WorldSBK confirms 12-round calendar, Donington Park still TBD

The 2020 WorldSBK Championship schedule has been released to confirm a return date of July 31st – 2nd August in a largely Spanish dominated 11-round blitz of events.

Dorna has revealed a total of 12 events for the revised schedule, including the already completed opener in Australia, which is only one shy of its original 13-event plan.

However, of these only rounds two to seven are confirmed to be going ahead, with a number of other venues and dates listed as ‘TBC’ as they await clearer guidance on entry restrictions. This includes Donington Park, which was due to go ahead in July before being postponed.

For now, Spain and Portugal form the basis of the opening rounds, with Jerez kicking things off on 2 August, before Portimao follows the very next weekend. 

A short break leads WorldSBK to Aragon for what will be a total of six races held there over back-t—back weekends, followed by the series’ first visit to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and then on to Magny-Cours in France.

Thereafter, Argentina is still listed as going ahead but remains unconfirmed, while Misano is also TBC despite getting a new November date.  Finally, the UK, Assen and Qatar could still take place this year but have no formal date.

For now, races will take place with no spectators, while WorldSBK will follow the same strict safety protocols in order to ensure the events can go ahead.

Meanwhile, the WorldSSP Championship will run two races over the weekend for the first time. 

”The new 2020 WorldSBK calendar is extremely positive news,” said Gregorio Lavilla. “We have a calendar; we have a Championship and we are going to have great racing return, and I can't thank all parties enough for the cooperation and coordination they've displayed. 

“To restart the season back in Spain is fitting, given the struggles that the country has faced during the pandemic. With Portimao following Jerez and then MotorLand Aragon closing the month, this can be a great return to normal for everyone.”