P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ducati’s Davide Tardozzi has opened up on MotoGP’s declining health in Italy
Ducati MotoGP team boss Davide Tardozzi believes Italy’s MotoGP growth suffered due to Valentino Rossi’s retirement and pay TV deals, impacting market share.
With Liberty Media in ownership, MotoGP sees growth as calendar expands and race attendance climbs.
Tardozzi notes loss of Rossi and move from free-to-air TV as key factors in Italy’s decline.
He acknowledges Pecco Bagnaia’s rising fame and efforts by Ducati and Aprilia in promotion, but emphasizes the challenges of pay TV.
Recent improvements include higher attendance at Mugello and Misano, driven by Ducati’s success and Aprilia’s emergence.
Tardozzi looks to Formula 1’s growth under Liberty, questioning MotoGP’s approach despite busier circuits from early in the weekend.
He emphasizes the unique challenges of MotoGP locations compared to F1 destinations, underlining the paramount importance of safety.
