Here’s a bold statement: the world of motorsport is about to get a lot more crowded, and not everyone is thrilled about it. Adelaide’s decision to host MotoGP has sparked a debate about whether it will overshadow Supercars, Australia’s homegrown racing powerhouse. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some see this as a threat, others view it as an opportunity for both events to thrive together. Let’s dive in.
This week, the Australian championship takes a backseat to Formula 1 at Albert Park, where international stars dominate the spotlight. But come November, Adelaide will host both MotoGP and Supercars on separate weekends, with the new bike race leading up to the highly anticipated Grand Final. The MotoGP deal caught Supercars off guard, but according to Sean Warburton, there’s no need to panic.
‘Supercars is a massive entity in Australia,’ Warburton told Speedcafe. ‘While MotoGP will undoubtedly make a splash in Adelaide, we’ve got the momentum from Bathurst, the Gold Coast, and our Finals Series. With our plans to grow, I have no doubt we’ll remain the main event.’ And this is the part most people miss: Warburton believes both events can coexist, even suggesting they should be promoted together for mutual benefit.
But here’s the kicker: the South Australian Government signed a deal with Supercars just months before the MotoGP announcement, locking in the Grand Final through 2034. Last year’s Grand Final drew a staggering 285,700 attendees over four days, with a record-breaking 102,200 on Sunday alone. In contrast, the 2025 Phillip Island MotoGP race attracted 91,245 fans over three days—a number that could surge in Adelaide’s city setting. So, is there room for both?
Warburton thinks so. ‘The core audiences are fundamentally different,’ he explained. ‘Adelaide has proven it can build massive events, from the Gather Round to LIV Golf, and now this month-long festival. We’ve got security with our long-term agreement, and it’s up to the promoters to make it work.’
Now, for the controversial question: could MotoGP’s move to Adelaide actually open the door for Supercars to return to Phillip Island? Supercars hasn’t raced there since 2019 due to its remote location, high track fees, and aging facilities. But with MotoGP leaving, could this seaside Victorian venue get a second chance? Warburton hints it’s possible—but only with Victorian Government support. ‘We’re open to the conversation,’ he said. ‘November is a great time for us, and if the calendars align, why not?’
So, what do you think? Is Adelaide’s MotoGP deal a threat or an opportunity for Supercars? And should Supercars make a comeback at Phillip Island? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
