The 2025 MotoGP season will mark a turning point with the arrival of Simon Crafar as Chairman of the FIM Stewards Panel. Crafar, a former MotoGP rider and well-known commentator, will take over from Freddie Spencer, who has often been criticised for his inconsistent decisions. Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta shared his expectations for the new appointment and the future of race management.
Ezpeleta acknowledged that the commissioners are under constant pressure, especially because of controversial decisions that often provoke strong reactions among fans and drivers. The case of Freddie spencer, in particular, highlighted the difficulty of maintaining a consistency in judgments, especially in sports as fast and intense as MotoGP. Spencer was one of the best drivers this championship has ever had, and he must understand the difficulty of being a referee. This shows how complicated this role is. ", said Ezpeleta pointing out that even sports legends can struggle in this authority role.
The arrival of Simon Crafar is seen by many as an attempt to increase the consistency of decisions taken by race stewards. Crafar, nominated by the IRTA (International Road-Racing Teams Association), is seen as a wise choice to bring more clarity and transparency in sanctions and judgments. I hope Crafar will bring more consistency. He seems like a good person for this role. ", asserted Ezpeleta, while remaining cautious about expectations.
Carmelo Ezpeleta: “ we must strive to have clear and consistent criteria »
The issue of consistency in decisions has been a recurring theme, with drivers sometimes expressing frustration at penalties perceived as unfair or inconsistent. Aggressive overtakingEnea Bastianini on George Martin in Misano is a recent example that has divided opinions, with some believing that the maneuver should have been punished more severely.
Ezpeleta also expressed his wish to see the FIM work more on improving consistency in decisions made during races: “ What I will ask of the FIM at the end of the year is that the decisions are more uniform. It is very difficult not to make mistakes., but we must strive to have clear and consistent criteria »
While MotoGP begins a new phase with Simon Crafar as the stewards in 2025, expectations are high regarding the management of incidents on the track. The question remains whether this appointment will bring the changes hoped for and whether there will be a positive impact on the perception of decisions taken in the paddock and by fans.
