Honda UK goes blue with Samsung backing

'We look forward to sharing with Samsung even further racing success that Honda Racing has enjoyed over the years' - Steve Martindale

Kyle White

21 Mar 2012

Honda Racing UK has unveiled Samsung Mobile as the title sponsor of its 2012 MCE British Superbike Championship team after completing a two-year deal.

The new blue livery of the factory CBR1000RR Fireblades, which will be raced by Michael Laverty and Jon Kirkham in BSB, represent a striking departure from the previous black and orange HM Plant colour scheme.

Lincolnshire's Gary Johnson, part of the Honda TT Legends World Endurance team this season, will also ride a Samsung Honda Fireblade in the Metzeler National Superstock 1000 class along with Jason O'Halloran.

Honda's iconic Fireblade is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2012.

Simon Stanford, Vice President, Samsung UK & IRE Telecommunications & Networks Division, said: "We are extremely excited to be taking our existing relationship with both Jon Kirkham and British Superbikes to the next level with the sponsorship of the Honda Racing (UK) team.

"As world champions four times over and with numerous British titles under their belts, we are thrilled to be coming on board as title sponsor of this team and continuing to take our leading and innovative mobile technology brand to the receptive and diverse motorsport audience."

Honda Racing (UK) has an unrivalled history in motorcycle racing, having won 11 British titles, including three BSB crowns, and taken 57 victories at the Isle of Man TT in its 23-year history.

The new association with Samsung Mobile marks a new chapter in Honda Racing UK's history in a key year for the legendary manufacturer.

Steve Martindale, General Manager of Honda (UK) Motorcycles, added: "From a commercial and team perspective we are delighted to forge this new relationship with Samsung Mobile, a brand that shares much of our own company philosophy for providing quality and innovative products for our customers.

"We look forward to sharing with Samsung even further racing successes that Honda Racing has enjoyed over the years."

Samsung Mobile has committed to a two-year deal, which will see the telecommunications brand remain as title backers of Honda Racing UK until 2013.