FHO Racing is an exciting new three-rider, BMW Motorrad-supported team created by Macau entrepreneur Faye Ho, to attack some of the world’s toughest motorcycle events - the Bennetts British Superbike Championship and the International Road Races.
The new team is formed from foundations of the successful Smiths Racing operation, which ceased competing at the end of this year, and utilises many of its experienced technicians and equipment.
Equipped with the highly-anticipated 2021 BMW M 1000 RR Superbike, the FHO Racing BSB line-up features the world’s fastest road racer, Peter Hickman, alongside World Superbike podium finisher Xavi Fores.
The team will also line up in the Pirelli National Superstock 1000 Championship, signing Alex Olsen who returns from injury to pilot the ‘M’ in the production-based series.
FHO Racing Team Owner Faye Ho
“I’ve always loved motorsport and bike racing in particular, so when the opportunity arose to take over from the Smiths team, it seemed the ideal opportunity to get involved. I first supported motorcycle teams at the Macau Grand Prix in 2009 and the next year we claimed the victory with Stuart Easton and the PBM squad. What struck me immediately with two-wheeled racing was the excitement and passion; it is a huge challenge that the teams and riders take on each time they are on track.
“When I came back to the UK, I witnessed the thrill of the Isle of Man TT and the level of professionalism and competition of the BSB series. When we heard the Smiths team were withdrawing, and having got to know Alan and Rebecca Smith, the team owners, in Macau, it felt like perfect timing to help step in to build a new team. I’m just so excited to get going, this is probably the biggest challenge I’ve ever undertaken and ultimately we have the desire to want to win races!”
Peter Hickman
“This is an exciting time for me, the team and I think racing in general as we gain a passionate new team owner in Faye. I’ve known Faye for a few years as a generous supporter of racing in Macau and most importantly she wants to win! I’ve had an awesome four years with the Smiths Racing team, we’ve grown together as a group, been successful in BSB and on the Roads, so now I think we can build on that and take it to a new level. After such a bad year globally, it’s so positive to have a new team and sponsor enter the arena.”
Xavi Forés
“I enjoyed my time in BSB but maybe not so much in WSB last season, so to come back with such a high level team is a chance for me to sort some unfinished business in the championship! The level of competition, machinery and the support from the fans in Britain is incredible and I must say really surprised me to start with. When I raced here in 2019 I had never seen these tracks and many were very tricky to beat experienced regular riders, but now I feel confident that with one year of experience and better preparation, we can do much better. I have been in contact regularly with Faye, she is very motivated, and the project is very strong to give us the tools to fight at the front.”
Alex Olsen
“I feel I haven’t a chance to show my full potential but now I’ve been given another chance. I’m healing up well and we’ve got a long winter, probably the longest ever, so it gives me plenty of time to prepare. The Superstock series is a perfect transition for me to challenge for wins next season and hopefully fight for the title. I’m excited about Faye taking over the team and the spec of the new M 1000 RR is looking amazing for the class.”
FHO Racing Team Manager Darren Jones
“This is a great opportunity to build a new team but use all the important foundations of the Smiths outfit, bringing in additional expertise to strengthen what needs improving. Faye has sponsored the Smiths team, watched from afar and is now relishing the chance to go racing herself as a team owner.
“I’m really excited to be working with someone of Xavi’s calibre and obviously we missed a year on the Roads which we know Peter is the benchmark for, so fingers crossed for the 2021 schedule. Superstock is new for us and Alex has the time for recovery to return ready to fight for the championship, while we develop this awesome new ‘M’ machine for both racing disciplines.”
