The Wait is Over: MXGP of Australia to make its Top End debut this weekend

The world’s premier motocross series is set to take over the Top End, as the MXGP of Australia roars into Hidden Valley Motor Sport Complex this weekend, from Friday, 19 to Sunday, 21 September.

The FIM Motocross World Championship returns to Australian soil for the first time in 24 years, with three World Champions to be crowned on the purpose-built track in Darwin.

Fans will be immersed in high-octane action across the weekend as they witness some of the biggest names in motocross go head-to-head, including Romain Febvre (FRA), Glenn Coldenhoff (NED), and Tim Gajser (SLO) in the MXGP category, and Sacha Coenen (BEL), Kay de Wolf (NED) and Simon Längenfelder (GER) in the MX2 class.

The adrenaline-charged weekend will also feature a round of the Women’s Motocross World Championship (WMX), with Australia hosting the competition for the first time. Fans will see the raw talents of Lotte van Drunen (NED), Daniela Guillen (ESP), and Kiara Fontanesi (ITA) in action.

“Motocross competition at the highest level is captivating, and to see the world’s best riders performing in Australia again after a long 24 years is a momentous occasion,” said Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle. “The world championship athletes are fast, fearless, supremely gifted and extraordinarily competitive, and they’ll all be pushing hard to end the 2025 season on a high.”

The 1.6-kilometre track, designed and built by Australia’s leading motocross track builders, Protraxx, features 22 corners, 21 jumps, and a 90-metre start straight, while unique elements including a rolling waves section, a triple step-up, and 30-metre jumps, ensure both technical complexity and heart-pumping action.

The on-track program kicks off on Friday, 19 September with a uniquely Australian flavour, as the State Challenge showcases the nation’s rising motocross stars in the MX3 and MX85 classes. Following the day of racing a free Rider Signing Session will take place at the Darwin Waterfront from 4:30pm to 7:00pm, where fans can meet some of the world’s best riders alongside stunt shows, live music plus entertainment.

“For our local riders, lining up against the best in Australia on a purpose-built international track is the stuff dreams are made of,” said Motorcycling Australia NT CEO, Cilla Thomas. “It’s their chance to showcase their skills, determination, and what being ‘Territory Tuff’ is all about. This event isn’t just about the racing, it’s about inspiring the next generation, celebrating our community, and leaving a legacy that will be felt long after the chequered flag falls.”

Off the track, the Territory takes centre stage with an immersive Tourism Hub, Million Dollar Fish activation, reptile zoo and Flavours of the Territory – a unique culinary showcase of local food. Adding to the atmosphere, there will be stunt displays and the Protraxx Kids’ Zone to keep the whole family entertained.

For fans who can’t make it to the track, selected races will be broadcast live nationally on both free-to-air and subscription television. The final races of the 2025 MXGP Championship on Sunday, 21 September will air live on Channel 9’s network — with audiences in Darwin, Sydney, and Brisbane tuning into 9Gem, while viewers in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth can watch on 9Rush. Stan Sport will also provide four hours of dedicated live coverage of both MXGP and MX2 categories on the final day of championship racing.

Delivered by the Northern Territory Major Events Company, in partnership with MXGP rights-holder Infront Moto Racing and Motorcycling Australia, this international sporting spectacle promises to be a highlight of the global motocross calendar.

Tickets are selling fast, starting from just $45 for single-day entry. Kids 12 and under are free with a paying adult, and 3-Day Hot Passes are available for $150. Limited premium experiences remain, including the iconic Skybox and one-day tickets for Friday and Saturday at the family-friendly Holeshot Hotel. You can also get a behind-the-scenes Paddock Pass upgrade for $30.

For tickets, the full event program, race times, and all other details, visit mxgpaustralia.com.au. You can also pre-order a collector’s program online for just $10, with a limited number also available at the event for $12.