PR Racing poster boy Joe Francis more than tripled his 2019 points tally with the support class riders, exceeding all expectation on their debut seasons.

This time last week the dust was settling over Brands Hatch, drawing the curtains on a season like no other for PR Racing in the Bennetts British Superbikes championship.

The 2020 season was always set to be unique, with the team entering three different riders in three different classes, something that has never been done before.

This was before the threat of COVID-19 that saw the season cut in half, extreme measure put in place and most importantly, no fans in attendance.

This was branded ‘the developing season’ by those involved with the Liverpool based superbike team. BSB rider, Francis, epitomised this by smashing his 2019 tally in every area possible, finishing amongst the points 9 times, totalling 24 points.

Securing two top ten finishes on the penultimate weekend of the championship also meant the #40 rider had achieved his start of season target.

However, Francis is only set on building on last season’s positive momentum.

“I feel I have developed more as a big bike rider and took a big step on corner exit and knowing what to do at the right time.

“Next year my goals will be to reach the top 10 more consistently and try to move as high up as we can. I plan on achieving these by improving our package as a team and me improving more as a rider and making myself better over the winter period,” said Francis.

None of the riders are resting on their laurels as GP2 rider, Dan Jones is also gearing up to take on next season.

Jones brought home two pieces of silverware for the team finishing in P3 on two occasions.

Not only did he add to the trophy cabinet, the Welshman showed great consistency all season long notching up 116 points across 11 finishes amongst the points.

The #44 will be disappointed the season was cut short after saying: “We had our strongest race in one of the last races. We improved all year and had two podiums along the way.”

Jones’ eyes are firmly on the future as he aims to spend his break preparing for the season ahead.

“The goal is top three in most races. I’ve proved I can be on the podium, wet or dry. It’s just finding that consistency in both the bike and myself.

“I am hoping we can go to Spain and do a few weeks of riding, but it all depends on COVID-19. Apart from that I will be in the gym, doing my cycling and running, making sure I’m prepared for next season.”

Sullivan Mounsey was another rider who made his debut for PR Racing. He showed bags of potential as he took on the Honda British Talent Cup.

After laying the foundations, Mounsey aims to build on the great start he has made to his riding career. Not only does the #4 rider want to improve this year’s performance in the UK but across Europe.

“Next year my goal is to get a top three finish, top five in the championship would be a miracle but I need to be at it every round, at the top of my game.

“The best [European] rounds to do would be the key ones, Moto GP, World Superbikes and BSB. My overall aim is to get to Moto GP.”

These ambitious targets are no doubt a reflection of PR Racing and everything they hope to achieve in the future.

Enjoy the winter and keep your eyes peeled for 2021.

(Pictures by David Yeomans Photography)

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