MotoGP CEO Considers F1 Street Circuits for Future Races

MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta is exploring the potential for the motorcycle racing series to utilize some of Formula 1's prominent street circuits, following Liberty Media's acquisition of Dorna Sports. This move signals a potential for closer synergy between the two global motorsport giants.

Why it matters:

• The acquisition of Dorna Sports by Liberty Media, also owners of F1, opens up unprecedented opportunities for collaboration and growth between MotoGP and F1.
• Exploring F1's urban circuits could significantly boost MotoGP's global appeal and introduce the sport to new, high-profile city locations, akin to F1's successful Las Vegas Grand Prix.
• This strategic alignment could lead to a broader audience base and enhanced commercial opportunities for both series.

The details:

• Openness to Street Circuits: Ezpeleta expressed an openness to MotoGP racing on street circuits, provided rider safety can be fully guaranteed, particularly regarding run-off areas.
• F1's Urban Shift: F1 has increasingly embraced street circuits, turning races into major spectacles in city centers. The 2024 F1 calendar includes six dedicated street circuits, two semi-urban tracks, and two city races on permanent circuits.
• Existing Crossover: Five permanent F1 circuits currently host both F1 and MotoGP annually: Losail, Austin, Barcelona, the Red Bull Ring, and Silverstone. This established overlap demonstrates the feasibility of shared venues.
• Safety First: Despite the enthusiasm for urban venues, Ezpeleta emphasized that rider safety remains the paramount concern for MotoGP, a commitment maintained since 1992.
• Mandalika Precedent: Ezpeleta cited the Indonesian Grand Prix at Mandalika as an example of MotoGP successfully racing on a 'theoretically urban' circuit.

What's next:

While a joint race weekend for F1 and MotoGP remains a distant idea, Ezpeleta's comments suggest a serious consideration of shared venues.

• Future discussions between Dorna Sports and Liberty Media will likely explore the logistical and safety challenges of adapting F1 street circuits for MotoGP.
• The potential return of MotoGP to Shanghai International Circuit by 2027 further highlights the series' interest in expanding its global footprint, potentially leveraging F1-associated tracks. This strategic exploration aims to elevate MotoGP's profile and bring its thrilling races to a wider, more diverse audience.