World Superbike’s new ‘super concessions’ system

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The FIM Superbike Commission has announced a new ‘super concessions’ system which will be tested out at the 2022 season, ahead of full implementation in 2023. This forms part of the several measures adopted with the objective of establishing fair competition among manufacturers, which has previously included adjustable rev limits and engine concessions. The older concessions system was applicable for the top 3 finishers per race, which has now been increased to the top 5. Whether a manufacturer can avail of the super concessions depends on the points which are to be calculated every three rounds and if applicable, can use suitable parts for its chassis, which were absent in the production model.

The new concessions are expected to benefit several companies including Honda, which has been struggling to retain its competitiveness and is currently the bottom ranked manufacturer. Its Fireblade needs a new chassis due to incompatibility with the WSBK’s Pirelli tyres, and the new rules will permit this change. Furthermore, Honda’s victory at the Suzuka 8 Hours, where Bridgestone tyres were used instead of Pirelli tyres, lends further credence to the view that the tyres are incompatible. Another modification implemented prior to the new concessions was the determination of testing restrictions based on concessions points.

Other changes adopted by the Commission include the use of E40 fuel, which is an environmentally friendly blended fuel with 40% sustainable fuel that has already been implemented in MotoGP. Furthermore, the prevalent world economy will decide the cost cap for the WSBK homologation, rather than the blanket limit of 40,000 euros. This may result in the cap being approximately 45,000 euros due to the introduction of the 2023 Ducati V4 R Panigale.