Why MotoGP is Losing Viewers and How it Can Recover

In the past, MotoGP has been one of the most exciting motorsports, known for its high-speed action and fearless riders, but recently, it has seen a rapid decrease in viewers and many fans are wondering what is going on. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this and how the sport can make a comeback. 

(Image Credit to motogp.com)

Unlike other major motorsports like NASCAR or Formula 1, MotoGP does not get the same amount of attention from mainstream television networks like Sky Sports or Channel 4, which makes it harder for casual fans to access. In many parts of the world, the sport's coverage is limited to more popular platforms, making it less visible to the broader audience. To watch MotoGP, viewers need a subscription to services like TNS Sports, which is available through a discovery+ subscription, or the official MotoGP Video Pass via the MotoGP app. While the app itself is free to download, access to live races and content requires a paid subscription. This makes fans debate whether or not it is worth paying for when other sports like the NFL and Formula 1 are easier to stream.

After drivers such as Valentino Rossi and Andrea Dovizioso left the sport, there has been a downward spike in viewers, as with no dominant title battle, the sport draws in fewer and fewer fans each year. Further to this, audience engagement is also impacted by the number of in-season driver changes which occur as result of injury. This can make it difficult for fans to support a single driver and decrease the ‘fan culture’ that other motorsport competitions thrive on.

In recent years, there have been fewer, less intense rivalries for fans to follow along with and the rivalries that are there are much less publicized than in past years and in other sports. This means that fans will not be as emotionally invested in the sport, therefore creating much less excitement. 

However, MotoGP may be able to recover if they bring back old stars to commentate or to attend fan events. Fans may be more likely to turn up or watch to see these past icons back in action. In addition, if they made the progression series easier to follow and promoted these more, fans may follow drivers on their journey to MotoGP.

Article written by Ruby Kirtland