The iconThe biggest bombshell in Australian motorsport history has dropped. After three decades of high-octane drama at the iconic Phillip Island, Victoria has officially lost the AustralianGP.
In a bitter conclusion to months of tense negotiations, the Victorian Government confirmed that the 2026 race will be the final “hurrah” for the Island. The beneficiary? South Australia. A government source has confirmed the event is packing its bags and heading to Adelaide, leaving the Victorian major events calendar with a gaping, 300km/h hole.
Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos didn’t mince words on Wednesday, revealing the “deal-breaker” that ended Phillip Island’s 30-year run. Despite Victoria offering to smash their own budget records to keep the race, Dorna Sports (MotoGP SEG) delivered an ultimatum: Move the race to Melbourne’s Albert Park or we walk.
“We were never willing to sell out Phillip Island, or impose further on the Albert Park community. We wish MotoGP all the best with their second choice.” — Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Major Events
While Liberty Media (Dorna’s new owners) are obsessed with street circuits, the logistics of running bikes at Albert Park were a nightmare. To meet MotoGP safety standards, the track would have required:
- Massive Run-offs: Track expansion that would require significant tree felling.
- Resident Backlash: Millions in costs and years of legal battles with inner-city locals.
- F1 Conflict: Compromising the existing infrastructure for the Australian Formula 1 GP.
Ironically, the divorce comes as the event is peaking in popularity. Last year’s race saw 91,146 fans descend on the Island—the best attendance in 13 years and a massive 10,000 jump from 2024.
Dimopoulos expects the “Grand Send-off” this October to finally smash the elusive 100,000 mark as fans flock to pay their respects to the home of Mick Doohan and Casey Stoner’s greatest triumphs.
Credit Photo : MotoGP
