​MotoGP riders have observed that the new grid layout unveiled for today’s Sachsenring sprint race appears to have achieved its primary aim: reducing the risk of collisions. The first start under the revised rules was unusually orderly and, by the same measure, fairly uneventful. With increased spacing between grid slots and between rows, the gap between a rider’s starting position and the eventual running order on the opening lap was small.
The race that followed was notably steady, if not particularly dramatic, and much of that calm can be attributed to the early start limitations. Still, some argued that the tight confines of the Sachsenring magnified the impact of the grid change. Regardless of the cause, riders largely kept their comments rooted in safety, emphasizing that the adjustment was implemented solely for protective purposes. The grid update comes in the wake of recent start-line incidents in Barcelona and at Balaton Park.
“It is better for safety, probably, but it makes overtaking harder,” noted Tech3 KTM rider Enea Bastianini. “It was difficult to pass any riders. But when you look at what happened in the past, it’s better to be much safer.”
Race starter Brad Binder, KTM’s factory rider, is known for aggressive launches and admitted the change doesn’t suit his style, but he offered his cautious endorsement. “It’s terrible for me because I can’t pass as many people,” he joked. “Even if you start well, you end up passing one rider in a row, not two. For safety, it’s the right idea, for sure. For the show, we’ll have to wait and see.”
The 2024 world champion, Jorge Martin, remained mostly unperturbed by the modification, yet acknowledged the positive safety signals. “Honestly, I didn’t feel anything,” he said. “I think we have more space to think and react if something happens, so this is good. Nothing happened in the first corner, so maybe it’s a good thing.”
Pedro Acosta, Binder’s teammate, was unequivocal in his support for the new grid. “Definitely, it’s the first safety measure that is actually safer,” he asserted. “When you arrive at the first corner, there’s only one rider by your side, or maybe two, but not five around. I think it’s a strong start.”
Additional reporting by Oriol Puigdemont. For more Motorsport.com content, visit the site. This summary is intended to support readers seeking a deeper understanding of the changes and their implications for safety and competitive dynamics, while also noting the practical realities of overtaking opportunities under the revised grid.