MotoGP finale moves from Valencia to Barcelona

Emergency teams have been searching for missing people near the Ricardo Tormo Race Track in Valencia following the floods

The MotoGP finale has been switched from Valencia to Barcelona because of the devastating floods in Spain.

The last round of the series was scheduled for the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia but the venue has been impacted by the floods caused by torrential rain.

More than 200 people have been confirmed dead following the floods, with the number expected to rise.

The original date of 15 to 17 November will remain.

"MotoGP made the request to the authorities to race in Barcelona as it was the best possible choice," said MotoGP organisers.

"The track is the easiest option for fans who were already planning to attend the MotoGP season finale. The location and circuit are also the most efficient choice, providing a close to seamless alternative for personnel and logistics."

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya also hosted the sixth round of the championship in May.

Spanish Pramac Ducati rider Jorge Martin leads the standings and has a 24-point advantage over defending champion Francesco Bagnaia.

Martin, 26, finished runner-up in 2023 and is aiming for his maiden MotoGP title.

His 27-year-old Italian rival won back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023 and has a third in his sights.

The last rider who won three titles in succession was six-time MotoGP champion Marc Marquez in 2019.