Cullybackey teen Peter Willis secures CFMOTO Sportbike ride for 2026

Peter Willis will line up in the Pirelli British Sportbike Championship next season, joining the CFMOTO Sportbike team, after many successful competing in the R&G British Talent Cup.

Teenage racing prospect Peter Willis has been confirmed as the latest addition to the CFMOTO Sportbike team for the 2026 British racing season, marking a significant step up in his rapidly progressing motorsport career.

The 17-year-old rider from Cullybackey, County Antrim, joins the team after several successful years competing in the British Talent Cup, where he has established himself as one of Northern Ireland’s most promising young racers.

Breakthrough Season in British Talent Cup

Willis enjoyed a standout 2025 campaign, finishing seventh overall in the highly competitive British Talent Cup standings and claiming his first race victory at Silverstone during the British Grand Prix weekend.

The result marked a major milestone for the young rider and underlined his growing confidence and racecraft on some of the UK’s most demanding circuits.

His move into the Sportbike class places him among one of the most exciting and fiercely contested categories in the British racing paddock, as he continues to build on a strong foundation of track and racing experience gained at youth level.

Team Welcomes Rising Star

Team principals TBR and Moto Twelve have welcomed Willis to the CFMOTO set-up ahead of pre-season preparations, with testing scheduled to begin early next year.

Racing Director Eddie Roberts said the team was delighted to secure Willis for the 2026 campaign.

“I am thrilled to have Peter join us for next season. At only 17, he has some great results under his belt and a bright future ahead of him in the Sportbike championship.”

Roberts added that the team is already focused on preparations, with both riders now confirmed.

“With both riders now confirmed for 2026, we are keen to continue our preparations in readiness for the start of the season. We have a really competitive set up for next year and I have high hopes that with Peter and Adon on board, we will see some good results for CFMOTO.”

Excitement for Next Chapter

Willis said he is relishing the opportunity to step up into the Sportbike class and work with the experienced CFMOTO team.

“I’m really excited to join the CFMoto team for 2026.  The development of the new CFMoto 675SR-R was very impressive in 2025.  The team have an extensive wealth of knowledge, so I look forward to what we can active together in 2026”.

The team has confirmed that testing sessions will take place ahead of the 2026 season, with progress updates shared regularly via social media channels.

Recognition Beyond the Track

Adding to an already impressive year, Willis has also been shortlisted for ‘Young Rider of the Year’ at the Irish Motorcycle Awards, which are due to take place in January 2026. The nomination reflects his consistent performances and growing reputation within the racing community.

For the young rider from Cullybackey, the move to CFMOTO represents not just a new contract, but a major opportunity to showcase his talent on a bigger stage as he continues his climb through the ranks of British motorcycle racing.