The MXGP World Championship will once again be decided on Australian soil, with the MXGP of Australia presented by Sitzler returning to Darwin from September 18-20 as the championship-deciding final round of the 2026 season.
The release of the provisional on-track timetable confirms a packed three-day schedule. Action gets underway on Friday with the all-Australian MX3 and MX85 State Challenge, where teams from across the country will battle for national honours.
For the first time, Australian support classes will also race on Saturday morning, giving fans additional local racing before the world championship categories take centre stage.
Saturday, September 19, marks the start of the international competition, with MXGP, MX2 and WMX riders taking to the track for practice sessions, qualifying races and the opening race of the FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship (WMX).
Sunday will see the intensity reach its peak as the final WMX race and two motos each for MXGP and MX2 determine the outcome of the 2026 season. With world championship titles on the line, Darwin is once again set to become the centre of the motocross world.
The world’s best MXGP and MX2 riders will descend on Hidden Valley Raceway for a weekend of top-level competition. They will be joined by the final round of the WMX Championship and a number of Australian wildcard riders eager to test themselves against the sport’s elite. The names of the wildcard entries will be announced at a later date.
Fans can look forward to close racing on Hidden Valley’s purpose-built 1.6-kilometre circuit, where Australian wildcard riders in all three international classes will line up alongside some of the biggest names in the sport.
In another boost for the event, Sitzler has signed on as Presenting Partner of the MXGP of Australia for 2026 and the following three years. The agreement further strengthens Darwin’s position on the international motocross calendar and underlines the long-term future of MXGP in the Northern Territory.
Tickets are already on sale, with a range of options available for fans. Premium hospitality packages, including the Skybox and Valley View Terrace, offer exclusive viewing opportunities, while more affordable options such as the Holeshot Hotel provide a premium general admission experience.
A three-day Hot Pass is available for AUD 150, while day tickets start at AUD 45. Children aged 12 and under receive free admission when accompanied by a paying adult. Fans can also upgrade their experience with a AUD 30 Paddock Pass, providing behind-the-scenes access throughout the event.
Beyond the racing, visitors will have the opportunity to combine the MXGP weekend with everything the Northern Territory has to offer, including national parks, wildlife experiences, fishing adventures, waterfront dining and trips to iconic destinations such as Kakadu.
Tourism and Events NT CEO Suzana Bishop welcomed the return of the event:
“Following an incredible debut last year, we are thrilled to welcome the MXGP of Australia back to Darwin as the championship-deciding finale of the 2026 season. It provides Australian fans with a unique opportunity to see the world’s best motocross riders compete for world championship honours on home soil while experiencing everything that makes the Top End so special.”
Infront Moto Racing CEO David Luongo believes Darwin has firmly established itself on the MXGP calendar:
“Darwin has earned its place on the MXGP World Championship calendar. The Hidden Valley circuit consistently produces spectacular racing, while the passion of the Australian fans creates a unique atmosphere for riders and teams. We are building a permanent fixture on the global motocross map and look forward to returning in September.”
Motorcycling Australia CEO Peter Doyle expects another memorable edition:
“The MXGP of Australia is set to deliver three days of outstanding motocross competition, beginning with Australia’s top junior talent and culminating in a thrilling championship finale on Sunday. With strong Australian wildcard riders joining the field, fans can expect plenty of action throughout the weekend.”
Sitzler Director Michael Sitzler also highlighted the significance of the event:
“As a Territory company, we are proud to have played a role in delivering this facility and equally proud to support the event as presenting partner. Events like this create opportunities, attract visitors, support local communities and provide infrastructure that Territorians can be proud of.”
