MotoGP: the change of format as of Silverstone is confirmed

Almost a month ago we wrote that the change of format would only come into effect as of 2024, but a press release issued today by the FIM confirms that the new schedule will be introduced from the very next round, the British GP, to the delight of many of the riders.

In the last few days, before the release was sent out, the Grand Prix Commission comprised of Dorna’s Carmelo Ezpeleta, Paul Duparc from the FIM, and Hervé Poncharal for IRTA held a virtual meeting, in the presence of FIM president Jorge Viegas, Carlos Ezpeleta of Dorna, Mike Trimby (IRTA, meeting secretary) and Corrado Cecchinelli.

The new format

During the meeting, it was decided that, with respect to the current format, an additional 60’ session will be added on Friday afternoon. This session will serve to establish access to Q2, while the rest of the weekend remains unchanged, with FP3 becoming FP2 considering the addition of this “qualifying” session.

FP1 becomes a true free practice then, coming before the afternoon’s “qualifying”. Saturday morning brings FP2, followed by the two actual qualifying sessions and the Sprint race. Sunday remains unchanged with morning warm-up and the afternoon’s main race.

Here, the new-look schedule:

Friday

-       Free Practice 1 – 45 mins.

-       Practice (PR) – 60 mins. to establish entry to Q2

Saturday

-       Free Practice 2 – 30 mins.

-       Q1 – 15 mins.

-       Q2 – 15 mins.

-       Tissot Sprint race

Sunday

-       Warm up – 10 mins.

-       Race