MotoGP blocked from Albert Park as Australian GP looks to new location

The move would have brought the Australian round of MotoGP into Formula 1 territory, staging it at the same venue that hosts the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. With F1 enjoying booming popularity and sell-out crowds in a location just minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, the appeal was obvious.

By contrast, MotoGP’s current home at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit sits roughly two hours from Melbourne. The coastal setting is spectacular, but the distance presents logistical challenges for teams and fans alike, with limited accommodation and transport options compared to the inner-city alternative.

Commercial rights holder Dorna Sports explored the possibility of relocating the race, eyeing the infrastructure and accessibility of Albert Park. However, the Victorian Government ruled out the switch, citing the event’s critical importance to the regional economy.

In a statement, the Allan Labor Government declared the Motorcycle Grand Prix “synonymous with Phillip Island” and confirmed additional funding would be provided beyond 2026 — but only if the race remains on the island.

As regional Australia’s largest international sporting event, the MotoGP round draws tens of thousands of visitors each year, delivering a major boost to tourism, local businesses and jobs.

“The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix is synonymous with Phillip Island and Victoria is proud to support it,” a statement from the Victorian State Government announced.

“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 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.”

Meanwhile, Albert Park’s F1 future is secure. The circuit holds a contract until 2037 and has staged 28 Grands Prix since taking over from Adelaide in 1996.

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