The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) has confirmed fuel flow adjustments for both Ducati and BMW ahead of the next round of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship, following the latest Concession Checkpoint evaluation. These adjustments come in accordance with key regulatory thresholds designed to ensure competitive balance across the grid.
BMW Hits Performance Threshold, Triggers Step 1 Fuel Flow Reduction
As detailed in Article 2.4.3.2 of the FIM Superbike World Championship Regulations, which outlines Overperformance Penalisation, BMW has surpassed the performance threshold of -0.250. While their figures remain above the stricter -0.500 cut-off, the results place BMW squarely within the bracket that mandates a Step 1 Fuel Flow reduction.
This means that, in accordance with the rules, BMW’s motorcycles will have their maximum fuel flow reduced by 0.5 kg/h for the upcoming event. The performance metrics used to determine this threshold are based on a range of competitive indicators monitored consistently across the season.
Ducati Surpasses Concession Points Limit, Also Receives Step 1 Reduction
Meanwhile, Ducati has also been penalized under a different regulation—Article 2.4.3 (h) concerning Concessions and Super Concessions. The Italian manufacturer has now accumulated more than twelve Concession points over the next highest manufacturer at the most recent checkpoint. This exceeds the allowable margin and activates another regulatory trigger.
As a result, Ducati will also be subjected to a Step 1 Fuel Flow reduction, as outlined in Article 2.4.2.2 of the SBK Regulations. Like BMW, this equates to a reduction of 0.5 kg/h in maximum fuel flow for upcoming races.
Cumulative Penalties Take Effect
Crucially, both Ducati and BMW were already under existing fuel flow restrictions following previous regulatory checks. With this latest development, the two manufacturers now face cumulative penalties.
Each will operate under a total fuel flow reduction of 1.0 kg/h, doubling the restriction initially applied. This progressive approach to performance balancing is part of the FIM’s commitment to maintaining a level playing field while still rewarding engineering excellence and competitive achievement.
Ensuring Fair Competition Across the Grid
The FIM has reiterated its intention to continue closely monitoring manufacturer performance through each Concession Checkpoint. These periodic reviews serve to evaluate manufacturer competitiveness using detailed performance data, and help enforce rules designed to prevent any single manufacturer from gaining a sustained technical advantage.
This regulatory framework is not about punishing success—it’s about preserving the quality of racing and ensuring that fans enjoy a balanced, thrilling championship where talent, strategy, and machine development all play critical roles.
Regulation References at a Glance
- Article 2.4.3.2 – Overperformance Penalisation:
Manufacturers exceeding the performance threshold of -0.250 up to -0.499 must adopt a Step 1 Fuel Flow reduction. - Article 2.4.3 (h) – Concessions and Super Concessions:
A manufacturer earning more than 12 Concession points over the next-highest competitor activates further technical limitations. - Article 2.4.2.2 – Fuel Flow Management:
Step 1 Fuel Flow Reduction corresponds to a decrease of 0.5 kg/h in maximum fuel flow.
As the 2025 season continues to unfold, the implications of these adjustments will be watched closely—not just by engineers and team strategists, but by fans eager to see how performance balancing shapes the outcomes on track. The battle for supremacy in WorldSBK remains fierce, with every technical decision playing a pivotal role in the championship narrative.
Official WorldSBK Press Release
