MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Francesco Bagnaia of the Ducati Lenovo Team has expressed conditional support for MotoGP’s plan to introduce a street race in Adelaide from 2027, stressing that safety and circuit quality must remain the top priorities.
MotoGP’s decision to move the Australian Grand Prix away from the iconic Phillip Island Circuit to a temporary street circuit in Adelaide has generated significant reaction, including concern from the local community due to the economic and cultural impact. The proposed layout is based on a modified version of the track previously used by Formula 1 during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Organisers, through MotoGP Sports Entertainment, have stated that the circuit will comply with modern safety standards, including updated run-off areas and rider protection systems. However, the transition from a permanent circuit to a street layout introduces variables related to grip evolution, surface consistency, and safety margins.
Bagnaia indicated that he is open to the concept, provided that the execution meets the required standards and avoids compromising racing quality.
“If it’s a safe track and we can race in a fun setting without having to do it in a parking lot, then I’m happy,” Bagnaia said, as quoted by GPOne.
He added that the preliminary layout of the Adelaide circuit appears promising compared to some recent additions to the calendar.
“I’ve seen the layout of Adelaide, it doesn’t look bad. It’s definitely better than Balaton Park, which is essentially like a parking lot,” he noted.
Despite his openness to change, Bagnaia acknowledged the emotional significance of Phillip Island, widely regarded as one of the most iconic and technically demanding circuits in MotoGP due to its high-speed flowing nature.
“It will be something different and interesting. Obviously, losing a circuit like Phillip Island is tough emotionally because it was really great to race there,” he explained.
In the same interview, Bagnaia also praised Formula 1’s newest race winner Kimi Antonelli, who secured his maiden victory with Mercedes at the Chinese Grand Prix.
Bagnaia highlighted Antonelli’s rapid rise at just 19 years of age, noting his previous connections to the Valentino Rossi academy environment.
“He’s incredible. It’s hard to believe he’s only 19 and already among the top names,” Bagnaia said.
“With Mercedes, he’s in the best possible position. He had an amazing weekend.”
From a competitive standpoint, Bagnaia now turns his attention to the Brazilian Grand Prix following a challenging start to the 2026 season in Thailand. While Ducati remains one of the strongest packages on the grid, consistency will be critical as the championship begins to take shape.
The introduction of new venues such as Adelaide reflects MotoGP’s broader global expansion strategy. However, it also brings technical and operational challenges, particularly in adapting to street circuits while maintaining the sporting integrity and safety standards that define the championship.
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