The 2021 schedule has been heavily influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, with the original calendar released earlier this year undergoing a number of revisions.
During the year, races in Thailand, Malaysia, Australia, Japan and Finland were canceled, while the Argentina GP, originally planned for April, was postponed indefinitely.
MotoGP and the FIM umbrella organization have now confirmed the cancellation of the event for the second time in a row, although it was never a realistic prospect to hold it in 2021.
After the cancellation of the Pacific Flyaway races, MotoGP has planned the Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin for early October and added a second Portugal race in November.
A second race at Misano has also been added to the schedule to take the place vacated by the Malaysian GP on October 24th.
MotoGP has announced that the event will be known as the Emilia Romagna and Made in Italy Grand Prix.
The season ends in Valencia on November 14, before the first official test of the 2022 season begins in Jerez on November 18 and 19.
Fabio Quartararo, Yamaha Factory Racing leads at the start of the race
Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
“The final calendar for the 2021 FIM MotoGP World Championship can now be confirmed,” said a statement.
“The 2021 season will include a total of 18 grands prix, no further events need to be added.
“The END, IRTA [International race teams’ association] and Dorna Sports therefore regret to confirm the cancellation of the Gran Premio de la Republica Argentina due to force majeure.
“The event was previously postponed, but the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, logistical constraints and previous infrastructure damage made it necessary to cancel.
“MotoGP looks forward to returning to Termas de Rio Hondo in April 2022 to greet the incredible fans who flock to the venue from across South America, with all parties working to extend the collaboration for years to come.
“The name of the second Grand Prix at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, which will take place from October 22nd to 24th, 2021, can also be announced.
“The event will be the Grand Prix of Emilia Romagna and Made in Italy, with helmet maker and long-time partner of MotoGP, Nolan, at the forefront.
“The official name of the event is therefore Gran Premio Nolan del Made in Italy e dell’Emilia Romagna.”
MotoGP’s decision to advance the U.S. race comes amid a dire COVID-19 situation in Austin with hospitals exceeding capacity due to a surge in infections.