The ARTRP-promoted FX-Superbike series will remain separate to the ASBK in 2014 and beyond. Image: Keith Muir.

The Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) and Australian FX-Superbike Championship (AFX-SBK) will remain separate for next season and into the future, according to an announcement made by AFX-SBK promoter Australian Road & Track Rider Promotions (ARTRP).

Click here to read CycleOnline.com.au’s story on a potential unified series published last week.

Motorcycling Australia is the governing body of the ASBK series currently promoted by International Entertainment Group (IEG), while ARTRP promotes the AFX-SBK series under Australian Auto Sport Alliance (AASA) sanctioning.

Following MA’s board meeting held in Melbourne yesterday, ARTRP has confirmed that it has been notified by MA that a merger will not take place in 2014 and that the details of next year’s AFX-SBK series will be released in September.

“Australian Road & Track Rider Promotions (ARTRP) is disappointed to announce that Motorcycle Australia have informed us that they wish to end negotiations for a merged Australian Superbike Championship for 2014 and beyond,” the statement read.

“In a statement to ARTRP Motorcycling Australia thanked us for exploring the opportunity but the board of Motorcycling Australia whilst seeing merit in a merged series did not believe it was in their best interest to proceed.

“The decision allows ARTRP to move forward with preparations for the 2014 AFX-SBK series with a number of sponsors already committing to 2014.

“The 2014 Australian FX-Superbike Championship series will be launched next month and ARTRP is committed to once again providing an ‘affordable national championship series’ with unprecedented television coverage in domestic motorcycle racing.”

MA CEO David White opted not to comment on the matter when contacted by CycleOnline.com.au this afternoon, however correspondence – and confirmation from MA’s side – is expected within the next 24 hours.

IEG managing director Yarrive Konsky was also unavailable for comment as CycleOnline.com.au published this news story.