2027 MotoGP season launch to take place on a beach in Brazil
MotoGP’s annual season launch is heading to Brazil for the first time, replacing Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.
The 2027 MotoGP season launch will take place at a third different location in as many years, following its debut in 2025.
In what will also mark the start of the new 850cc MotoGP era, the season launch is heading to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This will be the first time that the season launch has taken place in South America, after Bangkok (Thailand) and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) hosted the previous two editions.
The season launch will take place on Botafogo Beach, which is located just underneath Sugarloaf Mountain.
In previous years, MotoGP has elected to place the season launch at a venue that’s not been considered a logistical problem with regard to pre-season testing. However, next season’s venue has been confirmed prior to the 2027 MotoGP calendar and test schedule being confirmed.
Both the Sepang and Buriram circuits in Malaysia and Thailand, respectively, have been traditional pre-season test venues in recent years, so it’s unclear if this means MotoGP will keep things as they are, or if the Goiânia circuit in Brazil will be considered a test venue for 2027.
By changing the location of the season launch every year, MotoGP is attempting to gain more international exposure and create a far-reaching impact for both the series, and the hosting nation. For example, the 2026 MotoGP season launch in Kuala Lumpur generated more than $7 million (around £5.2 million) in local economic value.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP Group, said this about the new season launch destination:
"The MotoGP Season Launch has become one of the defining moments of the year for our championship, bringing together every team, rider and manufacturer as we begin a new season.
"The enthusiasm shown by Brazilian fans during our sold-out return to Goiânia in 2026 confirmed the extraordinary connection between MotoGP and Brazil. Following the success of our recent Season Launch events in Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, Rio de Janeiro provides the perfect stage to continue raising the bar, combining iconic locations, passionate fans and world-class entertainment. We look forward to delivering our biggest and most spectacular MotoGP Season Launch yet."
The 2027 season launch will take place on February 21.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
