WorldSBK, regulatory change: a restarted SP race will consist of more laps

There’s incoming Superbike news. We’re not talking about the riders’ market or manufacturers, but rather regulatory changes, approved by the Superbike Commission formed of SBK executive director Gregorio Lavilla, FIM member Franck Vayssiè and the representatives of the manufacturers competing in the championship.

Longer Superpole race

Of the many updates, the main one regards the Superpole Race and its procedures. Up until last year, in case of a red flag, the sprint race would be restarted and run over just five laps, a number considered too low, this limited distance perhaps encouraging riders to make overly aggressive moves.

Hence, the rule change, with the decision to set a minimum race distance of eight laps (in case of a restart). A decision in line with the clear policy in place across all championships, with the aim of increasing safety as far as possible.

The other new rules

There are also changes on a disciplinary front. As in MotoGP, it has been decided that no appeal can be made in response to decisions by the Judges of Facts in matters of their competence. It is also possible that information regarding any protects and appeals may be communicated on the timing monitors and official notice boards and therefore considered valid notification.

And then come updates regarding the medical regulation. Most importantly, new rules will be adopted when evaluating whether or not a rider can return to the track following an accident. Decisions must be made in accordance with the medical director, the SBK medical director, the FIM medical official and the FIM medical director (or their representative).

It has also been decided that all rider helmets taken to the medical centre after a crash should be checked by medical staff or the medical director before being returned. In case of a blow to the head, the helmet will be taken to the FIM laboratory at Saragozza university for specific examination.

Translated by Heather Watson

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