MotoGP to Make Debut on Adelaide Street Circuit in 2028

MotoGP, the South Australian Government, and Sports Entertainment Group have today announced that the Australian Grand Prix will relocate to a city-centre street circuit in Adelaide from 2027. The landmark six-year agreement ensures the premier class of motorcycle racing will remain in South Australia until at least 2032.

The announcement, made at a packed press conference on Thursday, 19 February, confirms that Adelaide will host the first-ever MotoGP Grand Prix on a purpose-built street circuit. The move marks a strategic pivot for the championship as it seeks to emulate the “festival-style” success of urban events like the Las Vegas and Singapore Formula 1 Grands Prix.

The proposed 4.195 km circuit, featuring 18 corners, will largely follow the footprint of the legendary Adelaide Street Circuit used by Formula 1 between 1985 and 1995.

However, engineering adjustments have been made to meet the stringent FIM safety standards required for modern MotoGP machinery, where riders are expected to reach speeds exceeding 340 km/h on the city’s straights.

Commenting on the announcement, MotoGP chief sporting officer, Carlos Ezpeleta, said: “Bringing MotoGP to Adelaide marks a major milestone in the evolution of our championship.”

“The opportunity to design a purpose-built circuit in the city streets is something truly unique. Every element has been engineered to meet the highest standards of modern MotoGP, ensuring riders can race at full intensity with complete confidence,” Ezpeleta said.

Commercial and Economic Impact to MotoGP

Premier Peter Malinauskas hailed the deal as a “major coup” that reinforces the state’s status as Australia’s major events capital. The event is expected to mirror the economic success of the LIV Golf and AFL Gather Round initiatives, driving massive visitation from interstate and overseas.

“We are now competing with the rest of the nation for the world’s best events — and winning.”

“Hosting the world’s first MotoGP race on a street circuit will give Adelaide a truly unique offering.

“This is about generating economic activity, supporting jobs, and putting South Australia on the global stage,” Premier Malinauskas said. 

The inaugural Adelaide event is scheduled for November 2027, serving as a high-stakes fixture in the championship’s flyaway season.

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