Phillip Island is exploring a new future in motorsport as local stakeholders work to replace the outgoing MotoGP event with a large-scale motoring festival aimed at sustaining the region’s tourism economy.
The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix will be held on the island for the final time in October 2026 before relocating to Adelaide from 2027, ending a long-standing association that has spanned more than three decades. The departure is expected to leave a significant economic gap, estimated at around $29 million for the local community.
In response, a group of local automotive organisations and tourism stakeholders has proposed a new annual festival centred around classic cars and motorsport culture. The idea is to expand on the existing Phillip Island Classic Festival of Motorsport and transform it into a week-long event held each March.
Source: Philip Island Circuit
The proposed festival would go beyond racing, incorporating elements such as music, fashion, food and wine to appeal to a broader audience, including younger visitors and families. Organisers believe this wider approach could help recreate the vibrancy and international draw once delivered by MotoGP.
Former Tourism Victoria chief executive Jeff Floyd, who is involved in the proposal, said the concept builds on Phillip Island’s established car culture and could grow into a major standalone attraction. Early projections suggest the event could eventually generate economic returns comparable to MotoGP, although initial funding and government backing will be essential in its early years.
Despite the momentum behind the proposal, progress has been slow. Local leaders have expressed frustration over the lack of immediate engagement from the Victorian government, warning that time is running short to secure a viable replacement before the MotoGP’s departure.
Regional representatives are now pushing for urgent discussions and financial support, stressing that a successful replacement event is critical not just for the local economy but for maintaining Phillip Island’s status as a key destination on Australia’s motorsport calendar.
