Andrew Irwin’s podium and Danny Buchan’s fastest lap capped off a strong opening weekend to the 2022 Bennetts British Superbike Championship for SYNETIQ BMW Motorrad at Silverstone on Easter Sunday.

A rejuvenated and refreshed Andrew Irwin arrived at Silverstone ready to exorcise the demons of last season and right from the opening race, the Ulsterman demonstrated a newfound belief in himself and his SYNETIQ BMW M 1000 RR package. Sixth and fifth placed finishes were topped with a strong third place in the final 30-lap race around the Silverstone National circuit. He proudly holds fourth place leaving round one.

Danny Buchan overcame mechanical gremlins during qualifying to card 10-9-6 but it was in the final race of the day where the affable Essex ace really demonstrated his racing prowess. From a fifth row grid position [13th], Buchan forced his way through to fourth place at two-thirds distance, only to narrowly lose out in the final exchanges for a podium position. He eventually took sixth place and a fastest lap for his efforts aboard the SYNETIQ BMW M 1000 RR.

Steve Plater – Team Manager

“It was my debut weekend as team manager of SYNETIQ BMW in British Superbike and I’m very proud of both riders fighting for podium positions at Silverstone. We made good progress throughout the weekend and it sets us up well for Oulton Park in a fortnight’s time.”

Philip Neill – Team Principal

“The Silverstone National circuit always delivers extremely close racing and there has been lots of talk about who and what bike is best suited to the race. The fact is, it’s always a difficult circuit for some more than others but with BSB racing being so close, you have to make the most of every weekend. Our crew did a great job with the M 1000 RR and both Danny and Andrew enjoyed strong performances. It was especially nice to see Andrew happy and back on the podium. Overall it was a solid first weekend for Steve Plater also as Team Manager. Thanks to all our partners for their continued support.”

Andrew Irwin

“It’s been a really positive start to the season. My goal was three top six finishes this weekend and we achieved that. We just have to keep working and building on that with the same mentality at Oulton. The goal again is to fight for the podium. Thanks to the whole SYNETIQ BMW team for a positive weekend.”

Danny Buchan

“It was a tough start to the weekend with some technical issues but we worked through them, fought hard from some challenging grid positions then showed our quality in that final race on the SYNETIQ BMW. We weren’t too far away from a podium and the fastest lap is testament to our pace. Thanks to my crew and team for great support throughout.”