Australian Grand Prix called off as rain spoils Phillip Island sendoff

What the report says

The final Australian MotoGP at Phillip Island was cancelled on Sunday after persistent rain and low visibility disrupted the day at the seaside circuit south of Melbourne. According to Al Jazeera’s report based on Reuters, the race had already been delayed by two hours before organisers abandoned it, with the Moto2 and Moto3 events also called off. MotoGP said the decision was driven by visibility concerns that affected the medical helicopter, a safety requirement for the venue.

The cancellation ended what was meant to be a farewell appearance for Phillip Island, which has hosted world championship racing for three decades aside from the COVID-19 interruptions. The crowd still saw a sendoff lap from the riders, who completed a slow parade behind the safety car and greeted fans on the main straight. Australian rider Jack Miller, who will leave MotoGP at season’s end, added a brief show for supporters before tossing his gloves and boots to the grandstand.

The result also affected the championship picture. The abandoned race denied seven-time champion Marc Marquez a chance to add to his points lead, while title rival Jorge Martin had already been ruled out after injuring his wrist. Al Jazeera noted that Martin’s team said he would not immediately return to Spain for treatment, keeping open the possibility of a return at the Malaysian Grand Prix next week.