WorldSBK - Cremona

The Cremona Circuit hosts the Italian Round of the 2026 Motul FIM Superbike World Championship. This WorldSBK event brings together the premier SBK class, WorldSSP, and the new World Sportbike category to Lombardy, Italy. The FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship may also compete at this round. The Cremona race weekend showcases world-class motorcycle racing at a modern facility near San Martino del Lago, approximately 25 kilometers east of Cremona city.

Circuit Information

The Cremona Circuit, officially called Circuito di San Martino del Lago until 2015 and sometimes known as the Angelo Bergamonti circuit, opened on July 7, 2011. The track measures 3.768 kilometers with 13 turns. Italian circuit designer Jarno Zaffelli completed the latest design updates in 2021. The circuit evolved from its original 3.450-kilometer layout through multiple expansions to reach its current configuration.

The track features a long straight of nearly one kilometer, which tests aerodynamic performance and engine power. The layout combines fast sweeping corners with tight technical sections. Riders must manage traction and tire wear carefully throughout each session. The relatively flat terrain provides good spectator visibility across much of the circuit. Before joining the WorldSBK calendar in 2024, the facility received substantial upgrades including track resurfacing and new grandstands to meet international racing standards.

Technical Regulations for 2026

The 2026 WorldSBK season introduces several technical updates. The SBK Commission implements a fuel flow meter carry-over principle, which can result in penalties or concessions for manufacturers based on their performance. Each manufacturer or team may use a maximum of two FIM Category 1 certified fuels throughout the season.

Aerodynamics and Safety

Aerodynamic regulations now align with MotoGP standards. Wings and aerodynamic devices must show a maximum deflection of 10 millimeters under a vertical load of 50 Newtons. Teams focus on optimizing aerodynamic performance and electronic engine management systems. Enhanced safety standards include advanced emergency braking systems, improved racing suits with biometric sensors, and upgraded track barriers. Officials enforce stricter penalties for yellow flag violations to protect riders and marshals.

World Sportbike Class

The 2026 season debuts the World Sportbike class, which replaces WorldSSP300 as the entry category. The WorldSPB grid accommodates a maximum of 34 participants, including one wildcard. Riders must be at least 16 years old. New contracted riders face a maximum age limit of 25, while experienced riders from WorldSSP300 or WorldWCR can compete until age 28. The class uses a performance balancing system with engine concession parts, torque-limited maps with rev limits, and minimum weight requirements to ensure competitive racing among different manufacturers.

Competition and Riders

The Cremona WSBK round features top riders and factory teams from the championship. Athletes compete across multiple races during the weekend in the WorldSBK, WorldSSP, and WorldSPB categories. The current Superbike lap record stands at 1:27.980, set by Nicolò Bulega on a Ducati Panigale V4 R in 2025. The 2026 grid will include leading contenders fighting for championship positions and race victories.

Manufacturers and teams benefit from increased technical flexibility in 2026. They can modify engines, chassis, and electronics more freely, which allows for better motorcycle preparation throughout the season. This technical freedom creates closer competition as teams adapt their machines to the unique demands of each circuit.

Championship History at Cremona

The Cremona Circuit joined the WorldSBK calendar in 2024, becoming the seventh Italian circuit to host the championship and the 53rd track in WorldSBK history. The facility secured a five-year contract with WorldSBK, confirming its position on the calendar through 2026 and beyond. The circuit also hosts other major motorcycle events, including the Sidecar World Championship and the Alpe Adria International Motorcycle Championship in 2026.

Regional Context

The circuit sits in the Po Valley, a region with deep motorsport traditions. Cremona city is famous worldwide for its stringed instrument craftsmanship, particularly Stradivarius violins. UNESCO recognizes this craft as intangible cultural heritage. The track design offers varied challenges with its combination of flowing sections and hard braking zones, creating engaging racing for both competitors and spectators.

The 2026 Italian Round at Cremona promises close competition across all categories. The circuit layout rewards strong traction, effective tire management, and powerful acceleration. Fans can observe the action from multiple vantage points around the facility, which provides clear views of different sections of the track.