MotoGP Rules Out Madrid Street Race, Focuses on Adelaide

MotoGP has ruled out racing at the new Madrid street circuit built for Formula 1. Deputy CEO Carlos Ezpeleta stated the track is currently unsuitable for motorcycle racing, requiring significant safety modifications.

During the Aragon Grand Prix weekend, Ezpeleta discussed the championship's approach to street circuits in an interview with selected media, including Motorsport.com. His comments came as plans were unveiled for MotoGP's new Adelaide street circuit, which will replace Phillip Island as the host of the Australian Grand Prix from 2027.

Madrid Circuit Deemed Unsuitable

When asked if the Madrid model could suit MotoGP for a future grand prix, Ezpeleta was direct. "Madring wouldn't be suitable [for MotoGP]," he said. He explained that the circuit would need modifications to meet motorcycle racing safety standards. While acknowledging modifications might make it possible, he emphasized a clear distinction. "The Madring circuit and the one in Adelaide are completely different."

The Madrid circuit, located on the outskirts of the city, will host the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix, taking over from the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. It joins a growing list of urban circuits on the F1 calendar.

Adelaide as a Pioneering Project

Ezpeleta positioned the Adelaide event as a pioneering experiment for the series. Unlike a typical street circuit such as Monaco, the Adelaide layout will be a temporary circuit built within the city centre, bringing the championship closer to the public. It has been altered from the legendary layout previously used in Formula 1 and Supercars.

"We have a lot of important work ahead of us over the coming months to ensure it's a success," Ezpeleta said regarding Adelaide. "We're going to learn a great deal, because it will be the first time we've done this."

The goal is to create a successful blueprint. "We'll create an experience that we can then, if there's interest, shows to other grand prix organisers," he explained. However, he stressed that the immediate focus is solely on making the Adelaide event work, with no similar circuits joining the calendar in the near term.

Managing Calendar Expansion Expectations

Under the ownership of Liberty Media, MotoGP has set a clear objective to reach a wider fan base. The expansion to new venues like Adelaide is part of this strategy. Yet, Ezpeleta sought to manage expectations about a wholesale shift to street circuits.

When asked if the calendar would be "filled" with such circuits, he called the term too broad. "For us, it is vital that this grand prix goes well," he stated. He expressed confidence that a successful event would bring enormous value to Adelaide, South Australia, and MotoGP itself, potentially attracting new fans by allowing city residents to experience the sport at close quarters.

He tempered the idea of widespread replication, citing the complexity of the undertaking. "Certainly, building a MotoGP circuit like the one in Adelaide won't be replicable in many cities around the world," Ezpeleta said. "We don't see this leading to a third or a quarter of the MotoGP calendar being organised in this way in the future."

The series is receiving enquiries from other potential hosts. Ezpeleta concluded by noting the need for balance. "We're aware that we need to balance ambition with realism."