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MotoGP's push to expand and attract a new audience must not come at the expense of its traditional fanbase, Yamaha factory team managing director Paolo Pavesio has warned amid sweeping changes planned by new owners Liberty Media.
Since the American media conglomerate—which also owns Formula 1—completed its takeover of the premier class, there has been a clear drive to overhaul the championship's image and format. Ideas under discussion include adding more city-adjacent events near major metropolitan hubs, eliminating wildcard entries from 2027, and tweaking the grid formation rules for sprint races.
Pavesio stressed that while he welcomes innovation, every move must be carefully measured. The 54-year-old Italian, who considers himself part of the older generation of motorsport enthusiasts, believes any reforms must honour the sport's rich heritage and respect its long-standing fans.
"In my office, I have a stripped-down 2002 500cc bike—just the chassis, engine, wheels, and exhausts. I could stare at it for hours. That's a piece of history, and maybe I love it so much because of my age. Downstairs, there's Agostini's machine with drum brakes, which my grandfather would have loved even more. We shouldn't fear evolution, provided it is managed with a clear, shared vision," Pavesio explained.
The Yamaha chief also pointed out the fundamental differences between the business models of Formula 1 and MotoGP. While the financial dynamics differ at the pinnacle of four-wheel motorsport, two-wheel racing relies far more heavily on direct backing from the manufacturers themselves.
"Around 70 percent of the total investment in MotoGP comes from the five factory manufacturers. And why do we do it? To sell motorcycles. That's why we need to tread carefully. Bringing new fans to Formula 1 doesn't mean they'll instantly go out and buy a Ferrari, McLaren, or Alpine. For us, it's different—we also produce mass-market scooters and bikes. Expanding the audience can rejuvenate our customer base and boost business, but we must avoid extremes where loyal fans no longer recognize their beloved sport," he noted.
Pavesio also voiced support for the upcoming reduction in engine displacement to 850cc alongside the switch to Pirelli tyres—a technical overhaul planned prior to Liberty's arrival. In his view, the new machinery will remain extreme and thrilling while becoming "a bit more human," ultimately producing a better racing spectacle.
In conclusion, the Yamaha boss acknowledged that valuable lessons from F1's commercial blueprint—including turning teams into high-value assets—are welcome, but only once sustainable audience growth is secured and the interests of key stakeholders are preserved.
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