MotoGP looks set to become the latest series to race in Saudi Arabia with the announcement of a Memorandum of Understanding between MotoGP commercial rights holder Dorna and the Gulf state.

The race would take place in a new purpose-built facility, potentially the same one the country has pledged to build when it recently extended its F1 contract to 2030. No time frame has been given for the race, but the deal includes the establishment of a new programme to support young Saudi riders. “As the leading global championship for two-wheel circuit racing, we are thrilled at this opportunity for MotoGP to expand its reach within the Middle East by adding an annual grand prix in Saudi Arabia,” said Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.

The deal has been criticised by some as further evidence of Saudi Arabia ‘sportswashing’ – a term used to describe the practice of using sport to legitimise governments known for questionable human rights records and corruption.