MOTOGP: Brno secures new deal

MotoGP's future at Brno has been secured, with a new deal to host the Czech Grand Prix through to 2020 now signed.

The future of the race had been in jeopardy before an agreement was struck last August with the newly-formed Czech Grand Prix Association in Brno. The association, a joint venture between the City of Brno and the South Moravian Region, has now signed its new five-year deal with MotoGP's commercial rights holder Dorna.

"Signing of this agreement is one of the most important acts as far as the World Championship of Motorcycle Road Racing is concerned," Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta said. "It is very important for our company, which arranges those races, that the Brno Circuit is a part of the racing for the following years.

"This agreement deals with all the unresolved questions about the holding of races in the past years."

The Czech Grand Prix was first contested at Brno in 1965, and has appeared on the calendar every year since 1993.

"A year ago, not only was it hazy outside but the future arrangement of Grand Prix was hazy as well," Brno mayor Petr Vokral said. "I am glad that we have found a way to arrange Moto GP in Brno. The breakpoint was the last year's agreement to establish the Association, which would have public support.

"I would also like to thank Mr. Ezpeleta for his extraordinary patience, which enabled the conclusion of the agreement. Now, it guarantees that Moto GP will be held in Brno for next five years."

Originally on Autosport.com