Inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup cancelled this season

Michelle Liew

June 12, 2020

Further information on the 2021 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup will follow. Registration is expected to open shortly.

Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup is cancelled | Photo credits: Yamaha Racing

Yamaha Motor Europe has announced its cancellation of the maiden edition of the 2020 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup due to the outbreak of Covid-19. It, however, plans to go ahead with the series in 2021.

The highly anticipated Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup had plans to run eight rounds of the FIM Superbike World Championship in 2020. The team has collaborated with several big names. This includes Yamaha Motor Europe, FIM Europe and Dorna WSBK Organization (DWO) supported by JiR (Japan Italy Racing) for this year.

Due to travel restrictions and the Covid-19 safety protocols, there is a need to prolong the wait. It has impacted the coaching aspect for the young riders to step on the world stage. Despite this, Yamaha insists on running the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup at its best next season.

Andrea Dosoli: Road Racing Manager, Yamaha Motor Europe

Photo credits: WorldSBK

“It is with great regret that we have had to make the decision to cancel the inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup due to the coronavirus pandemic. Restrictions introduced to combat the coronavirus pandemic are being eased by countries at a different rate. It could result in some overseas competitors being unable to travel to races due to travel restrictions imposed by their own or other government bodies.”

“In addition, the necessary COVID-19 safety protocols would be difficult to implement for such a large group of riders. The requirement for social distancing would impact negatively on the coaching. This also includes the mentoring philosophy that it is such an important part of the series. It is for these reasons we made the decision to cancel the series this year. Instead, we would focus on preparing for 2021. We hope to enjoy a full season of racing then.”

Gregorio Lavilla: DWO Executive Director Sporting and Organisation depts

Photo credits: WorldSBK

“It is with deep regret that we have to announce the cancellation of the bLU cRU European Cup for 2020. This exciting new initiative to harness young talent and nurture them whilst on the world stage was a great opportunity to help young talent flourish. The large portion of overseas riders could face varying travel restrictions. Social distancing requirements would hinder their progress as young riders at a crucial part of their careers, what with mentors and coaching being such a huge part of the initiative. However, there are plans underway for 2021. It would add this spectacle to the WorldSBK schedule. It will bring great racing. The new season will also allow riders to learn their craft on some of the world’s most iconic race circuits.”