The Czech Grand Prix will continue to have a home as a deal has been announced to host a round of the MotoGP World Championship until 2020.
The race’s future was uncertain until last August, where a joint venture between the city of Brno and the South Moravian region formed the Czech Grand Prix Association. The association has signed a new five year deal with Dorna, MotoGP commercial rights holder, to see the circuit continue to host the Czech Grand Prix into the next decade.
Talking to AUTOSPORT, Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta stated, “Signing of this agreement is one of the most important acts as far as the World Championship of Motorcycle Road Racing is concerned.
“It is very important for our company, which arranges those races, that the Brno Circuit is a part of the racing for the following years.
“This agreement deals with all the unresolved questions about the holding of races in the past years.”
The circuit first hosted a round of the Moto GP World Championship in 1965 and has been a permanent fixture since 1993, the track becoming notable for its swooping turns and elevation changes.
Further commenting on the matter was Mayor of Brno Petr Vokral.
“A year ago, not only was it hazy outside but the future arrangement of Grand Prix was hazy as well,” he stated.
“I am glad that we have found a way to arrange Moto GP in Brno. The breakpoint was the last year’s agreement to establish the Association, which would have public support.
“I would also like to thank Mr Ezpeleta for his extraordinary patience, which enabled the conclusion of the agreement.
“Now, it guarantees that Moto GP will be held in Brno for next five years.”
Last year’s race was won by eventual series champion Jorge Lorenzo, with Honda’s Marc Marquez in second with Valentino Rossi third. Native rider Karel Abraham was last of the finishers, nearly a lap down on Lorenzo, and will not contest the 2016 MotoGP World Championship after a switch to the Superbike World Championship with BMW.
