Portugal’s Estoril circuit will replace Misano as the 2020 WorldSBK season finale venue as the Italian event has had to be cancelled.
A new, three-year deal has been struck with the legendary Italian track but the presumed cost of hosting WorldSBK at the end of the year is prohibitive.
Estoril, situated just 30km from the Portuguese capital city of Lisbon, will host the WorldSBK class, along with the Supersport and Supersport 300 from the 16-18 of October and it will be the first time the country has hosted two rounds in a season.
“We tried very, very hard to bring WorldSBK action to Italy in 2020. A rescheduled date was pending but finally, the decision was not taken lightly to cancel the round for this year,” said WorldSBK head honcho Greg Lavilla.
“However, the new agreement of three more years of WorldSBK racing at Misano will commence next season and it will be a privilege to step back into the grounds of a track that has a unique atmosphere like no other.
“The venue has so much history in motorcycle racing and is one of the most passionate places we visit in WorldSBK, and securing this until at least 2023 promises to be a positive step back to normality for all involved.
“The addition of a second round in Portugal on the calendar is very important for the growth of WorldSBK in the Iberian Peninsula and specifically Portugal.
“It will add a challenge to a lot of the paddock as most haven’t visited this track, bringing an extra dynamic to the Championship as the season readies for a spectacular round at this returning venue.
“I would like to thank the FIM and the circuit for their cooperation and desire to be part of the 2020 calendar.”
