Superstock 1000 will only accept A-grade entries for the Phillip Island WSBK round.

Motorcycling Australia has announced that only Superstock 1000 A-grade riders will be eligible to contest the opening round of the Australian Superbike Championship at Phillip Island next month on 27-29 February.

Series promoter International Entertainment Group had previously announced that B-grade riders would be included in the Superbike class that the Superstock 1000 A riders are scheduled to compete within all season, but have now turned their back on the decision and keep the B-, C- and D-grade riders separate for the year at all rounds.

A statement released by MA this afternoon said the decision was made “after consultation between promoters Phillips Island Operations and International Entertainment Group, along with the MA Road Race Commission”.

MA’s announcement also stated that the “decision has been made in the best interests of the sport”.

The release then went on to confirm that Superstock 1000 riders in A- and B-grade, as well as selected C-grade, rider entries would be accepted as Superbike entries for the round.

Series director Yarrive Konsky was unavailable for comment as MotoOnline.com.au posted the news.