MotoGP is moving to a tougher framework for riders who fail to meet mandatory promotional and media commitments during Grand Prix weekends. The scale begins with a warning, rises through financial penalties and can eventually affect a rider’s starting position after a sixth offence. The complete procedure was circulated to teams by email on the Friday of the Australian Grand Prix.

How the penalties escalate

A first offence brings a championship warning. The second carries a €5,000 fine, the third €10,000 and the fourth €15,000. The fourth case is also referred to FIM stewards, who issue an official warning. A fifth offence can force the rider to sit out part of a practice session, while a sixth brings a grid penalty. The number of places involved has not been defined. A first grid penalty for an on-track incident is typically three places, but it has not been established whether that measure will be used for this system.

The appearances riders must attend

Riders must spend 10 minutes at the Hero Walk, take part in every pre-race activation and attend Thursday’s press conference. Exceptions may be granted for injuries or other scheduled commitments. The same framework will apply in Moto2 and Moto3, although the fine amounts will be different.

The tougher line follows riders’ complaints about the time demanded by these appearances. The 2027 race format is expected to increase that pressure. At the Japanese Grand Prix, Marc Marquez missed a kart race and sent a substitute in his place. He said he needed to put ice on his injured shoulder and prioritise himself while fighting for the title.