A new chapter in the illustrious history of the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team commenced today, with Sam Lowes making his hugely anticipated first appearance on the Ducati Panigale machine he will race in the 2024 WorldSBK Championship.

• After rain prevented Lowes from completing any laps yesterday, the Briton was eager to make his WorldSBK debut today and he took to the Jerez track sporting a stunning black and silver testing livery.
• With ambient temperatures peaking at only 14 degrees, Lowes opted to start the test using Pirelli’s wet tyres on a surface that had not fully dried from yesterday’s rain. The track did dry sufficiently in the afternoon for Lowes to gain some experience on Pirelli slick rubber.
• A test full of positives was also the perfect opportunity for Lowes to get to know his new crew, while also familiarising himself with the riding position on the Ducati Panigale.

/// SAM LOWES

“The Ducati is beautiful to ride”

“Today started off with a lot of excitement and anticipation. I was desperate to ride the Ducati and make my WorldSBK debut, but it wasn’t ideal conditions. Before I went out for the first run on a wet track, I was super nervous. But after three laps I had a big smile on my face because the bike was so rider friendly, and it gave me confidence straightaway. I feel at home immediately with my new crew and they’ve been able to explain to me where I need to focus on to be fast on a superbike but also tell me what I’m doing well. I have to change my style after such a long time riding in Moto2, but we need to take it step-by-step. I certainly need to look at how I’m braking. But I love the bike. It does some things incredibly well and it is beautiful to ride. The speed is very impressive. I kept changing gears, but the bike just wants to keep accelerating, and I was impressed with how well the electronics manage the performance on worn tyres. I’m already looking forward to racing now in 2024. I know WorldSBK is a very high level class, but this test has convinced me that we can be competitive because I know there is such a big margin to improve. It has been a big effort from the whole Team and Ducati to get me out testing this side of Christmas, so I’m very grateful for that. Now I’ll enjoy a little break but I’m already raring to go for 2024!”