Francesco Bagnaia drops threatening warning to organisers on wildlife on track: “We need to improve it, it can be dangerous that i..”

Wildlife Interruptions: MotoGP’s Ongoing Battle with Nature at the Australian GP

This Saturday during the Sprint race of the Australian Grand Prix, nature once again made its presence felt on the track, as wildlife interfered with the MotoGP riders. A notable incident involved Jack Miller from Red Bull KTM, who collided with a seagull mid-race. However, this was not an isolated event.

Francesco Bagnaia of Ducati recounted a close encounter during the warm-up lap, describing a flock of about 20 seagulls crossing the straight just moments after he started. “I just tucked in, putting myself in a straight position,” he said, relieved that he managed to avoid any collision. Bagnaia emphasized the unpredictability of such situations, recalling past instances of wildlife on the track: “It’s fantastic to ride here, but it’s something you can’t control, like ducks or wallabies crossing the track.”

The presence of wildlife adds a unique charm to the Australian GP, but it also raises serious safety concerns. Bagnaia articulated a pressing need for measures to mitigate these risks. “It’s nice to have this kind of

wildlife, but we have to improve it a bit,” he stated, highlighting the potential dangers of an animal crossing the track during a race. “Three ducks crossing the track – the first one can be safe, but all the riders behind could cause a big crash.”

The juxtaposition of thrilling motorsport and unpredictable wildlife presents a challenge for race organizers and riders alike. While the allure of Australia’s natural landscape draws fans and competitors to the circuit, it also necessitates discussions on safety protocols. As the sport continues to evolve, balancing the excitement of MotoGP with the realities of racing in such vibrant environments remains a priority.

In the wake of these incidents, it’s clear that while wildlife adds a distinctive element to the racing experience, concrete steps must be taken to ensure the safety of both riders and animals. As Bagnaia pointed out, the stakes are high, and the need for improvement in managing wildlife encounters is essential for the future of MotoGP at this iconic venue.