continues his recovery from a hand injury.

The Kent contender deputised for Bourne at Cadwell Park and will now combine the final two rounds in Bennetts BSB whilst also appearing in the Pirelli National Superstock Championship with the Armada Marine Cables Team. The Rapid Honda team have also strengthened their partnership with the team, who also field Sam Cox and Tom Oliver in the Superstock class.

Ward said: “I’m really looking forward to jumping back on the Rapid Honda superbike again. It’ll be great to pick up where we left off at Cadwell Park and hopefully take some further steps forward over the weekend. I’m really grateful to the team for having me back and I’m excited to be working with them again, as it’s such a great atmosphere with lovely people!”

Bourne added: “This hand injury just isn’t allowing me to ride the bike to the best of my ability, so we made the tough decision with the team for me to withdraw and let Tom step in for the last two rounds. He did a great job at Cadwell Park so there’s no reason why he can’t be up there again on the package we’ve got.” 

Team Owner Matt Bainbridge concluded: “First and foremost, it’s a huge shame that Franco isn’t fit to ride in the last two rounds. We wanted to finish the season strong, as we’ve learned so much as a team and rider, and it would have been great to end the season together on a high note.

“We remain fully supportive of Franco in his recovery, assisting with rehab, scans, and more, so hopefully he’ll be back on the superbike soon, preparing for 2025.

“We needed to be present at the last two rounds, and once again, the obvious choice was Tom. His impressive performances in Superstock, World Endurance, and his standout ride at Cadwell Park made the decision easy.

“It’s also fantastic to finish off the year by joining forces and becoming Rapid Honda with Armada Marine Cables Racing. This builds on the great relationship we’ve developed between the teams throughout 2024. Welcoming Sam Cox, Tom Oliver, and the rest of the squad feels like a natural progression, and it will be a great opportunity to put on a show for all sponsors and supporters alike.”