As anticipated, the World Superbike regulation is set to undergo changes in 2023, but we'll see the first of these updates already this year. While the already announced raising of price caps for the road-going models permitted on the grid will come into effect next season, the other important aspect relating to super concessions will be introduced as of the upcoming Argentinian round.
This new points system relating to concessions means that if a manufacturer places one or more of its bikes within the top five (up until now it was only top three), it will score points, which will be examined every three rounds.
Starting with the frame
If, at the end of three rounds, the gap between the manufacturer with the most points and the manufacturer with the least is considered sufficient, then a performance calculator will be used to decide on the type of concessions to grant to the manufacturer with the least points. For 2022, the concessions will focus on the frame, allowing for a greater number of adjustments. Thoughts immediately turn to Honda, one of the manufacturers in most difficulty due to the excessively rigidity of the Fireblade’s frame.
As for 2023, the level for the selection of wildcards will be raised, with national federations having to guarantee and validate the level of each rider and team, to prevent the presence of anyone who is not up to world championship levels. Added to this - in 2024 – is the introduction of sustainable fuel, in line with the specifications also adopted in MotoGP.
Traslated by Heather Watson