MOTOGP WORLD CHAMPIONS RETURN TO PHILLIP ISLAND FOR A LEGENDARY FAREWELL

MEDIA RELEASE/MotoGP – Photos: Velocity Magazine

Three of Australia’s greatest motorcycle racing champions will unite at the MotoGP™ Grand Prix of Australia 2026, with Mick Doohan, Casey Stoner and Wayne Gardner set to return for a once-in-a-generation celebration of Phillip Island’s proud motorsport history.

Between them, Doohan, Stoner and Gardner have claimed eight premier class World Championship titles and nine premier-class victories at the Phillip Island Circuit. All three have inspired generations of Australian riders and fans, and helped cement Phillip Island’s reputation as one of the most iconic circuits on the calendar.

MotoGP Phillip Island Australian GP 2025

In a special tribute, and a first for the Phillip Island Circuit, the three riders will take to the track together for the Legends Lap on Sunday ahead of the main race, giving fans a rare opportunity to see the country’s most celebrated riders united on the track.

The trio all share special connections with Phillip Island, stretching back to Gardner’s victory at the inaugural Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at the circuit in 1989. Doohan continued Australia’s success in 1998, before Stoner would later make the Island his own, claiming six consecutive MotoGP™ victories from 2007 to 2012, including securing his second World Championship in front of his home crowd in 2011.

Adding to the celebrations, American motorcycle racing legend and 500cc Grand Prix World Champion Kevin Schwantz will join the trio for the Legends Lap. Schwantz claimed 25 premier class Grand Prix victories during his career and became a fan favourite around the world for his distinctive riding style.

MotoGP Phillip Island Australian GP 2025

Mick Doohan’s 1998 World Championship-winning motorcycle will also be on display in the Expo on Friday and Saturday, giving fans the opportunity to see some of the machines behind one of the most dominant periods in Grand Prix motorcycle racing history.

For more information on tickets, visit motogp.com.au/tickets.

Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO, Travis Auld:

“Phillip Island has played a significant role in the racing careers of Casey Stoner, Mick Doohan and Wayne Gardner, and bringing all these champions together for this special celebration is something we know fans will love.”

“These riders helped shape Australian motorcycle racing and inspired generations of competitors and fans. To see them together on track for the Legends Lap will be a memorable moment.”

Former MotoGP™ World Champion, Casey Stoner:

“Phillip Island has given me some of the greatest memories of my career, and it’s a place that will always hold a special place in my heart.”

“I’m excited to be part of this final chapter and to share it with the fans. I know this will be a weekend we’ll remember for years to come.”

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