Cormac Buchanan will return to Europe next year for a second Red Bull Rookies Cup season.
The young Kiwi became the country’s first rider to be selected for the junior championship that runs as a support class at several MotoGP events.
This year was Buchanan’s first time riding in Europe, and he was put against some of the continent’s most highly rated junior riders.
The primary challenge for Buchanan was going to be learning a brand-new circuit each weekend.
At times the year was tough, but Buchanan rose to the task. As the season went on, his pace relative to riders around him greatly improved.
Towards the end of the season, he was frequently battling for the last remaining points positions.
While he was ultimately unable to clinch a championship point, he can attack next year’s championship with experience driving him along.
“To have another year in this incredible championship, riding the wicked KTM Factory RC250 R machine, flying the New Zealand flag, and striving to be the best racer I can be is just an unreal feeling,” Buchanan said.
“I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to this moment and the entire Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup for giving me this opportunity.”
Buchanan has been dovetailing his Rookies Cup campaign with a part-time season in the Honda British Talent Cup, which wraps up at Donington Park next month.