Four-time World Superbike Champion Carl Fogarty has confirmed that he will no longer be involved in the new Superbike Advocates Racing UK project, a team set to join the British Superbike Championship (BSB) grid in 2026.
The announcement marks a reversal from the news earlier this year, when Fogarty had been revealed as taking on a high-profile management and advisory role with the fledgling outfit. At the time, his return to the paddock was hailed as a major coup for both the new team and the championship.
However, Fogarty has now explained that personal circumstances and time pressures have led him to step away from the role before the project has properly taken shape. The decision, he stresses, has been made amicably with team boss Lecha (Lee) Khouri, who remains committed to the ambitious programme.
Speaking about his change of heart, Fogarty said:
“I realise this will come as disappointing news for those who were looking forward to seeing me back in the paddock with a new team and a new Ducati. But since our first announcement, things have shifted. I know only too well how difficult running a racing team can be. I was only prepared to go through that stress again if everything lined up perfectly, and at this stage there are simply too many uncertainties. Protecting my well-being is the most important thing, so I’ve decided the best course of action is to withdraw.”
Despite no longer being directly involved, Fogarty was keen to praise the BSB organisation for their backing and professionalism:
“Stuart Higgs and everyone at British Superbikes have been brilliant in trying to make this work. I’ve got nothing but admiration for the series and its people. I’ll remain a huge fan and supporter of BSB, and I sincerely hope it continues to go from strength to strength.”
Team Still Set on 2026 Entry
Although losing a figure of Fogarty’s stature is undoubtedly a blow, Superbike Advocates Racing UK insists the project remains on track. The team is pushing ahead with plans to field Ducati machinery when it lines up for its maiden season in 2026.
Khouri, who founded the team, was gracious in acknowledging Fogarty’s influence in the early stages while underlining the squad’s long-term ambitions:
“Carl Fogarty’s name and legacy in motorcycle racing are second to none, and having his support during our launch phase has been a privilege. While we now move forward on our own, our vision remains the same. We are focused on building a strong foundation and taking the necessary steps to ensure a competitive debut season in BSB. Passion, determination, and professionalism are at the core of what we do, and those values will drive us as we prepare to make an impact on the grid in 2026.”
What This Means for BSB
Fogarty’s withdrawal is a reminder of just how demanding it is to launch a brand-new team at the top level of domestic superbike racing. The British Superbike Championship has long been regarded as one of the toughest national series in the world, both in terms of competition and operational pressure.
While Fogarty may no longer be hands-on with the project, his brief association has already brought significant attention to Superbike Advocates Racing UK. For Khouri and his crew, the task now is to harness that momentum and deliver on their ambitious plans for 2026.
As for Fogarty, though his latest comeback to the BSB paddock has been shelved, his place as one of the sport’s most respected figures remains unshaken. Fans can expect to see him supporting the championship from the sidelines rather than the pit wall—but his influence and stature in the sport continue to cast a long shadow.
