The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) is pleased to announce that FGSPORT Group, FIM’s partner since 1989, has become part of one of the world’s leading sports marketing companies, Infront Sports & Media AG. The Infront Group made a considerable investment in the FGSPORT Group, promoter of the FIM Superbike World Championship (SBK). The management of the Rome-based company under the direction of Maurizio and Paolo Alberto Flammini will remain in place. The agreement brings together the proven management and expertise of the FGSPORT team, which has developed Superbike into one of the motor racing’s premier events, with Infront’s global sales network in both media and sponsorship. “The FIM Superbike series is already one of the sports fastest growing and most promising properties and we are confident that Infront’s strong market position and experienced network will help FGSSPORT raise the bar even higher in terms of growth for the series,” FIM President Vito Ippolito commented. Guy Maitre, FIM CEO, added further “We believe that the resources and marketing capabilities of Infront will help foster the popularity of the FIM Superbike Championship around the world, including many new developing markets where Infront has a substantial presence.” FIM Superbike World Championship is the only Road Racing World Championship using production motorcycles. The 2007 FIM Superbike World Championship is the 20th racing season in the history of the event consisting of 13 races staged in ten countries. 130 permanent riders from 19 countries compete in the three classes of the Championship (Superbike Supersport Superstock). The series is highly popular with fans, manufacturers, broadcasters and commercial partners. Maurizio Flammini, President of the FGSPORT Group, declared that “this agreement with Infront allows FGSPORT to accelerate its international development, while still maintaining its own business characteristics which have proved so successful in the development of the FIM Superbike World Championship.” Paolo Alberto Flammini, FGSPORT Group CEO, commented further: “FGSPORT’s agreement with Infront is very positive and comes at the right moment for the FIM Superbike World Championship. I am sure that the synergy that we will generate between FGSPORT and Infront will be of great benefit for our series.” The investment in the FGSPORT Group provides Infront with a major, long-term property in motor sports. This forms an important part of Infront’s strategy to strengthen its summer sports portfolio. Summer Sports is one of four primary business divisions for Infront; the other three being Winter Sports, Asia and Sport Services. Philippe Blatter, President & CEO of Infront, said: “The FIM Superbike Championship is an exciting property and FGSPORT has done a tremendous job making the series a success on the track and off. We believe in their business plan for the future and are very much looking forward to bring the championship to the next level of success by utilising Infront’s extensive network and innovative strength.”