Sam Lowes Expects Emotional UK WorldSBK for Marc VDS

Sam Lowes expects the UK WorldSBK round at Donington to be an emotional weekend for himself and Marc VDS following the passing of team owner Marc van der Straten.

Van der Straten's death at the age of 78 was confirmed on Sunday, 5 July. Marc VDS KM99 competed at Suzuka last weekend, but the 10-12 July event will be the team's first WorldSBK race weekend, as well as its first Moto2 round, since the news was announced.

For Lowes, the news carried particular weight because of his long association with Marc VDS. The British rider has been with the team since 2020 in Moto2, before continuing with the outfit when he moved to WorldSBK in 2024.

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“It’s going to be a different kind of weekend; it was a surprise, we didn’t expect it, and it’s going to be emotional,” Lowes told WorldSBK.com ahead of the Donington race.

“Marc [van der Straten] is someone who supported me a lot over my career, and my family, so it’s very difficult. We’re proud to be here and do the best job we can in his name. He had a lot of passion for all motorsport, cars and bikes.”

“Some of my best races have been in his livery, and I’m going to try to keep that going this weekend.”

Alongside the emotional context following Van der Straten's passing, Donington is also a home round for Lowes. He lives less than 20 minutes from the circuit and has a strong history there, including a victory on his way to the 2013 Supersport title.

“I live less than 20 minutes away, so it’s a definite home race,” Lowes said.

“I’m hoping to have a lot of support from the British fans who are always amazing. It’s a track that will suit our style.”

Lowes arrives at Donington after a difficult run of recent rounds, but believes the circuit characteristics can help him return to stronger results. He also expects a close fight for third place, with Yari Montella making progress and Alex Lowes remaining consistently strong.

“I’ve had a couple of bad rounds, and I'm focusing on having good results,” Lowes said.

“It’ll be a good battle for third; Montella has made a big step, and Alex [Lowes] has been solid for a long time. Let’s see what happens this weekend.”

The UK WorldSBK round now becomes an important moment for Lowes and Marc VDS, both to honour Van der Straten's legacy and to rebuild competitive momentum in front of a home crowd.