MALAYSIA TO HOST WORLD SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP

PUTRAJAYA, May 18 (Bernama) -- Malaysia, which has organised several
motorsports events, is to host the World Superbike Championship.

Youth and Sports Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek said Tuesday the sport
would spur government efforts to make Malaysia a hub for motorsports in the
region.

Earlier, he heard a briefing from a representative of the organiser, Itramas
FGT Sdn Bhd, and FGSport of Italy at his office, here.

Ahmad Shabery said he suggested that the sport be launched next year in
conjunction with the "Sports Industry Year" to be observed by the ministry.

Itramas corporate advisor Husin Mohd Anwar said the company had
obtained the rights from FGSport to organise the sport for the Southeast Asian
region.


FGSport director Pablo Clabetti noted that by organising the Superbike World
Championship in Malaysia, it would further enhance the championship among
Southeast Asian countries.

"Currently we have 13 rounds ... 10 in Europe and the other three in the
United States, Australia and South Africa. Definitely, we would like to add
another round to our racing calendar, especially in Asia, and we are looking at
having it at the Sepang Circuit.

"It will give a better opportunity to attract fans from the neighbouring
countries. At the moment, we have started the negotiation and we hope that we
can reach an agreement soon," said Clabetti.

The Superbike World Championship, also known as the SBK Superbike World
Championship, was founded in 1988.

The motorcycles of the championship are tuned versions of motorcycles
available for sale to the public, in contrast to the MotoGP where purpose-built
machines are used.

Currently, seven manufacturers take part in the championship, which is
regulated by the FIM, namely Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Honda, Aprillia, Ducati
and BMW.

-- BERNAMA



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