In a move that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport community, MotoGP has officially announced it will leave the iconic Phillip Island to host the Australian Grand Prix on a purpose-built street circuit in Adelaide starting in 2027.
The six-year agreement, signed on February 19, 2026, between the MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, the South Australian Government, and the City of Adelaide, will run through 2032. This marks a historic pivot for the premier motorcycle racing series, making Adelaide the host of the first-ever city-centre street circuit in MotoGP history.
The New Adelaide Street Circuit: Technical Specs
The proposed circuit is a revamped, modern interpretation of the legendary layout that hosted Formula 1 between 1985 and 1995.
- Length: Approximately 4.195 km.
- Corners: 18 turns, featuring a layout winding through the city streets.
- Top Speed: Engineering simulations forecast speeds exceeding 340 km/h (211 mph).
- Safety First: MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta emphasized that safety remains “uncompromised,” with the track engineered to meet the highest modern standards despite the urban setting.
Why the Move?
The relocation follows a breakdown in negotiations between MotoGP and the Victorian Government regarding the future of the event at Phillip Island.
- Melbourne Shift Denied: MotoGP reportedly requested a move to Melbourne’s Albert Park (the F1 home). The Victorian Government refused, citing a commitment to keep the race at Phillip Island to support the regional community.
- South Australia’s Opportunity: Seizing the chance, South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas secured the hosting rights, positioning the move as a major coup for the state’s event economy.
- Festival Atmosphere: The city-centre location is expected to create a “festival-style” urban Grand Prix, aiming to bring fans closer to the action and boost global viewership.
“Bringing MotoGP to Adelaide marks a major milestone in the evolution of our championship. This city has a world-class reputation for hosting major sporting events… creating a true celebration of our sport.” — Carlos Ezpeleta, MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer.
Farewell to Phillip Island
The 2026 Australian Grand Prix (scheduled for October 23–25, 2026) will serve as the “Last Dance” at Phillip Island. Since 1997, the scenic seaside track has been a favorite among riders. However, the news has drawn criticism from legends like Casey Stoner, who questioned the decision to abandon one of the world’s most entertaining circuits for a street race.
| Feature | Phillip Island (Final Race 2026) | Adelaide Street Circuit (Starts 2027) |
| Circuit Type | Permanent Waterfront Track | Urban Street Circuit |
| Atmosphere | Scenic, Fast, & Windswept | High-Energy, City-Center Festival |
| Inaugural Event | 1989 (Continuous since 1997) | November 2027 |
| Duration of Deal | Ends 2026 | Through 2032 |