The MotoGP community responded with a mix of emotions following the announcement that Phillip Island will be removed from the calendar in 2027 and replaced by a new street circuit in Adelaide. Riders and teams spoke out ahead of this weekend’s final pre-season test in Thailand, with the news hitting a beloved and iconic track hard among many. The change forms part of MotoGP owner Liberty Media’s broader ambitions to expand the sport’s global audience, similar to Formula 1’s recent success.
Riders Express Deep Disappointment Over Losing Phillip Island
Several riders expressed heartfelt disappointment about the loss of Phillip Island, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful circuits in the world. Fabio Di Giannantonio openly described the news as “a punch on my heart,” emphasizing his belief that MotoGP deserves to race on such a historic track. Brad Binder described the circuit as simply “epic,” while former world champion Jorge Martin called it
“the best track on the calendar.”
Enea Bastianini also referred to the removal as “a brutal loss.”
Cautious Optimism About the New Adelaide Street Circuit
Despite their disappointment, riders largely chose to withhold harsh criticism and expressed a willingness to evaluate Adelaide’s new street circuit fairly. Raul Fernandez, the 2025 Australian GP winner, compared the transition to Formula 1’s evolution under Liberty Media. He said,
“I think MotoGP is in a really good way”
and supports changes designed to grow the sport’s audience. Fernandez stressed safety as the top priority, saying,
“The first thing that we have to see is the safety for us. If the track is safe, I don’t care about where we go. I mean, if it’s better for the sport, will be fine for us. I think it’s good because I am a MotoGP rider, but also I love this sport. If it’s good for the sport, I will be happy.”
Concerns About Safety and Racing Quality on Street Circuits
Johann Zarco, another recent first-time winner at Phillip Island, acknowledged the mixed reactions from the paddock, including those from six-time winner Casey Stoner. Zarco indicated that while a street race could be feasible for MotoGP, it may compromise the excitement and pace riders cherish. He explained that a “true” street circuit is unlikely due to safety demands requiring larger runoff areas, meaning corners would need to be slower. Zarco elaborated,
“And this for a rider is not what is the most fun. Because Hungary is like this, and it’s still Marc [Marquez] winning, that is not fun for the others!”
Riders Reject Boycott Rumors, Emphasize Adaptation
Despite speculation among fans about a potential boycott of racing on a street circuit, only one rider lightly entertained the idea in jest. Ai Ogura from Trackhouse Aprilia responded to questions by dismissing the overreactions within the paddock. He stated,
“No comments from me. I just feel like everybody’s been overreacting right now.”
Ogura added that if the organization decides to race in Adelaide, the riders must simply adapt:
“And if it’s too dangerous, I’m not going to race. If it’s OK to race, I will race. Still time. So, we’ll see.”
Implications for MotoGP’s Future and Fan Engagement
The removal of Phillip Island marks a significant shift for MotoGP, signaling Liberty Media’s intent to modernize and diversify race venues in pursuit of bigger audiences. While the paddock remains emotionally divided, the overriding priority for riders is safety and the long-term health of the sport. The move to Adelaide introduces fresh challenges but also opportunities to reinvent the raceweekend experience by bringing the sport closer to city centers. How the new street circuit will influence racing dynamics and fan enthusiasm remains to be seen, but the transition is a clear indication of MotoGP’s evolving landscape in the years ahead.
