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MotoGP Agrees to Wider Starting-Grid Gaps and Faster Holeshot Ban

Organisers say the moves aim to cut first‑corner risk after the Barcelona crash by testing spacing changes and seeking formal approval.

Overview

  • Teams and organisers have agreed to increase the distance between each starting‑grid row, a change set to take effect from the German Grand Prix in July to give riders more space into Turn 1.
  • An initial test of the revised grid spacing will be carried out at the Brno round and, if judged satisfactory, the proposal will be sent to the Grand Prix Commission for a rules change.
  • Dorna and manufacturers intend to accelerate a ban on ride‑height or holeshot devices at race starts, with organisers planning to apply the restriction from the British Grand Prix in mid‑August for all circuits.
  • The push follows the mid‑May BarcelonaCatalunya first‑corner pileup that seriously injured Johann Zarco and involved Alex Márquez, prompting talks between MotoGP SEG, MSMA, teams and manufacturers.
  • Officials warn the longer grid could require circuit‑by‑circuit adjustments and will raise the value of qualifying because a stretched grid places more riders on track between the start line and the first corner.