Sam Lowes says he ‘can’t wait’ to get his WorldSBK endeavour underway after getting his first taste of the Ducati Panigale V4 R he will ride in the 2024 WorldSBK season during a test at Jerez.

The ten-time Moto2 race winner was in Spain to sample the Marc VDS Racing-prepared machine he will race against the likes of Alvaro Bautista, Toprak Razgatlioglu and, most intriguingly, his twin brother Alex Lowes.

Despite the test being hampered by damp conditions, Lowes says he felt up to speed on the machine after only a few laps and was immediately impressed by its potential.

“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.”

Looking ahead to next year, the 2013 WorldSSP Champion says he can’t wait to get out on the grid for his debut, where he will be one of six British riders competing alongside Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team), Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha), Scott Redding (ROKiT BMW), Bradley Ray (Motoxracing Yamaha) and Tarran Mackenzie (MIE Honda).

“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!”