Sprint Races: Carmelo Ezpeleta Criticizes MotoGP Fans - "too conservative"
Categories: MotoGP
The introduction of sprint races sparked a debate in the MotoGP world. Dorna-CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta criticizes the fans for being “too conservative”.
Dorna’s decision to modify the MotoGP race format for the coming season and introduce sprint races, similar to WSBK, met with opposition from many stakeholders.
Too much of a burden for teams and riders, too many races throughout the year and too few breaks are just a few of the criticisms – but nothing that was not expected from Dorna.
Carmelo Ezpeleta declares the MotoGP fans “too conservative” – Image provided by Motorsport Images
In an interview with as.com, Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta justifies the decision. “We have to try to innovate and think about how to improve things to get people passionate about the championship.”
Dwindling attendance
For several years, MotoGP has been struggling with dwindling spectator numbers, especially at the track. “We have to find a way and we are concerned about the attendance in some places.”
For the coming season, more spectators are expected – and the trick already seems to be bearing fruit.
“From the latest information I have, attendances are increasing a lot for this season,” Ezpeleta announced. However, the question of whether this is necessarily connected to the sprint races is debatable.
Ezpeleta continues: “The main expectation is that the changes we have proposed will bear the desired results.” Stronger criticism of the massive changes to the season had already been expected.
Fans are "too conservative"
In this regard, the Spaniard explains: “There is always concern when something new is introduced. There are always critics, it is normal.”
“We are used to criticism. I’ve always said that people are too conservative.” Under Ezpeleta as boss, Dorna has already implemented several far-reaching changes in MotoGP.
“The first big thing we did was the move from 500cc to MotoGP and that was a huge thing. Then also with Moto2 and Moto3.”
The 76-year-old points to the success of past changes. “All the things we changed have been criticised. So far, however, we didn’t have to go back on any of them.”
