Crash marred Australian MotoGP still judged a success

MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi of Italy sprays champagne as he celebrates after winning the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island.Photo / AP

Australian MotoGP organisers are claiming a successful meet after a stunning conclusion to the grand prix weekend.

For a race day that threatened to bore, with three series leaders and favourites on pole position, Sunday proved anything but sleepy.

First, Australian Jack Miller outrode Alex Marquez to claim a much deserved home Moto3 victory.

Lacking straight-line speed on his title rival, the 19-year-old Townsville rider came from eighth on the grid to become the first local winner since Casey Stoner's MotoGP win in 2012.

Then Esteve Rabat's claim to the Moto2 crown was delayed again by Maverick Vinales' terrific ride. Rabat had topped the timing charts for three practice sessions, qualifying and warm-up but could only manage third on Phillip Island.

For the finale, the grand old master of the sport, Valentino Rossi rolled back the years for a record-equalling sixth Australian MotoGP triumph.

MotoGP rider Cal Crutchlow of Britain crashes during the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. Photo / AP

The racing was only matched by punters sprinting to be first to the fence to celebrate with the Italian, who sprayed champagne as winner for the first time since 2005.

This was a glorious outcome to the Phillip Island weekend, attended by around 77,900. A lack of a home-grown winning chance - Australia's sole MotoGP rider Broc Parkes was forced to withdraw mid-race - reduces the patronage of the event.

Casey Stoner's last victory in 2012 attracted 122,000 through the gates.

While Miller's switch to MotoGP in 2015 might boost the gate takings, organisers weren't concerned by this year's turn-out.

"The weekend really has had it all; fantastic weather, a victorious home-grown hero in Jack Miller and a Valentino Rossi victory - we could not be happier," said Australian Grand Prix chief executive Andrew Westacott.

"The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix once again proved why it's one of the most popular events on the calendar, delivering some unforgettable racing across all categories."

Those in attendance included actor Eric Bana and former formula one driver Mark Webber.

-AAP