WorldSBK legend and multiple champion Troy Bayliss will make a full-time return to racing in 2018 with his own Desmosport Ducati team in Australian Superbikes.

The 48-year-old hardman last contested the series in 1997 before he made a move into British Superbikes with GSE Racing and never looked back, claiming in the 1999 title before racking up three WorldSBK crowns. He had planned to ride when Callum Spriggs was injured last year, but didn’t feel the time was right. But it is now.

“I have tested the bike and completed a lot of miles both in practice and racing the 300 class. Initially I did want to see another young guy on the bike, but after I rode it I felt that I needed to contest the championship and try and win myself the elusive Australian Superbike title,” said Bayliss.

“I definitely feel like I have some unfinished business. I have a bit of work to do in terms of fitness, but after testing the bike and running it at the Adelaide Motorsport Festival, I feel I am definitely up to the task.”