MotoGP’s future at Phillip Island is under scrutiny, with the current contract set to expire in 2026. Despite nearly three decades of hosting the prestigious race, neither the state government nor the Australian Grand Prix Corporation has provided clarity on the event’s continuation beyond this date.
Since its inaugural race in 1989, and with the exception of 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event has been a staple on the MotoGP calendar. An economic report in 2023 highlighted the race’s significance, estimating a $54.6 million economic benefit for the state, with $29.4 million stemming from direct local spending within Bass Coast.
Concerns Over Aging Facilities
Earlier this year, concerns emerged regarding the future of MotoGP at Phillip Island, largely due to its aging facilities. A petition titled ‘Save our MotoGP’ has since gathered over 800 signatures, urging the Victorian Government to invest in essential infrastructure upgrades to secure the event’s long-term future in Victoria.
Bass Coast Shire Mayor Rochelle Halstead has been vocal about the issue, writing to Jacinta Allan, the Premier of Victoria, for clarity. “There’s possibilities of it going anywhere – it could go interstate or international, but it is absolutely critical for our region to hold onto this race,” Halstead told ABC Melbourne.
“Not only because of the economic benefit it brings to our local businesses and the atmosphere that it brings is really what is amazing for our community.”
Potential Relocation and Competition
The Bend Motorsport Park in South Australia has expressed interest in hosting the MotoGP, potentially drawing the event away from Victoria for the first time. Additionally, a proposed 150-hectare site near Avalon Airport has been suggested as a future host, given its proximity to Melbourne, although progress on this project, initially slated for a 2026 completion, has stalled.
Phillip Island remains a favorite among MotoGP riders, despite its two-hour drive from Melbourne and the occasional presence of trackside wildlife. Halstead emphasized the need for state involvement in discussions with Dorna Sports and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation. “We really need them to move on this. It’s such a critical part of our economy,” she added.
Historical Context and Economic Impact
Since the last decade-long contract was signed between MotoGP and the Victorian Government, the championship has come under the ownership of Liberty Media. Dorna Sports, which promotes MotoGP, reported that this year’s event attracted over 90,000 spectators, underscoring its popularity.
The Phillip Island circuit is owned by the Fox family of Linfox fame, who also own and operate Avalon Airport. The circuit’s history and its economic contributions to the region are significant, yet the looming uncertainty raises questions about its future role in the MotoGP calendar.
“Our community really supports this race, it gets behind it every time it’s here, and the whole atmosphere of Bass Coast and Phillip Island changes.”
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 deadline approaches, stakeholders are keenly watching for developments. The Victorian Government’s response and potential investments in infrastructure will be critical in determining whether Phillip Island retains its place in the MotoGP lineup. Meanwhile, the competition from other potential hosts highlights the event’s value and the strategic decisions facing organizers.
With the economic and cultural significance of the race at stake, the coming years will be pivotal for Phillip Island. The outcome will not only affect the local economy but also the global MotoGP community, which has long cherished the unique challenges and charm of the Phillip Island circuit.
