MotoGP is in Phillip Island for the final time, and it turns out the riders are just as sad about that fact as the fans.

The iconic circuit off the coast of Melbourne has hosted the Australian Grand Prix since 1997 and brought some of the most famous races in motorcycling history.

The location in itself is spectacular, next to a beach where tourists regularly flock to watch penguins arrive, but the track is on another level.

Like a rollercoaster with sweeping corners and spectacular drops, it’s clear that next year’s Adelaide Grand Prix will have plenty to live up to.

Tributes have been rolling in throughout the weekend, and none have been stronger than from Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia.

Bagnaia saddened by MotoGP Phillip Island departure

“It's a huge shame, as riders, we've always had a lot of fun on this track,” he said.

“There have also been some uncomfortable situations due to the wind and rain, but it's always been spectacular to ride here.

“It's a shame that our history with Phillip Island will end this year. We'll all miss it."

Also speaking in the mixed zone, Honda’s Diogo Moreira added: “We need to enjoy this track; for me, it’s my favourite one.”

Then came the riders’ press conference, and it didn’t take long until tributes were paid to not just the circuit, but the famous family atmosphere around it.

Every corner on the island is iconic (Credit: Red Bull Content Pool)

Bezzecchi and Fernandez remember special Phillip Island moments

Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi was asked about his favourite memories and said: “The barbecues with the team; we always live in close contact here. And then the closeness with the fans.

"The emotions I've always felt here have always been fantastic, especially with MotoGP. It's a special weekend; the beach is close by, and we're surrounded by nature. It was great to battle here in this beautiful place."

Fellow 2026 race winner Raul Fernandez added: "I'll always remember the memories of the time I spent with the team, the barbecues. The stories of this place—it's something that will stay with me.

“My first win on this track is my fondest memory. It's a track that forces you not to make mistakes. I've seen many races here in the past during my career; it was a beautiful track."

For the final words, we turn to Australia’s home hero Jack Miller, who will be leaving MotoGP at the end of the season, much like Phillip Island.

Weather also makes Phillip Island unlike any other (Credit: Red Bull Content Pool)

Jack Miller explains why Phillip Island is unlike any other circuit

"Here you stay in homes, not hotels or motorhomes,” he began. “It's a completely different experience.

“Every time you come to the island, it's different from the rest of the world, including the weather.

"Riding here on a MotoGP bike is something special; you dance with the bike: it flops around, it does wheelies, you can never fully attack, but you have to manage, and this makes it all very fun.

"It's one of the most iconic tracks on the calendar, and it's produced some of the greatest races in history. It's my last time here in MotoGP, but looking back, I see so many great things.”