Marco Bezzecchi
Miguel Oliveira has made his thoughts clear on MotoGP’s decision to race on a street circuit, which he labels as ‘absolutely crazy’.
It has been confirmed that MotoGP will not race at Phillip Island in 2027, as it heads to Adelaide and will race at a street circuit for the first time since 1981.
The decision to move to Adelaide was fast-tracked after the Victorian government declined the idea to relocate the Australian Grand Prix from Phillip Island to Melbourne’s Albert Park.
Phillip Island had become an iconic MotoGP circuit because it had featured on the calendar since 1997. The reason behind the decision to step away from the historic circuit was its lack of high-standard facilities.
Adelaide is open to making the Australian Grand Prix a night race to suit European MotoGP fans. A mistake or genius?
Can MotoGP safely race on a street circuit?
Former MotoGP race winner Miguel Oliveira has shared his thoughts with Speedweek on the decision to move the Australian Grand Prix.
The Portuguese rider believes the idea of a prototype MotoGP machine racing on a street circuit is ‘absolutely crazy to even think about’.
However, he is certain that Dorna [MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group] and the FIM will be aware of the safety risks and will ‘do everything possible’ to make the circuit as safe as possible.
Oliveira said, “Absolutely not. Resurfacing before the race? I don’t see any other solution if you want to race. If you race a MotoGP bike at over 300km/h, you can’t cross white lines, repainted parts, or anything like that.
“It’s absolutely crazy to even think about, but I’m sure Dorna and the FIM are well aware of it. I believe they will adapt and do everything possible to ensure that MotoGP can race on a safe track. I believe that ensuring the safety of their riders is the number one priority.”
Is MotoGP selling its soul by leaving Phillip Island?
Miguel Oliveira believes ’embracing a new type of circuit is always nice’
Oliveira’s former MotoGP teammate, Jack Miller, believes moving to Adelaide is ‘amazing news’ for MotoGP.
Although Oliveira is wary due to the safety concerns, he did admit that a race within the city would make MotoGP ‘more exciting’ and that he will ’embrace a new type of circuit’.
Oliveira said, “I think there are two approaches to this issue: one is related to motorsport heritage. You can’t change the heritage of a legendary circuit like Phillip Island, you can’t change its location, but you can’t bring the general public here either. Let’s say the island is a complete experience.
“I’m sure that with the acquisition by Liberty Media, they’re trying to attract new people, a new audience, and bring motorsport closer to the cities. Which obviously cars can do, but for motorcycles it’s a bit more challenging.
“I’m sure that if they find a compromise to comply with the FIM rules, a race can be organised whether it’s inside a city, on an island, or in the desert. I think this makes motorcycle racing more exciting.
“Change is sometimes difficult to accept and fight against. I love coming to Phillip Island and, obviously, I’d love to continue racing here, but embracing a new type of circuit is always nice to.”
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