MCN Festival 2017: What is Motoball?

Ever heard of Motoball? No, me neither, but this year Motoball is coming to the Carole Nash MCN Festival of Motorcycling, and it looks like a lot of fun – just check out the video at the bottom of this article.

As you might have guessed, Motoball is football on motorcycles, with two teams of four riders going wheel to wheel to try and score past the opposition goalkeeper, who is on foot. Hayes & Southall MCC Motoball are the only UK club that still actively play, and they’ll be playing several exhibition matches throughout the course of the MCN Festival on May 13-14.

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The club use machines up to 250cc adapted with smaller wheels, lowered suspension and ball guards to prevent the rider running over the ball, which measures 120cm in circumference and is only available via special order from Germany.

The history of Motoball

While the specific origin of Motoball is unknown, it’s believed it was created by bored despatch riders during WW1. On their return home they continued to play using the plentiful supply of ex-war department bikes and the sport grew across Europe, becoming an officially-organised sport in the 1930s.

A British league and knock out championship ran for many years, peaking with over 125 teams, but interest in the sport declined until in the 1990s only the Hayes & Southall MCC Classic Motoball Section remained.

The game is still very popular in Europe with France, Germany, Russia, Belarus and the Netherlands competing in international tournaments. 

The Carole Nash MCN Festival takes place on May 13-14 at the Peterborough Arena.

Camping is a great way to experience all that the Festival has to offer. Campers gain early access into the show, have the opportunity to be the first to sign up for test rides and bag a bargain, plus, Festival campers get in to see a full speedway round as part of their weekend pass. There’s some great evening entertainment for those who stay all weekend. Yamaha will be hosting the MT Dark Side Party on both Friday and Saturday evening with plenty of live music to get the party in full swing.

Camping tickets start at £30*

Take advantage of our advance ticket offer by booking before May 8.

 

Looking for the perfect two-wheeled companion? Visit MCN Bikes For Sale website or use MCN’s Bikes For Sale App.