The Taupo Motorcycle Club today announced that it will not be pursuing the option of a MX1 Grand Prix in New Zealand in 2012.

“In the current economic climate, we were unable to raise the money needed to fund such an event and as such, it is not viable for us to continue pursuing this,” said Taupo Motorcycle Club president Geoff Hall.

The club had been awarded provisional hosting rights (subject to funding) for a MX1 Grand Prix based on its success in hosting the 2009 Junior World Motocross Championships and international events in 2006 and 2008.

“We had received positive feedback and excellent support from the Taupo District Council and the New Zealand Government’s Major Events arm, but we were unable to secure the sponsorship dollars required for the licensing fee,” he continued.

“The club is determined to bring an event of this calibre to New Zealand and will continue to work towards that goal, while providing opportunities for New Zealand riders to compete at the highest level possible,” he concluded.

© Photo by Andy McGechan, www.BikesportNZ.com