Jerez closes for 15 days, puts off MotoGP test

Jerez has announced it has temporarily closed for 15 days amid coronavirus measures meaning the planned MotoGP test will not go ahead.

With the start of the 2020 MotoGP season put on hold due to the cancellation of the premier class Qatar Grand Prix event plus the postponements of the Thailand, United States and Argentina rounds, teams have been assessing testing options.

KTM, Aprilia, Suzuki and Honda had initially all intended to complete a private test at Jerez later this month but due to travel restrictions and plan changes only Honda were expected to take part in the test between March 18-20.

According to GPOne.com, HRC test rider Stefan Bradl and Spanish technicians would form its test team given they did not face travel bans to get to the Spanish MotoGP venue.

But Jerez circuit officials have released a brief statement confirming the track will be shut for 15 days under recommendations from local health authorities in a bid to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

“Circuito de Jerez Ángel Nieto informs that, following the recommendations of the sanitary authorities regarding the restrain measures for the progress of the coronavirus, our facilities will cease all activities for the next 15 days. This deadline may be revised or increased if needed,” a circuit statement read.

MotoGP teams who are not restricted by travel bans amid the coronavirus crisis could look to alternative test venues such as Valencia’s Circuit Ricardo Tormo or Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya but it risks similar health closures being enforced.

Earlier this week Jerez hosted a three-day MotoE pre-season test, while today a private test was cancelled midway through following the circuit closure.

Jerez is set to host the next round of the 2020 MotoGP season, the Spanish GP, on May 1-3.