Alabama's renowned track is reportedly seeking a five-year deal to host the World Superbike Championship, ending a US absence since 2019.

The World Superbike Championship (WSBK) could soon make a highly anticipated comeback to American soil, with Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, emerging as the top contender to host races. A report from SPEEDWEEK.com indicates the acclaimed venue is pursuing a five-year contract to bring the production-based racing series back by 2027.

This move would mark WSBK's first event in the United States since 2019, when Laguna Seca in Monterey, California, last welcomed the championship. The proposed event at Barber Motorsports Park would take place in early October, aligning with its annual Barber Vintage Festival.

Such a schedule would also conveniently avoid conflicts with MotoAmerica's yearly visit to Barber, which typically occurs in May. The report adds significant weight to speculation about WSBK's return to a key market, according to reporting by Yahoo Sports - Top Stories.

The Drive for an American Comeback

For years, the World Superbike Championship calendar has predominantly featured European rounds, leading many to question its global scope. BMW Motorrad Chief Executive Officer Markus Flasch, who also serves as president of the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM), has been a notable critic of this focus.

Flasch emphasized to SPEEDWEEK, "As a global manufacturer, we are naturally interested in competing in a global series. In reality, the WSBK has now become a European championship." This sentiment underscores the need for greater international representation.

Adding to the momentum for a US return is the fact that WSBK is now owned by Liberty Media, a US-based company. Revitalizing the series' presence in its home market would undoubtedly help rebuild fan interest and engagement.

Overcoming Financial Hurdles for New Rounds

Bringing a new event, especially an overseas one, to the WSBK calendar presents significant financial challenges. The series currently operates on a budget structured for twelve events, with existing contracts with broadcasters and sponsors based on this number.

Adding a thirteenth round would not automatically generate additional funding from current partners. This means any new race, particularly those requiring substantial travel, would largely need to be self-financing. Overseas venues incur higher travel and logistical costs compared to races within Europe, making the financial equation more complex.

The possibility of expanding the calendar or adding new venues hinges on existing slots becoming available. This would allow new organizers, like Barber Motorsports Park, to enter the schedule without disrupting the established financial framework.

Potential Openings for the 2027 Season

The path for Barber Motorsports Park to join the WSBK calendar in 2027 relies on two existing venues potentially losing their spots. Of the twelve organizers with valid contracts this year, eleven hold agreements for 2027: Phillip Island, Portimão, Assen, Most, Aragón, Misano, Donington Park, Magny-Cours, Cremona, Estoril, and Balaton.

However, the Balaton Park Circuit in Hungary faces an uncertain future. MotoGP is reportedly considering dropping the Hungarian track from its 2027 schedule due to safety concerns and poor attendance at its 2025 event. WSBK would likely follow suit if MotoGP withdraws, freeing up one slot.

Additionally, WSBK's contract with Jerez in Spain is set to expire this year, with no renewal yet announced. If both Balaton and Jerez are indeed dropped, Liberty Media would have two open slots. This could allow for one Asian round, potentially in Malaysia, and crucially, one for Barber Motorsports Park to host a US race.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the last WSBK race held in the United States?

The last World Superbike Championship race on US soil took place in 2019 at the iconic Laguna Seca circuit in Monterey, California. The series has not returned to America since then.

Who owns the World Superbike Championship?

The World Superbike Championship is owned by Liberty Media, a US-based company. This ownership is a key factor driving interest in bringing the series back to the American market.

Why has WSBK primarily focused on European races recently?

WSBK's schedule has become heavily European largely due to contractual agreements and budgetary constraints. Running more races overseas incurs higher travel costs, which are not covered by additional funding from current sponsors for an expanded calendar.

What are the main challenges for WSBK to return to the US?

The primary challenge for WSBK's return to the US is financial. Adding a 13th event to the calendar would require the new host, like Barber Motorsports Park, to largely self-fund the event, as current broadcast and sponsorship contracts are based on a twelve-event schedule.

When might Barber Motorsports Park host WSBK if it returns?

If Barber Motorsports Park secures a contract, the proposed event would likely take place in early October as part of its annual Barber Vintage Festival. This timing helps distinguish it from other major motorcycle events in the region.