MXGP of Australia one month away with huge off‑track program
With just one month to go before the highly anticipated MXGP of Australia presented by Sitzler returns to Darwin from 18-20 September, a huge off‑track program has been unveiled. The world’s premier motocross series is set to take over the Top End, transforming Hidden Valley into a festival‑style experience featuring sand pits, reptile encounters, helicopter flights, kids’ entertainment, outback shows and interactive motocross zones, delivering an unforgettable weekend for visitors and locals alike.
On Friday, 18 September, following a full day of State Challenge racing, the Darwin Waterfront will once again host the exclusive MXGP Rider Signing Session from 4.30pm to 7pm. From 5.30pm, fans can meet the sport’s biggest stars from the MXGP and WMX categories, get autographs, have merchandise signed, and snap photos with the MXGP championship trophy. Across the weekend, Hidden Valley Motorsports Complex will come alive with world‑class racing on a purpose‑built 1.6‑kilometre circuit, but this year, the off‑track entertainment will be bigger than ever.
Families can explore the new Superior Sands Sandpit, delivered in partnership with Superior Sands, offering electric trucks, diggers and toys for kids to dig, build and play like real operators. A treasure‑hunt element will see giveaways and prizes hidden throughout the sand. The PROTRAXX Chill Zone will immerse fans in the world of motocross with start‑gate reaction challenges, mini track‑building stations using official MXGP dirt, e‑bike test rides, a giant inflatable ride track, and the Track Designer Challenge with daily prizes. Custom Tiny Track Co tables will encourage creativity and hands‑on fun for young riders.
Golden Guitar winner Tom Curtain will delight fans with the Katherine Outback Experience, delivering three high‑energy shows each day featuring working dogs, liberty horses, whip‑cracking, sack races, barrel races, goat‑rounding displays and Tom’s signature crowd‑interactive performance, riding a horse while singing and playing guitar.
Spectators can take their MXGP experience to new heights with Kakadu Air scenic helicopter flights over the circuit and Darwin city, offering a breathtaking bird’s‑eye view of the racing action and the Top End landscape. Reptile Territory will introduce fans to baby crocodiles, pythons, lizards and selected endangered species, with handlers roaming the precinct and hospitality areas to create memorable photo opportunities and educational encounters.
A dedicated Kids’ Entertainment Program will feature roving entertainers, balloon twisting, face painting, sensory play and photo opportunities across the site, while the expanded Students Program returns on Friday. The iconic double‑decker Big Bus will once again transform into the Best Seats in the House, offering elevated views across the circuit.
Last year marked the historic return of the FIM Motocross World Championship to Australia after a 24‑year hiatus, with Darwin hosting the season’s electrifying finale. Delivered by Tourism and Events NT in partnership with MXGP rights‑holder Infront Moto Racing and Motorcycling Australia, MXGP of Australia remains one of the musts‑see events on the Top End calendar.
Fans can now secure their place at one of Australia’s biggest motorsport events, with a range of ticket options available. The Holeshot Hotel offers a relaxed Territory‑style premium experience, with Friday access from $275. A 3‑Day Hot Pass starts at $150, giving fans entry to every race across the weekend, while day passes begin at $45. Any ticket can be upgraded with a $30 Paddock Pass for exclusive behind‑the‑scenes access.
Returning in 2026 is the Valley View Terrace, an 18+ premium hospitality experience with unrivalled views over the valley, Pit Garages and finish line. Guests will enjoy an air‑conditioned marquee, premium seating, an outdoor terrace and six hours of premium food and beverage service. For race details and to purchase tickets visit mxgpaustralia.com.au. here
Quotes from Tourism and Events NT Executive Director of Events, Aimee Luxton:
“With just one month to go, excitement is building as the MXGP of Australia prepares to roar back into Darwin. This year’s event delivers world‑class racing alongside an incredible off‑track program that showcases the Territory’s unique culture, food and experiences.
“Hosting the MXGP strengthens our position on the international motorsport calendar and highlights why the Territory is a must‑visit destination for major events. We’re proud to support this global spectacle and look forward to welcoming the world’s best riders, and thousands of fans, to the Top End to experience everything the Territory has to offer, from great hospitality to adventure on the water and encounters with our famous crocs.”
Quotes from Infront Moto Racing Representative:
“One month from now, the 2026 MXGP season will reach its conclusion in Darwin. Twelve months ago, we came back to Australia after 24 years and the Top End delivered a Grand Prix that people are still talking about. Hidden Valley has earned its place as the venue where our season ends. MXGP, MX2 and WMX, three days, and the last word of the year.”
Quotes from Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle:
“We’ve got so much to look forward to in Darwin as the three star-studded world championship classes crown new champions, while there will be over 100 Australians competing either as wildcards or in the MA Motocross State Challenge – opportunities that simply didn’t exist before FIM world championship motocross returned to Australia.
“Fierce competition, family-friendly activations and the renowned Top End hospitality will make for a compelling three days of entertainment.”
