The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship storms into Donington Park next weekend (27-29 May), for the circuit’s showpiece event of the year. It’s going to be a sensational weekend of action both on and off the track, and here are our top-ten reasons for coming along! 1. World class action at the home of British motorcycle racing!
The Superbike World Championship is renowned for close racing and tight battles, and Donington Park is one of the best tracks for it. With the world’s top superbike racers going wheel to wheel at up to 200mph, it’s clear to see why the weekend will be action packed. With seven classes competing over the three days, it’s an unmissable weekend of entertainment from one of the fastest forms of motorsport in the world.
2. The best motorsport viewing areas in Europe
Anyone who comes to Donington knows it’s hard to beat the views from our refreshed infield. Stood at the top of the natural banks, fans can see the 200mph bikes in action for more than half the lap distance! With plenty of other areas to view from, spectators are guaranteed to see some spectacular overtakes and plenty of racing action through more than just one corner.
3. Three action packed days
As any keen World Superbike fan will know, the series has altered its timetables this season meaning race one is now on Saturday, so fans are treated to two days full of on track action. Watch the riders battle it out for pole position in Superpole and then head straight for race one glory on Saturday, before gearing up for another exciting contest on Sunday. With racing on both Saturday and Sunday, and plenty of action on Friday too, it’s the perfect excuse to make a make a weekend of it!
4. Infield camping for the first time with added entertainment
For the first time at Donington fans can now get even closer to the action as camping heads to the infield. For just £25 per person (advance prices), fans can be among the first to pitch up on the infield, and with live music, exclusive rider Q&As, plenty of family entertainment and an on-site bar and food outlets the atmosphere will be unmissable. Campers must also hold an event admission ticket.
5. Open paddock and Paddock Show – free access to all
There’s also another treat for the fans as the World Superbike paddock will be open to all ticket holders for the first time, meaning spectators will be able to walk around the usually closed off paddock and get closer to the stars than ever before. The always entertaining Paddock Show will be open all weekend with star rider appearances, guest interviews, fantastic giveaways and much more, making the paddock a must see area!
6. British riders dominating the world
The Superbike World Championship has five British riders competing, and all are proven winners on competitive machinery. Jonathan Rea is the reigning champion and leads the way in the championship ahead of Chaz Davies and Tom Sykes, meaning the racing at the front will most likely be dominated by Brits, giving plenty for the home fans to cheer. Sykes has won the last six races at Donington Park over the last three years, and will be aiming to make that eight in a row! Leon Camier could be the underdog aboard the MV Augusta, keep your eyes on him among others.
7. Off track entertainment for all the family
With a packed schedule of on track action, and plenty to see off track too, it’s a weekend of fun for the whole family. On the infield there will be numerous trade stalls and entertainment acts to soak up, as well as in the Engine Room exhibition centre where you can escape from the beating sun (hopefully)! We will be providing lots of entertainment for children too, so take a look at the website and circuit map to keep up to date with all the latest goings on!
8. The King of the Jungle at Donington Park!
With an open paddock there will be more reason than ever to get excited about the special guests at Donington over the weekend. With King of the Jungle and World Superbike legend Carl Fogarty confirmed as a star guest and many more stars likely to be present during the weekend, it’ll be an autograph hunters paradise!
9. The only British round of World Superbikes!
This is the only chance to see World Superbikes in action in the UK this year, and at one of the best race tracks in the country. A favourite for many riders it’s your one chance to get close to the action without having to get your passport out!
10. Fantastic transport links – it’s easy to get to Donington
Donington Park is in the privileged position of being located close to major transport links, making it possibly the easiest circuit in the UK to visit. If you’re visiting from continental Europe or even further, flights operate regularly to East Midlands Airport, located just metres away from the circuit boundary. If you’re arriving by train, East Midlands Parkway is a short taxi ride away, and for those driving or riding to the event, the circuit is just off the junctions of M1 at 24 (from the North) and 23A (from South) and the intersection with the A42. Bike riders have special hard standing parking, with a dedicated circuit entrance. Camping is still available, so please check the website. However you’re coming – have a great weekend!
Tickets for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship at Donington Park are still available in advance from £10 with free admission for children aged 13 and under. For more information and to book tickets visit www.donington-park.co.uk. Advance tickets go off-sale at 5pm on Wedneday 25 May, after which, tickets can be purchased upon arrival at the gate.