MotoGP finalizes 2021 calendar, Argentina GP officially canceled

The 2021 timetable 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 umbrella organization of the FIM 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.

Valentino Rossi, Yamaha Factory Racing

Valentino Rossi, Yamaha Factory Racing

Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images

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.

“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 República 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 more years.

“The name of the second Grand Prix at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, which will take place from October 22nd to 24th, 2021, can also be announced.

“The event will be the Emilia Romagna and Made in Italy Grand Prix, with helmet maker and long-time MotoGP partner 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.

Definitely revised MotoGP calendar 2021

10-12 September Aragon GP Aragon
17th-19th September San Marino GP Misano
1-3 October America GP Circuit of the Americas
22.-24. October Emilia Romagna GP Misano
5th-7th November Algarve GP Portimão
12-14 November Valencia GP Ricardo Tormo racetrack