SUPERBIKE CONFIRMED UNTIL 2014 IN PHILLIP ISLAND Today’s media conference took place in Melbourne at the Eureka Skydeck in the presence of the Victorian Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Tim Holding, Infront Motor Sport’s CEO Paolo Flammini, Phillip Island circuit’s Managing Director Fergus Cameron and six top Superbike riders. Tim Holding announced the extension of the contract for the Australian round of the Superbike World Championship, with the series set to stage spectacular racing at Phillip Island until at least 2014. The agreement also sees Phillip Island as the official pre-season test venue for the next two years. Tim Holding said: “This is great news for Victoria, given the increased worldwide media interest afforded to the hosts of the first round. Hosting the official testing will see all teams arrive at Phillip Island a week early providing a further boost to the local economy. The Superbike World Championship delivers around AU$15 million in economic benefits to the Victorian economy, attracts almost 10,000 interstate and overseas visitors, and provides Victorians with an opportunity to see world class motorsport in their own backyard.” Paolo Flammini added: “It gives me and everyone at Infront Motor Sports great pleasure to confirm that, with the support of the Government of Victoria, the contract with the Phillip Island circuit has been extended until 2014, with an option for further extensions. I would also like to thank the circuit organizers and everyone who contributes to this great show for their partnership and boundless enthusiasm. The FIM Superbike World Championship is growing in importance every year, with the participation of no less than seven manufacturers, and the Phillip Island round is definitely one of the most popular on the calendar, a real favorite for the spectators, teams and riders. Although Australia is a long way from the main part of our season in Europe, I can assure everyone that this round is absolutely at the centre of our thoughts and plans for each and every season.” After the announcement, Australians Troy Corser (BMW) and Chris Vermeulen (Kawasaki), Britain’s James Toseland (Yamaha), Jonathan Rea (Honda) and Leon Haslam (Suzuki) and Noriyuki Haga (Ducati) from Japan talked about their recent tests at the fabulous circuit and how they felt they would get on when the season kicks off here this weekend. This is the most eagerly awaited season in World Superbike for many years, and once again Phillip Island is the perfect springboard for a magnificent year of racing in this Championship.