Circuit owner Andrew Fox said the event had a long-standing connection with Phillip Island and had been the scene of several historic victories by local riders, including Mick Doohan and Casey Stoner.
An aerial view of the Phillip Island track in 1999.Credit: Roger Dundas
“I’m just a circuit hire, so I’m not involved in any of the negotiations, but Dorna is taking a new direction,” Fox said.
“A street race for the MotoGP? I don’t think that’s ever going to happen. The Albert Park residents are already in uproar over the Formula 1, and the run-off component for the event, if it were to be held at Albert Park, would require significant removal of vegetation – which can’t happen.”
Motorcycle circuits typically require more space than Formula 1 tracks so riders who crash can slide onto large run-off areas and minimise injury.
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Many of Albert Park’s barriers are close to the track, meaning motorcycle races would likely require track expansion and tree felling, which would further anger locals and cost millions of dollars.
Fox said he was confident that Australian Grand Prix Corporation chairman Martin Pakula and chief executive Travis Auld would negotiate the best outcome for Victoria.
A spokeswoman for the Australian Grand Prix Corporation did not respond to questions from The Age but said in a statement: “Phillip Island is an iconic destination and one of the most renowned circuits on the MotoGP calendar, and we greatly look forward to returning in October 2026.
“The community atmosphere on the Island, along with the region’s diverse tourism experiences, showcases the best of Victoria.”
Mick Doohan in action at the Australian MotoGP on Phillip Island.Credit: Joe Armao
Bass Coast Shire Mayor Rochelle Halstead said recent uncertainty about the Phillip Island event had prompted thousands to sign a petition and email Premier Jacinta Allan, urging her to keep it.
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“For decades, the MotoGP has put Phillip Island on the world stage,” Halstead said in a statement.
“It has supported local businesses, created jobs, filled our accommodation, and brought energy and excitement to our towns year after year. This event is part of who we are, and the strength of feeling across our community demonstrates that.”
Convoys of motorsport teams and fans drive from Melbourne and beyond to the relatively isolated Ventnor track for the race each year, which the mayor said generated close to $100 million for the local economy.
“Council has consistently advocated for the long-term future of MotoGP at Phillip Island and I will continue to fight for this event and what it represents for our region,” she said.
Dorna Sports, which is headquartered in Spain, was contacted for comment.
The South Australian government was also contacted several times.
The final Australian Grand Prix under Phillip Island’s current 10-year contract will be held from Friday, October 23 to Sunday, October 25 this year.