Cost explosion mortgages British GP
The publication of the provisional 2020 MXGP calendar resulted in a few surprises. One of these was the absence of Matterley Basin in England, although one of the most popular courses. Since 2011, Matterley has hosted the British GP and it has also hosted the MX of Nations twice.
Twenty GPs are on the provisional 2020 FIM Motocross World Championship calendar. Although this is indeed a provisional version of the calendar - 4 locations still need to be confirmed - the absence of probably the most popular races raises questions. OTOR's Adam Wheeler looked for answers for us.
The British GP is traditionally a race with a lot of atmosphere. The last time the circuit near Winchester did not make the final calendar was in 2010. Although no Grand Prix took place in 2017, it was in preparation for the MX Of Nations.
In a statement that organizer Steve Dixon (SD Events') made to mxvice.com he made it clear that he was disappointed in the decision of World Cup promoter YouthStream. On the other hand, Dixon also indicated that he understood that there was a certain cost involved in coming to Britain.
Matterley Basin is on private property and is only used for motorsports one day a year. Only a few basic facilities have been added since the first organization in 2006. Furthermore, a lot of construction work is carried out for each GP. This season the British GP took place unusually early in March. A risky gamble given the fickle, wet climate of our neighbors across the street. Yet this decision had positive consequences. After all, it remained dry and the public turnout was encouraging.
The costs associated with organizing the British GP in Matterley Basin were also the basis for YouthStream's decision. “We have always been very happy with the relationship we have with Dixon and the GP organization but the main problem in Britain is the budget. The costs associated with the British GP make it very difficult to achieve a positive balance,” explained YouthStream's Vice President David Luongo.
“The income from local partners and ticket sales is not sufficient to cover the costs. The British GP is one of the most expensive events on the calendar. Firstly, because all on-site support services are so expensive in the British market and because everything has to be built from scratch again and again. In contrast to other countries, there is also little support from local or central government for such an international organization.”
Luongo also indicated the future for a possible return to Matterley Basin was not bleak. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Brexit. “I can assure you that we are in constant dialogue with the organizer to find a solution for the future.”
For 2020, the provisional World Cup calendar does mention the return of the Swiss GP in Frauenfeld after the Swiss had to cancel in 2019. Also back is a Grand Prix in Spain. There it would be between Talavera de la Reina (Madrid), Motorland Aragon or Jarama.
Tekst: Adam wheeler/Tom Jacobs
Photos: Ray Archer
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