Phillip Island to continue to host top-line motorsport as Supercars announces return for 2027
The future of Phillip Island, one of motorsport's most revered cathedrals, is secure! After whispers of its demise following the impending exits of MotoGP and WorldSBK, Australia's premier touring car series, Supercars, has swooped in to ensure the iconic circuit continues to thrill fans for years to come.
Key Takeaways:
Phillip Island secures its future with a new Supercars deal, running from 2027 to 2031.
MotoGP and WorldSBK are confirmed to depart the circuit by 2027 and 2028 respectively.
Supercars will host a crucial 'Finals' round at the circuit, cementing its importance.
Fears of the circuit's closure, including a golf course proposal, are now firmly quashed.
The news is a massive win for Australian motorsport enthusiasts. Supercars, having last graced the Phillip Island tarmac in 2019, announced a multi-year agreement from 2027 to 2031. This commitment isn't just a return; it marks a pivotal role for the circuit, as it will host a 'Finals' round – a high-stakes fixture in the championship's decisive closing stages.
Supercars Executive Chairman Barclay Nettlefold underscored the significance, stating, “As we celebrate 30 years of Supercars in 2027, it feels incredibly fitting to return to Phillip Island... an iconic venue that has delivered some memorable moments.” This sentiment echoes the relief felt across the motorsport community, which cherishes the circuit's unique character and challenging layout.
The MotoGP and WorldSBK Exodus Explained
For a period, the future of Phillip Island looked bleak. MotoGP, a long-standing fixture since 1997 (and earlier in 1989-90), is set to make its final appearance at the iconic track in late 2027. The championship's decision to relocate stems from persistent issues regarding track access, accommodation limitations, and unpredictable weather conditions that have plagued the event in recent years.
Under Liberty Media's ownership, MotoGP is mirroring Formula 1's strategy, shifting towards more urban-accessible venues. The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix will move to Adelaide from November 12-14, 2027, transforming a former street circuit into a permanent, city-adjacent facility. This move aims to bring the spectacle closer to larger population centers, a key aspect of Liberty Media's global expansion.
Similarly, the World Superbike Championship, also managed by the MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group, will conclude its Phillip Island tenure in early 2027 as its season opener. From 2028, WorldSBK will find a new home at The Bend Motorsport Park, approximately 100km from Adelaide, further cementing a regional shift for major motorcycle events.
From Golf Course Fears to Grid Glory
The potential loss of both premier motorcycle championships fueled widespread concern. Circuit designer Bob Barnard even issued a stark 'open letter' warning that Phillip Island was at risk of being converted into a golf course. Such a prospect sent shivers down the spines of fans globally, imagining a world without racing on the legendary seaside track.
However, the Supercars announcement isn't just a return; it's a powerful statement. It reaffirms Phillip Island's enduring legacy as a world-class motorsport venue. The circuit will continue to offer unparalleled racing action, proving that some traditions are simply too important to fade away.