Last season ended abruptly and prematurely for the WSC Racing Team by Aprilia. But as announced, the team will return to the IDM Sportbike series in 2026. The contract with Micky Winkler has been signed.
As a reminder: Following the 2025 season opener, the team parted ways with its contracted rider, Felix Kauertz. After the summer break, the team returned with Micky Winkler on the Aprilia RS 660. The 24-year-old from Thuringia shone as a guest rider in his debut at Assen, securing a top-ten finish. He wanted to get even more familiar with the bike the following week on his home track in Schleiz. But during the German Twin Trophy held there, he crashed while leading the first race. The result: a complicated fracture of his left hand. That was the final nail in the coffin for the ambitious WSC Racing Team from Neuss.
Preparations for the comeback are now in full swing. This week, the framework agreement was signed between the team, rider Micky Winkler, and various sponsors. The 2026 IDM season, consisting of seven events in total, is now a done deal. According to the team headquarters, nearly all WSC partners remain on board. Winkler will do his part.
“I’m very pleased that Micky has already secured his share package and that we can approach the upcoming preseason tests with confidence,” explains team principal Roland Matthes. “Our staffing plans are also in place, and we’re continuing to seek out sponsors.” Matthes then adds, “We’d like to build a second car.”
