Enea Bastianini has chosen to step back from MotoGP’s Safety Commission, voicing frustration over what he sees as limited progress on rider safety despite ongoing discussions.
The Tech3 rider said the regular meetings have produced little meaningful change, leading him to disengage entirely this season. According to Bastianini, repeated conversations have not translated into concrete improvements on track conditions or safety measures.
His concerns are shaped by personal experience. At Balaton Park Circuit last year, he suffered a back injury following a collision with Fabio Quartararo. Bastianini believes the circuit layout poses risks, particularly during the opening lap, and is waiting to see whether adjustments will be made before MotoGP returns to the venue.
Safety concerns have extended beyond a single circuit. Riders recently raised issues about track conditions at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where surface damage and irregularities were reported. Looking ahead, MotoGP is also preparing to introduce a new street race in Adelaide for the 2027 season, a move that is expected to increase scrutiny on safety standards.
Quartararo, the 2021 world champion, shares some of Bastianini’s frustrations but believes the larger issue lies with the riders themselves. He pointed to a lack of unity within the grid, noting that collective positions often break down under pressure. He cited a past race in India where riders initially agreed on safety concerns about wet conditions, only for opinions to quickly diverge.
The French rider suggested that without a consistent and united stance, it is difficult for riders to influence decisions effectively. This has renewed discussion about the absence of a formal riders’ body in MotoGP, similar to Formula 1’s Grand Prix Drivers’ Association.
While organizations such as International Road Racing Teams Association and Motorcycle Sports Manufacturers Association represent teams and manufacturers, there is no equivalent group dedicated solely to riders. Bastianini acknowledged that past attempts to form such a body have failed due to disagreements among competitors.
With safety concerns continuing to surface and major changes on the horizon, including new circuits and regulations, the debate over rider representation and unity is likely to remain a key issue within MotoGP.
