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MotoGP Circuit Contracts: Calendar Stability and Future Outlook

MotoGP is strategically securing its future calendar through a series of long-term agreements with circuit promoters, a move mirroring Formula 1’s recent approach. This expansion has seen the championship schedule grow rapidly, peaking at 22 Grands Prix in 2025, which, with the introduction of sprint races, now translates to 44 races annually for riders.

The shift towards multi-year contracts aims to provide enhanced stability for the championship. While many prominent circuits, particularly within Europe, have already cemented their places on the calendar well into the next decade, a notable number of venues currently face contract expiry after the 2026 season, prompting impending discussions for renewal.

Several key European venues have solidified their commitment to MotoGP until at least 2031. This includes the Spanish Grand Prix at Jerez, the French Grand Prix at Le Mans – a track that recorded record attendance in 2025 – and the Catalan Grand Prix at Barcelona. The historic Dutch TT Circuit Assen, Germany’s Sachsenring, San Marino’s Misano, and the Valencia Grand Prix have also secured extensions through the same period, underscoring the championship’s strong European roots.

Beyond Europe, significant long-term deals underscore MotoGP’s global ambitions. The Qatar Grand Prix at Lusail, a long-standing season opener, is confirmed until 2031, as are the Indonesian Grand Prix at Mandalika and the Thailand Grand Prix at Buriram, which recently secured a five-year extension. Brazil’s return to Goiania is set for 2026 with a deal running through 2030, while Japan’s Motegi and Austria’s Spielberg are secured until 2030. The Americas Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, holds an agreement through 2027, and the Czech Grand Prix at Brno made a successful comeback in 2025 with a contract until 2029.

The calendar also welcomes new additions and returns. Hungary’s Balaton Park is set to debut in 2025 under a multi-year agreement, marking the country’s return to MotoGP. Furthermore, Argentina will rejoin the schedule in 2027 at a renovated Autodromo Oscar y Juan Galvez in Buenos Aires, effectively replacing Termas de Rio Hondo, though the exact duration of this new deal remains undisclosed.

However, the future of several established circuits beyond 2026 remains uncertain as their current contracts approach expiration. These include Italy’s Mugello, the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, Spain’s Aragon, Australia’s Phillip Island, Malaysia’s Sepang, and the Portuguese Grand Prix at Portimao. While some organisers, like Sepang, express confidence in securing renewals, discussions are anticipated to intensify as the 2026 season draws closer, highlighting a period of potential flux for these popular race locations.

The strategic value of these long-term agreements extends beyond mere scheduling. They provide financial predictability for Dorna Sports and promoters, allowing for infrastructure investments and sustained marketing efforts. For iconic venues such as Jerez, which has hosted races since 1987, these renewals cement their historical significance and continued appeal to a global audience.

For circuits like Silverstone, whose contract expires after 2026, the upcoming negotiations will be crucial. The British Grand Prix recently saw its calendar slot adjusted, moving back to a traditional August date after a challenging May placement in 2025. Similarly, Aragon, which saw its agreement restructured in 2024 to guarantee an annual place until 2026, will be seeking further assurances for its future on the premier class calendar.

Ultimately, MotoGP’s proactive approach to circuit agreements underscores its commitment to a robust and stable calendar amidst increasing global demand for hosting rights. This strategy aims to balance the championship’s historical European heartland with its expanding presence in key international markets, ensuring a dynamic and predictable future for both teams and fans as the sport continues to evolve.

Keywords: MotoGP circuit contracts, MotoGP calendar, long-term racing deals, 2026 MotoGP season, Grand Prix venues, Dorna Sports agreements, motorcycle racing future, circuit renewals 2031

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