MotoGP | Coronavirus: official, Japanese Grand Prix cancelled

MotoGP Coronavirus Covid-19 – The FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports, following the recent cancellation of the British and Australian GPs, also announced the cancellation of the Japanese Grand Prix due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Grand Prix should have taken place at Motegi (a track owned by Honda) from 16 to 18 October. Twin Ring Motegi has been on the calendar since 1999 and the FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports are looking forward to racing again in 2021, in front of some of the most dedicated and loyal fans in the world.

Statements Kaoru Tanaka, President, Mobilityland Corporation cancellation of Japan GP

“Mobilityland was preparing for the 2020 MotoGP Japanese Grand Prix, however the situations in Japan and Europe are unpredictable and the international travel ban is expected to be extended. As a result of our discussions with Dorna, we agreed that there was no choice but to cancel the Japanese GP.”

Statements by Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta cancellation of Japanese GP

“It is with great sadness that we announce the cancellation of the Motul Grand Prix of Japan which was due to take place at the Motegi circuit, a truly unique circuit. This means that for the first time since 1986 there will not be a Japanese Grand Prix. The MotoGP family is working very hard to be able to restart the racing season and try to compete in as many events as possible and in the safest way possible. For this reason, the FIM and Dorna, in consultation with IRTA and MSMA, have decided that, until mid-November, MotoGP will remain in Europe to do all the European events that we are able to do. Therefore, non-European events, if possible, should be scheduled after mid-November and that would have been too late for the Japanese GP. For this reason it has been decided, in consultation with Mobilityland, that the Motul Grand Prix of Japan will not take place in 2020. I thank Mobilityland very much for their support of MotoGP. On behalf of Dorna, I would also like to thank all the fans for their understanding and patience as we wait for the situation to improve. We can't wait to return to Motegi next year.”