Argomenti trattati
In a significant announcement, Pons Motorsport Italika Racing has confirmed the signing of Julian Alessandro Correa, a rising star from the United States, for the inaugural season of the FIM World Sportbike Championship. This championship is set to replace the World Supersport 300 class and will serve as a crucial entry point within the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship framework.
Correa’s entry marks a pivotal moment, making him only the second American rider to compete in WorldSBK-associated championships for the upcoming season, joining experienced veteran Garrett Gerloff.
Team owner’s confidence
Team owner Arnau Pons expressed his enthusiasm about Correa’s potential, stating, “Julian represents a thrilling prospect for our team. His combination of speed and commitment makes us confident that he will excel in this new phase of intermediate-capacity racing.” Pons Motorsport Italika Racing has a strong history of developing emerging riders and is dedicated to providing Correa with the tools necessary to compete at the highest level.
Correa’s perspective
For Correa, this opportunity represents the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. “Competing in the World Sportbike Championship with Pons Motorsport is a dream realized,” he said. “It’s an incredible chance to race against the world’s top young talents. Being one of just two Americans in the entire WorldSBK paddock fills me with pride, especially alongside a successful athlete like Garrett Gerloff. My utmost focus is on making a strong impression in my debut season and fully capitalizing on this opportunity.”
The new championship structure
The World Sportbike Championship will introduce a fleet of agile, mid-range motorcycles that serve as a refined stepping stone for riders aspiring to reach the World Supersport and World Superbike classes. This new category aims to provide a balanced and competitive environment for participants, featuring a diverse array of machinery.
The provisional entry list for this championship has been released, showcasing 33 competitors from 15 different nations, racing on six distinct motorcycle models. The lineup includes budget-friendly sportbikes such as the Kove 450RR and the Suzuki GSX-8R, promising an exciting range of competition.
Global participation
As excitement builds for the inaugural season, the inclusion of riders from various countries underscores the championship’s international appeal. This diversity not only enhances the competitive spirit but also fosters a rich environment for cultural exchange within the sport. Fans can expect thrilling races filled with dramatic battles as these talented athletes vie for victory.
With testing sessions approaching, Julian Correa will soon take to the track alongside the Pons Motorsport Italika Racing team to hone his skills and prepare for the challenges ahead. The anticipation surrounding this new championship is palpable, with all eyes on Correa as he embarks on this exciting journey.
About Pons Motorsport Italika Racing
Pons Motorsport Italika Racing is recognized as a premier team within the FIM World Superbike Championship paddock, known for its commitment to developing young talent in production-based racing. The team focuses on nurturing the next generation of riders and aims for excellence both on and off the track.
As the 2026 season approaches, the combination of Correa’s ambition and the team’s support sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling chapter in American motorcycle racing history.