MotoGP announced on Monday (17) the date on which the category will mark its return to Brazil. It will be on March 29, 2026, when the Ayrton Senna International Race Track in Goiânia will receive the first race in the country after 22 years.
The last time the bikes ran here was in 2004, at the Jacarepaguá racetrack in Rio de Janeiro, which hosted races between 1995 and 2004, except 1998.
The capital of Goiás had also been the stage of the World Cup in three editions, between 1987 and 1989. The return to the Midwest region occurs from a movement made by the governor of Goiás, Ronaldo Caiado (União Brasil).
In addition to the politician, were present at the event Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports, owner of MotoGP, Alan Adler, CEO of Brasil Motorsport, responsible for promoting various sporting events in the country, such as F1 in Sao Paulo and Rio Open, now also in charge of the race in Goiania, and four riders: Franco Morbidelli, Luca Marini, Diogo Moreira and Eric Granado.
Although the quartet was quite harassed to take pictures and ovated when he took a few turns on the track, who seemed to be the star of the event was the state governor, quoted to launch a plate to run for presidency in 2026 next to singer Gusttavo Lima.
Caiado supporters shouted “president” to each of their lines. The presentation organized by MotoGP on Monday had free admission. Much of the central stands was busy, including supporters of Caiado and other politicians.
In a speech, the governor was able to mend the theme of public security of the state by inviting tourists. “Here no one will steal your cell phone,” he said.
The contract with MotoGP is five years. To receive the World Cup, the race track will undergo some reforms, with improvements in sectors such as stands, pits, general access, command towers, medical stations, cabins, and the track. The estimated cost is $ 100 million.
According to the Goian government, the investment promoted by Goiás to receive the race will return to the state through taxes generated with the promotion of the event, estimated at about R $ 170 million per edition.
In addition to the return to the state of Goiás, MotoGP hopes to move the industry linked to motorcycles in the country. “Brazil is a very important market for our brands,” he told Sheet Carmelo Ezpeleta. “It is the most important country in South America and an important hub for the world,” added the CEO of Dorna.
According to Alan Adler, the possibility of moving the industry was decisive for the coming of the category to the country. “The market for motorcycle manufacturers is very important. All major brands want to be in Brazil,” said the CEO of Brasil Motorsport.
Reporter traveled at the invitation of Brasil Motosports
