DOOHAN BACKS ADELAIDE AS A BIGGER MOTOGP SPECTACLE

Mick Doohan expects MotoGP’s move from Phillip Island to Adelaide in 2027 to create a major event that reaches beyond the existing race-going crowd. The five-time world champion is enthusiastic about the city-centre concept, particularly the convenience of having the circuit, hotels and entertainment close together.

“Visitors will be able to fly in, head straight to their hotels and the circuit, and immerse themselves in an atmosphere where the event becomes part of the city itself,” Doohan told MotoGP.com. He believes those shorter journeys could make attending a Grand Prix easier and help introduce the sport to new audiences. “There is no doubt that the event will help attract a new generation of fans while making the championship more accessible than ever before.”

Accessibility is a key selling point for the Adelaide race. Phillip Island regularly draws fewer than 100,000 spectators across the weekend, with race-day attendance below 50,000. A more convenient location could encourage more people to attend and spend at the event, though the change has proved contentious.

Purist fans have objected to MotoGP leaving an iconic circuit for a city race, while some Adelaide residents oppose plans to build the track in parkland at the cost of 400 trees. Doohan’s own record at Phillip Island was mixed: he won there once, in 1998, and retired in 1997. He had greater success at Eastern Creek, with two victories and four further podiums. The Australian was later honoured with the fearsome first corner at Phillip Island named after him, reflecting a premier-class career that brought 54 wins and five world titles before injury ended it in 1999.

Doohan’s confidence in Adelaide also draws on his experience of the South Australian city hosting major events. He said the whole city and state get behind them, helping create an exceptional occasion. “For the town, it’s going to be amazing. Every event they hold the whole city and state gets behind it to make it an incredible occasion.”

He also sees the Grand Prix as a significant addition to Adelaide’s event calendar. “For the city, it will be great to have another major event. The only thing comparable is a Formula 1 event. But we’re on two wheels and bring even more life to it. I think it will be a fantastic show,” he said.

The move has prompted mixed reactions in MotoGP. Casey Stoner and others have lamented the loss of Phillip Island, a fast, flowing circuit whose coastal setting and distinctive corners have made it a favourite. Questions also remain about the sporting qualities of the new Adelaide track. Doohan’s praise is focused on the overall event and its potential to draw in fresh fans; the new circuit will still need to prove itself on track.