By 2026 will be the final year in which Superbikes, Superstock 1000 machines take to both the Netherlands, Belgium’s leading active road race venues, the Varsselring (Hengelo) and Circuit De Chimay.
Reasons cited by the Netherlands, Belgium motorcycle racing governing bodies FMB (Federation Motocycliste De Belgique), KNMV (Koninklijke Nederlandse Motorrijders Vereniging) for this decision are primarily financial, safety measures.
The FIM’s (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme) trimming of support for pure road races hasn’t helped either.
All this means the new for next year ESR (European Series Road Racing) will have to find alternative circuits to compete at in 2027.
Part of a statement, issued today by series organisers, stated:
“ESR invites riders and teams to join the 2026 grid and be part of a historic new chapter in Superbike road racing, celebrating the legacy of these iconic circuits with the ESR Championship.
Further details regarding the 2027 calendar will be announced in due course.”
Quotes via European Series Road Racing press release.
Photo credit: Thijs Van Der Horst
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou
