The new Argentinian circuit has been given the green light to host a grand prix in 2014. Image: MotoGP.com.

Dorna Sports has officially confirmed the return of MotoGP racing to Argentina, with the upgraded Termas de Rio Hondo circuit signed to a three-year contract from 2014 to 2016.

The Gran Premio de la República Argentina had been pencilled in to provisional 2013 calendars but was scrubbed out at the last minute as political issues overrode proceedings.

MotoGP last raced in Argentina in 1999, with Kenny Roberts Jr snatching a win after forcing Max Biaggi into a mistake in the dying stages.

Argentine national tourism minister Enrique Meyer was thrilled to confirm the sport’s return after a long absence.

“It is a great honour to receive this championship in Argentina in addition to other sporting events that take place in our country such as the Dakar Rally,” said Meyer.

“We hope that the Argentine public can enjoy the top class of motorcycle racing, which hasn’t come to our country since 1999, and we will do our best to make sure MotoGP stays in our country for a long time.

The announcement comes amidst a two-day evaluative test featuring a number of current MotoGP and Moto2 riders. Those participating have provided positive feedback to Meyer and visiting national dignitaries.

“We are getting very good reviews from the riders in relation to the circuit, due to the high speed corners in which competitors test their abilities,” added Meyer.

“We are excited to host this event [the test], which serves as preparation for the Grand Prix in 2014.”

MotoGP schedules are traditionally announced mid-to-late September. The 2014 lineup is expected to bring significant change, with a reduction in the number of US and Spanish rounds slated as well as a concerted push into Asia.