MotoGP looking for Valencia alternatives
As the shocking floods in Valencia worsen, MotoGP has made a call to cancel the finale and look for a replacement venue as it promises to assist the relief funds.
At least 205 people have tragically passed away in Spain’s worst flood in decades, with the Valencia region hit the worst.
MotoGP initially announced it was assessing the situation and hoping to keep Circuit Ricardo Tormo as the venue, but just one day later it has officially cancelled the 2024 Valencia Motorcycle Grand Prix.
Despite the news, it is certain this weekend’s Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix will not be the final round of the 2024 MotoGP season and the title fight will carry on.
Jorge Martin could wrap up the championship this weekend at Sepang if he outscores Francesco Bagnaia by 21 points.
It is believed the likes of Qatar, Jerez, Barcelona and Portimao are the circuits being considered as a replacement finale, which is highly unlikely to be held on November 15-17.
“MotoGP stands with the Community of Valencia following the devastating floods that have affected the area. Our hearts are with all those who have been lost and those who have lost so much,” read a MotoGP statement.
“We have been in constant contact with the local authorities and the circuit to best assess how we can help and how we should proceed.
“We have a responsibility to every region where we race that goes far beyond the sport and the events.
“After carefully weighing up the potential positive impact of MotoGP racing in Valencia on delayed dates versus ensuring no single resource is diverted from the recovery efforts by the presence of MotoGP , the championship and local authorities have been obliged to cancel the 2024 Valencia GP.
“In lieu of racing in Valencia, MotoGP will instead race for Valencia, the championship will put our collective efforts behind backing the relief funds already in place to ensure our positive impact can connect with the area in the way it best serves the people and communities we have been part of for so long.
“Our efforts will begin during the Malaysian GP and continue at the final round of 2024, with a new venue and dates to be announced as soon as confirmed.
“Fans around the world, our athletes, and paddock deserve a sporting finale to the 2024 season, and one that can make a key contribution to supporting the communities we race in.
“Any further information regarding the season finale will be confirmed as soon as possible.”
Before the news was announced, Bagnaia revealed he would be willing to sacrifice the chance of a third MotoGP title if the Valencia race went ahead.
“Even at the cost of losing the ultimate goal for me, which is to win the title, I am not willing to race in Valencia,” Bagnaia said.
“I very much hope that they will take into consideration the fact that on an ethical level and with what is happening it is not the right thing to do.”
Image: Gold and Goose
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