Mick Doohan supports MotoGP's move to Adelaide, believing it will benefit the sport and Australian fans. MotoGP Sports and Entertainment Group chose not to renew its contract with the Victorian Government after a proposed move from Phillip Island to Albert Park was rejected.

 

 

The South Australian Government then offered to host the motorcycle grand prix in Adelaide on a modified parklands circuit. Doohan, a five-time champion, sees this as a positive change, despite some fans being sad to see Phillip Island go.

 

 

He notes that the new owners and MotoGP prefer in-town circuits, which Phillip Island did not accommodate. While Phillip Island was a fantastic venue, it had drawbacks such as lacking accommodation, needing pit facility upgrades, and experiencing wild weather and wildlife issues.

 

 

Its distance from Melbourne also presented limitations. Doohan believes Adelaide will offer better accessibility, allowing fans to easily fly in and out for the event.

 

 

Concerns about safety are a key objection to the Adelaide race, though the South Australian Government plans modifications for MotoGP, including an extended layout and a modified staircase section.

 

 

Doohan believes neither MotoGP nor the FIM would consider Adelaide if it were unsafe, stating that modern safety will be incorporated into the layout. He emphasizes that motor racing is inherently dangerous but dismisses safety as a concern for this circuit.

 

 

Doohan views retaining the MotoGP in Australia as a win, even if Phillip Island is missed, believing it will benefit motorcycling in Australia and New Zealand by being more accessible and inspiring new riders.

 

 

He asserts that the alternative would have been losing the MotoGP entirely.