MOTOGP: Misano gets contract extension

Misano will stay on the MotoGP calendar as the host of the San Marino Grand Prix until at least 2020.

The circuit in the Rimini region first hosted a race in 1980 as the Nations Grand Prix, and was the scene of two Italian GPs in the early '90s before returning as the San Marino GP in 2007. That followed a major redevelopment, which included a change from an anti-clockwise layout to clockwise, while the venue was renamed to honour Italian MotoGP racer Marco Simoncelli after his death in 2011.

A four-year contract extension has now been agreed for the race to continue.

"The confirmation of San Marino and Riviera di Rimini GP for the next four years guarantees the MotoGP calendar a date of great sporting importance," Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta said. "Here it has been possible to reinforce a winning formula between public promoters and the circuit.

"During these 10 years we witnessed an impetuous growth of interest and attention. At the same time, a number of promotional projects are coming out on top, exalting a global cradle of passion for motors, with extraordinary champions and new talents on track.

"The circuit has spent generous and incessant investments to safely welcome spectators and races. There are all the ingredients for further growth."

This weekend's 2016 San Marino Grand Prix is the 13th race of the season, with Honda's Marc Marquez starting with a 50-point championship lead over local hero Valentino Rossi.

Originally on Autosport.com