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Bayliss returns to racing in the ASBK at 49

"I felt like I had a job to finish". Troy will ride the Panigale Final Edition and will join his son Oli, who competes in the SSP 300 category

SBK: Bayliss returns to racing in the ASBK at 49

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When we talk about Troy Bayliss, we need to forget about the word ‘impossible’. The Australian rider always knows how to surprise us and the latest is that next season, as he turns 49, he will be a full-time entry in the Australian SBK championship, riding a Ducati for his own team, DesmoSport.

This might sound like a mistimed April Fools' prank, but Tory himself confirms the news on website CycleOnline.com.au. It all began with rider Callum Spriggs' injury, “initially I wanted to see another young guy on the bike, but after I rode it I felt that I needed to try and win the Australian title myself”.

Bayliss will ride a Panigale 1299 R Final Edition and doesn't seem too worried about time ticking on.

“I've tested the bike and completed many miles, both in testing and racing in the 300 class - he explains - I feel like I have some unfinished business”.

The last time Troy raced in SBK was in 2015, when he stood in for Davide Giugliano on the factory team's Ducati in Australia and Thailand, finishing in the points zone in 3 out of 4 races, with a best result of 9th. At 45 years of age no less.

There is another interesting side to his return to the ASBK, because he will be on track with his son Oli, who competes in the Supersport 300. The Baylisses are now a certified racing family.

Translated by Heather Watson
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