VALENCIA will not hold the closing race of the MotoGP season even though promoter Dorna Sports plans to hold a race there amidst the flood disaster that hit the area.
Dorna has officially announced plans to cancel the race and is looking for alternative venues to hold the race.
“MotoGP stands with the people of Valencia after the devastating floods that hit the area. Our hearts are with all the people who have been lost and those who have lost a lot,” said a MotoGP statement reported by Motorsport, Friday (1/11).
“We are in constant contact with local authorities and circuits to assess how we can help and how we should proceed. We have a responsibility to every region in which we race that goes far beyond sport and event.”
“After carefully considering the potential positive impact of the MotoGP race in Valencia on the postponed date versus ensuring no resources are diverted from recovery efforts with the presence of MotoGP, the championship and local authorities have been obliged to cancel the 2024 Valencia GP.”
As a form of support for those affected by the flood, MotoGP will hold a race entitled MotoGP Race For Valencia.
“This championship will put our collective efforts to support existing relief funds to ensure our positive impact can connect with the area in the best way to serve the people and communities we have been a part of for so long.”
“Our efforts will begin during the Malaysian GP and continue at the final round of 2024, with venues and dates to be announced as soon as they are confirmed.”
“Further information regarding the end of the season will be confirmed as soon as possible.”
The death toll from the floods reached 158 people on Friday (1/11) although estimates suggest the figure is much higher considering the number of people still missing.
In this context, where up to 20 towns had no drinking water and the army was deployed in the area, Dorna’s directors ultimately came to the conclusion that there appeared to be no possible justification for holding the MotoGP in Valencia. (Z-6)
#Valencia #cancelled
**Interview: Impact of the Valencia GP Cancellation on MotoGP and the Local Community**
**Interviewer:** Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Alex Thompson, a seasoned sports journalist who covers MotoGP extensively. Alex, thank you for joining us.
**Alex Thompson:** Thanks for having me.
**Interviewer:** The recent cancellation of the 2024 Valencia GP due to severe flooding has sent shockwaves through the MotoGP community. What were the primary reasons behind this decision?
**Alex Thompson:** The primary reason was the severe flooding that has impacted the Valencia region. Promoter Dorna Sports made the decision after assessing the conditions and determining that it wouldn’t be safe or feasible to hold the race. Ensuring the safety of the riders, staff, and fans is always a top priority.
**Interviewer:** Dorna Sports mentioned they are in contact with local authorities for alternative venues. How likely is it that the race could be rescheduled?
**Alex Thompson:** While Dorna is looking for alternative venues, rescheduling can be incredibly challenging due to the tight calendar and logistics involved. They need to find a location that meets all the technical requirements, as well as one that is available to host the event within the remaining season. It’s an uphill battle, but not impossible.
**Interviewer:** Given the prominence of MotoGP in the sports world, what’s the potential impact of this cancellation on the local community in Valencia?
**Alex Thompson:** The cancellation of such a high-profile event is significant for local businesses that rely on the influx of visitors and tourism that comes with the GP. Restaurants, hotels, and local shops typically see a surge in business during the event. The flooding disaster has already created hardships, and losing the GP only adds to those challenges. MotoGP has expressed support for the community, but recovery will take time.
**Interviewer:** There’s a sense of unity expressed by MotoGP towards the people of Valencia after this disaster. How important is that message in times like these?
**Alex Thompson:** It’s crucial. Sport often serves as a rallying point during tough times, and expressions of solidarity can have a powerful effect on community morale. MotoGP’s message not only shows empathy but also emphasizes that they are part of the Valencian spirit—standing together through adversity.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Alex, for your insights on this situation. It’s a challenging time for Valencia, and we hope to see them recover swiftly.
**Alex Thompson:** Absolutely. Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** Of course! Keep an eye on how this story unfolds, and we look forward to more updates.