MX Nats no certainty for 2020

This year’s season was due to kick off in May, but the onset of the coronavirus pandemic saw a new calendar drafted and the start date pushed back to August.

In May, before any racing had commenced, long-term MX Nationals promoter, Williams Event Management (WEM) announced they’d be stepping down from managing the series at the end of 2020. On 26 June, that decision was brought forward, with WEM citing the impact of the coronavirus in announcing they would end their involvement with the championship, effective immediately.

The gulf left by WEM’s absence has since been filled by Motorcycling Australia (MA) who confirmed on 10 July they’d take on promotion and management. Conversations commenced with a number of clubs and venues, with a view to a condensed five- or six-round championship, confined to the eastern states and starting in September.

Initial progress with this initiative has now been halted due to second wave coronavirus outbreaks that led to the reintroduction of restricted movements and border closures.

On 23 July, MA released an update, announcing that they still hope to start the 2020 MX Nationals in September, but the fresh virus outbreaks have forced a re-evaluation of their planning.

“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, MA has constantly and closely monitored the heath crisis developments and has regularly been in consultation with the national sporting body – Sports Australia - and government departments to receive the latest updates and advice.  The recent COVID-19 outbreaks in Victoria and NSW over the past two weeks, and the increasing restrictions being imposed, have forced a re-evaluation of the original September to November although we are still hopeful of a late September start if possible.
“These circumstances have now resulted in a delay in announcing the 2020 Australian Motocross calendar as MA, its partners and its host clubs work tirelessly to ensure a multi round championship is possible for 2020.
“All efforts are still focussed on an east coast based championship, but any final decision and announcements will depend on government COVID-19 rules and regulations at that time. MA remains committed to communicating regularly with the national MX community as updates become available.
“Further announcements will be made in due course.”