MotoGP is poised to replace the cancelled Valencia GP with a new race in Barcelona, Autosport understands.
The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is now set to stage the season finale on 17 November, having already hosted the sixth round of the championship back in May.
The development follows the decision to scrap the Valencia race on Friday due to devastating flooding in the region in recent days, with over 200 people having lost their lives according to the official figures.
Championship promoter Dorna previously stated that it will announce the venue and other details for the final round at a later date, as it scrambled to organise a replacement event.
Autosport has learned that the preferred option in the run-up to the Malaysian GP is Barcelona, with the series sticking to the original date of 17 November.
Barcelona has emerged as the prime candidate in the race against Qatar, which was previously seen as the most likely alternative.
Jorge Martin, Pramac Racing
Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
Barcelona was the most popular choice in the paddock, as many teams, especially in Moto2 and Moto3, are tight on budget at this stage of the season.
Going back to Doha, where the season started eight months ago in March, would have been a considerable expense for a number of teams.
Although Qatar was seen as the least emotionally problematic situation given the distance to Spain, it would have meant making compromises on the logistical side. Added to that, the Losail circuit was also preparing to host its annual Formula 1 race on 1 December.
On the other hand, riders felt it was acceptable to race in Barcelona, which is located some 400km from Valencia
MotoGP spent Sunday morning hosting meetings with the Calalunya government to finalise the deal to race in Barcelona.
With the agreement in place between two parties, Ezpeleta met the MotoGP teams’ association IRTA at half past nine to provide the latest update on the situation.
In the next few hours, a protocol will be established for those that bought tickets for the original Valencia race.
Following the grand prix, an official test will be held at the same venue on Tuesday, 19 November.
“We thought it was important to tell the riders before they went out on track yesterday, especially those in contention for positions, to confirm that there would be another event on the calendar,” Ezpeleta said on Sunday morning.
“It’s been a very challenging couple of…
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