Franco Morbidelli has been handed a three-place grid penalty by the FIM stewards ahead of Sunday’s British MotoGP race at Silverstone. The sanction was imposed after Morbidelli was seen riding slowly on the racing line during the second practice session on Friday, disrupting the flow of other riders.
Details of the Penalty and Reactions From Fellow Riders
The VR46 Ducati rider was penalized specifically for riding slowly at Turns 12 and 13, an action that broke the rules laid out by the MotoGP governing body. This incident drew frustration from fellow competitor Marco Bezzecchi, who was visibly upset by Morbidelli’s behavior on track. It marks the second time this season Morbidelli has faced a penalty of similar nature, having previously been sanctioned during the Buriram event for the same violation.
During Friday’s session, Morbidelli posted the 15th fastest time, while Bezzecchi ranked significantly higher in fifth place. The difference in their performances added to Bezzecchi’s visible irritation following Morbidelli’s untimely interference on the racing line.
Official Statement from FIM MotoGP Stewards on the Violation
The FIM stewards detailed the incident as follows:
“Motive On 23rd May 2025 at 16:32:10 during the Practice session of the TISSOT GRAND PRIX OF THE UNITED KINGDOM, you were observed to be riding slow online disturbing another rider #72 at Turns 12-13.”
“This contravenes the specific instructions given to MotoGP competitors and teams. It is therefore an infringement of Article 1.21.2 of the FIM Grand Prix World Championship Regulations.”
“Sanction For the above reasons, FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel has imposed a 3 Grid Positions penalty for the TISSOT GRAND PRIX OF THE UNITED KINGDOM MotoGP Race.”
“(In accordance with articles 3.2.1 and 3.3.2.3) Penalty Explanation Following the Penalty Protocols issued to teams, this action was deemed to be an incident of Type MGP-SR2: Slow riding on the line during early Practice – Disrupting another rider.”
This formal ruling confirms that Morbidelli’s actions during practice were seen as a disruption to competitors, warranting the penalty that will affect his starting position in the race.
Implications of the Penalty for Morbidelli and the Upcoming British Grand Prix
This penalty adds to the mounting pressure on Franco Morbidelli to avoid repeating unsafe conduct that hampers other riders. Being moved three places back on the starting grid could impact his race strategy and overall performance at Silverstone. For Marco Bezzecchi, and others on the Ducati team, these disruptions create tension that could influence both teammate dynamics and race outcomes.
As the British MotoGP progresses, all eyes will be on how Morbidelli responds to this setback and whether he can maintain his composure under challenging circumstances. The enforcement of these penalties highlights the stewards’ commitment to maintaining fair and safe racing conditions for all competitors.
