The track project was first conceived in 2007, and by 2019, as part of a five-year contract with promoter Dorna Sports, the project was ready to host a small MotoGP test ahead of next season’s MotoGP.

But the first two attempts to host the event failed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and any plans to hold the event behind closed doors have been hampered by poorly constructed paddocks and passageways.

Then, the Russia-Ukraine conflict revives in time for 2022 as supply chains are disrupted and Finland announces its intention to join NATO.

KymiRing’s MotoGP debut was delayed until this year because the track could not be certified in time. But ongoing financial problems mean the developer has been placed under administration.

However, Bottas said he had held initial discussions with circuit chiefs to see if the project could be revived, with the venue being built to FIA Grade 1 standards, making it possible to host F1 races.

“I’d love to see a proper circuit in Finland, a proper international circuit. But the problem is, the circuit company is bankrupt now. So, it’s not easy to do that,” Bottas said. .

Valtteri Bottas, Alfa Romeo C43

Photography: Alfa Romeo

“But I’ve been talking to them to see if there’s anything I can do to help or do something. At the moment, that’s all: just talk. But it’s not easy.

“Finland, being a nice place in winter, means at least no driving in winter. I’ll see if there’s a chance.”

According to the track’s website, its “biggest owners” are the Finnish Motorcycle Association, AKK Sports Marketing, A. Ahlstrom Real Estate Investments and Litty District.

KymiRing is reportedly owed 25 million euros and contract penalties are also related to the canceled MotoGP rounds and the Nitro Rallycross and World Motocross series having to relocate. The track’s social media channels have been inactive for seven months.

Finland has not hosted a World Championship-level motorcycle race on the Imatra street circuit since 1982.