HISTORY OF THE PHILLIP ISLAND GRAND PRIX CIRCUIT

The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit boasts a long and storied history, with its origins tracing back to the early 1900s. Initially set up in 1928 on public roads, the circuit soon became a favoured destination for motorsport fans. A dedicated permanent track was later inaugurated on Phillip Island in March 1956.

Phillip Island was initially the venue for the first three Armstrong 500 touring car races, which later evolved into the famous Bathurst 1000. However, the race had to be relocated when the track's condition deteriorated significantly. After closing in 1962, the circuit was bought by former racer Len Lukey, who reopened it in 1967. Following Lukey’s passing in 1978, the track experienced a period of inactivity, but it was revitalised in the mid-1980s by new owners.

This renovation allowed the circuit to host the Motorcycle World Championship rounds in 1989 and 1990. Due to restrictions on tobacco and alcohol advertising in Victoria, the event was removed from the calendar for several years but made a comeback in 1997.

Since then, it has been held annually, except for 2020 and 2021, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced its cancellation.

Here’s a list of the latest MotoGP Australian Grand Prix winners

2019: Marc Márquez (Spain)
2020: Event cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic
2021: Event cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic
2022: Alex Rins (Spain)
2023: Johann Zarco (France)