SBK World Championship in deep crisis: manufacturers discuss changes to save the series

Fan favourite Toprak Razgatlioglu has moved to MotoGP; this season’s Superbike races are predictable and monotonous due to Ducati’s dominance, with Nicolo Bulega and Iker Lecuona leading the way. Advance ticket sales for this weekend’s event at Donington Park have reached just 54 per cent of last year’s figures – setting alarm bells ringing.

Fewer spectators, falling viewing figures and manufacturers questioning their involvement because they are no longer competitive with their outdated motorbikes are causing headaches for promoter Liberty (formerly Dorna).

For months, representatives of the manufacturers have been discussing at meetings of the MSMA manufacturers’ alliance how to find a way to satisfy all parties involved. On the one hand, the investments and outstanding performances of manufacturers such as Ducati, BMW and Bimota should be recognised and reflected in the results. At the same time, however, the Japanese brands Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki should at least have a chance to be among the frontrunners on a good day, without having to pour millions into developing new models that are now of little market relevance to them.

Is it necessary to invoke the ‘God clause’?

Decisions within the MSMA must be unanimous so that they can subsequently be discussed in the legislative Superbike Commission, which also includes representatives of the promoter and the International Motorcycling Federation. This time, things could turn out differently and the ‘God Clause’ could come into play should no agreement be reached amongst the manufacturers. In that case, decisions will be taken over their heads in order to protect the sport, according to the FIM and Liberty.

At present, it is impossible to say whether an agreement on future technical regulations will be reached at the MSMA meeting at Donington Park on Friday. The current structure of the balance rule, which is based on the maximum permitted fuel flow and concessions for struggling manufacturers, is not to be scrapped outright. However, the individual parameters could be weighted differently, thereby altering the effects.

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Only BMW can offer Ducati any competition

“Our team, and the development department behind it, are working very hard, and we are probably the only ones who can respond to the gaps between Ducati and us,” said BMW team principal Shaun Muir on Thursday during a meeting with SPEEDWEEK.com at Donington Park. “Ducati’s package, both in the works team and among the privateers, is at a very high level. We know what to expect from ourselves in the future and what we can bring to the table.”

There is resistance, particularly from the red bikes.

BMW team boss Shaun Muir

“But it’s also clear that something needs to be done,” added the Englishman. “Whilst we’re pushing as hard as we can in development, other manufacturers aren’t – and may not be able to, because their hands are tied. If this means that Ducati is downgraded, then the same will probably apply to BMW as well. The manufacturers are working with Dorna and the FIM to find a middle ground; everyone is trying very hard. But of course there is resistance, particularly from the red bikes, when it comes to a more significant downgrade. The challenge lies in bringing everyone down to a level that’s acceptable to all; so far, we haven’t found a solution. In my view, the impact of the maximum permitted fuel flow rate isn’t enough; as things stand, the gap to Ducati is still too wide. Even though we’re happy with the progress we’ve made in development, Dorna and the FIM need to take a step to narrow this gap – otherwise it will be very, very difficult for this championship.”

Ducati has produced a technical masterpiece with the current Panigale V4R: Bulega has won all 21 races so far this year – and 25 across both seasons! His Aruba team-mate Lecuona has secured a one-two finish on 18 occasions. Of 63 podium finishes, only seven did not go to Ducati: four were claimed by BMW works rider Miguel Oliveira, two by Axel Bassani and one by Alex Lowes, both on a Bimota.

BMW-Teamchef Shaun Muir

Foto: gold & goose