Get ready for a thrilling shake-up in the world of Superbike racing! In a bold and unexpected move, Superbike Advocates Racing has announced their entry into the 2026 WorldSBK Championship, marking a historic moment as the first Australian-owned team to ever compete in this prestigious category. But here's where it gets even more exciting: they’re bringing British Superbike veteran Tommy Bridewell along for the ride, and they’re not just here to participate—they’re here to challenge the status quo. And this is the part most people miss: their debut was originally planned for 2027, but they’ve accelerated their timeline, skipping the season opener in Australia to dive headfirst into the action starting with the Pirelli Portuguese Round in March.
This isn’t just another team joining the grid; it’s a story of passion, ambition, and breaking barriers. Founded by Australian team owner Lee Khouri, a Ducati enthusiast and founder of Supercar Advocates, Superbike Advocates Racing has already made waves in the Australian Superbike Championship, finishing fifth with the Ducati V4 R. Now, they’re stepping onto the global stage with a seasoned lineup that includes former TT winner Alan Jackson and Technical Director Mick Shanley, whose MotoGP and WorldSBK experience adds serious firepower to their garage. But here’s the controversial part: can a team with such a rapid ascent truly compete with the established powerhouses of WorldSBK?
Tommy Bridewell, an 18-year British Superbike veteran with over 450 races under his belt, is no stranger to the WorldSBK paddock. With 112 podiums, 20 wins, and a 2023 British Superbike title to his name, he’s a proven contender. Yet, he admits feeling like a rookie as he prepares to tackle the World Championship full-time on his Ducati Panigale V4 R. His journey from a wildcard entry at Portimao in 2008 to a permanent grid rider in 2026 is nothing short of inspiring. As he puts it, ‘It’s an opportunity I’ve never been given before,’ and his enthusiasm is infectious. But let’s not forget—WorldSBK is one of the most competitive championships in motorsport. Will his experience be enough to make a mark?
Lee Khouri’s vision for the team is crystal clear: ‘We’re not here to make up the numbers—we’re here to build, to learn quickly, and to fight.’ His pride in representing both Australia and the UK on the world stage is palpable, and his confidence in the team’s technical structure is unwavering. But is their passion and determination enough to overcome the steep learning curve of WorldSBK? Only time will tell. One thing’s for sure: their debut is already one for the history books.
As the 2026 season kicks off on February 20th, fans around the globe are eagerly anticipating how this underdog team will fare. Will they rise to the challenge, or will the pressure of the World Championship prove too much? What do you think—is Superbike Advocates Racing the real deal, or are they in for a rude awakening? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to catch all the action with the WorldSBK VideoPass! (https://secure.worldsbk.com/en/subscribe?_ga=2.190603497.374513475.1756731614-487190521.1733143918)
