MotoGP features the elite of speed motorcycle racing, with the world’s 22 best riders competing head-to-head. In recent years, there has been a noticeable drop in popularity, with a decline in both circuit and television audiences.
The Dorna has been trying to combat this by bringing the premier category closer to the fans, offering a different spectacle both on and off the track – such as the introduction of the new Sprint race format last year. And now, with Liberty Media set to become the new owner, many other changes are likely.
In recent years, Marc Márquez has been absent from the title fight due to injuries and Honda’s struggles. Moreover, several legendary names have retired – Valentino Rossi at the end of 2021 being the most prominent example, but also Andrea Dovizioso, Dani Pedrosa, and Jorge Lorenzo, who exited the scene between 2018 and 2022.
Asked by Motosan.es about the current state of MotoGP, Lorenzo Dalla Porta commented: ‘There are many times when you see very entertaining races, and other times less so, but it how it is. I don’t have time to watch now, but the fact that Valentino Rossi is no longer in MotoGP did not help the fans. But let’s say it’s an era where MotoGP is changing. Although I also think there is much more passion for this sport now than there was before’.