MotoGP, Sportrik Media - The FIM MotoGP World Championship has confirmed the Australian Grand Prix will relocate from Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit to a new street circuit in Adelaide from the 2027 season, ending a tenure that dates back to 1997 as the event’s permanent home.
Despite funding commitments from the Victorian government to upgrade circuit facilities in line with promoter requirements from Dorna Sports, the championship elected to sign a new agreement with South Australia. The move will introduce MotoGP’s first-ever street race format in Australia, marking a structural shift in the event’s presentation and commercial positioning.
MotoGP at Phillip Island has generated more than AUD 50 million annually for the regional economy, including nearly AUD 30 million in direct local spending and supporting close to 300 full-time jobs. Attendance figures exceeded 90,000 spectators at the most recent edition, the highest since 2012, underlining the event’s economic and tourism significance.
Local MP Jordan Crugnale described the decision as devastating for the region.
“Phillip Island is home to and synonymous with the MotoGP.”
“We are devastated the owners of the race wanted to move it from our stunning region and spectacular coastline to a street-based city race.”
MotoGP first visited Phillip Island in 1989 before becoming the permanent host of the Australian Grand Prix in 1997. The circuit could also face the loss of World Superbikes after 2027 when its contract expires, compounding regional economic concerns.
Adelaide’s tourism authorities welcomed the agreement, citing increased international exposure. However, sections of the local community have expressed disruption and environmental concerns. Christian Brothers College indicated potential operational impacts during circuit construction, while the Parklands Association warned that more than 100 trees could be affected as part of the development process.
Australian Grand Prix MotoGP Transition Overview
| Aspect | Phillip Island | Adelaide (From 2027) |
|---|---|---|
| Circuit Type | Permanent Circuit | Street Circuit |
| Hosting Status | Permanent host since 1997 | New contract from 2027 |
| Estimated Economic Impact | > AUD 50 million annually | City-based projection |
| Recent Attendance | > 90,000 spectators | To be determined |
| Key Issue | Regional economic loss | Urban disruption & environment |
The relocation represents a strategic recalibration of MotoGP’s Australian presence, balancing metropolitan expansion ambitions against the economic consequences for a long-standing regional host. The 2027 season will therefore mark a defining transition for the Australian Grand Prix within the global championship structure.
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