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MotoGP ‘remains committed’ to finale despite floods

By Thomas Miles

MotoGP has stated it “remains committed” to the season-ending Valencia Motorcycle Grand Prix amid horrific floods, but lends its support to the victims.

The traditional season finale is scheduled to take place on November 15-17, while a post-season test is scheduled for November 19.

In the last 24 hours the Valencia region has been hit by heavy flooding with a month’s worth of rain arriving within eight hours.

Sadly the floods have killed over 50 people and many more are still reported as missing.

The Ricardo Tormo Circuit has been reported as not being damaged by the floods, despite access roads being destroyed and is currently being used as a relief centre.

The 2023 Emila Romagna Motorcycle Grand Prix was cancelled due to 

MotoGP has released a statement on the situation where it asked for the focus to be on supporting those hit by the floods before making a call on the race.

“Everyone is aware of the current situation in Valencia caused by the heavy rains and flooding,” a MotoGP statement read.

“There have sadly been over 50 fatalities in the region and many people are still missing. Our hearts go out to the victims and their loved ones.

“Fortunately there have not been any injuries within the circuit staff but there is extensive damage to the exterior of the facility, specially to the circuit’s access.

“We’ve been informed that the Grand Prix track itself seems to be in good condition although a full evaluation is still ongoing.

“As you will all understand, it would be both insensitive and irresponsible to talk about the event at the current time.

“The focus must continue to be on helping those affected and the circuit is currently being used as a relief centre. As MotoGP we must try to help in anyway possible.

“Nevertheless, both the local authorities and MotoGP remain committed to holding the event on the scheduled date and will work relentlessly to do so.

“We will follow up with more information when it’s available and will communicate as soon as possible if there are changes to the set-up of the event.”

This weekend the penultimate round of the MotoGP title fight between Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin at Malaysia.

Image: Gold Coast/Red Bull Content Pool

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