The Finocchiaro CLP Government's year of action, certainty and security roared onto the global sporting stage as Darwin hosted the FIM Motocross World Championship for the first time in 24 years - thrilling motorsport fans with more than 36,000 attendances and crowning three new World Champions in the Top End.
From Friday to Sunday, Hidden Valley Motor Sports Complex came alive with the sound of the world's best riders battling it out on a purpose-built, world-class track. The electric atmosphere cemented Darwin as a premier destination for international sporting events and showcased the Territory's unique lifestyle to a global audience.
The action-packed weekend delivered unforgettable racing in the final round of the MXGP season, incredible energy from the crowd, and a showcase of Territory hospitality - with around 58% of fans travelling from interstate and overseas to be part of history.
Minister for Major Events and Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby, said the high-octane weekend not only thrilled motorsport fans but also delivered a significant boost to the local economy during our shoulder season and showcased the Territory's unique lifestyle on the world stage.
"This event highlights the CLP Government's commitment to delivering world-class experiences that benefit the Territory's economy and community - from our local businesses to our hospitality venues and tourism operators," Ms Boothby said.
"With tickets for next year's event already on sale and the date locked in for September 18-20, 2026, eager fans can secure their spot early and gear up for even more thrilling action."
The first-ever State Challenge saw 86 of Australia's best young riders battle in the MX85 and MX3 classes. Ollie Birkitt (KTM, WA) claimed MX85 honours ahead of Sidney Stephenson (GASGAS, QLD) and Declan Smart (GASGAS, SA), while Ky Woods (Yamaha, NSW) dominated MX3 with three straight wins, finishing ahead of Riley Burgess (KTM, NSW) and Kayden Strode (Honda, VIC). Queensland secured the overall State Challenge trophy, with Western Australia second and NSW third.
On the world stage, French rider Romain Febvre (Kawasaki) was crowned MXGP World Champion, Germany's Simon Längenfelder (KTM) took MX2, and Dutch rider Lotte van Drunen (Yamaha) secured the Women's Motocross World Championship (WMX).
Beyond the track, the Territory lifestyle was on show with a Tourism Hub, a Million Dollar Fish activation, a reptile zoo, and Flavours of the Territory showcasing local food. The MXGP Rider Signing Session at the Darwin Waterfront on Friday also drew huge crowds.
Infront Moto Racing CEO David Luongo said:
"The return of MXGP to Australia after 24 years has been a historic milestone for our championship. The images and atmosphere from this weekend, along with the amazing track, will travel around the world, showcasing the beauty of the Northern Territory and the excitement of MXGP."
Motorcycling Australia CEO Peter Doyle said:
"The return of the FIM Motocross World Championship to Australia has been a resounding success, and it's been a delight to see spectators line the circuit cheering on all the riders - from the stars of tomorrow in the MA Motocross State Challenge to the global superstars of the sport."
Motorcycling NT CEO Cilla Thomas said:
"The debut of the MXGP of Australia in Darwin is a game-changer for our young Territory Dingoes team. It not only inspires the next generation to dream big but also gives them the chance to witness and learn from the world's best on home soil."
The MXGP was delivered by the Northern Territory Major Events Company in partnership with MXGP rights holder Infront Moto Racing and Motorcycling Australia.
Three-day Hot Pass tickets for 2026 are on sale now at mxgpaustralia.com.au [http://mxgpaustralia.com.au/] at 2025 prices for a limited time, with exclusive Paddock access so fans can get up close with riders and their teams.
