The Australian MotoGP race faces a potential shake-up! Ducati's Francesco Bagnaia is advocating for a bold move: shifting the race to Saturday. But why? Well, it's all about safety, as strong winds are predicted for Sunday at Phillip Island, reaching a concerning 50km/h.
This isn't the first time MotoGP has faced such a dilemma. Back in 2023, they moved the Melbourne race to Saturday due to similar weather concerns, ensuring a safer event. However, the sprint race, initially scheduled for Saturday, was later canceled when the weather worsened on Sunday.
Bagnaia, taking the initiative, shared his thoughts during Friday's media briefing: "I think moving the long race to tomorrow is a smart move. I'll be discussing this with the safety commission. The track is bumpy, and the wind is already pushing limits. Sunday could be dangerous, just like a few years back. We need to prioritize safety and find a solution."
His concerns were echoed by Honda's Luca Marini, who warned of potential crashes in lower classes due to the windy conditions. "We've seen it happen before, and it's a real risk. It's crucial to prioritize safety and avoid these incidents." Yamaha's Alex Rins also agreed, emphasizing the need for a safety commission discussion.
The decision to move the race is not without controversy. Some argue that it's a necessary precaution, while others question the potential disruption to the schedule. But with rider safety at stake, it's a delicate balance. What do you think? Should MotoGP prioritize safety and adjust the race day, or is there another solution to this windy challenge?