WorldSBK bosses have this morning announced more changes to the calendar due to the coronavirus outbreak with the biggest loser coming out as Imola which is cancelled for 2020.

A statement reads:

Due to the unfortunate forced stop in place due to the continual coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, further changes have been made to the 2020 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship calendar. With the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, The FIM, Governments, Circuit Officials & Dorna WSBK Organization informs that some rounds have been rescheduled and unfortunately, one has been cancelled.

The Aragon Round of the Championship, originally scheduled for the 22nd – 24th May at the MotorLand Aragon circuit, has been pushed back to the end of August, on the weekend of 28th – 30th. The Riviera di Rimini Round at the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli” has been rescheduled from 12th – 14th June to the 6-8th November.

However, it is with regret following a range of scenarios being discussed and reviewed and in agreement with Circuit Officials, that the Acerbis Italian Round at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari has been cancelled.

The President of Formula Imola, Uberto Selvatico Estense, said of his sadness of the cancellation: “There is profound bitterness for the painful decision, and I say this not only as President of the company that manages the circuit, but above all as a great motor enthusiast who waits for the Imola round every year with the enthusiasm of a boy.

"On the other hand, there is the awareness that the right choice has been made, to protect the health of the public and professionals as much as possible, a main aspect beyond any economic and/or sports topic.

“However, as an optimist, I quickly put aside the displeasure to give space to the idea of ​2021, that will make it up to us emotionally and objectively for the current sufferings and with Dorna, we are therefore already considering the planning of an Italian SBK Round in 2021 and I also hope for the following three years.

"The enthusiasm and desire to start again must never be lacking in these months, which will be fundamental for a rebirth, not only of Italy, but also of motorsport in our country. We are ready and determined to get back on track with greater strength and motivation, in order not to disperse a heritage of history and sporting enterprises of which the Autodromo di Imola has always been at the forefront of."