WorldSBK confirm Phillip Island will host 2022 season finale

Initially an 11 round WorldSBK calendar due to uncertainties regarding Australia’s borders opening, Phillip Island has now been confirmed for November 18-20. 

It means a double-header will see out the 2022 season as Mandalika, last year’s title deciding round, keeps its same slot of November 11-13.

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The announcement comes one week ahead of the season-opener in Aragon, a round that will precede the final pre-season test at the same venue. 

Fastest during tests in Portimao, Aragon and Catalunya, Toprak Razgatlioglu will be hoping to get his title defence off to a similar start, in what could be his final season in WorldSBK as talk of a switch to MotoGP continues to linger.

Looking to stop the Turkish sensation will once again be six-time world champion Jonathan Rea, while Aruba.it Ducati in the hands of Alvaro Bautista is shaping up to be just as formidable a force. 

For Australia, it’s a welcome return to the championship after two seasons away due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. 

Traditionally the opening round of the year, riders and teams will now have an unfamiliar scenario of riding around the 4.4km (2.7 mile) circuit during autumn instead of winter, a significant change as grip is likely to be much different to what they’re used to.  

WorldSBK aren’t the only world championship heading down under in 2022, as MotoGP will also be competing at Phillip Island later in the year, while Formula 1 head back to Albert Park (Melbourne) in a week’s time. 

Official 2022 WorldSBK Calendar

Round 1 - MotorLand Aragon (Spain) April 8-10

Round 2 - Assen (Netherlands) April 22-24

Round 3 - Estoril (Portugal) May 20-22

Round 4 - Misano (Italy) June 10-12

Round 5 -  Donington Park (United Kingdom) July 15-17

Round 6 - Autodrom Most (Czech Republic) July 29-31

Round 7 - Magny-Cours (France) September 9-11

Round 8 - Catalunya (Spain) September 23-25 

Round 9 - Portimao (Portugal) October 7-9 

Round 10 - San Juan (Argentina) October 21-23

Round 11 - Mandalika (Indonesia) November 11-13

Round 12 - Phillip Island (Australia) November 18-20