It's been something of a bad weekend for World Superbikes, with confirmation that
Ruben Xaus will be joining Neil Hodgson in leaving the series for
MotoGP – and that the Japanese factories will not be returning to field factory teams in 2004.
Japanese giants Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha and Suzuki - together with Ducati and Aprilia - are all members of the MSMA, which has been in direct opposition to WSBK promoters FGSport over the introduction of controversial new rules for the 2004 season, specifically the dropping of air restrictors as a means to balance performance between machines with different cylinder numbers - and the use of Pirelli only tyres.
Despite the opposition, some expected the MSMA members to back down – since they 'need' World Superbikes to showcase their machines – however, that hasn't happened and instead their stance has hardened and while Honda's new Fireblade will be raced in 2004, it won't be (officially) factory supported, being left in the hands of the Ten Kate team.
"In light of rumors and misinformation regarding who will be competing in World Championship Superbike racing, the MSMA would like to make a clear statement of its position," said a public letter from MSMA secretary Takanao Tsubouchi. "A set of very fair technical rules had been agreed by all MSMA members in order to prevent unnecessarily high market prices for the machines that the series is based on, but the rules have not been adopted.
"Consequently, the MSMA members have unanimously determined that unless these rules are adopted and the decision to restrict tyres to a single make is rescinded, MSMA members will not compete in 2004 World Championship Superbike racing as factory teams, and furthermore, will not provide technical assistance on a factory basis."
However, Ducati will still be allowed to enter their official Fila backed team – but only "due to its pre-existing contractual commitments to sponsors." Thus, the Bologna based company, together with Foggy Petronas – not a MSMS member – will once again be the only official teams in 2004.
