Pirelli are delighted to continue to provide their unwavering support of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship in 2017, as it is announced alongside Dorna WSBK Organization they are to sponsor four of the much anticipated European rounds of 2017; at MotorLand Aragon, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, Circuit Nevers Magny-Cours and Jerez.
Action in the Pirelli Aragon Round gets underway in just under two weeks time, taking place from 31st March – 2nd April as it is the first European stop for the paddock in 2017. All eyes will be on the Third Round; it will feature the introduction of the inaugural World Supersport 300 series, on top of the return of the ever-popular European Superstock 1000 Championship. Edge of your seat racing is guaranteed as adrenaline is at its highest level, with entertainment assured for fans on and off track.
WorldSBK will then welcome the Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round from 16th – 18th June at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, as the series delves into the depths of 2017 before heading to the Pirelli French Round on 29th September – 1st October at ever popular Magny-Cours. WorldSBK then makes its final stop in Europe for Round 12; the Pirelli Spanish Round from 20th– 22nd October where championships could be won or lost.
The iconic Italian tyre manufacturer is a long-term partner of the world´s fastest production-based motorcycle series, and each year are continuing to build on their unwavering support of WorldSBK, as they head into their 14th season as the Championships sole tyre supplier. Cementing its pace at the heart of the championship, the sponsorship will provide even more coverage for the brand who understands the importance of the prestigious series in the world of racing.
“The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship is at the same time an important platform to develop our range of tyres, which are all available on the market, as well as a way to increase our brand awareness all over the world,” said Giorgio Barbier, Racing Activities Director for Moto.
“With the establishment of the WorldSSP300 class, which Pirelli has been strongly desiring and supporting, a promising young rider is now able to make a first step in the World Championship to experience the tracks and learn how to work within a team, before moving to WorldSSP. From here, they will have the chance to move on to the STK1000 before landing in the WorldSBK class or, in case, to other Championships with a very progressive and formative growth path. Until now, such a flowing growth path didn’t exist and, in addition, now more than ever, the Championship is increasingly connected to the real motorcycle market, where smaller displacement machines are growing exponentially. The starting grids of such classes are full and crowded with riders and we expect many wild card requests, as the National Championships are following the example of the World Championship in terms of classes and regulations, just as it has been admirably set by FIM and Dorna.”
Marc Saurina, WorldSBK Commercial and Marketing Director adds: “The addition of Pirelli as our event main sponsor for four rounds of the season is excellent news for the Championship. By continuing their firm support of WorldSBK, the level of commitment Pirelli provide to the series is growing year on year. It showcases how simple it is to make the most of our global sport, and we look forward to showcasing our Rounds with the best possible support.”
WorldSBK action will resume in just under two weeks time for the Pirelli Aragon Round following a stunning weekend of racing action in Asia. The WorldSBK and WorldSSP machines took to the Chang International Circuit in Thailand in the searing heat, producing high-quality racing action.