Silverstone's struggle to attract MotoGP fans is not the result of a lack of effort from organisers, according to Red Bull KTM Tech3 chief executive Guenther Steiner, who believes the bigger challenge is increasing the sport's popularity in the United Kingdom.
The contrast between Formula One and MotoGP at Silverstone has become increasingly clear. Earlier this month, the British Grand Prix attracted a record crowd of almost 600,000 spectators across the race weekend, while last year's MotoGP event drew just 99,328 fans.
Despite the significant difference in attendance, Steiner insisted Silverstone has been working hard to promote MotoGP and rejected suggestions that organisers have not done enough.
"I don't think they treat them differently," Steiner said when comparing the circuit's Formula One and MotoGP events.
"Formula One is at a point where you almost don't need to promote it because the interest is already there. For MotoGP, we need to create more interest in the UK. That is the biggest challenge."
Source: Celtic Horizon Tours
Steiner acknowledged that there is always room for improvement but praised Silverstone managing director Stuart Pringle and the circuit's efforts to raise MotoGP's profile.
He pointed to initiatives such as promotional events before the British Grand Prix and said both the circuit and MotoGP are actively trying to engage more fans.
"They are trying to make it happen," Steiner said. "It is not a lack of will. Everyone knows it is important for Silverstone to have a MotoGP race."
The comments come as MotoGP continues searching for ways to expand its audience in key markets. While Formula One has enjoyed a surge in global popularity in recent years, MotoGP has struggled to generate the same level of mainstream appeal in Britain, despite regularly producing competitive racing and featuring a historic venue such as Silverstone.
This year's British MotoGP, scheduled for Aug 7 to 9 at Silverstone, will provide another opportunity for organisers to narrow the gap and attract a bigger crowd as the championship heads into the second half of the season.
