MotoGP Race On A Road Circuit?

In a shocking turn of events, officials at MotoGP are considering the possibility of bringing the race within city limits, by making use of a public road for the main straight. Dorna CEO, Carmelo Ezpeleta, while talking to a Spanish publication revealed his plans for the race by a "warm city”, further adding that the plans are based on a "solid project". 

He also added that the MotoGP paddock can be placed in a nearby “exhibition centre”, with the facility remaining open for use by other events throughout the year. He was quoted saying, “There is a solid project in a warm city. In theory, the main square of the track would be held on a street and the paddock would be covered, integrated into an exhibition centre. For the Grand Prix weekend it will be used for the race, and many other things during the rest of the year." 

According to reports, Dorna has been in serious talks about hosting this round in Mexico, but the United Arab Emirates is another strong candidate to host this urban event. 

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The busiest Grand Prix season in history is scheduled to kick-off on March 18, 2018. Qatar will host the first of a total of 19 races in the year. Interestingly, the next year will see Finland marked on the provisional calendar, taking the possibility of a 20-race per season to a new high. 

However, according to Ezpeleta, many countries have inquired about the possibility of hosting a race in coming years so far. “Honestly, more than 20 [races] at the moment is difficult,” Ezpeleta told Crash.net. “I say always that the ideal number of races is 22, but not yet. We need to see who is gradually interested but if we were able to offer today 24 Grand Prix, there are countries ready to do 24 Grand Prix”, he was quoted saying. 

The possibility of seeing MotoGP bikes let loose on city streets has certainly perked our ears! But will it be a practical option? We’ll have to wait and watch.