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MotoGP riders were not consulted over the decision to cancel the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island, Francesco Bagnaia has revealed.
Riders are typically consulted in severe weather conditions regarding whether the circuit is safe enough to race or if the start should be delayed. On this occasion, however, the race was called off not due to track conditions, but because extremely low visibility grounded the medical helicopters in the event of an incident. As a result, Bagnaia explained that the riders simply had to accept the stewards' verdict.
"No," was Bagnaia's emphatic response to TNT Sports when asked if the riders' opinions were taken into account. "However, in situations like this, we have to respect the decision of Race Direction."
The Ducati rider admitted he was eager to race despite the adverse weather conditions.
"It's completely true. The conditions were definitely tricky and it was quite cold, but I think we've raced in far worse circumstances," the Italian added. "It's a real shame to be stuck in the pits on a Sunday at such an iconic track, especially on our final visit here. I hope we can return in the future, because yesterday showed what incredible battles and spectacle this circuit produces."
The frustration of missing out on a fitting farewell to Phillip Island after hours of waiting was echoed by local Moto2 rider Senna Agius, whose future premier-class home debut will take place at the new Adelaide circuit.
"I'm gutted," Agius told TNT Sports. "Look at all these fans in the grandstands – they came to watch bikes. After our Moto2 race was cancelled earlier, it was heartbreaking not to have the MotoGP race either. Safety always comes first and I understand the overall situation, but the track surface was rideable as there wasn't that much standing water. It's a shame for the fans and the sport that the final event at Phillip Island didn't get the engine roar it deserved."
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