Hawk Racing has announced that their line-up for the 2023 Bennetts British Superbike Championship season will comprise of two previous British GP2 Champions as Josh Owens joins the team alongside Charlie Nesbitt.

Nesbitt has been promoted from within the Hawk team to a full-time Bennetts BSB ride having impressed on his first appearances in the class towards the end of the 2022 season. The 21-year-old from Swindon, who was British GP2 Champion in 2021, also delivered eye-catching performances in the Pirelli National Superstock series last year, including a memorable win at Cadwell Park.

Meanwhile Owens, the 2018 British GP2 Champion, joins Hawk with Bennetts BSB experience. The 22-year-old from Aintree in Merseyside has been honing his skills in the premier class since the 2019 season.

Nesbitt said: “I’m really happy and excited to be riding for Hawk Racing for a second year. It’s a great team to be part of and their experience and support really helped me make the step up to National Superstock and then Bennetts BSB last season. The opportunity they have given me is like no other and I can’t wait to be able to repay them the best I can.”

Owens said: “I’m super happy and excited to be joining the Hawk Racing family. They have brought on so many talented riders over the years and given them the opportunity to do well. I can’t wait to get out for the first test and get working with everyone and seeing what we can achieve together this year.”

Hawk Racing team manager Steve Hicken commented: “Charlie and Josh are two of the most talented young riders on the British scene and we’re delighted they’ll be lining up together for us this year.

“They’ve known each other since a young age and risen through the junior ranks, winning two British Championships each along the way, and bringing them on board continues our track record of backing younger riders who have the potential to make a big impact in Bennetts BSB. Hawk Racing is actually a few years older than they both are and I’ve no doubt our experience in the paddock will help them to unlock their potential.

“What I will say for now is that I can’t thank old and new partners enough for their support for the coming season. We’re excited to start our 25th consecutive season and hopefully spring some surprises along the way.”