It was obviously a bit of a strange season with it being a bit shorter and having no fans, but I think we showed what we can do, so I’m really looking forward to taking another step forward this year.”

What are your expectations for the 2021 season?
“Until we get testing, it’s always hard to know exactly where everyone is and how their bikes are performing, but I’m really confident we can have a great season. Staying with the same team is going to be really important as it means we can focus on building on our performance from last year.

This year is going to be more of a traditional season too, which should help us. We scored points in all but one race last year, which is really important to get into the Showdown. That is definitely my goal for this season; I go racing to win, so from the opening round, we will be looking to be challenging for podiums in every race and pushing to secure our position in the Showdown.

Having the format of three races each weekend all season is also going to be great. I think everyone on the grid will agree that racing is better, so this gives us another opportunity each weekend.”

This year you’ll be riding the all-new 2021 Ninja ZX-10RR, are you looking forward to it?
“Absolutely! The 2020 bike was great, and from everything that I’ve seen and spoken to the team about, it seems that this improves the bike in a range of areas. The World Superbike guys were immediately on the pace, so it’s definitely exciting, and I can’t wait to get out on it.

I’m looking forward to seeing how the new aero package will work on the bike and also the benefits of the higher rev range. Testing can’t come soon enough!”

Rory Skinner
2021 will be your first year on a Superbike, are you looking forward to it?
“I can’t wait! 2020 was a great season for me, and after winning the Supersport title, I knew it was time to step up. This year will be my first time riding a 1000cc machine, but over the winter, I’ve been out in Spain riding a Superstock ZX-10RR and getting used to the size and power of the bike. I usually work with my dad at his motorcycle shop, but the lockdown has meant that I’ve actually had more time for my training and testing.

It’s going to be a big learning curve, but I’m really excited to get going. Before riding the Superstock bike, I wasn’t too sure what I would need to do in terms of fitness, but I now have a much clearer idea of what’s required, so I’m working on that to ensure I’m ready for testing next month!”

What are you looking forward to most about working with the FS-3 team?
“I think just working with a team of their pedigree is going to be great. They’ve shown that they can run at the front of a BSB race, so they know what they are doing. I’ve also been really impressed with the team and how they operate.

At the end of last season, when I was speaking with various teams, the FS-3 guys definitely stood out, and after meeting with them, it just felt right. My dad and I visited their workshop, and on the drive back to Scotland we discussed it and everything just seemed right.

It’s also great to have a two-year deal. They made it clear there was no pressure to perform, but having two years together means we can take our time and build up.”

Do you have any expectations for the year?
“It’s really hard to know until I get out and ride the Superbike for the first time. I’ve got my own goals for the year that I want to achieve, and obviously I want to go out and win races, but it’s a big step up, and the competition in BSB is so tough. So, for me, it’s a case of taking each race as it comes and seeing where we can improve – then come the Showdown, who knows where we might be!”