Ducati riders Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez have expressed approval of the changes in MotoGP stewarding during the 2025 season, particularly under the leadership of Simon Crafar. Both were invited to discuss their collision at the recent Italian Grand Prix, emphasizing that the meeting was focused on dialogue rather than punishment. This marks a shift in how race incidents are handled, highlighting the importance of understanding events before issuing rulings.
Bagnaia reflects on new approach to steward decisions
Before the recent changes, riders often faced automatic penalties after steward discussions, with little chance for explanation. Bagnaia explained that conversations with the panel, led by Crafar, now offer a more balanced perspective.
“For me and for the stewards it was a racing incident, but they wanted to ask what the situation was,”
Bagnaia said ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix. He added,
“Yes, I’ve always had a really great relationship with Simon. And compared with before, it looks like we can have a discussion before decisions.”
He further emphasized this shift by stating,
“So I think it’s much better now. Simon is more on the side of understanding before judging.”
This new approach gives riders a clearer sense of the stewards‘ reasoning and promotes greater fairness in decision-making.
Marquez supports constructive dialogue and clearer boundaries
Marc Marquez shared similar sentiments regarding the updated stewarding style. Discussing the Mugello incident with Bagnaia, he highlighted how improved interaction helps riders comprehend race limits.
“Yes, I think that interactions are better,”
said Marquez.
“Because this way, you start to know the situation.”
Referring to Crafar’s new role, Marquez noted,
“Simon is new to that job. [So] for the riders, like this, you start to understand where the limits are. Because the steward is the referee. You can agree or disagree, you can say yes or no, but in the end, if you start to have these conversations, it’s a bit easier to understand for the future.”
Describing the on-track duel, Marquez remarked,
“But for me [the battle with Bagnaia was among] the best six laps of this year, because it was a very nice fight [within] the team.”
Mixed reactions on steward rulings in other incidents
While the improved approach to stewarding has been welcomed by some riders, opinions differ regarding other race incidents. Following the Italian GP, Franco Morbidelli received a long lap penalty for pushing Maverick Vinales off track, a consequence some observers viewed as too lenient given Morbidelli’s recent history of penalties for impeding riders during qualifying.
Morbidelli, representing VR46 Racing Team, declined to comment on whether he should adjust his racing style under increased scrutiny. At his Assen media session, he stated,
“I don’t have space to think about whether I should take it easy. I just race. I just do my thing.”
Implications for the 2025 MotoGP season and beyond
The evolution in stewarding marks a significant change in how MotoGP handles on-track incidents, aiming to foster clearer communication and more transparency. Riders like Bagnaia and Marquez appreciate the opportunity to explain their perspectives before any formal judgment, which could contribute to fewer controversies and a better understanding of racing limits.
As the 2025 season progresses, ongoing dialogue between stewards and riders is likely to refine decision-making further, potentially leading to more consistent rulings that balance safety and competitive spirit. Observers will continue to watch how this approach affects race dynamics and whether it encourages cleaner, more strategic racing among top contenders.
