Oxford Products could quit BSB over “promoting substance addiction” fears
Oxford Products says it is reviewing whether or not to continue as a sponsor of the British Superbike Championship.
Major BSB sponsor Oxford Products is considering leaving the championship due to the series’ partnership with title sponsor Zyn.
BSB struck a deal with the nicotine pouch manufacturer in June 2025, however, Oxford Products is concerned about the impact it could have on racing fans and motorcyclists in general.
Zyn took over the role of title sponsor earlier this year when long-time partner Bennetts ended its partnership with the British series. The company is a subsidiary of tobacco giant Philip Morris International, with its nicotine pouches advertised as ‘smoke-free’ alternatives to cigarettes.
However, studies have suggested that the pouches are “highly addictive”, which Oxford Products says “is not compatible with our philosophy of making life on bikes better”.
Oxford Products has been a mainstay in the world of two-wheel racing since the mid-1970s, and in recent years it has backed riders and teams in BSB. Oxford Products was previously the title sponsor of the Moto Rapido Ducati team.
A full statement from Oxford Products said this about the ongoing review of its commitment in BSB:
“Oxford Products has been constantly involved in motorcycle racing at one level or another since the mid-1970s.
“Indeed, the company was formed by race fanatic Alec Hammond in 1973 to fund involvement in the sport.
“In recent years, a large proportion of Oxford’s race budget has been allocated to the incredibly successful British Superbikes (BSB) championship, sponsoring both racers and teams at the highest level.
“This commitment is now under scrutiny since BSB’s owner MSV signed a title sponsorship deal with a Swedish brand promoting potentially harmful nicotine pouches.”
A spokesperson for Oxford Products also added:
“Promoting substance addiction is not compatible with our philosophy of MAKING LIFE ON BIKES BETTER.
“ZYN is manufactured by a subsidiary of tobacco giant Philip Morris International, so this would appear to be the latest attempt by big business to profit from selling addiction, just like the current vape epidemic.
“We do not believe that motorcycle race fans or indeed motorcyclists in general will benefit from the promotion of addiction in this way.
“Regretfully, we have to consider whether we wish to associate our brands with BSB, otherwise the pinnacle of motorcycle racing in the UK.”
The 2026 British Superbike championship is set to get underway at Oulton Park on 2-4 May.
Find the latest motorcycle news on Visordown.com.
After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
