The world of MotoGP is witnessing a significant shift in race starts, and Fabio Di Giannantonio is at the forefront of this change. As the championship implements new rules for the Dutch Grand Prix (26–28 June), riders are adapting to a different approach that aims to enhance safety at the first corner.
The Italian rider, known for his candid opinions, has shared his initial experiences with the new start procedure, highlighting both its challenges and potential benefits. This change marks a departure from the front start devices that have been a staple in the championship since 2019, aiming to make braking more natural and reduce the risk of accidents.
Adapting to the new start procedure
Di Giannantonio’s first encounter with the new start procedure was met with a mix of curiosity and caution. During practice sessions in Assen, he noted that the absence of the front start device made the initial acceleration feel different but manageable. “Well, I tried today and it was not that bad, let’s say,” he remarked, comparing the sensation to exiting a corner at full speed with the device engaged.
However, the VR46 Racing Team rider expressed concerns about the potential for wheelies becoming more prominent. “The only issue that we could have is that you arrive on the first corner with the front wheel not touching the ground,” he explained. “So, maybe you start to brake and maybe you lock the front because it’s not on the ground.” This observation underscores the delicate balance between speed and control that riders must maintain in the high-stakes environment of MotoGP.
Safety versus performance
Di Giannantonio’s perspective on the new start procedure is nuanced. While he acknowledges the potential safety benefits, he also admits to feeling “a little scary” about the change. “I already said that on my side the front holeshot device was okay also for the safety,” he stated, indicating a preference for the familiar system. Nevertheless, he remains open to the new approach, recognizing the broader goal of reducing first-corner crashes.
The Italian rider’s sentiments reflect a broader debate within the MotoGP community. The ban on front holeshot devices is intended to create a more natural braking experience, but it also introduces new variables that riders must account for. As Di Giannantonio noted, the success of this change will become clearer in the coming races, particularly during the qualifying session and the main event on Sunday.
Seeking stability on the track
Beyond the new start procedure, Di Giannantonio is focusing on improving his performance in Assen. Finishing seventh in practice, he acknowledged that his setup still lacks the stability needed for optimal performance. “I’ve been missing that really fast lap, especially with the soft tyres,” he admitted, highlighting the challenges of finding the right balance between grip and speed.
The VR46 Racing Team rider emphasized the need to maximize the potential of his bike, particularly in terms of front and rear grip. ” This quest for stability is a common theme among riders, as they strive to extract every ounce of performance from their machines.
As the weekend progresses, all eyes will be on Di Giannantonio and his fellow riders as they navigate the new start procedure and seek to find the perfect setup for the Dutch Grand Prix. The coming days at Assen will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the new rules and the adaptability of the riders.
