The South Australian government has officially unveiled the proposed $96 million street circuit that will host the MotoGP Australian Grand Prix from 2027. The announcement, made by Premier Peter Malinauskas, marks a significant step toward bringing the world’s first city-centre MotoGP race to life.
Design and Collaboration
The circuit design is the result of months of close collaboration between MotoGP, the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), and local partners in Adelaide. The project aims to deliver world-class racing while meeting the highest modern safety standards.
The unveiling event featured an immersive 360-degree projection of the plans, giving attendees a glimpse of what the future holds for the city’s motorsport scene.
Track Layout and Features
The 4.13km, 15-corner circuit reimagines Adelaide’s iconic Formula One track for a new era, bringing back legendary sections such as Stag Corner, Rundle Road, Brewery Bend, and Dequetteville Terrace. According to modelling, MotoGP bikes will reach speeds of up to 343km/h, with lap times expected to be around 1 minute and 26 seconds.
The event is set to combine the atmosphere of a major festival with the spectacle of the world’s premier motorcycle racing championship, all in the heart of one of Australia’s leading event destinations.
Community and Environmental Considerations
Carlos Ezpeleta, Deputy CEO of MotoGP Group, emphasized the importance of community and environmental considerations in the planning process. “From day one, we’ve worked closely with local stakeholders to ensure the circuit delivers positive outcomes for the community and the environment, as well as world-class racing,” he said. “We understand a project of this scale will create some disruption, but our goal is for the people of Adelaide to feel proud to host MotoGP and genuinely connected to the event.”
The project is intended to deliver lasting benefits across the economy, community, and environment, including initiatives to protect existing green spaces, create new ones, and enhance the public realm.
Premier's Vision
Premier Peter Malinauskas highlighted the circuit’s rich history, referencing iconic moments from the past: “Mansell’s exploding tyre. Senna and Prost on the podium after Senna’s last F1 victory. Craig Lowndes winning from last on the grid. Jason Bright’s spectacular Turn 1 rollover.”
He added, “In its new era, we will deliver something truly world class – blending speed, safety and spectacular racing for both MotoGP and Supercars that will bring tens of thousands of visitors to our city and state, and project South Australia to a global audience of more than 630 million people.”
Local Opposition
Despite the enthusiasm from officials, the project has faced significant opposition. Tens of thousands of residents have signed a petition against the development, as 40% of the track is slated to be built on 190-year-old National Heritage-listed Adelaide Park Lands. Residents have questioned whether a venue used only two or three times a year is worth the impact on the heritage site.
Ezpeleta’s comments that the people of Adelaide should “feel proud to host MotoGP” stand in contrast to the concerns raised by the community, making it clear that not everyone is on the same page.
Future Outlook
MotoGP is initially set to return to Adelaide each year through 2032. The event is expected to act as a catalyst for enhancing the park lands and public spaces that form part of the circuit, creating a lasting legacy for residents, visitors, and future major events.
Today’s unveiling marks an important step towards Adelaide welcoming MotoGP in 2027 and establishing a world-class sporting destination designed to deliver benefits long after the chequered flag.
