The Losail International Circuit in Doha, Qatar is no longer hosting the 2023 MotoGP season opener. This is because the track is undergoing major renovations and redesigns. Dorna Sports said that the Qatar GP might be held towards the end of the 2023 season. So, who has the chance to replace the schedule, is it Mandalika?
As we know, Qatar made its debut in the MotoGP World Championship starting in 2004. It has held the role of season opener since 2007, with the exception of 2020 when Covid-19 forced the postponement of the start of the season. And since 2008, this circuit is the only one to hold races under floodlights or at night.
Apart from being a MotoGP venue, the Losail International Circuit has been appointed to host the World Superbike (WSBK). In fact, holding a Formula 1 race, to fill the vacant slot in the 2021 calendar. The Qatari government has also officially signed a 10-year contract as the location for a land jet race, starting from 2023 to 2032.
In order to streamline the two prestigious events of MotoGP and Formula 1, the manager of Losail has indeed planned to overhaul the circuit so that the Qatar Grand Prix can run smoothly next season.
The plan is for the Losail Circuit renovation to be carried out this year. This major overhaul is not only the track, but also the redesign of the paddock area. Other supporting facilities are also not spared from the renewal. Including, the construction of a new area for the audience. Everything is done by the manager in order to create a new and more interesting atmosphere.
Despite its rejuvenation status, the 5.4 km long circuit has extended its commitment to enliven MotoGP until 2031.
“Losail International Circuit will undergo a major renovation and remodeling of the paddock area and circuit facilities for 2023. Instead, the race at Losail has been moved to the end of the season. The renovation project has started running from this year. We'll see areas rebuilt to create a better experience for all. Including visitors, racers to competing teams. All the work done will make Losail a circuit with racing facilities with the best equipment in the world," reads a MotoGP statement.
Because it has undergone a complete overhaul, it is very likely that the renovations carried out will not be completed in early 2023. Therefore, the Losail circuit cannot open MotoGP next season. Until now, the organizers still have not announced a calendar for next season.
Mandalika to Host the Opening Round of MotoGP 2023?
Until now, Dorna Sport is still looking for an alternative to find the MotoGP 2023 opening circuit with several logical options. There are two options that should be taken into account by the organizers. The first could be Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit. Despite his position on the threshold of the rainy season, he can be an alternative for the whole team. Because it can save costs by combining pre-season testing after from Sepang, Malaysia.
Another option is to fall to Australia. It can be moved from the traditional October slot to March. It's a move that is likely to be welcomed, as the current schedule often sees racing hampered by windy conditions.
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