MotoGP’s planned return to Brazil is set to take a key step forward next month, with the Goiania circuit scheduled to host a closed door test event in February as part of its homologation process.
The championship is due to race at the Ayrton Senna circuit in Goiania on 20 to 22 March, replacing the Argentina Grand Prix as round two of the 2026 season. MotoGP last raced in Brazil in 2004 at the Rio Grand Prix.
Despite the scheduled date, questions remain over the circuit’s readiness, as extensive upgrades to the track and facilities are still being completed.
The Ayrton Senna circuit, which hosted MotoGP in the 1980s, has been fully repaved, with further work carried out on kerbs, run off areas, pit buildings and paddock infrastructure.
According to Brazilian outlet Grandpremio, construction is 84 percent complete after delays linked to additional requests from the FIM and MotoGP promoter Dorna.
The FIM conducted an inspection last week, with the Goias State Secretariat for Sports and Leisure confirming that the progress received positive feedback.
In a statement, SEEL said the inspection covered both track safety features and key facilities, including the pit lane, paddock, medical centre and race control. The organisation added that the structural changes had been approved for the MotoGP Goias Grand Prix, which is scheduled for March.
A further test event is planned from 28 February to 1 March, where the circuit is expected to receive full homologation. The event will be held behind closed doors and feature races for 300cc, 600cc and 1000cc motorcycles, with sessions of varying lengths.
Much of the operational staff and marshals expected to work at the grand prix will also be involved in the test, including some officials with experience from the Formula 1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
MotoGP previously staged a non championship event at Goiania last year following the Argentina Grand Prix.
If the race goes ahead as planned, Brazilian fans will have a home rider to support in the premier class. Diogo Moreira is set to make his MotoGP debut in 2026 with LCR Honda after becoming the first Brazilian rider to win a world championship through his Moto2 title last season.
VR46 Ducati rider Franco Morbidelli, who has strong Brazilian roots, also adds to local interest ahead of MotoGP’s potential return to the country.
