Finnish MotoGP axed as Austria grows to double-header

MotoGP’s return to Finland for the first time in almost 30 years haa been delayed back to the 2022 MotoGP season as a consequence of lingering concerns over the COVID-19 crisis.

To be held at the new purpose-built Kymi Ring near the town of Kouvola, it was to be the first international motorsport short circuit event to take place since 1982 when the last of Finnish GP events in Imatra was held.

Finland’s return was originally scheduled for 2020 though it became one of several events to be pushed back to the following year. While another 12 month wait isn’t ideal for what will be the northernmost race on the calendar, it has signed an extended deal to host MotoGP until 2026 to compensate.

For now the MotoGP season will continue to consist of 19 events with the 8 August slot to be taken by the Grand Prix of Styria, one of two events being held at the Red Bull Ring in Austria.

The delay to the Finnish MotoGP will likely give organisers another shot at adjusting the layout after the first test at the circuit in 2019 drew lukewarm reviews from the riders.

2021 MotoGP CALENDAR