MICHAEL VAN DER MARK

A true product of the WorldSBK paddock in general , ‘ MVDM ’ ( as he is affectionately known ) is now one of its most experienced riders , and a proven race winner as recently as 2024 . Entering the WorldSBK paddock with the legendary Ten Kate team , he first won the Superstock 600 Championship on a Honda in 2012 , and then secured the WorldSSP title for the same set-up in 2014 . A podium capable rider since his first WorldSBK season in 2015 , he went on to win races for both Yamaha and BMW . Most of his recent seasons have been blighted by injury but everyone in WorldSBK understands that this Dutchman is a real flier on his day .

JONATHAN REA

No need whatsoever to introduce the greatest ever WorldSBK rider , not after a career that has delivered six World Championships and records aplenty . His race-winning prowess has been so immense that at the start of 2025 he has 56 race wins more than the next best rider . A very tough swap from Kawasaki to Yamaha factory machinery in 2024 saw him a lowly 13th in the overall championship standings . By far his lowliest finish in all his WorldSBK campaigns . With a new crew chief and a maybe a renewed belief , Rea could be back to more like his very best this year .