Superbike, Motul Italian Round: the Championship returns to Italy

The World Championship of production derivatives returns this weekend for one of the most eagerly awaited events of the year: from 12 to 14 May the drivers will compete at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, a difficult and fast track where it is necessary to do appeal to all one's talent, and for this reason it is one of the favorites of great champions.

The historic Italian track, which hosts the WorldSBK for the 13th year, unfolds throughout its almost 5 km of 22 corners, 9 on the right and 13 on the left, which offer many opportunities for last-gasp duels.
For this event, Pirelli has decided to bring five solutions for the front and four for the rear for the riders of the series derivatives, in addition to the qualifying tyre.

Without a doubt, the most awaited by the Italian public will be the "home" riders such as Marco Melandri (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), Lorenzo Savadori (Milwaukee Aprilia), Ayrton Badovini (Grillini Racing Team), Riccardo Russo (Guandalini Racing) and the new Team Althea BMW driver Rafaelle De Rosa, who replaced Markus Reiterberger from Assen.
The last Italian to win at Imola was Michel Fabrizo in 2009 and if a home rider manages to win, it will be his 100th WorldSBK victory.

However, barring sensational twists and turns, the most credited with the final victory will be two Englishmen: Chaz Davies who dominated on this track, where Ducati will play at home, last year, and obviously Jonathan Rea who has already won five victories here.

Title sponsor of the round will once again be Motul, a French company that produces high-performance lubricants, which will guarantee spectators a fantastic experience: in addition to the paddock show, the VIP lounges, the MOTUL Action Box will allow you to stay on the grid and see the races from the pit lane, fans will also be able to admire the MOTUL Legend Stunt Team throughout the weekend.

Marco Baraldi, general director of Motul Italia, explained: “Motul returns to Imola for the second time in WorldSBK as Main Sponsor of the Motul Italian Round event. It is a particularly important event for our company, which presents itself with the spirit and enthusiasm of the greatest occasions, for an undisputed and fascinating historical stage. Imola is a clear example of the dedication and collaboration between Dorna and our group, with the aim of bringing performances and emotions to life. For Motul, WorldSBK is one of the activities that best represents the values ​​of these two realities that have collaborated successfully for many years."

Marc Saurina, WorldSBK Commercial and Marketing Director added: “Having MOTUL on board for another WorldSBK project is a big step forward for us. We are thrilled to continue our relationship with such an important company for the series and look forward to a fantastic MOTUL Italian Round.”

Below are the appointments of the Motul Italian Round:

FRIDAY 12 MAY
09 – 45 Free Practice 10
15 – 45 Free Practice 16

Saturday May 13
08 – 45 Free Practice 09
10pm – 30pm Tissot-Superpole 10
10pm – 55pm Tissot-Superpole 11
13pm Race 00

Sunday May 14
09 – 30 Warm Up
13pm Race 00