IRRC decision: Safety and finances as main reasons
At the beginning of August, IRRC management announced that the popular Superbike category would be replaced by the Supertwin class from next season. Those responsible cited two main reasons for this move: Firstly, the Superbike class had reached a very high speed level, and secondly, the costs of running Superbikes had risen sharply in recent years. Many riders were finding it difficult to raise the necessary budget for a full season. According to the IRRC, the aim was to increase safety on the road courses and to enable larger and more balanced starting fields through lower costs. However, the teams and riders were not involved in this decision, which caused surprise and disappointment among those involved.
Reaction of those involved: Founding of the European Series Road Racing
The teams and riders affected reacted quickly to the announcement. The cancellation of the class was a particularly hard blow for those who had made significant investments in their Superbikes. Just a few days after the season finale at the Frohburg Triangle, the European Series Road Racing was launched. The new series sought early contact with the public via social media. The organizers emphasized the special community spirit in road racing and made it clear that the European Series Road Racing was not just a championship, but a “home” for riders, fans, mechanics, and family members.
Start in 2026: A new era for the Superbike class
The European Series Road Racing is set to start in 2026 with the Superbike class as its main attraction. The series explicitly sees itself as the new home for high-class road racing in Europe. Further information on technical regulations, the selection of race tracks, the licensing procedure, and the final race calendar will be announced over the coming months. The initiators are aiming for a competitive, safe, and attractive championship that will offer riders, teams, and fans alike a new perspective on road racing.
