Argentina to host WorldSBK until 2023, 2021 round given go-ahead

After months of uncertainty regarding the Argentine event’s availability, WorldSBK officials have confirmed that the Circuito San Juan Villicum will host round 12 of the 2021 championship. 

Along with the confirmation of this year’s event, Argentina will also play host to a round on the championship until at least 2023.

After being cancelled in 2020, the October 15th,16th and 17th scheduled event was once again under threat due to the country’s ongoing Covid-19 situation, however, specific protocols have been set to ensure it’s go-ahead.

An official statement from WorldSBK officials said: "Dorna WSBK Organization (DWO), Grupo OSD and the San Juan government are pleased to announce that an agreement has been reached to ensure that the Circuito San Juan Villicum in Argentina will be featured on the MOTUL FIM World Superbike Championship calendar for the next two years. 

"The new agreement not only means the WorldSBK and WorldSSP classes will return to San Juan in 2022 and 2023, but also confirms the Argentinean Round will go ahead for the current 2021 season too."

The 4.254km - 2.6mile Circuito San Juan Villicum made it’s debut on the calendar in 2019 with Alvaro Bautista and Jonathan Rea taking one and two victories respectively. 

Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director also said: "We're pleased to be able to return and race in the San Juan province. 

"There's a great passion for racing and motorcycling in the area and after postponing last year's event, we wanted to secure WorldSBK presence in the region for years to come. 

"For the championship, our teams, our riders and also for our partners, the Argentinean round is a unique opportunity we want to consolidate, as having a round in South America is key for WorldSBK's growth."