The 2025 season of the International German Motorcycle Championship (IDM) is entering the home stretch. While the battle for points and titles is still raging on the track, many teams and riders in the Sportbike class are already looking ahead. Rarely has a new category offered so much excitement and thrilling motorsport right from the very first race. Interest is correspondinglyhigh—both in its further development within the IDM and with regard to the international stage. However, a crucial piece of the puzzle is missing for their planning: clarity regarding the technical and sporting conditions under which the 2026 Sportbike season will be held.
“At this time, there is no news regarding possible rule changes,” says Karsten Bartschat, technical advisor at Motor Presse Stuttgart. The reason for this is the IDM’s close ties to the World Championship: Starting in 2026, the World Championship will also introduce a sportbike category to replace the current Supersport. “This means we all need to be patient and wait to see what Dorna decides,” he continues. “As soon as we know the World Championship regulations, we will publish our regulations in a timely manner.”
For the teams, this means continued uncertainty when it comes to planning. One thing is clear, however: Uniform rules make it easier for national talents to break into the international scene—and strengthen the IDM’s role as a springboard for young riders.
“The IDM will, of course, inform teams, manufacturers, and partners immediately as soon as binding guidelines are available,” said Bartschat. The goal remains to provide all stakeholders with a fair and transparent framework for the 2026 season at an early stage.