MotoGP riders prepare for emotional farewell to Phillip Island

Phillip Island circuit, situated roughly two hours from Melbourne, has been an integral part of the MotoGP schedule since 1997. Seven-time world champion Marc Marquez acknowledges that this weekend will be filled with emotion as the iconic track hosts its final race after nearly three decades. The picturesque and frequently windy circuit, located near the water, has long been favored by riders because of its scenic waterfront location and challenging course.

However, the track's contract is set to expire this year, and the promoter, MotoGP Sports Entertainment, desired to relocate it to Melbourne's Albert Park, home of the Australian Formula One. The Victorian state government, on the other hand, insisted on keeping the race at Phillip Island. In a compromise, South Australia stepped in to secure the event for six years, starting in 2027 in Adelaide - the first MotoGP to be held in a city-center location.

Marquez, who currently trails Aprilia's Jorge Martin by two points in the championship standings, described the circuit as extraordinary, emphasizing that racing there for the last time will be emotional. He mentioned that it's a track with a unique, breathtaking layout, where he won his first race with Ducati and also experienced his worst moments, such as a high-speed crash with Johann Zarco in 2018.

Fellow rider Francesco Bagnaia, who has never stood on the top step of the Phillip Island podium, expressed sadness about the track's departure, highlighting that his victories in 2022 and 2023 were crucial to his title-winning campaign. As the title fight narrows down to a three-way battle between Martin, Marquez, and Marco Bezzecchi, who won the last race in Indonesia, all three riders are determined to give the circuit a fitting send-off.

Bezzecchi, who currently trails Marquez by 44 points and Ai Ogura by 50 points, emphasized the importance of maintaining faith in his team's efforts. Both Marquez and Martin missed last year's Australian race due to injuries, with Spain's Raul Fernandez securing his maiden MotoGP victory in Fernandez's place. Currently seventh in the standings, Fernandez expressed his dismay about the race leaving Phillip Island, stating that he always enjoys coming to the track, which has hosted numerous memorable races in MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3.