Image: Supplied.

The Australian MotoGP Grand Prix race at Phillip Island has been moved forward to tomorrow, effectively trading places with the sprint race in a bid to proactively prepare for the inclement weather forecast.

Heavy winds and rain are predicted on Sunday at Phillip Island, and as result, the full-length GP race will be contested tomorrow, with the sprint shuffled back to Sunday.

“Due to inclement weather forecast for Sunday the 22nd of October, the schedule for the MotoGP Guru by Gryfyn Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix has been updated,” a statement from MotoGP read. “This decision has been taken proactively in order to guarantee the best and safest possible show for all competitors and fans attending Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit this weekend.

“The MotoGP™ Grand Prix race will now take place on Saturday the 21st of October at 15:10 local time (GMT +11). The Tissot Sprint is now scheduled to begin at 14:00 on Sunday the 22nd of October, weather permitting.”

Action commenced at the Australian MotoGP today at Phillip Island, with Brad Binder and Jack Miller spearheading the field in a Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 1-2.