The Elf Marc VDS Racing Team is delighted to announce it has reached an agreement with Sam Lowes to race together in the 2026 and 2027 WorldSBK Championship seasons.
The 34-year-old has been an integral part of the Marc VDS Racing family since joining its Moto2 team back in 2020, and both parties are thrilled to continue their long and successful partnership
Lowes and the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team will compete for success on board a Ducati Panigale V4R machine for the third season in a row in WorldSBK next year, with the clear target of building on what has been a hugely successful 2025 campaign so far.
The British star has excelled in his second WorldSBK season, and halfway through the 12-round campaign, Lowes sits sixth in the standings with 11 top six finishes, which includes a stunning maiden podium in the Superpole race at Assen.
The 34-year-old has been an integral part of the Marc VDS Racing family since joining its Moto2 team back in 2020, and both parties are thrilled to continue their long and successful partnership for a seventh successive season in 2026.
“I’m extremely happy and excited to announce this new two-year deal with the Marc VDS Racing Team. I want to say a big thank you to Marc van der Straten for the continued belief and support that he has given me over such a long period of time. I’d also like to thank the team management of Marina and Patrick for their hard work adapting to WorldSBK and giving me everything I need to be successful. I’m very grateful to have their full support and trust, and it’s a privilege to ride for this great team. I want to use the remainder of this year to make a big step and hit the ground running next year. I’m really excited by the project, excited for the new bike next season, and I’m sure we will be ready to fight for victories. I’m motivated and determined to succeed, so a big thank you to the whole team, all the sponsors and everyone for having my back and supporting me,” Lowes said.
“I’m so pleased that our long-standing relationship with Sam will continue in 2026 and 2027. Over the years together we have built a strong foundation and great trust, and I believe in Sam’s ability to bring our WorldSBK team to the top. After a difficult debut season in 2024, he has worked very hard to improve and adapt and I am very proud that he will remain in our colours,” said Marc Van Der Straten.
