RUMOUR: Darwin set to host 2026 MXGP finale – but should the last round be in Europe?

Image: MXGP/Infront Moto Racing

The MXGP World Championship heads to Darwin, Australia, this weekend for the final round of the 2025 season – but it might not be the last time the championship decider that takes place in the Northern Territory. We understand there is an agreement in place for Darwin to also host the 2026 finale, with confirmation expected soon.

There’s no question that MXGP is a world championship, and part of its strength is racing on different continents. However, the decision to stage the final round overseas has sparked debate. Should the series really be deciding its champions on the other side of the world, away from the traditional fanbase in Europe?

Take this weekend as an example: Simon Längenfelder is on the verge of clinching his first MX2 World Championship, but he will only have his girlfriend and team by his side in Australia. His parents will have to watch on television thousands of miles away. Compare that to the atmosphere when Jorge Prado wrapped up his title on home soil in Spain, or when Andrea Adamo won his first world crown at Maggiora, with the Italian crowd erupting in celebration. Those occasions created unforgettable memories both for the riders and the fans.

While international expansion is important, many feel the finale should return to Europe where the atmosphere is electric, and where families and fans can share the biggest moments of the season.

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Image: MXGP/Infront Moto Racing

When we asked the MXGP podium finishers in Arnhem for their views, Romain Febvre admitted he wasn’t too concerned about the location. But Jeffrey Herlings shared a stronger opinion:

“I’d prefer the last rounds of the season to be in Europe, rather than finishing in Australia,” Jeffrey Herlings admitted. “Take Romain for example, his child probably has school. I understand we need to go outside Europe because it’s a world championship, but when there are overseas races, it would be better to have them at the start or middle of the season, so we can finish in Europe. It would be great for Lucas or Romain to win a championship in Europe, in front of their fans and families, not just a few team members. It’s Infront who decides this—it’s business, that’s how it is.”

With all three world titles still undecided heading into Darwin, the stage is set for a dramatic conclusion to the 2025 campaign. But looking ahead, the debate will continue: should the championship be decided overseas, or should the climax of the MXGP season return to Europe to ensure the best possible stage for crowning the champions?