MotoGP: ‘No Wanker Signs’

Ruling, if adopted elsewhere, could be life-changing

bySteve Cole Smith|
Motorcycles photo
Share

0

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

A precedent has been instituted in MotoGP that, if adopted globally, could result in the end of motorsports as we know it. Sort of.

According to AutoSport: “MotoGP riders now face fines for delivering offensive hand gestures on track, as part of a new crackdown. Between the San Marino and Aragon Grands Prix, riders were emailed and told that they would be fined by governing body the FIM. It follows a prolonged exchange between Valentino Rossi and Suzuki's Aleix Espargaro during practice at Misano. Impeded by Espargaro, Rossi slowed to ride alongside the Suzuki, gesticulating, even along the main straight after Espargaro entered the pits. Rossi finished the move by raising his middle finger at Espargaro, one of the moves set to be eradicated. ‘You're not allowed to stick fingers up, wanker signs, nothing,’ said Cal Crutchlow.”

We assume what Marc Marquez is doing in that photo up there is OK, but we’re still a bit uncomfortable.

Imagine if you are the official who has to call frequent NASCAR gesticulators like Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch or Brad Keselowski to the pits for offensive hand gestures. Or, in IndyCar, Marco Andretti, who is at least Italian, and possibly would get a bye. Or, in Formula 1 – pretty much the entire field.

Essentially unaffected: NHRA Top Fuel.

stripe
MotorcyclesRacing