It was already clear at the end of the 2023 season that Twan Smits would be racing in the IDM Supersport for another year—whether as the defending champion or, following the latest decisions made behind closed doors, as the runner-up. Now, Team Apreco has officially confirmed its partnership with the Dutch rider.
The 19-year-old Smits will be competing for points on a Yamaha YZF-R6 with the support of Ten Kate Products. The goal is crystal clear for the four-time race winner from 2023: to win the championship. “We had some great moments last year,” says the Dutch rider, “but sometimes I made too many mistakes. So there are still many areas where I can continue to improve and develop.”
The partnership between Team Apreco and Smits dates back to 2019, when he began his IDM career in the Supersport 300 class. In 2022, the teenager moved up to IDM Supersport. He made a strong impression right from his debut season with several podium finishes. That trend continued in 2023. Smits made great strides and demonstrated a true winner’s mentality. He made it to the podium in nine of 13 races. “At the moment, lack of experience is still playing tricks on Twan, but we’ll polish that up next season,” commented team boss Evert Blom on the contract extension. In addition to the IDM, Smits also has his sights set on a few wildcard appearances in the Supersport World Championship.