Vermeulen to join ASBK TV team in 2024

Introducing a new addition to the ASBK TV team for the 2024 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) – Aussie circuit racing royalty Chris Vermeulen.

In a major boost for the seven-round ASBK Championship, Vermeulen will join incumbents Phil Harlum and Steve Martin in the ASBK TV team to bring viewers a first-hand insight into what’s expected to be a seriously hard-fought season – especially in the premier Superbike class as the seasoned campaigners of ASBK feel the heat from a new wave of emerging talent.

Vermeulen, who hails from the Sunshine Coast, certainly has an acute understanding of competing in the ASBK Championship as a rookie, with the then 16-year-old embarking on a maiden campaign in 1999 on a privately entered Yamaha.

He finished eighth in that championship, with the overall honours belonging to his new co-commentator Steve Martin on a Ducati.

Vermeulen’s talent was more than enough to pique the interest of the Aussie-domiciled superstar Barry Sheene, who helped to open doors for the now 17-year-old to embark on an international career, which eventually took him all the way to MotoGP via the FIM Supersport and Superbike World Championships.

He won races in every category he entered, as well as winning the FIM Supersport World Championship in 2003 and finishing second in WorldSBK two years later. He then switched to MotoGP with Suzuki – the highlight of that tenure coming with victory at a wet Le Mans in 2007. That MotoGP machine is now part of his burgeoning motorcycle and car collection.

Chris Vermeulen

After a return to WorldSBK was scuppered by a knee injury, the laconic Vermeulen has since carved a successful media career as a TV commentator and podcaster.

He’s now joined the ASBK TV family in 2024, where he’ll be seen across live television, streaming platforms and livestream channels, including premier partner SBS Sport.

Round one of the ASBK Championship will be held at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit from February 23-25.

“I feel like I’m coming home in 2024 after starting my senior racing career in the ASBK Championship 25 years ago,” said Vermeulen. “I still remember that year fondly, and I learned so much competing against riders like Steve Martin, Craig Connell, Andrew Pitt and Shawn Giles.

“The level of competition was just so high, so I already knew what tough and uncompromising racing was all about before I left for the UK.

“To be back in the ASBK fold as a TV commentator is just brilliant, and I know that we’re in for a great year of racing across all the classes. I look forward to joining Phil and Steve to bring viewers all the action as the ASBK Championship is at an amazing level right now.”

Tickets for the Phillip Island opener can be purchased here.