Since the previous season, the MotoGP Safety Commission has been utilizing advanced software developed by the University of Padua, specifically designed for the championship, to analyze and enhance the run-off areas of its circuits.
Padua is the quintessential location where motion and its implications have a significant presence. The esteemed university of this northern Italian city was frequented by two pivotal figures of the Renaissance, Nicolaus Copernicus and Galileo Galilei.
Given this rich history and over five centuries of advancement following these two scholars, the MotoGP leadership recognized the University of Padua as an ideal partner in their quest to bolster circuit safety. Thus, from this collaboration emerged a software program five years ago that was implemented last season, serving as a vital tool for track safety certification.
As technology progresses, motorbikes are increasing in speed each year, directly affecting track safety. A common adage among riders on the grid is, “The straights seem to get shorter, and the walls seem to get closer.”
One of the most perilous aspects of a crash occurs when a rider collides with an obstacle. The increase in bike speed has also altered perceptions of safety at specific locations on the track that were previously deemed secure.
This pressing concern garnered the attention of MotoGP’s decision-makers, leading Carlos Ezpeleta, the MotoGP sporting director, and Corrado Cecchinelli, the director of technology, to reach out to the “disciples” of Galileo. Their collaboration has resulted in software developed in Padua, enriched with data from Dorna, the championship promoter, the FIM, various suppliers, teams, and riders.
Alfonso on a track walk with Bagnaia after homologating the Indian GP circuit using the software developed by the University of Padua
Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
“We sought a tool that would enable us to input a track profile into AutoCAD, allowing us to determine the ideal dimensions of run-offs or evaluate the adequacy of existing ones,” Ezpeleta explains to Motorsport.com alongside Cecchinelli and Tome Alfonso, FIM’s safety officer. “After discussions with Corrado, he reached out to the experts in Padua, recognized for their expertise in motion studies.”
The initial objective was to create a line that accurately simulates the bikes on the track while maximizing speed. This was followed by a second optimization that provided a qualitative leap, predicting the rider’s trajectory post-impact, along with the speed at which they would slide and their eventual landing position.
“What’s crucial is that, from that point onward, the program began differentiating between the bike’s motion and the rider’s,” notes Cecchinelli.
“Based on the outputs from the tool, we refined the design until we achieved an optimal configuration, aligned with the available space.”
Carlos Ezpeleta
All of these simulations rely on accumulated experience. Ezpeleta adds, “We transferred data from numerous crashes over the past decade to the technicians in Padua.”
Like many programs, this unnamed tool operates on statistical models, leading to some margin for error. As the software evolves, this margin is decreasing, but it is never entirely eliminated. There are instances when the electronic brain’s interpretation of all data may not perfectly align with actual outcomes.
“For instance, a rider’s sliding can differ significantly on wet gravel compared to dry gravel,” reveals Alfonso. “Or in similar accidents, the program might misinterpret the rider’s intended trajectory.”
This software represents a considerable advancement in this field.
“Although circuits are still homologated by humans, this software significantly aids decision-making,” Alfonso states, noting its use during MotoGP’s recent visit to India. “Rooting our assessments in mathematics and scientific principles simplifies the process. We could identify key areas for focus, enabling us to verify and confirm various details.”
MotoGP’s Red Bull Ring track layout was modified after the terrifying crash that almost saw Rossi and Vinales hit by cartwheeling bikes
Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
This enhancement applies not only to new tracks but also offers substantial benefits for existing ones. Cecchinelli emphasizes, “This system enables us to import actual trajectory and speed data, thereby reducing the margin of error in simulations.”
A notable modification prompted by insights from this new tool was the adjustment made after the first corner of the Red Bull Ring. This was a preventative measure following the alarming crash involving Johann Zarco and Franco Morbidelli in 2020, which saw their out-of-control bikes narrowly missing Valentino Rossi and Maverick Vinales.
“The process proved highly effective due to various on-track constraints, and it was crucial not to alter the Formula 1 configuration,” Ezpeleta elaborates. “Utilizing the data from the tool, we refined the design until we achieved an optimal solution based on our spatial limitations. All variations were integrated into the software until the final proposal was established.”
GPS introduces a new dimension
While current bikes are equipped with GPS transmitters, upcoming regulations set to commence in 2027 will introduce advanced systems that will greatly expand possibilities. This will enhance both speed and precision for teams, broadcast departments, and the managers of these programs.
Until now, data fed into the crash history program was derived from analyses based on observed incidents through television footage.
“GPS will provide us with real data regarding slips, speeds, trajectories, and more,” concludes Ezpeleta. “That is why we are diligently advocating for its inclusion in the 2027 regulations.”
Motorsport will always be dangerous, but limiting the risk and improving circuit safety remains a constant task
Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
