'Really proud' Jack Burrows set for British Supersport debut at Brands Hatch on Scars Racing Ducati

The 16-year-old will join championship leader Luke Stapleford on a Ducati Panigale V2 at the Kent circuit for the final round from October 16-18.

Fellow Ulsterman Michael Dunlop won this year’s Supersport race on the Scars Ducati at the North West 200 and clinched a double at the Isle of Man TT.

Burrows made a little piece of history earlier this month when he became the youngest winner of an Irish or Ulster Supersport race on his debut in the class at Kirkistown on the Ards Peninsula.

He is currently joint third in the British Moto4 Cup but is set to move out of the class in 2027, with his plans yet to be officially confirmed.

However, the chance to make his debut in the British Supersport races at Brands will give Burrows an invaluable opportunity to work alongside the leading team and rider in the championship.

“I’m absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to make my British Supersport debut at Brands Hatch with Scars Racing Ducati,” said Burrows.

“I’ve been racing my Moto3 since 2022, so I feel now is the right time to take the next step and challenge myself on a Supersport machine.

“I’m under no illusions about how big a step it will be competing in the British championship, but to be offered this wildcard on merit is something I’m really proud of.

“To make my debut with Scars Racing Ducati makes it even more special. Dale and Leigh have a huge amount of experience, so it’s an ideal situation for me as a rookie.

“Having Luke as my team-mate is another massive positive. He’s a frontrunner in the championship, so I’ll be watching and learning from him throughout the weekend,” he added.

“I’m also really excited to finally race the Ducati Panigale V2. It’s a bike I’ve wanted to ride for a long time.

“The main thing is to enjoy the experience, learn as much as possible and make the most of the opportunity.

“A massive thank you to Dale, Leigh and everyone at Scars Racing Ducati for giving me this chance. I can’t wait to get to Brands Hatch.”

His dad John, who runs the Burrows Engineering/RK Racing outfit, said the Northern Ireland team, owned and run by Dale McElveen and Leigh Finlay, was the perfect environment for Jack to experience what it takes to be successful in the British Supersport paddock.

“I’d like to thank Dale McElveen and Leigh Finlay for considering Jack for this opportunity,” said Burrows. “I’ve known them both for a long time and they run an extremely professional team.

“There really is no better place for Jack to make his Supersport debut.

“Having Luke as a team-mate is another huge positive. To have a British Supersport frontrunner alongside Jack for the weekend will be invaluable, and he can learn a lot by watching how Luke and the team operate.

“We know this will be a massive challenge and we’re not setting expectations too high. The priority is for Jack to enjoy himself, learn as much as possible and take everything in.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for him to experience Supersport at this level and see what the class is all about.

“Finally, I’d like to thank all of our sponsors at Burrows Engineering and RK Racing for their continued support. Without them, opportunities like this simply wouldn’t be possible.”

Team principal McElveen stressed there was “no pressure” on Burrows, with the focus on helping the teenager feel his way into the championship.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for us to help a talented young rider find his feet in what is an extremely competitive championship,” he said.

“Jack will be working alongside the whole Scars Racing Ducati team and Luke throughout the weekend, which will give him a fantastic opportunity to learn.

“There’s no pressure on Jack from our side. We want him to enjoy the experience, learn as much as possible and see how he gets on.

“We’re really looking forward to having him with us at Brands Hatch.”