Get ready for an exciting twist in the world of motorcycling! Superbike Advocates Racing is set to make waves in the 2026 WorldSBK season, and their story is one of ambition and determination.
In a thrilling development, the Australian-owned, UK-based team has announced their entry into the prestigious MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. With British rider Tommy Bridewell at the helm, they're ready to take on the challenge, starting from the Pirelli Portuguese Round in March.
But here's where it gets controversial... the team initially planned to make their World Championship debut in 2027, but they've seized the opportunity to jump in a year early! This bold move makes them the first Australian-owned team to ever compete in this category, a fact that's not lost on the team's owner, Lee Khouri.
Now, let's talk about Tommy Bridewell, an 18-year veteran of British Superbike. With over 450 races under his belt, he's a true legend in the making. He's collected an impressive 112 podiums, 20 wins, and even a British Superbike title in 2023. And this is the part most people miss... Bridewell has also made guest appearances in WorldSBK, with his best performance being a P10 finish at Jerez in 2019. Now, he's ready to take on the Championship full-time, riding the powerful Ducati Panigale V4 R.
Bridewell shared his excitement, saying, "This is an opportunity I never imagined. I feel like a rookie, but I'm as prepared as ever. I can't wait to represent BSB fans and show what I can do."
The team's founder, Lee Khouri, an avid Ducati collector, is equally passionate. He launched the team with the dream of competing at the highest level, and now they're making history as the first Australian-owned team in the Championship. Khouri's pride is palpable as he talks about representing both Australia and the UK on the global stage.
"We're not here to make up the numbers. We're here to build, learn, and fight. With Tommy's experience and our technical expertise, we believe we can make a serious impact from day one. This is just the beginning of our journey," Khouri concludes.
So, will Superbike Advocates Racing make their mark in WorldSBK? Will Tommy Bridewell's experience pay off? And what impact will this Australian-owned team have on the Championship? These questions will be answered as we eagerly await the season debut on February 20th. Don't miss out on the action! Get your WorldSBK VideoPass and join the excitement!
What are your thoughts on this unexpected entry? Do you think they have what it takes to succeed? Let's discuss in the comments!
