WorldSBK to Leave Phillip Island for The Bend from 2028

End of an era as Australia’s WorldSBK round relocates to South Australia following MotoGP’s departure from Phillip Island.

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The Australian round of the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) will officially move to South Australia’s The Bend Motorsport Park from 2028, bringing an end to one of the longest-standing venue partnerships in production motorcycle racing.

The announcement was made today at The Bend Motorsport Park, confirming that the circuit will become the new home of WorldSBK in Australia beginning with the 2028 season.

The move follows the previously announced departure of MotoGP from Phillip Island, with the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix set to relocate to Adelaide from 2027.

Together, the decisions represent a major shift in Australia’s international motorcycle racing landscape. Within the span of just a year, Victoria has lost both MotoGP and WorldSBK, two events that have played a significant role in establishing Phillip Island as one of the world’s premier motorcycle racing venues.

For decades, Phillip Island has been regarded as one of the finest motorcycle circuits on the planet. Its fast-flowing layout, dramatic coastal setting and high-speed corners have made it a favourite among riders and fans alike.

Many of the world’s top riders have described the 4.445km circuit as one of the best motorcycle tracks ever built, with its unique combination of speed, elevation changes and challenging conditions creating countless memorable races over the years.

However, in today’s motorsport environment, a circuit’s reputation alone is often not enough. Factors such as infrastructure, accommodation capacity, corporate facilities, paddock requirements, transportation links, fan engagement opportunities and government support have become increasingly important when securing major international events.

South Australia has successfully capitalised on these factors in recent years, securing both MotoGP and now WorldSBK as part of its long-term motorsport strategy.

While the move marks a new chapter for The Bend Motorsport Park, it also closes a significant chapter in Australian motorcycle racing history.

WorldSBK’s connection with Australia stretches back to 1988 when the championship first visited Oran Park in New South Wales. During that inaugural event, future five-time 500cc World Champion Mick Doohan delighted local fans by taking pole position and winning both races.

Australia’s success continued in 1989 when Peter Goddard and Michael Dowson shared victories at Oran Park, showcasing the country’s strong production motorcycle racing scene. The championship would eventually find a long-term home at Phillip Island, where it became a traditional season-opening venue and one of the most iconic stops on the WorldSBK calendar.

Now, after decades of unforgettable battles on Victoria’s famous seaside circuit, the championship prepares for a new era at The Bend. With modern facilities, extensive infrastructure and strong government backing, The Bend Motorsport Park is set to become Australia’s new home for WorldSBK from 2028 onwards.

While the future looks bright for South Australia, many fans will undoubtedly view the departure from Phillip Island as the end of an era for international motorcycle racing in Australia.