Fan-favourite circuit could leave MotoGP calendar after '26, F1 track mentioned as alternative

The Philip Island Grand Prix circuit is one of the staple events of the MotoGP calendar, equally adored by fans and riders alike for its flowing layout, dramatic corners and overtaking opportunities.

The circuit, which sits on the spectacular coast of Phillip Island in Victoria, Australia, has seen some important moments in MotoGP history, including the crowning of home-grown hero Casey Stoner as world champion in 2011.

Unfortunately, reports suggest that the circuit could be stripped from the MotoGP calendar when its current deal with the series expires at the end of 2026.

The decade-long renewal of Phillip Island as a MotoGP venue back in 2016 was intended to drive investment into the area, however now that the deal is coming to an end, it seems as though Dorna, the circuit management and local government are all dissatisfied with the result.

Though the track has been a mainstay of the MotoGP season for a long time now, it is struggling to compete with the Thailand and Indonesia Grand Prix venues, which regularly draw larger crowds and are often easier to access for Australian fans than Phillip Island is. 

The circuit is in need of rennovation and is largely considered to have outdated facilities, along with the fact that only a single bridge connects the island to mainland Australia, leading to traffic and logistical nightmares on race weekends.

According to Australian news site The Age, the Australian motorcycle Grand Prix was demanded to be moved to the Albert Park circuit by Dorna to sign a contract extension, which already hosts Formula 1 races.

However, the Albert Park track is currently not suited to motorcycle racing, with massive renovations needed in order to make it safety-compliant. With Liberty Media now owning majority shares in both Formula 1 and MotoGP, the transition away from Phillip Island is also being considered with attendances in mind.

In the meantime, the Bass Coast Shire council have recently launched a petition to push the Victorian state government to retain Phillip Island as a MotoGP circuit for future seasons. 

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