IXXRA......The Home Of The Superblackbird

We are running this press release unedited because we don't really know what to think about anything anymore. Except that the decision to sell the series to Pirelli was obviously wrong. Why? Because there will be no wild card riders in any round of the 2004 championship. So, here it is:

"The MSMA and each of the individual manufacturers who are members of the MSMA would like to thank the media for all the work they put into covering motorcycle racing and for encouraging so many people to take an interest in, and give their backing to, the sport.

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. 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have unanimously determined that unless these rules are adopted and the decision to restrict tires to a single make is rescinded, MSMA members will not compete in 2004 World Championship Superbike racing as factory teams, and furthermore, will not provide technical assistance on a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. Ducati is exempted due to its pre-existing contractual commitments to sponsors.
The MSMA is deeply saddened at having to make this announcement, but has been forced into the decision.
As motorcycle manufacturers, we have to take a resolute stand against technical rules that are likely to be detrimental to the interests of ordinary motorbike customers, and also against the idea of restricting tires to a single make so that a tire maker can become World Champion just by buying the title. We sincerely hope that all devotees of the Championship will appreciate why we have to take this approach. Finally we would like to thank fans, the public and the media for all their support and understanding at this difficult time for motorcycle sports.

We would like to ask you for your understanding and hope that you will continue to be able to give your support to the continuing support to the growth of motor cycling and motorcycle racing. Yours sincerely,

Takanao Tsubouchi
Secretary General

That's it then, be even worse than last year