The QBE Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) will return to New South Wales and the recently refurbished Sydney Motorsport Park from 2013 in an exciting move for the sport’s competitors and fans. Extensive re-developments since the last ASBK event in 2009 have transformed Sydney’s only permanent race facility into a world-class venue with a host of upgrades to pit facilities, grandstands, and spectator areas. The circuit is a favourite for many riders and has been the site of Championship-defining battles for over two decades. Its mix of challenging corners and high-speed sections have allowed some of the most famous names in Australian road racing to hone their skills. Australian Racing Drivers’ Club (ARDC) CEO Glenn Matthews said that the return of the Australian Superbike Championship was great for the sport, and for the facility. “We’re very pleased to be able to welcome the Australian Superbike Championship back to Sydney Motorsport Park in 2013,” said Matthews. “It will be fantastic to see Australian Championship motorcycle racing back at this facility, which has been very much improved since ASBK raced here in 2009. “The many changes that have happened here have been in operational and physical forms, and the ASBK return demonstrates these changes in full effect. “We can’t wait to have a full field of Superbikes racing here, and we’re sure that it will get great support from Sydney-based racing fans.” International Entertainment Group Managing Director Yarrive Konsky was exceptionally pleased to announce the Championship’s return to New South Wales and the new Sydney Motorsport Park. “The Australian Superbike Championship has been a platform for many World Champions and as the economy has tightened, less international opportunities have presented themselves, hence the phenomenal level of racers currently remaining in Australia to compete,” said Konsky. “To enable these riders to once again be able to showcase their talents to people of Sydney is great and I appreciate the opportunity to bring the Championship back to the famous Sydney Motorsport Park, formerly Eastern Creek Raceway. “I recently returned to the venue and its upgrades presented a professional and inviting feel for fans of motorsport – I am looking forward to bringing the colour and life of Australian Superbike racing back to New South Wales. “The return coupled with many new changes will aid in propelling the 2013 Championship forward as we continue to drive the spirit of motorcycle racing.” Motorcycling Australia CEO David White said the Championship’s return to Sydney was a significant step forward for motorcycle sport. “Motorcycling Australia is delighted that the Australian Superbike Championship will return to the Sydney Motorsport Park from next year, completing the geographical jigsaw and opening up new opportunities,” said White. “The return is fantastic news for NSW-based teams and competitors, who will enjoy competing in front of their home crowd for the first time since 2009. “Having recently undergone major changes, the new-look Sydney Motorsport Park is an excellent choice for the Championship and will provide a great weekend out for riders and spectators alike. “Our thanks go to the Australian Racing Drivers Club, in particular their CEO Glenn Mathews for facilitating the use of this exciting venue.” QBE Insurance Motorcycle Marketing Partner, Jacinta Siracusa welcomed the news on behalf of the Australian Superbike Championship’s naming rights sponsor. “The return to NSW is wonderful news for the QBE Australian Superbike Championship,” said Siracusa. “This has been long-awaited by all in the Australian motorcycling community – those directly involved in racing and spectators alike. “We are excited that the Championship has returned to Australia’s largest city and Sydney-siders will now be privy to the spectacular that is Australian road racing at its finest in their own backyard.” The last race at Sydney Motorsport Park (then Eastern Creek Raceway) was held in August 2009 and was won by eventual champion and standout rookie, Suzuki’s Josh Waters. Wayne Maxwell finished in second place, a co-incidental result that reflects the current title race which will conclude at Queensland Raceway next weekend.