MotoGP’s qualifying sessions have taken a controversial turn with riders employing tactics to maximize aerodynamic advantage. This has led to gridlock and near-standstills on the track, a situation that top riders like Aleix Espargaro and Marc Marquez have condemned.
The practice, while not inherently dangerous, has escalated to riders deliberately slowing down to allow others to pass, only to accelerate rapidly and draft behind them. This not only disrupts the competitive nature of qualifying but also poses potential safety risks.
Espargaro, who secured pole position at Silverstone amidst the chaos, criticized the tactic, echoing the sentiments of reigning champion Francesco Bagnaia who called for rule changes to address the issue.
MotoGP riders have voiced their frustrations with the current qualifying format, highlighting the strategic complexities and inherent dangers it presents.
Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez, two of the sport’s leading figures, have both criticized the practice of riders deliberately waiting for others to set the initial pace, a strategy that can significantly impact lap times and potentially compromise safety.
Bagnaia argues that this tactic is unfair and creates hazardous conditions, while Marquez, despite benefiting from it at times, believes it detracts from the spectacle of qualifying.
Both riders have suggested potential alternatives, such as a Superpole format or imposing time limits for each sector, to address these issues and enhance the quality of qualifying sessions.
