MotoGP in early talks over return to China

• Chinese Grand Prix was last held between 2005 and 2008
• New bid could involve the likes of KTM’s Chinese partner CFMoto and F1 promoter Juss Sports

MotoGP promoter Dorna Sports is in early discussions to bring the Chinese Grand Prix back to the calendar after nearly two decades.

As first reported by Autosport, an executive delegation led by chief executive Carmelo Ezpeleta and his son, MotoGP sporting director Carlos Ezpeleta, recently travelled to Shanghai to accelerate talks around a potential return as early as 2027.

The Chinese Grand Prix, held from 2005 to 2008, was dropped due to poor attendance, limited promotion and low commercial interest.

BlackBook Motorsport understands that while discussions are underway, they remain in the very early stages and a 2027 comeback, though possible, is not currently the most likely scenario.

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According to Autosport, Dorna’s visit also included a stop at one of CFMoto’s manufacturing facilities. CFMoto is partnered with KTM and is reportedly interested in acquiring KTM’s MotoGP project.

In this context, CFMoto could play a key role in securing the return of a Chinese race, while Juss Sports – the promoter behind the Formula One Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit – is also expected to be involved.

If successful, this would further strengthen MotoGP’s significant footprint in Asia, with events already scheduled in Thailand, Japan, Indonesia and Malaysia – a level of presence unmatched by any other global motorsport series in the region.