World Superbike Championship racing could return to American soil for the first time since 2019, with Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama emerging as a leading candidate. According to reports, the facility is actively pursuing a five-year contract to host the international motorcycle racing series, with competition potentially beginning in 2027.
If approved, the proposed event would take place in early October as part of Barber’s annual Vintage Festival, carefully positioned to avoid conflicts with MotoAmerica’s typical May visit to the same venue. The last WSBK race held in the United States occurred at Laguna Seca in California during 2019. Since then, the championship has remained predominantly European, with only occasional stops in Australia, Argentina, and Indonesia, a stark contrast to MotoGP’s truly global schedule.
Financial obstacles present the primary challenge to bringing WSBK back stateside. Current broadcast and sponsorship agreements fund twelve events annually, leaving no additional budget for a thirteenth round. New international races must generate their own revenue, a difficult proposition given higher overseas travel expenses. The opportunity may arise if existing European venues fail to renew contracts. Both Hungary’s Balaton Park Circuit and Spain’s Jerez track face uncertain futures, potentially freeing two calendar slots.
Liberty Media’s ownership of WSBK adds another incentive for an American return, as establishing a U.S. presence could help revitalize fan interest in the company’s home market. However, securing the necessary financial backing and schedule adjustments remains essential before any official confirmation occurs.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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