From a press release issued by GSE Racing/HM Plant Ducati:

GSE Racing re-confirms 2003 plans

In response to continued speculation about its manufacturer arrangements for the 2003 Superbike World Championship, GSE Racing’s Team Principal Darrell Healey has taken the opportunity to re-confirm the terms of its partnership with Ducati Corse.

“There has been a lot of speculation about GSE Racing leaving the Ducati stable to compete with another manufacturer’s machinery in 2003. I would like to take this opportunity to confirm once again that GSE Racing will be running with two riders as the only official Ducati Corse satellite team.

“As an essentially privateer set-up with manufacturer support, GSE Racing prides itself on its ability to nurture talent within a strong team structure. Troy Bayliss and Neil Hodgson won consecutive British Championships on Ducati machines and both riders have continued to flourish in the world series.

“We have enjoyed a considerable amount of success at the highest level and we are looking forward to continuing this trend with Ducati Corse. James Toseland will be joined by Chris Walker to spearhead our campaign next season and I’m sure that we’ll continue to provide Ducati with a successful breeding ground for new talent that can go on to challenge for the World Championship.”

Darrell also took the opportunity to confirm that GSE Racing has been rewarded with an increased level of support from Ducati Corse in 2003, due in no small part to its continued high levels of commitment and professionalism. This substantially improved package will ensure that the UK-based team will continue to compete at the highest level and represent the Ducati brand to the thousands of loyal Superbike fans worldwide.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Ducati for the support they have given GSE Racing over the past five years. Without Ducati Corse’s commitment, the team wouldn’t be in the enviable position that it is in today. GSE Racing, HM Plant and our other sponsors have all benefited from the global appeal and image of the Ducati brand.”

Ducati Corse Superbike Programme Director, Paolo Ciabatti said: “Ducati is delighted that GSE Racing has reconfirmed its status as a factory-supported team for 2003 and beyond after the success of the past five years. GSE Racing has continued to develop into one of the top teams in the World Championship with Ducati Corse. Indeed, over the past three years, GSE Racing’s excellent results have helped Ducati to retain the manufacturers’ championship in the World Superbike series.”