The idea of MotoGP racing through the streets of a major city has been talked about for many years, but until now it has always felt a little unrealistic. However, Carmelo Ezpeleta, the long-time CEO of Dorna Sports, has recently explained that a city-based MotoGP Grand Prix is no longer impossible. In fact, he believes that there are already some Formula 1 circuits in the world that MotoGP might be able to use, as long as they meet the strict safety standards required for motorcycles.

Ezpeleta’s comments come at an interesting time for MotoGP, because Liberty Media, the company that owns Formula 1, has recently purchased a large share of MotoGP’s commercial rights. This means that MotoGP and Formula 1 are now much closer than they have ever been before. Liberty Media is famous for transforming F1 into a modern, entertainment-driven product, and many fans are wondering what changes they could bring to MotoGP. One possibility is the introduction of a city circuit, something that already exists very successfully in Formula 1.

Ezpeleta recently visited Las Vegas during the weekend of the Formula 1 Grand Prix there. The Las Vegas event is one of the most extravagant races on the F1 calendar, taking place on the famous Strip with bright lights, enormous crowds and a huge amount of fan engagement. After seeing all of this first-hand, Ezpeleta explained that he understands the appeal of a dramatic city race and agrees that MotoGP could benefit from something similar. However, he made it clear that motorcycles require far more safety than cars, and that not every circuit used by Formula 1 would be suitable for MotoGP.

This is because MotoGP riders depend heavily on large run-off areas. These are the safety zones around the track where a rider can slow down or slide safely if they crash. On a closed, purpose-built circuit, these areas are usually wide and open, with special materials and barriers designed to absorb impacts. City circuits, however, are often surrounded by concrete walls, barriers, buildings, lamp posts or tight corners with very little room for mistakes. Ezpeleta used examples such as Monaco, Baku and the Las Vegas Strip circuit to explain why most pure street circuits would be far too dangerous for MotoGP bikes, which can easily lose control if a rider touches another bike or hits an uneven surface.

Despite these challenges, Ezpeleta pointed out that some Formula 1 circuits are not typical street tracks. For example, Albert Park in Melbourne and the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal are both semi-permanent circuits. They are set inside public parks and use a mix of real roads and purpose-built track sections. Because they have more open areas, it is easier to create the kind of run-off zones that MotoGP needs. Ezpeleta suggested that tracks like these might offer a realistic starting point for MotoGP to test the possibility of a city-style race without compromising safety.

It is important to understand that this idea is not yet part of MotoGP’s official plans. Ezpeleta made it clear that nothing has been confirmed, and no contract has been signed with any potential city. However, he said that the possibility is genuine, and that MotoGP is studying the idea seriously, especially now that Liberty Media has joined the championship management. He also mentioned that MotoGP has always been open to new circuits as long as the track design respects the sport’s high safety standards.

Ezpeleta also spoke very positively about Liberty Media’s involvement. He believes that MotoGP is already an amazing sport, but he also thinks that Liberty Media’s experience with fan entertainment, global promotion and modern event organisation can help MotoGP grow even larger. If Liberty brings some of its Formula 1 ideas to MotoGP, then MotoGP could attract new audiences and increase its worldwide popularity.

A city race would certainly attract attention. Many people who do not normally attend races might be encouraged to come if the track is located in the middle of a major city rather than far away at a rural circuit. A city setting also creates a unique atmosphere, with iconic buildings, bright lights and easily accessible public transportation. For fans, it would be an unforgettable experience.

Still, Ezpeleta repeated many times that safety remains the number one priority. No matter how exciting a city race might be, MotoGP will not place riders in unnecessary danger. That is why the championship is only considering circuits that can be adapted to meet strict safety requirements. If those conditions can be met, then MotoGP may one day join Formula 1 in hosting spectacular races in the heart of great cities around the world.

For now, the idea remains at the discussion stage. But it is clear that MotoGP’s future could include new types of events, new locations and perhaps even the long-dreamed-of city Grand Prix. Ezpeleta’s comments show that the sport is open to innovation and ready to explore bold ideas.