When Sykes last competed in a round of the Superbike World Championship on German territory, it was in 2017, on the EuroSpeedway in Lausitz, in the east of the country. He finished third and fourth there, in what was then his eighth consecutive season for Kawasaki.
This year, Tom is an official BMW driver and the German round therefore has particular importance for him and his employer. The Superbike World Championship took place in Oschersleben from 2000 to 2004, when the Englishman was still racing in British Supersport (fifth on Suzuki).
The Briton will also have the opportunity to discover the Barcelona-Catalonia Circuit this year, and he is very enthusiastic. “I have never raced on these two circuits of Barcelona and Oschersleben before. I can’t wait to do it” He says.
“I have already seen races at Oschersleben. I really like the track. Barcelona is a circuit where I have always wanted to race since I was little. Now I have the chance to make this dream come true. The calendar looks very, very interesting. »
Tom's first season at BMW went rather well, with four podiums in 2019. “Of course, the goal for this year is obviously to be more consistent. But it's still the case after a year of development. I'm sure we can make it happen. »
“We want to close the gap, win a few races and see what happens next. For me, running is about fun. And when I'm having fun, I do my best. »
He feels comfortable in the British team led by Shaun Muir. The cooperation with the German manufacturer also suits him: “This is the best partnership the English and Germans have had in a long time jokes Sykes. “ But, all kidding aside, it's a good balance. It's a very similar mentality between the English and the Germans, very concentrated. I'm sure that with time, we can get to where we need to be. »
Photos © BMW
Source: Motorsport-total.com
