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How MotoGP can solve its Gordian Knot calendar problem

As the delay to the 2020 season continues, MotoGP faces numerous conundrums in organising a new calendar. But, using an idea put forward by Ducati, there could be an effective - and largely simple - solution

At the time of writing, MotoGP has had nine - with an extension to the ban of mass gatherings in the Netherlands expected to bring that figure to 10 by the end of April - races cancelled or postponed by the coronavirus, as lockdowns and containment measures are extended across the globe.

In that time, MotoGP promoters Dorna Sports and the FIM have conducted many an interview, mooting ideas under consideration to try and get some semblance of a season underway. Last month, both parties hoped all 19 remaining races (Qatar has been cancelled for good this year) could still be squeezed in, with initial calendar updates reflecting this. Two-race weekends and extending the year into January were also touted.

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Author Lewis Duncan

Lewis Duncan is Autosport's International Editor and primary motorcycle racing reporter. A motorsport fan from a young age, Lewis became interested in journalism when he won the star letter competition in the February 2012 issue of F1 Racing Magazine. A member of the Autosport Academy from 2017, Lewis became a freelance motorcycle racing correspondent for Autosport in 2019 before becoming a full-time staffer in 2020 as International Editor.

While MotoGP coverage is his priority, Lewis also covers World Superbikes and road racing across the Motorsport Network, and hosts the Tank Slappers Podcast. He has also occasionally commentated on 750 Motor Club meetings. Away from motorsport, Lewis is a keen record collector with a collection unashamedly largely featuring Iron Maiden and Rush and an avid guitar player.