MotoGP’s Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island has been cancelled due to poor visibility hindering the medical helicopter’s operation, ending the famed circuit’s run as a host with a farewell lap behind the safety car. The cancellation came after delays throughout Sunday, with Moto3 and Moto2 races also called off.
Australian Grand Prix Delayed and Cancellations
Track activity at the Red Bull Grand Prix of Australia was delayed on Sunday due to poor visibility impacting the medical helicopter’s ability to operate, MotoGP reported. The situation escalated throughout the day, leading to the cancellation of both the Moto3 and Moto2 races before a final decision was made regarding the premier class MotoGP race.
Update ⚠️The MotoGP riders will do a lap behind the safety car and stop on the main straight to greet the fans. Pitlane will open for the farewell lap at 15:45 local time#AustralianGP 🇦🇺
Medical Helicopter Limitations and Safety Concerns
Webber added that the helicopter needed a clear 60-minute window in both Phillip Island and Melbourne to operate safely, a condition not met due to poor weather in both locations. Crash quoted Webber stating, So essentially at the moment there’s a limitation on the medical helicopter to fly.
Cancellation and Farewell Lap
Ultimately, MotoGP announced the cancellation of the race, citing the continued limitations on helicopter visibility. Crash.net reported MotoGP’s statement: Due to limited visibility affecting the operation of the medical helicopter at the Red Bull Grand Prix of Australia, the MotoGP Grand Prix race has been cancelled.
As a gesture to fans, MotoGP riders completed a lap behind the safety car and stopped on the main straight to acknowledge the crowd. As a farewell to the Island, the MotoGP riders will do a lap behind the safety car and stop on the main straight to greet the fans,” MotoGP stated.
Weather Forecast and Future Events
The Bureau of Meteorology forecast between 15 and 35mm of rain for Phillip Island on Sunday, with a 90 per cent chance of rain at 2pm, when the MotoGP race was originally scheduled. Auto Action noted the forecast, adding the forecast was expected to ease only in the evening. The poor conditions ultimately led to the difficult decision to cancel the race, bringing a close to the final MotoGP event at the iconic Phillip Island circuit.
Update ⚠️Due to limited visibility affecting the operation of the medical helicopter the MotoGP Grand Prix race has been cancelled#AustralianGP 🇦🇺
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