Bayliss & Webber sign up for The Race of Champions

The Race of Champions will feature an all-Australian team for the first time when the spectacular event returns to Wembley Stadium on December 14, with Ducati’s Double Superbike World Champion, Troy Bayliss, partnering Red Bull Racing F1 driver, Mark Webber.

The ‘Duo from Down Under’ will go head-to-head with competitors from the world of Formula 1, World Rally, Le Mans and motorbike racing, as they battle in identical cars on a specially-built circuit inside Wembley Stadium. Names already confirmed include seven-times F1 World Champion, Michael Schumacher, and triple World Touring Car Champion, Andy Priaulx.

Bayliss last entered The Race of Champions when the event took place in Gran Canaria in 2001, when he was part of an All-Star team that reached the finals of The ROC Nations Cup. This will be the first time a Team Australia has been entered, however, and Webber is relishing the challenge.

"I've been watching The Race of Champions for the last few years and have always been really keen to do it, as the concept looks great," said Webber. “This year I can, so flying the flag for Australia will be loads of fun – especially with a two wheel legend in Troy as my team-mate. I'm sure there will be some laughs on the night for both of us!"

Bayliss, who currently leads the Superbike World Championship as it heads to Brands Hatch this weekend, is also looking forward to the chance to fight for his country.

“I am really excited to be part of the Australian team alongside Mark Webber this year at The Race of Champions," said Bayliss. “It’s the first time there has been an Aussie contingent so we will be looking forward to having a good time there."

Bayliss isn’t the only bike racer to have tackled the event before – MotoGP stars Valentino Rossi and James Toseland have both competed in the past, while Motocross ace and eight-times X Games Champion Travis Pastrana has fought against – and beaten – many stars from the world of four-wheel racing over the past three years.

Tickets for the event are on sale now by calling 0844 412 1743, or online at www.raceofchampions.com. Adult prices start at £18 with child tickets half as much at £9.