During the recent Czech Grand Prix, Cal Crutchlow, Team LCR Honda rider, expressed his concern about the extreme conditions faced by MotoGP riders, suggesting the need for a weather protocol similar to that used in Formula 1.
Last weekend in Brno, temperatures exceeded 30 degrees in the air and 55 degrees on the track, leading to a heat warning from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Crutchlow, who substituted for Johann Zarco in the race, described the experience as ‘one of the hottest’ of his career.
The problems were evident during the sprint race on Saturday, where the Brit highlighted the dangerous combination of waiting on the grid and the intense heat, making competition difficult. ‘It was really hot, like one of the hottest GPs I’ve done,’ Crutchlow said after the race.
The rider called for action, reminding that other sports have implemented protocols to manage extreme weather conditions. ‘In other sports, they have weather protocols. We should think more about this situation,’ he commented.
The heat continued during Sunday’s race, with ambient temperatures reaching 33 degrees. The current MotoGP champion, Marc Márquez, joined Crutchlow’s call, pointing out that pre-race rituals further complicated the situation for the riders.
Crutchlow pointed out that the lack of unity among riders is an obstacle to effectively addressing these issues. ‘The problem is the lack of unity among riders. If one decides to compete, the others will do the same,’ he said, referring to the pressure riders feel not to lose an advantage.
Formula 1 Temperature Protocol
Unlike MotoGP, Formula 1 has a dedicated temperature protocol that activates preventive measures when ambient temperatures exceed 31 degrees during races. This protocol allows riders to use cooling suits to maintain their body temperature at a safe level.
This system has been activated at events such as the Qatar GP and other races recently, and it is evident that implementing a similar policy in MotoGP could help ensure the safety and well-being of riders during extreme conditions.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
