2020 Australian MotoGP cancelled
The Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) and Dorna issued a press release late on Friday 27 May, stating that the 2020 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix will not be held. Dorna announced that this year’s British MotoGP round will also be cancelled, bringing the number of cancelled rounds on the 2020 calendar to five at time of writing.
AGPC shares its disappointment with fans that the popular event cannot be held this year but looks forward to welcoming MotoGP fans back to Phillip Island in 2021.
Andrew Westacott, AGPC CEO, issued a video statement indicating the cancellation was a mutual decision between the AGPC and Dorna, which was supplemented by AGPC Chairman, Paul Little AO.
“We’re very disappointed that MotoGP fans throughout Victoria, Australia and internationally won’t get the chance to make the pilgrimage to see the world’s best riders compete on one of the best circuits anywhere in the world, but the right decision has been made,” Little said.
“The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix puts Phillip Island on the global stage and it’ll be back better than ever in 2021.”
Dorna Sports CEO, Carmelo Ezpeleta, added: “We’re saddened to have to announce the cancellation of this iconic event after finding no way through the logistical and operational issues resulting from the pandemic and rearranged calendar. Phillip Island is always one of the most thrilling race weekends of the season, never failing in its promise to deliver some of the closest racing in our Championship.
“On behalf of Dorna, I would like to once again extend my thanks to the fans for their understanding and patience as we wait for the situation to improve. We look forward to returning to Phillip Island next year for more incredible battles."
In response to the cancellation, both Mick Doohan, five-time 500cc World Champion and Phillip Island race winner in 1998, and Jack Miller, Moto3 race winner in 2014 and podium finisher in MotoGP at the Island last year, made the following statements.
Mick Doohan: “Phillip Island is renowned for hosting the MotoGP, along with some of the best racing on the calendar every year, but unfortunately due to COVID-19, this year will be the first year since 1997 it hasn’t been held.
“The race will return in 2021 and provide an opportunity to make it one of the biggest and best attended MotoGP events we’ve seen, plus watch Miller take the win!”
Jack Miller: "It's a massive shame to not be able to race at home this year, but I completely understand that in these uncertain and difficult times tough decisions have to be made.
"Phillip Island is always one of the highlights of the year for all of us riders because of the amazing fans and how much we all love the track. We'll all be excited to get back there for 2021 and I'll be doing everything I can to get back on that podium again."
The cancellation of this year’s Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, scheduled for 23-25 October, is the first in the event’s history. The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit held the first two Australian Motorcycle Grands Prix, then every year from 1997.
As the biggest sporting event held in regional Victoria, the GP’s cancellation will result in an estimated $50M lost from the state economy.
The AGPC advised that full refunds will be provided to all who had already purchased their tickets. Information on refunds will be provided on https://www.motogp.com.au/
