Crafar to the Rescue - MotoGP Replaces Stewards Chairman Freddie Spencer
The FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel, responsible for imposing all penalties, will have a new chairman in 2025 – Simon Crafar.
The FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel, responsible for imposing all penalties, is set for a leadership change. Freddie Spencer, who has served as the chief steward since 2019, will step down at the end of the 2024 season.
Spencer’s tenure has been marked by frequent criticism over inconsistent judgments and led to a loss of confidence in the Steward Panel among riders and teams. Many within the MotoGP community have been calling for a change as a result.
Reflecting on his time in the role, Spencer commented, “It’s been a pleasure to have been the first chairman of the panel and to have worked to put in place the incredible people and procedures we have now.”
“When I was asked to be the chairman, I accepted as I wanted to contribute to the sport and I’m proud of my tenure. I’m looking forward to some exciting projects in the future, and I know the team will be in great hands with Simon.”
Spencer’s successor, New Zealander Simon Crafar, is a familiar face in the MotoGP paddock, having earned a stellar reputation as a TV expert. Crafar will take over the position in 2025, bringing a wealth of experience both as a former 500cc race winner and as a commentator.
He stated: “I’m looking forward to taking on this new challenge. I did not take the decision lightly to make this change and accept this appointment, as it means leaving a role I’ve enjoyed a lot. But after seven years in MotoGP commentary, I am ready for something new.”
Crafar’s appointment comes at a time when the MotoGP Stewards Panel, established after the controversial Sepang GP in 2015, is under scrutiny.
The panel was originally created to ensure fair and impartial adjudication, particularly after allegations surfaced that then-Dorna manager Javier Alonso may have influenced race director Mike Webb’s decisions for commercial reasons.
Despite his status as a three-time world champion and a major figure in the sport with 27 GP victories, Spencer faced growing dissatisfaction over the panel’s decisions, especially following several contentious rulings in the first five Grand Prix of 2023.
The panel’s decisions are made by a simple majority, meaning Spencer could be outvoted by the other two FIM members, although internal disagreements rarely surfaced publicly.
As Crafar transitions to his new role, MotoGP will also need to appoint a new pitlane reporter for the 2025 season. Current stand-in Jack Appleyard is considered a leading candidate to step into this role full-time.
