WorldSBK reveals 2027 calendar, China date confirmed

The production-based series will return to Asia for the first time since the 2023 Indonesian round, having previously raced in both Indonesia and Thailand.

China’s debut WorldSBK round is particularly intriguing given the growing investment from domestic manufacturers such as Kove, QJ Motor and ZXMoto, particularly in the Sportbike and Supersport categories.

With that presence continuing to grow, it could only be a matter of time before Chinese manufacturers set their sights on the Superbike class.

Shanghai has been selected to host the inaugural Chinese round, marking a return to a circuit with past history. The venue previously hosted MotoGP, and WorldSBK’s arrival is likely to add further speculation that the Shanghai circuit could eventually make its way back onto the MotoGP calendar as well.

"Bringing WorldSBK to China for the first time is an important milestone for the Championship," shared executive director Gregorio Lavilla.

"We have seen Chinese manufacturers make a growing impact across our paddock, and a round in Shanghai is a natural next step in developing that relationship.

"It is also an opportunity to bring WorldSBK closer to Chinese fans, giving them the chance to experience the racing and meet the riders and teams.

"We look forward to working with our local partners to make our first visit a memorable finale to the 2027 season."

Gu Jiqing, Vice President of Shanghai Jiushi (Group) Co., Ltd: "JES will integrate resources from its event operations, venue management and other business segments," added Gu Jiqing, the vice president of Shanghai Jiushi (Group).

"By introducing WorldSBK, we will further explore an integrated ‘event + industry’ model, using the international event platform to connect motorcycle brands, racing resources and consumption scenarios.

"This will provide a new platform for domestic motorcycle brands to participate in international competition, conduct brand displays and engage in industry exchanges, and will also create a new platform for showcasing Shanghai’s urban soft power."

The Chinese round can be seen as a replacement for Balaton Park.

The notable removal of Jerez is a major omission from the championship’s 2027 calendar. However, with renovation works scheduled at the circuit after MotoGP’s April visit, WorldSBK has confirmed a return to Valencia instead.

The Circuit Ricardo Tormo has plenty of history within the series, though, having previously hosted WorldSBK races between 2000 and 2010. Its return will see Valencia host the third round of the 2027 season, positioned between Portimao and Assen on the first weekend of April.

"Valencia holds an important place in WorldSBK's history, and we are delighted to bring the Championship back to the Circuit Ricardo Tormo," shared Lavila.

"Having all our classes together in Valencia will give fans a full and varied weekend of racing.

"We look forward to working with the circuit to make this return a memorable occasion for the fans who followed us here in the past and those joining us for the first time."

José Díez, Second Vice President of the Valencian Government and Regional Minister for the Presidency added: "In 2027, the Ricardo Tormo Circuit will host the two most important motorcycle racing world championships: MotoGP and WorldSBK.

"This development reinforces the Generalitat's commitment to sport, strengthens the region's international profile, and highlights the significant economic impact generated by major events such as these." 

Beyond those two major changes, the remaining 10 circuits on the 2027 calendar remain unchanged.

The season will begin with one final visit to Phillip Island in February, before the championship heads to Portimao, Valencia and Assen for the opening three rounds of the European campaign.

A month-long break then follows before Aragon, Most and Misano, with the three rounds separated by two-week gaps. There is then a three-week break ahead of the traditional July visit to Donington Park.

The usual two-month summer break follows Donington, before the championship returns for the final stretch of the season. Magny-Cours, Cremona and Estoril will form the closing European rounds, before the series heads to Shanghai for the 2027 finale.