Fifth record in a row: MotoGP Sachsenring breaks the 260,000-fan mark for the first time!

The MotoGP boom at the Sachsenring shows no sign of abating. With a total of 261,831 spectators, the 2026 Motorcycle Grand Prix set a new attendance record, breaking the 260,000-fan mark for the first time. At the same time, it was the fifth consecutive attendance record for the German World Championship round, the long-term future of which is to be secured beyond the current contract’s expiry in 2031.

The new record figure breaks down into 70,754 spectators on Thursday and Friday, 92,654 on Saturday and 98,423 on race day. The grandstands, in particular, were completely sold out on Saturday and Sunday. The record-breaking weekend was boosted by summery weather, top-class racing and a peaceful atmosphere around the historic circuit near Hohenstein-Ernstthal.

A peaceful and passionate MotoGP party in Saxony

“Enthusiasm for the Motorcycle Grand Prix reached new heights this weekend. 261,831 visitors celebrated a peaceful motorsport festival,” explained ADAC Sports President Dr Gerd Ennser. He expressed particular pride in the fan culture, which has been recognised as part of Saxony’s cultural heritage since this year. “With this peaceful motorsport festival, the visitors have impressively demonstrated what this culture means.”

Even setting aside the record figures, Ennser emphasised the significance of the German Grand Prix. “We look forward to being here every year. There’s a fantastic atmosphere at the Sachsenring,” he stressed. The Sachsenring is now Germany’s second-largest single sporting event.

“Even Wimbledon has fewer spectators. Only the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring attracts more spectators.” For Ennser, one thing is certain: “Saxony and the region can be incredibly proud. The atmosphere here is unique in Germany, perhaps even in the whole of Europe.” The Free State of Saxony also plays a significant part in this. “We receive outstanding support from the State of Saxony.”

Liberty Media does not want any other venue

ADAC Head of Motorsport Thomas Voss sees the Sachsenring as an integral part of the MotoGP calendar. “When you speak to those in charge at Dorna or Liberty Media, you get the sense that they don’t just want a Grand Prix in Germany. They want this Grand Prix to take place at the Sachsenring. People identify with this race,” explained Voss.

Der Grand Prix 2026 war eine große Sommerparty

Foto: Gerhard Schiel

However, it is also clear that staging the race is significantly more challenging than at permanent circuits. “We have a lot of work to do in terms of infrastructure and set-up. But everyone tackles these tasks with great enthusiasm. This is the only way such a successful event can be created and sustained over the years.”

Despite rising costs, the organisers want to keep the Grand Prix affordable for a wide audience. “We’re aware that the event is costly to stage. We want to ensure that it remains accessible. That starts with ticket prices and extends to the prices at the catering stalls. We’ve got that well under control because we have many years of experience. We need to build on that and ensure it continues beyond 2031,” announced Voss.

Michael Kretschmer: “Motorsport is very welcome here!”

Saxony’s Minister-President Michael Kretschmer, who presented Grand Prix winner Marc Marquez with the winner’s trophy on Sunday afternoon, also emphasised the importance of the event. “This record attendance shows just how deeply rooted motor sport is here. People have motor oil and petrol running through their veins – they love it,” said the CDU politician.

Michael Kretschmer (CDU) steht voll und ganz hinter dem Sachsenring-GP

Foto: Gerhard Schiel

At the same time, he praised the collaboration with the ADAC: “It is anything but a given. It is the result of hard work by the ADAC, which is a superb partner. Of course, we’ve also had difficult discussions, but these were always fair and ultimately successful.”

For the state government, the Motorcycle Grand Prix is far more than just a motorsport event. “We see this event as a contribution to elite sport in Germany. We also regard the event as a major economic driver for the region. Motorsport is very welcome here,” emphasised Kretschmer.

Attention is now already turning to next year. In 2027, the Sachsenring will celebrate its 100th anniversary, for which the organisers have announced numerous special events and an expanded supporting programme. Advance ticket sales for the anniversary event began on Sunday at 4 pm. Although the exact date of the 2027 German Grand Prix has not yet been finalised, Voss expects the race to take place at this time of year once again. “It’s proved its worth. One reason for the huge turnout on Friday was the fact that we’re already on holiday.”