WSB: Argentina to host World Superbike from 2018

Argentina is set to host a round of the Superbike World Championship from 2018 with the brand new Villicum Circuit, in the province of San Juan, joining the calendar next season.

Already in development, the circuit is said to be 50-60% complete with the hope of gaining homologation from the FIM towards the end of this year. It’s been designed by local architect Leonardo Stella, with work beginning in October last year.

The move will see Argentina become the 26^th country to host a round of the Superbike World Championship as the series visits South America for the first time.

The circuit is set to he 4.2 kilometres long with 19 corners, 11 left and eight right. It’s located on Route 40, a 5000km road stretching along the Andes from the north to the south of Argentina.

San Juan is steeped in motorsport history, with the Dakar Rally having passed through the province in recent years as well as the existing El Zonda circuit hosting racing events across the year.

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Speaking of the agreement, Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta said: “Without doubt this is very good news. Knowing that Argentina will have a World Superbike Round is a solid step forward. The presence of the two of the most important world championships in motorbike racing in Argentina, reflects the passion of a country which has a vast and deep rooted history in motor sports. “

Orly Terranova, CEO of the OSD group added: “I am very pleased that the new Villicum Circuit – which has already received the first approval from the FIM – allows us to work with another world-class international event like WorldSBK. As well as this it provides us with a definite option of attracting other categories of motorsport. In addition we believe that this is the opportunity for Argentina to have one or more riders competing, as the category will be a great platform for Argentine and Latin American motorcycling. Undoubtedly, the new racetrack – located on the legendary Route 40 –  will generate a positive impact in the Cuyo region, increasing the levels of tourism the province of San Juan has to offer.”

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