MotoGP, Dorna bets on radio for the future: riders are divided

As we have already told you, Dorna wants to gradually introduce radio in MotoGP in order to continually improve it and minimise risks. The championship promoter is counting on a first phase focused on safety, before considering two-way communication and the integration of pit radio. But as we will see, the introduction of radio in MotoGP is a complex issue that provokes strong reactions. While the benefits in terms of safety and information are undeniable, the risks of distraction and complicating the regulations should not be underestimated. It will be interesting to follow the evolution of this file and see how Dorna will manage to reconcile the different points of view that are as follows…

From 2025, Dorna plans to revolutionize MotoGP by gradually introducing a system of abstract radio between Drivers and race management. If the idea excites some pilots like Aleix Espargaró, others, like Francis Bagnaia, are categorically opposed to it.

During the last tests at Misano, Dorna has confirmed its plans for the implementation of a radio system. From 2025, this technology will initially be limited to safety messages sent by race management. In 2026, communication could become bidirectional, allowing pilots to replyA third stage, still under study, could introduce a direct communication between the pits and the drivers, similar to Formula 1.

To Aleix Espargaró, radio is a necessity: " I have been testing this system for three years.. I am even one of those who pushed Dorna to adopt it. We just have to get used to this new technology. As soon as it is ready, I am sure it will bring a real improvement.. » While he acknowledges that talking in the middle of a corner is difficult at some circuits like Misano, he thinks it would be very useful at tracks like Sepang with long straights.

fabio quartararo also supports the project, while stressing that adjustments are still necessary: ​​" it's a good idea. We are making steady progress, but the noise of the motorcycles is making it even harder to hear the messages. We will have to work on the volume »

Pedro Acosta: “ of course Aleix Espargaró is for radio, he's retiring soon! »

At the opposite, Francis Bagnaia strongly criticizes the project: " I tested it, and it's uncomfortable. Pressing a button for 40 minutes? That makes no sense. We already have the scoreboard and the pit boards, why add an extra distraction? "The two-time reigning world champion goes so far as to compare his opposition to that of Michael Jordan, who received penalties for wearing banned shoes: " I will probably get 'Jordan penalties' because I don't want to use this system »

The rookie Peter Acosta shares the skepticism of bagnaia : " Our head is constantly moving while running. I think it's too risky to play with this. » He does not hesitate to tackle his colleague. I will espargaro, great defender of the system: “ of course he wants to introduce it, he's retiring soon! »

Maverick Vinales, Espargaró's teammate at Aprilia, sees a major benefit in terms of security: “ If someone falls behind a bump, like at Portimao, a radio message warning of the presence of a driver on the track could prevent serious accidents »

Marc Marquez, after his victory at Misano, remained cautious on the issue: " race, It's always up to the driver to decide. In changing conditions, only the one on the track can judge the situation. But for information like when the track is drying, communication with the team could be useful. »

In summary, the introduction of radio communication into the MotoGP sparks a lively debate. Between supporters who see it as a technological advance and detractors who fear it as yet another distraction, it remains to be seen whether Dorna will manage to convince all the pilots here 2025.