Australian GP Sprint Race at Phillip Island Cancelled Due to Strong Winds

Michelle L.

October 23, 2023

The MotoGP sprint race in the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island will not be taking place due to adverse weather conditions.

The Australian GP Sprint at the Phillip Island circuit was called off just thirty minutes before the scheduled 13-lap race today. This decision came after wet and windy weather disrupted track activities on Sunday morning.

Anticipating worsening weather conditions, the organizers had rearranged the weekend’s schedule. The Grand Prix will take place on Saturday with the Sprint on Sunday.

Despite acceptable conditions during the morning warm-up, the Moto3 race proceeded as planned. However, the Moto2 race came to a halt due to strong winds when the race was about two-thirds in. Consequently, the organizers opted to cancel the remaining racing activities for the day.

On Saturday’s 27-lap main event, Zarco, riding for Pramac Ducati, claimed victory, surpassing championship leader Francesco Bagnaia.

Meanwhile, Jorge Martin experienced a sudden drop from the first position to the fifth spot during the final lap. As a result, Bagnaia will enter the upcoming Thailand Grand Prix at Buriram with a 27-point lead over Martin. With four weekends remaining, the championship outcome hangs in the balance.