MotoGP World Champion Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia has delivered a scathing critique of the sport’s newly tested radio communication system, branding it a bulky, dangerous, and ineffective addition to racing. The reigning champ didn’t mince words about his experience with the device during recent tests.
“It is annoying, I don’t like it. It’s very bulky, the connection cable is large and could also be dangerous. It doesn’t work—I can’t hear anything, and it bothers me. Until it is ready, I won’t use it.”
Bagnaia’s frustrations echo the concerns of many riders who have expressed skepticism about introducing radio systems to MotoGP. Designed to improve safety by enabling direct communication between Race Direction and riders, the current iteration of the system appears far from ready for the high-octane demands of the sport.
“A Risk, Not a Solution”
Bagnaia pointed out that the system’s oversized cable poses a potential hazard during races, raising serious safety concerns. Coupled with poor audio quality and an overall lack of functionality, the radio system risks becoming more of a hindrance than a help in critical situations.
The bold move to introduce radios to MotoGP—a step previously taken by Formula 1—has faced significant pushback from riders. For many, including Bagnaia, the focus should remain on refining the system to ensure it adds value rather than unnecessary risk.
MotoGP’s Next Challenge
As MotoGP aims to enhance safety through technological advancements, Bagnaia’s candid feedback underscores the importance of getting it right. The stakes are high, and until these critical issues are resolved, it’s clear that some of the sport’s biggest names won’t be warming up to the idea of radio communication anytime soon.
The pressure is now on MotoGP’s technical teams to address the system’s flaws and prove it can live up to the intense demands of the premier class of motorcycle racing.
