The partnership between Skach Motors Kawasaki Racing and IDM Superbike rider Patrick “Pax” Hobelsberger, which was agreed upon in the fall, has come to a premature end. Following the first practice sessions, the two parties parted ways even before the official start of the season in Germany’s top motorcycle racing class.
“There’s been some tension within the team for several weeks now, and I’ve had many conversations with Patrick,” said team manager Oliver Skach. “It’s become clear to me that we can’t meet the extreme demands he’s placing on us. Pax is an outstanding and extremely ambitious race car driver. However, we are unable to manage his extraordinary demands and temperament. For this reason, we have decided to part ways now. This gives us both the opportunity to look for alternatives before the season starts in May.” The split was amicable. There will be no war of words.
Patrick Hobelsberger, a 28-year-old from Bavaria, joined Oliver Skach’s Superbike team after finishing fourth overall last year. It is the only Kawasaki team in the IDM Superbike series that receives official support from the importer. With MecTronik, the team has a high-end electronics manufacturer on board and will work directly with the company’s CEO and developer.
The Skach Motors Kawasaki Racing team from Dormagen, Westphalia, made a highly anticipated debut in the IDM Superbike series in 2024 and scored points with Croatian rider Martin Vugrinec. The 25-year-old Eastern European’s heart beats “green,” and his contract remains in effect. Development of the Kawasaki ZX-10RR is in full swing. “But by the time the season kicks off in Oschersleben, we’ll once again have a top rider on board who will take us to the top.”