The MotoGP Argentina Grand Prix 2026 will not take place, as organisers have confirmed the event’s removal from the calendar, with hopes to return in 2027. The decision comes as the Brazilian Grand Prix is set to make a comeback, replacing Argentina’s slot pending approval of the Ayrton Senna circuit in Goiania.
History and Challenges of the Argentina Grand Prix
The Argentina Grand Prix originally took place intermittently in Buenos Aires from 1961 to 1999 before returning in 2014 at the Termas de Rio Hondo circuit. Despite its popularity, the event encountered several setbacks including a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the 2022 race weekend was shortened because of freight complications, and in 2023 the event was completely cancelled due to government budget restrictions.
Although the agreement for hosting MotoGP in Argentina was scheduled to end in 2025, organisers engaged in discussions about continuing beyond that year. However, after extensive talks between the OSD Group, Dorna Sports, and local government officials from the Province of Santiago del Estero, a decision was made to withdraw the race from the 2026 calendar.
Official Statement from Organisers
The OSD Group issued a statement expressing regret over the decision:
“With deep regret, we are obliged to confirm that in 2026 MotoGP will not have its date in Argentina, more precisely at the Termas Circuit of Rio Hondo.”
They acknowledged the efforts made throughout recent months to explore alternatives but ultimately reached this conclusion.
The organisers thanked Dorna Sports for their cooperation and the Province of Santiago del Estero for their ongoing professionalism in supporting the event. Appreciation was also expressed toward the authorities managing the Termas de Rio Hondo Raceway for their dedicated efforts to maintain MotoGP’s presence in Argentina over the years.
The statement continued with gratitude to the fans who brought passion and energy, stating,
“Thanks to the national and international audience, who with their passion transformed each edition of the Argentine MotoGP in Termas de Rio Hondo into much more than a motorcycle race.”
Thanks to the brands that trusted the event as a tool of contact with this passion that is motorcycling. Hopefully we can come back in 2027.
—OSD Group, Race Organisers
Future Plans and Significance
With the Argentinian round removed for 2026, the Brazilian Grand Prix is poised to return to the calendar, subject to homologation of the Ayrton Senna circuit in Goiania. This marks a notable shift within South America’s MotoGP races, reflecting ongoing adjustments within the global schedule to accommodate venue readiness and local conditions.
Dorna Sports described their time at Termas de Rio Hondo as “an unforgettable chapter” for the championship, highlighting the importance of the venue in MotoGP history. The removal of the Argentina Grand Prix from 2026 signals a temporary pause for the event, with organisers hopeful for a comeback in 2027 that will restore Argentina’s role in the series.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is MotoGP not so popular?
A. Entertainment often attracts more viewers than sports, so MotoGP is trying to capitalize on this interest. However, the current MotoGP lacks personalities capable of generating engaging drama.
Q. Has anyone won F1 and MotoGP?
A. John Surtees is well-known for being the sole World Champion in both motorcycle racing and Formula 1. He displayed equal talent and courage in both sports.
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A. Once the transaction is finalized, Liberty Media’s Formula One Group includes its subsidiaries Formula 1, MotoGP, and Quint, along with some smaller investments.
