WorldSBK: Imola completes the 2023 calendar

Imola is returning to the WorldSBK calendar in 2023, with the complete calendar announced.

Imola will make a return to the WorldSBK calendar after three seasons and will complete this year’s calendar. The race will be held mid-season and will host the seventh round of the WorldSBK Championship in July.

All three classes will feature at the event, with home heroes wanting to leave their mark on the iconic circuit. Riders such as Andrea Locatelli, and Michael Ruben Rinaldi will want to put on a show in Infront of their home crowd.

The WorldSBK Championship last raced at Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari di Imola during the 2019 season. Jonathan Rea would win during the final WorldSBK weekend at Imola in 2019, with the last race being cancelled due to rain.

Imola first held a WorldSBK race in 2001, with many iconic battles taking place at the circuit over the years. From last-lap Championship deciders to unpredictable weather conditions, Imola has had it all.

The most famous battle at the Imola circuit came in 2002, when Colin Edwards and Troy Bayliss battled for the title, in the final round. The track produced spectacular racing, allowing Edwards to win the title for Castrol Honda.

Imola General Director, Pietro Benvenuti, said: “It is with great satisfaction that we announce this agreement with Dorna WSBK Organization, which brings Imola back to the prestigious WorldSBK calendar.

“We know that there are many fans who wouldn’t miss this event for anything as Imola always had strong ties with this Championship. Not to mention that a World Champion on a Ducati will take to the track, undoubtedly a great incentive for many of the “Rossa” to watch on from trackside. 

“Opting for the month of July is also strategic for the region as it will open business opportunities during a period when local accommodation options are not at full capacity, confirming the role of the circuit as a driving force of the local economy.

“It’s a great result made possible thanks to the full support of the Municipal Administration, which strongly wanted the return of Superbike to Imola.”

WorldSBK Executive Director, Gregorio Lavilla, added: “After three seasons away, we are thrilled to welcome back Imola to the calendar in 2023. This second round in Italy confirms the popularity of the Championship amongst the Italian fans as there is a lot of passion for our sport there with many Italian riders and teams in our paddock.

“Imola has an illustrious history within World Superbike, and we look forward to the 2023 Italian Round, which promises to be an exciting event for the fans.”

Watch the 2002 WorldSBK Championship decider

Image credit: Ducati Media