2020 WorldSBK calendar update, Aragon double

Dorna has released an updated version of the 2020 World Superbike calendar, which now aims for a restart at Jerez on August 2 - directly after the MotoGP season openers at the Spanish venue - and features back-to-back rounds at Aragon.

Dates for a total of nine events (including the March season-opener in Australia) are listed, although the Argentine round scheduled for October is still 'To be confirmed'.

A one-month gap provisionally separates San Juan Villicum from the season finale at Misano on November 9. However, three rounds - Donington Park (originally planned for July 5), Assen (April 19, then August 23) and Losail (postponed from March 15) - are currently labelled as 'To Be Determined' and could thus fill the void, or prolong the season, if salvaged.

'The Championship’s return will initially be held without public and with a limited media presence, although the situation is subject to specific government mass gathering guidelines and will be updated in due course,' said a Dorna statement.

The Imola (May 10) and Oschersleben (August 2) rounds have already been officially cancelled.

New Kawasaki signing Alex Lowes currently leads the 2020 championship standings by 12-points over star rookie Scott Redding (Ducati), after the trio of Phillip Island races.

Kawasaki's defending world champion Jonathan Rea sits fourth (-19 points) after a DNF in race one.

Meanwhile, the remaining 2020 European rounds will feature an extra race for the WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 classes, on Saturdays after their respective Superpole sessions, with full Championship points awarded.
 
Gregorio Lavilla, Executive Director, WorldSBK Sporting and Organisation departments said: “Firstly, it is a great satisfaction that we can announce a safe return to racing for all three classes. The history of both WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 enriches the atmosphere of the WorldSBK paddock, often providing some of the closest racing all season, as well as allowing the stars of the future to flourish on the world stage.

"2020 has provided its obstacles but thanks to the hard work, tenacity and determination of all parties involved, we will return to the world’s circuits with all three classes. We now look forward hugely to the recommencement of racing at Jerez, whilst welcoming back all corners of the racing paddock.”