Abstract: A sliding bearing of the type comprising a backing layer; an intermediate layer provided with internal peripheral grooved portions crosswise the bearing length and longitudinally spaced from each other; optionally, a diffusion or bonding layer on the grooved portions; and a sliding layer of a material softer than the material of the intermediate layer and filling the grooved portions. According to the invention, the grooves of the grooved portions have a depth and longitudinal spacing with uniform or variable dimensions, wherein at least one of the characteristics of depth and spacing is mandatorily variable. This design allows a selective distribution of harder material and softer material on defined portions of the bearing as a function of specific operating requirements.