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Global Race Track Summit & Awards

MotoGP Open to F1 Street Circuits, but Safety Will Decide the Future

MotoGP boss Carmelo Ezpeleta, the long-time figure behind the championship, attended the

Formula 1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas and used the opportunity to make comment on F1 Street

Circuits. The event offered him a close look at the scale, structure, and energy of modern F1

street racing. His visit led to a simple question that has now gained attention inside the

paddock: could MotoGP compete on the same type of city circuits used by Formula 1?


Ezpeleta explained that the idea is not new. MotoGP has always explored different types of

circuits, including tracks with urban characteristics. Each venue tells its own story, and every

race weekend shapes the championship's direction. But the possibility of racing on F1 street circuits comes with a condition that sits at the center of MotoGP’s identity: rider safety.


While street circuits deliver global exposure and bring racing closer to fans, they often lack the run-off space motorcycles require. Ezpeleta made this point clear during his Las Vegas visit. Some F1 circuits could work for MotoGP, but others, including Las Vegas itself, present

challenges that cannot be ignored.


The idea of MotoGP running on F1 street circuits gained attention because both championships now share the same commercial parent. This connection naturally opens the door for collaborative opportunities. Ezpeleta noted that some F1 street tracks meet high standards in organization and global reach. These elements could support strong MotoGP events. However, he also emphasized that every circuit must be reviewed individually. Each layout, barrier position, and escape area plays a direct role in determining whether a motorcycle race can be held safely. This evaluation process remains the first step before any future decision is made.


MotoGP has followed strict safety protocols for decades, and these standards guide every

choice the championship makes. Street circuits used by Formula 1 often feature close walls and limited run-off space. For MotoGP, these conditions create risks that cannot be reduced through simple adjustments. Ezpeleta highlighted this reality after walking the Las Vegas circuit. While the event delivered a strong visual experience and attracted global attention, it lacked the space required for motorcycles to slow down or recover from errors. This limitation is the main reason why only a small number of F1 street circuits might ever qualify as MotoGP-ready.

 
 
 

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