Sam Lowes has officially renewed his contract with the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team for the 2025 WorldSBK season.
This announcement marks a significant milestone in the British rider’s career as he embarks on his second year in the WorldSBK series, having transitioned from Moto2 at the end of the 2023 season.
Sam Lowes’ journey with the satellite Ducati team has been a long and fruitful one, spanning six seasons across various championships, including a notable stint in Moto2 where he came close to clinching the title.
The decision to extend his contract with Marc VDS Racing is not merely a formality; it reflects a strategic plan that both Lowes and the team had established from the outset.
The duo aimed for a minimum two-year commitment to allow for adequate acclimatization to the WorldSBK environment, which differs significantly from Moto2 in terms of bike dynamics, racing strategies, and overall competition levels.
The 2024 season has presented its challenges for Lowes, primarily due to injuries that have hindered his performance. Despite these setbacks, he has demonstrated flashes of brilliance, showcasing his potential to compete at the highest levels of motorcycle racing.
In an interview following the announcement, Lowes expressed his satisfaction and pride in continuing with Marc VDS.
“I’m very happy and proud to be continuing for one more year in WorldSBK with the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team,” the 34-year old said. “The goal for me and the team was always a minimum two-year plan due to the massive difference between Moto2™ and WorldSBK.
“The last races have been complicated after my shoulder injury, but the first rounds were really enjoyable as we made good progress, so I am looking forward to getting some strong results in the final part of the season.
“We will focus a lot over the next races to make some steps forward, so we can start the 2025 WorldSBK season at a much higher level. I am enjoying the challenge of racing in the series.
“I am enjoying the bike, and the technical differences compared to Moto2™, so let’s first enjoy the end of the 2024 season before focusing on future challenges.
“Big thanks once again to Marc van der Straten and everybody connected to the Elf Marc VDS Racing Team for their trust and support.”
Sam Lowes’ best result in 2024 so far has been a sixth-place finish at Assen, despite a few offs including a DNF last weekend out in Aragon, he has consistently run near the front during races, indicating that he possesses the speed necessary to compete with the top riders.
His resilience and determination have not gone unnoticed by Marc van der Straten, team owner of Marc VDS Racing.
“Sam’s dedication and determination to improve day by day and earn himself a place among the fastest in WorldSBK has been admirable,” Van der Straten said. “New beginnings are always complicated, as it’s not easy to adapt and move forward every day.
“That’s why I’m proud to continue with Sam for the 2025 season. I am convinced that next year his name and Elf Marc VDS Racing will shine at the top of the Championship standings.”
The upcoming 2025 WorldSBK season promises to be an exciting chapter for Lowes as he aims to establish himself among the elite riders in the series.
