Brazilian MotoGP promoter issues statement after track controversy
Brazilian MotoGP promoter issues statement defending the on and off-track infrastructure at Goiania.
MotoGP Brasil, promoter of last weekend’s Goiania round, says that track resurfacing and facility upgrades carried out ahead of MotoGP’s return were “in full compliance with FIM standards”.
Different track issues caused delays to the schedule on each of the three days of Brazil’s first MotoGP round since 2004, culminating in a shortened grand prix.
Heavy rain, which also caused flooding ahead of the event, forced Friday practice to be delayed and shortened due to drainage issues.
The discovery of a sinkhole on the main straight on Saturday meant the MotoGP Sprint was delayed, and qualifying for the Moto2 and Moto3 classes disrupted, while emergency repairs were carried out.
Sunday’s MotoGP distance was then slashed from 31 to 23 laps at the last-minute due to ‘track degradation’ at Turns 11-12.
Alongside an FIM statement about the problems experienced across the weekend, MotoGP Brasil gave its version of events:
“…With the full support of the Government of Goiás, we worked to deliver the best possible infrastructure — both on and off the track — to allow teams and riders to perform at their highest level,” read part of the statement from MotoGP Brasil.
“With the support of experienced professionals (including experts accredited by Formula 1) and the use of the latest technology, we carried out a complete resurfacing of the track, built new pit facilities, and installed modern equipment, all in full compliance with FIM standards. Our goal was to deliver a fast and safe circuit.
“Unfortunately, due to heavy rainfall, an issue arose at a specific point on the track when a sewage system located beneath the surface collapsed. The situation was promptly addressed, allowing the race to continue as planned.
"On Sunday, due to high temperatures, a specific section on the left side of the pavement at Turn 12 showed deterioration caused by application issues, which caused disruptions for riders and teams.
“We are already thoroughly assessing the identified points and working closely with all involved parties to implement the necessary improvements to the infrastructure of the Ayrton Senna Circuit.
“We are fully committed to providing even better conditions for teams and riders to perform at their highest level when MotoGP returns in 2027.”
Goiania was hosting its first motorcycle grand prix since 1989.
While some teething issues are to be expected at a new event, three different track-surface related problems in three days are highly unusual.
If the work was completed “in full compliance with FIM standards”, then it naturally raises questions about the homologation standards themselves.
Although torrential rain cannot be controlled - and has even caused disruption in Qatar - the risk can be reduced by the timing of the event on the calendar.
Unrelated to the track, some riders at the back of the MotoGP grid were unhappy that the start was not delayed when the race distance was reduced, leaving them insufficient time to change rear tyre.
Peter has been in the paddock for 20 years and has seen Valentino Rossi come and go. He is at the forefront of the Suzuki exit story and Marc Marquez’s injury issues.
