Tommy Bridewell targets Assen progression after solid WorldSBK debut

Following a points-scoring debut for the Superbike Advocates squad at Portimao, reigning BSB champion Tommy Bridewell is looking to carry that momentum into more familiar territory at Assen this weekend.

Bridewell arrived on the world stage last time out in Portugal, putting his Panigale V4R into the points with a hard-fought 13th-place finish. Having now shaken off the initial nerves of joining the WorldSBK grid, the Englishman admits that the result has given him a much-needed boost in confidence.

“I’m really looking forward to Assen. After getting that first round at Portimao under my belt, I feel like I’ve earned my place here in WorldSBK,” Bridewell commented. “The goal for the next few rounds is simple: keep progressing.

Assen is a circuit where Bridewell has a proven track record. Between 2012 and 2019, he secured three podium finishes at the historic "Cathedral of Speed" during its stints on the British Superbike calendar. He further proved his affinity for the Dutch track last season, bagging two fourth-place finishes in BSB.
 

Transitioning from the domestic spec to the full-blown WorldSBK Panigale requires a shift in riding style, and Bridewell is focusing specifically on the V4R’s chassis dynamics through Assen’s high-speed sweeps.

“Assen should be a strong track for us. It’s a circuit I know well, and it’s the ideal place to work on mid-corner speed and exit drive,” he explained. “At Assen, everything is about finding a flow. I’m hoping for a dry weekend, but whatever the weather does, I’m ready for the challenge.”

While Bridewell is currently finding his feet with his new team, he is no stranger to the world paddock. His career-best result remains a 10th-place finish at Jerez in 2019, when he stepped in to sub for Eugene Laverty on the GoEleven Ducati.

With his confidence high and a familiar track ahead of him, Bridewell will be one to watch as he looks to break back into the top ten this weekend.