Sam Lowes (2nd) broke up the Ducati factory duo: only a few managed that in 2026

Sam Lowes finished third on the podium nine times in the 2026 Superbike World Championship, always behind the Ducati works riders Nicolò Bulega and Iker Lecuona, who were so dominant this year – at the season finale in Jerez, the Englishman, riding for the Marc VDS customer team, pipped the Aruba.it duo!

Lowes had already shone on Friday by finishing second and once again confirmed his pace in Superpole with the second-fastest time. And in the first race, the 36-year-old crossed the line in second place on every lap. Having disappointed at Estoril with 11th, 10th and 15th places, his best result of the season came as a huge relief.

“A week ago we got a bit carried away and my riding wasn’t up to scratch either,” Sam admitted to a small group of journalists. “That’s why it was important to put in a good performance here. Right from the first practice session I was in my element, and Jerez is one of my favourite circuits. But you have to admit that Ducati has a huge advantage here, at least when it comes to tyre wear. I’m really pleased that I was able to battle with the factory riders and ride amongst them – only a few riders have managed that this year, and normally they’re a step ahead of us. In that respect, I’m really pleased with how the day went.”

Sam Lowes hopes for no rain on Sunday

Lowes opted for a soft front tyre in the first race and nearly paid the price. “I ran into a few problems in the last five laps, and during that phase Iker closed the gap on me again – he’d used the SC2, which performed better in the end,” explained the family man. “The conditions on Sunday could be very different. If it does rain, other riders could get in on the action at the front. I personally enjoy riding in the wet too, although everyone really wants dry conditions. We’ll just have to wait and see what happens. Until then, I’m pleased with the improvement we’ve made compared to last week.”

Whilst the top three World Championship places have been secured by Bulega, Lecuona and Barni rider Yari Montella, Sunday’s second race will decide fourth place in the World Championship – specifically between Sam and his twin brother Alex (Bimota), who are level on points. “The World Championship situation hasn’t changed significantly,” Lowes dismissed the idea. “I’ll just try to maintain my pace. After that, I’m looking forward to the winter tests to make progress for 2027. The season has been gruelling, both on and off the track.”

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Jerez: Superpole Race

FIM Superbike World Championship

18.10.2026 - 10:55