Hickman, Fores head up new Macau-backed FHO Racing team for 2021 BSB

Peter Hickman and Xavi Fores will lead a brand-new team effort for the 2021 British Superbike Championship with the Macau-backed FHO Racing team.

Created by Macanese businesswoman and entrepreneur Faye Ho, FHO Racing assumes the running of now-departed Smiths Racing set-up and retains its race winner Hickman on riding duties.

An effort that will see FHO Racing run the new BMW M 1000 RR on both the track and the roads for Hickman, the Isle of Man TT lap record holder has high hopes under fresh backing.

“This is an exciting time for me, the team and I think racing in general as we gain a passionate new team owner in Faye. I’ve known Faye for a few years as a generous supporter of racing in Macau and most importantly she wants to win! 

“I’ve had an awesome four years with the Smiths Racing team, we’ve grown together as a group, been successful in BSB and on the Roads, so now I think we can build on that and take it to a new level. After such a bad year globally, it’s so positive to have a new team and sponsor enter the arena.”

Joining Hickman will be BSB series returnee Fores, who made his debut in 2019 before venturing back to the WorldSBK series this year. Showing flashes of speed while he grappled with competing without electronic-assistance, the Spaniard feels he has some unfinished business in BSB.

“I enjoyed my time in BSB but maybe not so much in WSB last season, so to come back with such a high level team is a chance for me to sort some unfinished business in the championship! The level of competition, machinery and the support from the fans in Britain is incredible and I must say really surprised me to start with.

“When I raced here in 2019 I had never seen these tracks and many were very tricky to beat experienced regular riders, but now I feel confident that with one year of experience and better preparation, we can do much better.  I have been in contact regularly with Faye, she is very motivated, and the project is very strong to give us the tools to fight at the front.”