ASBK to race under lights in 2023

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) will break new ground this year with its first ever night race.

The night round will be held at Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP) on 24-25 March, with the 3.93km track formerly known as Eastern Creek to also host ASBK’s pre-season test.

The format will see practise and qualifying during the day, with racing at night for both days of the round.

“It’s a big year for ASBK returning to SMSP, not only for the first ever ASBK night race, but for the Official ASBK Test,” said Peter Doyle, Motorcycling Australia CEO. “It’s a testament to all involved to bring this to fruition and to Destination NSW for their vision and support.

“With the level of talent featuring in ASBK today we expect the riders to put on a hell of a show for Sydneysiders and visiting fans from across the country, we can’t wait to see the first ever ASBK race under lights.”

ASBK last raced at SMP in 2019, so its return after three years away is being welcomed by both the circuit owners and NSW State Government.

“We are thrilled to be able to host a round of the Australian Superbike Championships at Sydney Motorsport Park in 2023,” said Glenn Matthews, CEO, Australian Racing Drivers Club:

“Since their last visit in 2019, over $25M in venue enhancements have occurred and we can’t wait to see the riders battle it out at night under lights for the very first time.”

Ben Franklin, NSW Minister for Tourism, added: “The NSW Government’s strategic investment in the redevelopment of Sydney Motorsport Park, including the installation of permanent lights, has made it an enviable world-class venue for all disciplines of motorsport.

“It will be fantastic to have the debut Australian Superbike Championship under lights at Eastern Creek in March, bringing riders, teams, officials and fans from all over Australia to the venue.

“We are proud to partner with Motorcycling Australia on this event and showcase Sydney as the home of Australian motorsport, which is a key pillar in our ambition to make Sydney and NSW the major events capital and premier visitor economy of the Asia Pacific.”

The night event at SMP will be Round 2 of the seven-round 2023 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul, which will also visit Phillip Island, Queensland Raceway, Morgan Park, The Bend Motorsport Park and Hidden Valley Raceway this year.

For more details and series updates, go to: asbk.com.au