Walker signs for GSE Ducati.

In a move certain to delight British motorcycle fans, GSE Racing has announced that Chris Walker will take the place of one time BSB rival Neil Hodgson, who moves to the Ducati Corse factory squad, and partner James Toseland in the 2003 Superbike World Championship.

Walker, who since leaving the British Superbike Championship had a ill fated year in MotoGP for Honda before switching to World Superbikes with Fuch's Kawasaki this season, has been contracted for one year with an option for GSE Racing to extend the agreement at the end of the 2003 Superbike World Championship season.

The Englishman, renowned for his gritty determination and all-action riding style, was naturally jubilent with his new deal, saying: "I'm incredibly grateful to have been given such a fantastic opportunity. I worked with [Team Manager] Colin Wright in '98 and have wanted to repeat the experience ever since. GSE Racing is one of the best teams in the paddock and it will be good for the fans to have a third year of two British riders campaigning for a British team.

"I realise that it's not just a case of jumping on a great bike and winning races, but it is going to be brilliant to have access to machinery that's capable of winning the championship. I realise how hard Neil (Hodgson) and James (Toseland) have worked to get where they are at the moment and I'm prepared to put in just as much effort," stated 'The Stalker.'

"My confidence is up to 99% now and the other 1% will come from the knowledge that I have a great team behind me for next year," he beamed. "I've spent this season learning the tracks and I know that I won't have any problems getting used to riding a V-twin again, so things are looking good."

GSE Racing Team Manager Colin Wright saw the signing of Walker as a perfect move for the team, and explained his decision - certain to delight Walkers legion of fans who have 'kept faith' during his recent setbacks.

"We've been on the lookout for a second rider ever since it was decided that Neil [Hodgson] would be moving to the Ducati Corse factory team at the end of the season," said Wright. "Chris is the ideal man to ride alongside James Toseland and we are delighted to have him on board. Despite a lot of obstacles being placed in his way, he has performed exceptionally well in only his first season at world level and the whole team is unified in it's belief that the combination of Walker and Toseland will be a force to be reckoned with in 2003."