Sheridan Morais completes PTR Honda line-up

PTR Honda has announced Sheridan Morais as its lead rider for the 2013 World Supersport Championship following an impressive rookie campaign with Kawasaki in 2012.

A multiple champion in his native South Africa, Morais made his full-time World Supersport debut in 2012 as part of the factory-backed Kawasaki Lorenzini team, where he proceeded to secure a maiden podium on the way to sixth place in the standings.

Morais's move to PTR Honda comes after impressing the team during a test last month, the 27-year-old signalling his desire to aim for the top in 2013.

"I am really pleased to have signed with PTR Honda who have proved every year that they are the team to beat. This team was a "wish" to me a few years back when I had to watch World Supersport racing from back home, now it is a reality and I cannot wait to take full advantage of it.

"My goals for the 2013 season are high just like any other racer. After finishing sixth in my rookie season, my focus is on being a championship contender and to fight for the podium at every round."

Echoing Morais's sentiments, team manager Simon Buckmaster is confident Morais will spearhead another PTR Honda title challenge.

"Shez is a definite title contender in World Supersport. He has already had a test on our 2012 race bike - and as well as being fast, he is really gelling with the team and has us all fired up for 2013. He is an exciting rider who will be able to make the most of the PTR Honda and we are aiming for race and Championship success together."

Morais joins an all-new five-strong line-up that will comprise of David Linortner, Imre Toth, Nacho Calero and Luca Marconi.