MotoGP: Ducati aero decision to be confirmed before the Argentina round

Protests by four factories after the Qatar GP about Ducati’s rear swingarm devices has been referred to the MotoGP Court of Appeal.

Following the MotoGP race at the VisitQatar Grand Prix on 10th March, the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel composed by Freddy Spencer (IRTA-USA), Bill Cumbow (FIM–USA) and Ralf Bohnhorst (FIM-GER) received protests from Aprilia Racing Team Gresini, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, Repsol Honda Team and Team Suzuki Ecstar.

The protests concerned aerodynamic devices on the rear swingarm of Ducati bikes used by Andrea Dovizioso and Danilo Petrucci (Mission Winnow Ducati) and Jack Miller (Alma Pramac Racing). The FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel rejected their protests.

The teams then lodged an appeal with the FIM Appeal Stewards consisting of FIM Steward Stuart Higgs (GBR) and a second appeal Steward Cesario Samarita (PHI), appointed by the Qatar Motorcycle Federation (QMMF). In accordance with article 3.3.3.2 of the FIM World Championship Grand Prix Regulations, the FIM Appeal Stewards referred the case to the MotoGP Court of Appeal. 

The MotoGP Court of Appeal is made up of three judges belonging to the FIM International Commission of Judges. A hearing will be organised shortly with representatives from the teams concerned. The decision of the MotoGP Court of Appeal will be announced before the Argentinian Grand Prix on 31 March.

The result of the VisitQatar Grand Prix stands, subject to the final decision of the MotoGP Court of Appeal. The FIM has said that it will not comment any further at this time.