Dorna has signed a five-year contract to bring the MotoGP back to Brazil, with the race scheduled for March 2026 at the Goiania International Racetrack. This will be the first Brazilian GP in 34 years, though concerns remain regarding the track’s readiness and the historical challenges faced by prior attempts to return to Brazil.
Dorna, the organizer of MotoGP, has reached an agreement to resurrect the Brazilian Grand Prix, slated to be held at the Goiania International Racetrack Ayrton Senna in March 2026. This marks the championship’s first Brazilian race in 34 years, following its last event there in 1992, when Kevin Schwantz triumphed. The five-year contract was announced in collaboration with Goias state governor Ronaldo Caiado and Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta. Brasil Motorsport, the body responsible for the Formula 1 Brazilian GP, will also play a role in this endeavor.
Carmelo Ezpeleta expressed enthusiasm about the return, stating, “We are very much looking forward to returning to Brazil. We have a good fanbase who we know are excited about this news, just as we’re eager to return to race for them again.” The potential for growth in this significant market is compelling for MotoGP and its manufacturers. Ezpeleta further emphasized that Brazil’s global presence justifies its inclusion in the MotoGP calendar, reflecting the sport’s commitment to expansion.
Historically, the Goiania circuit hosted races from 1987 to 1989 during the 500cc era, witnessing distinguished riders such as Schwantz, Eddie Lawson, and Wayne Gardner emerge as champions. The track is notably remembered for its vibrant atmosphere and challenging layout, traits that helped it earn respect during its limited tenure. The Brazilian GP initiative stands to benefit from the promising rise of Diogo Moreira, a Brazilian contender for the Moto3 title, who could garner significant local support if he ascends to MotoGP by 2026.
Despite enthusiasm surrounding the return, there are significant concerns regarding the readiness of the Goiania circuit to meet MotoGP’s stringent safety and facility standards. A history of abandoned projects, including a previously announced five-year deal for a Rio de Janeiro circuit, raises doubt regarding the feasibility of this new agreement amid Brazil’s economic challenges and the political landscape under President Javier Milei.
The announcement of the Brazilian Grand Prix revives a long-standing interest in bringing the premier motorcycle racing series back to Brazil, a country with a rich history in motorsports. The last MotoGP event occurred 34 years ago, and efforts to re-establish a race have faced various setbacks, including unsatisfactory infrastructure and financial readiness of proposed venues. The inclusion of the Goiania International Racetrack represents an attempt to tap into a passionate fanbase, alongside the historical significance of the venue which hosted several prominent riders in the past. The involvement of trusted partners such as Brasil Motorsport adds credibility to the execution of this initiative amidst skepticism regarding its future viability.
The revival of the Brazilian Grand Prix for MotoGP marks an important endeavor in expanding the sport’s global footprint, following a lengthy absence from the Brazilian racing scene. The enthusiasm expressed by Dorna’s leadership indicates confidence in the potential of the Brazilian market. However, considerable challenges remain regarding the Goiania circuit’s readiness and the political and economic context within Brazil. Time will reveal whether the ambitious plans will materialize as intended.
Original Source: www.the-race.com
