The 70th Macau Grand Prix is gearing up to be a riveting spectacle, especially with the 55th Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix scheduled as a part of its adrenaline-filled weekend. From November 16 to 18, 2023, the historic streets of Macau will roar to life with the sound of world-class superbikes, piloted by some of the most acclaimed racers in the sport.
With big names from renowned teams and a lineup of 23 racers, the event promises unparalleled excitement. Especially notable is the participation of legends like Peter Hickman from FHO Racing BMW Motorrad, known for his prowess in the Isle of Man TT. After a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Macau GP is making a triumphant return, and fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting what could be the most exhilarating weekend in recent memory.
Macau Grand Prix
Date: November 16-18, 2023
Venue: Macau Grand Prix Circuit
Time Zone: Macau Standard Time (12 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time)
55th Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix
Schedule (Macau Standard Time)
Thursday, November 16:
- 07:45 a.m. to 08:30 a.m.: Free Practice
Friday, November 17:
- 08:00 a.m. to 08:45 a.m.: Qualifying
Saturday, November 18:
- 07:40 a.m. to 08:00 a.m.: Warm-up
- 08:30 a.m.: Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix Race (12 laps)
Racers
Participating Racers (Total: 23):
- Samuel Edward West – moto-hub.co.uk by MGM Macau
- Davey John Todd – Burrows Engineering/RK Racing
- Michael Karl Rutter – FHO Racing BMW Motorrad
- Paul Williams – Paul Potchy Williams
- Mark David Goodings
- Lukas Randy Maurer
- David Ian Johnson – Dafabet Racing
- Paul Alan Jordan – Zero Up Racing Team by Penz 13
- Michael Robin Montague
- Timothee Sylvestre Monot
- Erno Juhani Kostamo
- Robert Thomas Hodson
- Nadieh Jonee Schoots – Basomba Racing
- David Mario Datzer
- Philippe Edward Crowe
- Joseph William
- Olivier Lupberger – Team Lupi by Heiger Motorsport
- Peter John Hickman – FHO Racing BMW Motorrad
- Julian Trummer – WH Racing powered by Dynobike
- Dominic Herbertson – Dafabet Racing
- Brian John MC Cormack
- Kamil Holan – Blue Garage
- Joshua Andrew Brookes – FHO Racing BMW Motorrad
The hosting and participation in the 70th Macau Grand Prix, especially the 55th Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix, brings along numerous benefits. Here’s a breakdown:
- Economic Boost: Large events like the Macau Grand Prix often bring substantial financial benefits to the host city. There’s an influx of tourists, leading to increased spending on hotels, restaurants, and local attractions.
- Global Exposure: Broadcasting the event worldwide offers Macau significant international exposure. It reinforces the city’s status as a prime destination for world-class sporting events.
- Local Job Opportunities: The event’s planning, organization, and execution can generate employment opportunities for local residents in areas like event management, hospitality, and transportation.
- Infrastructure Development: Big events often act as catalysts for infrastructure improvements, which can have lasting benefits for the host city.
- Sports Promotion: The Grand Prix can inspire local residents, especially the youth, to take up motorsports or other sporting activities, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
- Cultural Exchange: With racers and fans coming in from various parts of the world, there’s an opportunity for cultural exchange, fostering understanding and camaraderie among different nationalities.
- Business Opportunities: Local businesses, especially those related to tourism, entertainment, and hospitality, see a surge in clientele. This can also be an opportune time for businesses to establish long-term connections.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Some of the biggest names in motorcycle racing will be participating, including Peter Hickman, Erno Kostamo, and David Datzer. | The Macau Grand Prix is a notoriously dangerous race, and there is always a risk of serious injury or even death. |
| The event is back in full force after a shaky restart due to the COVID-19 pandemic. | The race is being held in Macau, which is a long way to travel for many fans. |
| The schedule is packed with action, with free practice, qualifying, warm-up, and the race itself all taking place over three days. | The time difference between Macau and many other parts of the world may make it difficult for fans to watch the race live. |
Key Highlights
- Three-time Macau GP winner Peter Hickman is participating under the banner of FHO Racing BMW Motorrad. He is also a renowned name in the Isle of Man TT.
- Erno Kostamo, the winner from the previous year, will be defending his title.
- Last year’s runner-up, David Datzer, is back, aiming to overcome his second-place finish from the previous year.
The Macau GP is setting the stage for an exhilarating weekend of motorcycle racing. After grappling with challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in the past, this year promises to be one of the most thrilling events in recent history. Race enthusiasts and fans are gearing up for a weekend full of speed, competition, and unmatched excitement.
Macau Grand Prix , Road Racing World
