MotoGP Considers Street Circuits Amid Liberty Media Influence

Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta has indicated that MotoGP may explore the possibility of hosting races on street circuits currently featured in the Formula 1 calendar. This consideration comes in the wake of Liberty Media's acquisition of Dorna Sports, which has sparked discussions about potential synergies between the two motorsport series. Ezpeleta attended the recent Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix and praised the event's spectacle, suggesting that MotoGP could benefit from similar urban racing formats, provided that rider safety is prioritized.

MotoGP and city circuits: Ezpeleta sees new opportunities for races in major citiesMotoGP "could use" F1's street circuits, says CEOMotoGP, a Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi like F1 is being considered.

Ezpeleta emphasized that safety remains the foremost concern for MotoGP, stating, “We have no problem racing on street circuits; the only thing we need is run-off areas.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by certain street layouts, such as Las Vegas, which lacks adequate safety features. However, he pointed to existing MotoGP races on circuits like Mandalika, which, while not a traditional street circuit, operates in a city-like environment, as a model for future urban events.

MotoGP, a Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi like F1 is being considered.

Since Liberty Media acquired a majority stake in Dorna in 2025, MotoGP has increasingly aligned its strategic direction with that of Formula 1. The shift towards urban circuits is seen as a way to enhance the spectacle of races and attract more sponsors and spectators. Ezpeleta noted that the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, which features more generous run-off areas than many street circuits, is frequently mentioned as a potential venue for MotoGP events in Australia, especially as the contract for the Phillip Island circuit expires in 2026.

MotoGP and city circuits: Ezpeleta sees new opportunities for races in major citiesMotoGP "could use" F1's street circuits, says CEOMotoGP, a Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi like F1 is being considered.

Ezpeleta has not ruled out other international locations for MotoGP races, including the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City, which was previously considered for a Grand Prix. Although safety modifications were deemed necessary in past discussions, the interest in urban venues remains strong. Other potential circuits include those in Madrid, Singapore, and Baku, although many of these lack sufficient run-off areas.

MotoGP and city circuits: Ezpeleta sees new opportunities for races in major cities

While the idea of MotoGP adopting street circuits has garnered interest, some critics express concerns regarding the feasibility of ensuring rider safety on these tracks. The inherent risks associated with motorcycle racing, which differ significantly from car racing, necessitate stringent safety measures that may not be present in all proposed venues.

MotoGP, a Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi like F1 is being considered.

As MotoGP stands at a crossroads, the potential for incorporating street circuits into its racing calendar reflects a broader trend towards urban motorsport events. The influence of Liberty Media is likely to shape the future of MotoGP, as the series considers innovative event formats while maintaining its commitment to rider safety. Whether MotoGP will successfully implement these changes remains to be seen, but the discussions signal a significant evolution in the sport's approach to racing venues.

MotoGP "could use" F1's street circuits, says CEO

• “In terms of spectacle, what they do is incredible.” — Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna

MotoGP "could use" F1's street circuits, says CEO

• “For us, safety is the most important aspect. Since we took charge of the championship in 1992, that has been our commitment to the riders, and we will not relax on that.” — Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna

MotoGP "could use" F1's street circuits, says CEO

• “We could use some circuits” — Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna

MotoGP, a Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi like F1 is being considered.