Superbike Advocates Racing all set for WorldSBK debut at Portimão

Superbike Advocates Racing will become the very first Australian-owned team to compete in World Superbike as it takes to the grid for this weekend’s Portuguese round, the second round of the 2026 championship season. The rookie squad, which will field experienced rider Tommy Bridewell aboard the Ducati Panigale V4R, is very keen to make a positive impression during its very first appearance on the world stage.

The British-based team has completed two pre-season tests, both of which at this same Portuguese track. Though the weather was less than ideal during those sessions, Bridewell heads into the weekend with some valuable data and references. As for these initial championship rounds, the rookie team will be looking to build on its performance session by session and race by race, as their knowledge and experience grows. While Tommy brings significant British Superbike experience, not least the 2023 title with Ducati machinery, he will need to get used to regulations that allow for more sophisticated electronics and rider aids.

Tommy and his very capable technical team are already working well as a unit and are bolstered by the recent test results, which exceeded expectations despite the very limited track time. Bridewell has already developed a strong connection with his Panigale V4R - a bike that has dominated WorldSBK in recent years, claiming four consecutive Constructors’ World Titles since 2022.

As for the circuit, the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve first featured on the WorldSBK calendar in 2008 and has been a regular fixture ever since. A favourite among riders thanks to its technical, undulating layout and fifteen corners - nine right-handers and six left-handers - the Portuguese track promises another weekend of thrilling action.

Tommy Bridewell (Superbike Advocates #46)
“I’m really looking forward to the weekend. Portimão suits my style quite well, I think, and it’s the perfect circuit at which to start our SBK venture. The first couple of rounds are in our favour, in that I know the tracks quite well. The only difficulty is that I’ve only been able to complete ten laps in dry conditions until now, so we can’t really set any specific goals for this weekend bar enjoying it and doing our best to achieve three strong race finishes. It’s hard for us to judge where we’re at, though things should become clearer over the course of the weekend. There’s a lot for me and the team to learn, and so I think we need to be realistic and build the season steadily, step by step.”