MotoGP’s Radio Revolution: Bagnaia Resists Amid Safety and Strategy Shifts

MotoGP's Ban on Radios? "I'll face fines like Michael Jordan"

Pecco Bagnaia braces for penalties over refusal to employ radio communication

Aleix Espargaro tested the newest version of the MotoGP's planned radio communication system at the official Misano Test on Monday.

The system's primary purpose is to swiftly relay critical safety alerts directly to the participants from the Race Direction, including notifications like 'red flag' or 'rider on track'.

"Espargaro mentioned that their team has dedicated three years to enhancing communication during accidents."

"I was among the cyclists who advocated strongly for the inclusion of radios, but it's challenging, particularly when it comes to GPS aspects."

Carlos Ezpeleta, the Chief Sporting Officer at Dorna, detailed how the original one-way radio system would be integrated with GPS technology last year.

Ezpeleta mentioned in last year's Jerez radio test that the plan involves the system being tagged with GPS locations. This way, as riders near a section marked by a yellow flag, indicating rain or slick conditions, they would be alerted beforehand while on the straight stretch leading into that area.

"Currently, the communication involves only pre-recorded messages about safety from race control to the riders. It's a unidirectional system for now, and there's unanimous agreement among the riders that it's fundamentally a good idea."

However, the most ambitious and debated objective is to enable Formula 1-like direct communication between the rider and their team during races.

"Ezpeleta has confirmed that, as teams get more accustomed to the system and if they reach a mutual agreement, it's likely that two-way communication between riders and race control or from teams to riders will be implemented eventually."

This would shift more authority over pivotal choices, like deciding to pit during the type of flag-to-flag race witnessed at Misano on Sunday, away from the riders.

Bagnaia: "I expect to face fines similar to those of Michael Jordan"

The use of two-way radios has met with substantial resistance from numerous competitors, notably the current champion, Francesco Bagnaia.

Bagnaia expressed his refusal to utilize such a device, describing the earpiece as painfully unpleasant to wear and stating there's no necessity for additional "distracting" forms of communication.

The Italian mentioned he was willing to accept "penalties in every match like Michael Jordan" for his choice to not use a radio, alluding to the iconic NBA star who was regularly penalized for wearing red sneakers.

However, Espargaro maintains that radios will enhance the entertainment value.

"The Aprilia competitor mentioned, “In certain tracks, communicating may prove challenging, yet adapting to the latest technologies is essential. The quicker we can implement these, the more beneficial it will be for the event.”

"It's essential to make efforts, face setbacks, attempt once more, and explore our potential. However, I believe the radio communications are among the most entertaining aspects of Formula One."

"Picture this scenario during the race at Misano the day before: I'm there querying my crew, 'Should I pull over, or do I keep going? What's your advice?' And there's Antonio [Jimenez], yelling back at me while we're in the midst of our conversation. It probably would have been entertaining for the audience, I believe."

Espargaro countered the argument from individuals who believe it poses a hazardous diversion.

"He argued that grievances should only be voiced after giving it a fair attempt, suggesting that assertions of it being distracting are premature without firsthand experience."

"Engaging the rear height mechanism is increasingly cumbersome. One must spread their fingers and then apply significant brake pressure to turn it off. Had you informed riders half a decade ago that they'd be required to push a button with each speed increase, they'd find it far more inconvenient."

"Innovative technologies are on the horizon. We must make an effort to explore them. However, if they prove to be unsafe, we will refrain from utilizing them."

Regardless, given his reputation for candid remarks, Espargaro is not expected to compete using the dual-direction radio system. This is due to his impending retirement at this season's close, after which he will transition to a role focusing on Honda's testing and occasional race participation.

"Apologies, but it seems we won't be able to catch my part on time!" he chuckled. "However, you'll definitely pay attention to the new cyclists!

"The experience promises to be enjoyable. Dorna is diligently focusing on helmet safety, conducting scans, and collaborating closely with the manufacturers of these brands."

"Our journey didn't just begin; I was the pioneer, embarking on this path over three years ago. Therefore, by the time it reaches you, rest assured, it will be thoroughly prepared, secure, and immensely enjoyable."

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