Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Valentino Rossi reacts as iconic Phillip Island removed from MotoGP calendar

07:30, 19 Feb

byAndrew McLarney

Following the news that MotoGP could be set to depart the legendary Philip Island circuit in Victoria, Australia, Valentino Rossi has given his thoughts on what he believes will be a 'a great shame' for the sport.

The iconic circuit, which is a favourite among both fans and riders alike for its high-speed layout, overtaking opporunities and stunning backdrop, is set to expire its licence to host the MotoGP Australian Grand Prix at the end of 2026.

Ideas were briefly flirted to host the track at Albert Park, where F1's Australian round currently takes place, but safety concerns make it an impossibility to host motorbike races.

It would be a great shame if they stopped with Phillip Island. It's a track you never forget.

- Valentino Rossi

Despite the best efforts of the Victoria state government, it seems that the race will be held in Adelaide from 2027 with The Bend Motorsport Park as the most likely candidate.

Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Seven-time winner of the Australian Grand Prix, Valentino Rossi, weighed in on the Philip Island fiasco in an interview at the Bathurst 12 Hours:

"It's a piece of MotoGP history. It would be a great shame if they stopped with Phillip Island. It's a track you never forget."

Rossi, who has competed in GT racing for several years since his retirement from MotoGP, finished third at the prestigious endurance race with BMW Team WRT alongside Augusto Farfas and Raffaele Marciello.

While it is certainly a great shame for a legendary circuit like Philip Island to be replaced on the calendar, Australian fans can take some comfort in the fact that their nation is still guarunteed to host MotoGP races in the future.