Sam Lowes has begun a new chapter in his racing career with the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team, making his highly anticipated first appearance on the Ducati Panigale, which he will pilot in the 2024 WorldSBK Superbike Championship. After rain prevented him from completing any laps on Monday, Lowes was eager to debut in WorldSBK on Tuesday and took to the Jerez track sporting a striking black and silver test livery.
With ambient temperatures reaching only 14 degrees, the 33-year-old British rider started the test using Pirelli’s rain tires on a surface that hadn’t fully dried from the previous day’s rain. The track dried enough in the afternoon for Lowes to gain experience with Pirelli’s slick tires.
This positive test session also provided Lowes with the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with his new team and familiarize himself with the riding position on the Ducati Panigale.
Lowes shared his thoughts on the day:“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!”