WorldSBK follows MotoGP in leaving Phillip Island

WorldSBK will move the Australian round away from Phillip Island from the start of the 2028 season.

19 Jun 2026

WorldSBK at Phillip Island. Credit: Gold and Goose.

WorldSBK has decided to follow MotoGP’s lead in leaving Phillip Island, with the series set to move to The Bend in 2028.

Earlier this year MotoGP confirmed it would be moving the Australian GP away from Phillip Island in favour of a street circuit in Adelaide. The six-year agreement will begin from 2027, one year before WorldSBK moves to The Bend, which is located in South Australia.

This will come as a major blow to the Phillip Island area, and its circuit, which was considered one of the most iconic venues across both championships.

Toprak Razgatlioglu riding a BMW M1000 RR at Phillip Island. Credit: Gold and Goose.

Dr Sam Shahin, Managing Director of the Shell V-Power Motorsport Park, said this about The Bend hosting WorldSBK:

"Securing WorldSBK is a significant achievement for The Bend and today's announcement marks a historic day for motorsport and for South Australia. From the outset, our vision has been to create a proud facility capable of attracting the world's leading motorsport categories and hosting the highest levels of international competition. A decade on, we celebrate a major milestone; WorldSBK is coming.
“This championship is set to bring the top motorcycle manufacturers, teams and riders to South Australia, creating a powerful platform that will showcase our venue, our passionate motorsport community and our state to a global audience. WorldSBK has an incredibly passionate global fanbase and we look forward to welcoming them to The Bend and delivering an event experience that reflects the significance of this championship and its place on the international calendar."

While the decision from MotoGP to leave Phillip Island was a surprising one, it’s no shock to see WorldSBK follow in its footsteps, since Liberty Media owns both championships.

Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director, added:

"Australia holds a special place in the history of WorldSBK and remains an important market for our championship, manufacturers, teams and fans. We are pleased to confirm The Bend as the future home of the Australian Round from 2028. The venue offers excellent facilities and a strong commitment to motorsport, providing a solid platform for the next chapter of WorldSBK in Australia. We look forward to working closely with the team at The Bend and all local stakeholders as preparations begin for the first event in 2028."