Request to move Australian MotoGP to F1 venue rejected
A proposal from MotoGP Sports Entertainment to move the Australian MotoGP to Melbourne has been rejected by the Victorian government.
Following heavy speculation about the future of the Australian MotoGP, and whether it will remain at Phillip Island beyond this year, it now looks as though the iconic venue could be staying on the calendar.
Reports had surfaced towards the end of 2025 suggesting Dorna was keen on the idea of moving the Grand Prix from Phillip Island to Albert Park, which is the same venue that hosts the Australian Formula 1 race.
However, local authorities are doing their best to make sure Phillip Island remains on the calendar beyond 2026, which is currently the final year of its agreement with Dorna Sports - now officially named MotoGP Sports Entertainment SL.
In fact, a petition was started to try and make sure this would be the case. But fast forward to February 2026, and the Allan Labor government rejected MotoGP Sport Entrainment Group's approach to move the venue, while also confirming it will provide additional funding to update the circuit’s facilities.
However, said funding will only be provided if MotoGP commits to staying at Phillip Island.
A press release from the Victorian government reads:
“The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix is synonymous with Phillip Island, and Victoria is proud to support it. Today the Allan Labor Government ruled out a request from Dorna Sports to move the event from Phillip Island to Albert Park.
“As regional Australia’s biggest international sporting event, the Motorcycle GP brings tens of thousands of visitors to Phillip Island every year. It’s good for tourism, good for local businesses, and good for jobs. Victoria has agreed to contribute additional funding to help Dorna Sports create a bigger, better event beyond 2026 but only on the condition that the event remains at Phillip Island.
“Phillip Island is the home of MotoGP. It has held the event 29 times. It is an iconic circuit with a magnificent history.”
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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.
