MotoGP Eyes 2027 for Revival of Chinese Grand Prix After Nearly Two-Decade Hiatus

MotoGP promoter Dorna Sports is actively pursuing the reintroduction of the Chinese Grand Prix to the championship calendar, with a potential return slated for 2027 at the earliest, sources familiar with the matter have confirmed. This initiative marks a significant effort to re-establish MotoGP’s presence in the burgeoning East Asian market after a 17-year absence.

The Shanghai International Circuit, a familiar venue for Formula 1 since 2004, previously hosted MotoGP races from 2005 to 2008. During this period, the circuit witnessed victories from some of the sport’s most iconic figures, including Valentino Rossi (2005 and 2008), Dani Pedrosa (2006), and Casey Stoner (2007). However, the Chinese Grand Prix was prematurely discontinued due to a combination of factors, including low attendance, limited local interest, and organizational challenges.

In a move signaling Dorna’s commitment to a successful comeback, a high-level delegation, led by Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta and his son Carlos Ezpeleta, the championship’s sporting director, recently traveled to Shanghai. The visit, which took place between the Australian and Malaysian Grands Prix in October, was aimed at accelerating preparations and addressing potential hurdles for the race’s revival.

The delegation also included a visit to a manufacturing facility of CFMoto, a Chinese motorcycle brand that has been steadily increasing its presence in the MotoGP paddock through its partnership with KTM. CFMoto’s growing involvement in the sport underscores China’s burgeoning interest in motorcycle racing and its potential as a key market for MotoGP.

Related News :

Dorna’s primary objective is to ensure that the new project avoids the pitfalls that plagued the initial attempt to establish the Chinese Grand Prix. The original contract, which was intended to run until 2011, was cut short due to a lack of proper promotion and engagement with the local population. Additionally, the former director of the Shanghai International Circuit, Yu Zhifei, was sentenced to four years in prison for embezzlement, further complicating the event’s future.

To address these challenges, Dorna and local authorities are reportedly advocating for a collaborative organizational model that involves key stakeholders in both the management and promotion of the event. This approach aims to foster greater local ownership and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Chinese Grand Prix.

CFMoto is expected to play a crucial role in this new organizational structure. The company, which made a strong bid to become the sole Moto3 bike supplier from 2028 (though ultimately unsuccessful, with Yamaha securing the contract), has demonstrated its commitment to the sport and its potential to drive local interest in MotoGP.

In addition to CFMoto, Juss Sports, the promoter responsible for organizing the Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix since 2004, is also anticipated to be involved in the MotoGP project. Juss Sports’ experience in managing and promoting major international sporting events in China could prove invaluable in ensuring the success of the revived Chinese Grand Prix.

The return of MotoGP to China would represent a significant milestone for the sport, expanding its reach into one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing markets. China’s burgeoning middle class and increasing interest in motorsports have created a ripe environment for MotoGP to establish a strong foothold.

The economic impact of hosting a MotoGP race in China could be substantial, generating revenue for local businesses, creating jobs, and boosting tourism. The event would also provide a platform for Chinese motorcycle manufacturers to showcase their products and technologies to a global audience.

However, the success of the revived Chinese Grand Prix will depend on Dorna’s ability to address the challenges that led to its initial demise. A comprehensive marketing strategy that targets local audiences and promotes the sport’s unique appeal will be essential. Additionally, strong partnerships with local authorities and businesses will be crucial to ensure the event’s long-term sustainability.

The potential return of MotoGP to China coincides with a period of significant change and evolution for the sport. New regulations aimed at promoting closer racing and reducing costs are set to be introduced in 2027, the same year that the Chinese Grand Prix could potentially return. These regulations, which include a reduction in engine size from 1000cc to 850cc and a ban on ride-height devices, are designed to make the sport more accessible and sustainable for both manufacturers and riders.

The 2024 MotoGP season will see 22 races across 18 countries, beginning on March 8 in Qatar and concluding on November 17 in Valencia, Spain. The current rider lineup features a mix of established stars and rising talents, all vying for the coveted MotoGP World Championship. Francesco Bagnaia, riding for Ducati Lenovo Team, is the defending champion, having secured the title in 2022 and 2023. Other notable riders include Marc Marquez, who has moved to Gresini Racing MotoGP, Jorge Martin of Prima Pramac Racing, and Fabio Quartararo of Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP.

The return to China also marks a shift in MotoGP’s global strategy, emphasizing growth in Asian markets. With a strong fan base and a growing motorcycle industry, Asia presents a significant opportunity for the sport to expand its reach and increase its commercial appeal. The success of races in other Asian countries, such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Japan, demonstrates the region’s potential for MotoGP.

As Dorna Sports continues to work towards the revival of the Chinese Grand Prix, the motorsport world will be watching closely to see if the event can successfully establish itself as a permanent fixture on the MotoGP calendar. The challenges are significant, but the potential rewards are even greater. The return of MotoGP to China would not only expand the sport’s global footprint but also solidify its position as one of the world’s premier motorsports championships.