MotoGP riders are expressing frustration over the rejection of a special rule proposal for three tracks, highlighting a recurring safety concern that has not been adequately addressed by the series' safety commission. The proposed rule aimed to limit the use of ride height devices on the opening lap at Le Mans, Silverstone, and Phillip Island, addressing the high-speed first turn at Le Mans and the potential for dangerous loss of control due to improper brake pressure application. This issue was raised by Pramac Racing's Jack Miller, who suggested restricting device use at these tracks and adding an extra practice start session to gather data. However, the proposal was vetoed by multiple teams, citing the extensive work needed to change bike set-up.
The lack of action on this issue, despite being raised for two consecutive years, has further eroded riders' trust in the safety commission. Many riders, including Miller, have stopped attending Friday night meetings due to perceived inaction. KTM racer Enea Bastianini, for instance, cited the disappointment over the lack of change in the safety commission, leading to his absence from these meetings this year. The absence of a formal union for MotoGP riders exacerbates the situation, as they rely on the safety commission to communicate as a bloc with organisers.
This situation raises a deeper question about the effectiveness of the current safety commission and the need for a more formal organisation to represent riders' interests in negotiations with series stakeholders. With the increasing media commitments imposed by new series owners Liberty Media, the riders' calls for a more structured representation become even more pertinent. The recurring safety concerns and the lack of action taken by the safety commission underscore the need for a more proactive and responsive approach to addressing the unique challenges of MotoGP racing.
