Anthony West has joined DesmoSport Ducati in three-rider line-up for 2026 ASBK season.
DesmoSport Ducati has confirmed a three-rider line-up for the 2026 Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK), with Anthony West, Luca Durning and Olly Simpson set to contest Superbike and Next Gen SuperSport classes.
The trio will line up at the traditional ASBK season-opener alongside WorldSBK at Phillip Island on 20–22 February.
New Zealand-based Luca Durning continues in the Superbike class aboard the DesmoSport Ducati Panigale V4 R, while South Australian Olly Simpson steps into Next Gen SuperSport on the Panigale V2. Veteran Queenslander Anthony West completes the line-up, racing an ER Motorsport-backed Panigale V4 R.
Team owner Ben Henry said the experience across the squad was a key strength heading into the new season.
“Luca’s a quiet achiever and I think we’ll see him step up as the year goes on,” Henry said. “Olly adapted quickly to the V2 and has the potential to deliver strong results in Next Gen SuperSport.
“Westy’s experience speaks for itself, but it’s his determination and ability to adapt that really excites me. He’s fast, consistent and we’re confident we can support him for even better results.”
West’s return comes via ER Motorsport, with owner Deon Coote confirming his motivation to rejoin the ASBK paddock after a year away.
“Anthony’s depth of experience and hunger to compete make him a great fit,” Coote said. “We’ve got the right components in place and I’m looking forward to getting to Phillip Island.”
West said early signs aboard the Ducati were encouraging as he begins adapting to the new package.
“There’s work to do with setup and electronics, but I can already see the positives,” he said. “I know I can be competitive with this team around me.”
Simpson said his first ride on the Panigale V2 immediately boosted his confidence, while Durning confirmed off-season testing had him eager to return to Phillip Island and get the championship underway.
The team is currently completing a two-day test at Phillip Island before heading to Sydney Motorsport Park to contest round two of the St George Summer Series.
2026 AUSTRALIAN SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP
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Round 1: Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC – 20–22 February (WorldSBK)
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Round 2: Sydney Motorsport Park, NSW – 27–28 March
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Round 3: The Bend Motorsport Park, SA – 1–3 May
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Round 4: Morgan Park Raceway, QLD – 29–31 May
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Round 5: Queensland Raceway, QLD – 26–28 June
