Dorna Says Adelaide Circuit Chosen for Safety Reasons

Jakarta — MotoGP Australia 2027 will be held at a new circuit. The Adelaide Circuit will replace the Phillip Island Circuit. The change has sparked controversy because the Adelaide circuit is to be run on a public road. Many have questioned safety aspects.

“This is a safe race, not a street race. We will go to a fantastic location, in the city centre, but with all the safety features. With all the advantages of being in the city centre, so that people can attend,” Ezpeleta said, quoted by Motorsport.com on Thursday, 5 March 2026.

Ezpeleta regrets the loss of Phillip Island from the MotoGP calendar. However, he also highlighted safety issues linked to the Australian circuit.

Ezpeleta again emphasised that MotoGP’s strategy is to bring races closer to major population hubs.

“MotoGP is moving toward holding races that are better, both in the city and outside it. I am sure we will strive to organise races closer to the cities. Goiania is a permanent circuit in the city centre, as is Buenos Aires, that is the direction,” he said.

This trend opens up opportunities to hold races in big capitals such as Madrid, which will host this year’s Formula 1 street race. But Ezpeleta rejected that idea for MotoGP.