MotoGP, Winglets in the eye of the storm again

The winglets continue to be at the centre of discussions in MotoGP. After Ducati began experimenting with the aerodynamic appendages, controversy ensued. At first, they were met with much scepticism, but as time went by, all the manufacturers fell in line, experimenting with their own solutions.

This was not enough to placate the crows (led by the Japanese) that would like to prohibit winglets in MotoGP. Doubts were also raised on the presumed danger they posed, although when put to the test no problems of that type arose.

The one defending the winglets, on the other hand is Ducati, who is willing to come up with a clear regulation on the appendages but who absolutely does not want to see them prohibited.

It was discussed again yesterday in the MSMA meeting (the manufacturers association) which can decide on rule changes only by a unanimous vote. However, as already mentioned, the manufacturers are divided on the issue and were unable to come to an agreement: so the baton is passed to the Grand Prix Commission.

The bureau (made up of one representative each for Dorna, FIM, IRTA and MSMA) will meet this afternoon at Assen, called on to settle the issue. Since the manufacturers are not unanimous, the GP Commission will have carte blanche and will be able to decide autonomously whether or not to prohibit the winglets (as already done in Moto2 and Moto3). In this case, a mid-season change in regulations is unlikely, although on paper anything is possible.

In a few hours, the fate of the winglets will be known.