A Stunning P4 for Tarran Mackenzie: MGM Optical Express Racing Shines at Phillip Island

The 2026 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship kicked off in spectacular fashion at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. For MGM Optical Express Racing, the Australian Round was a milestone weekend, marked by Tarran Mackenzie’s career-best result in WorldSBK.

After a solid performance in the opening sessions, Mackenzie secured 11th on the grid with a 1’29.718 in the Tissot Superpole. Despite a challenging Race 1 where he slipped to 15th before recovering to finish 12th, and an 11th place in the Superpole Race, “Taz” saved his best for the final encounter.

Mastering the Wet in Race 2
Heavy rain ahead of Race 2 transformed the track conditions. Starting from P13, Mackenzie immediately found his rhythm aboard the Ducati V4 R. Showing incredible composure and pace, the Scotsman surged through the field, moving into the top five by lap eight and eventually crossing the line in an impressive 4th place.

Tarran Mackenzie #95:

“People were saying: ‘It’s raining, you’ll bring home a good result!’ and I’m so happy I did. I felt confident on the out lap, even though it was my first time riding this bike in the wet. I only had a few kilometers in the rain last year, but I knew this was my chance. I’m really proud of this 4th place. It’s been a tough preseason, but this result shows the incredible work done by the team and gives us massive confidence moving forward.”

Looking Ahead
With 17 points secured and a 7th place in the overall standings, the team now looks toward the start of the European season. The focus will remain on building on this momentum and finding the same “step forward” in dry conditions.

Reference: WorldSBK Official Website / MGM Optical Express Racing