Formula 1, MotoGP and the Isle of Man TT

Posted by Kevin Guthrie Jun 19, 2009

Like millions around the world I sat glued to my TV last Sunday, captivated by the extraordinary battle between FIAT Yamaha team-mates Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo in the latest instalment of MotoGP. It could not have been scripted better, with the acknowledged master fighting the mercurial apprentice, desperate to win in front of his home crowd.

Rossi's pass for victory at the final corner was remarkable. I can't recall ever seeing anyone pass there before, but it didn't really matter who won. Motorcycle racing was the real winner, and those who rule Formula 1 would do well to take note. No budget caps, no breakaway threats, just good old fashioned wheel to wheel racing.

In the days preceding the Spanish MotoGP round I enjoyed my annual Isle of Man TT fix. I find it hard to express my admiration for those guys and girls who tackle the Mountain Course. Rossi was there, and even completed a slow lap of the circuit with Giacomo Agostini, but the current MotoGP star admitted he was glad the TT no longer featured in the World Championship. There can be little doubt that TT riders are a breed apart. They do it not for money, but for the satisfaction of conquering what I consider to be the greatest challenge in racing.

This weekend sees the final British Grand Prix to be held at Silverstone. I may watch the race or, then again, I may find a local motorcycle racing club meet to go and see. Ill thought out plans and downright stupidity are in danger of ending Formula 1 as we know it.