MotoGP: Trouble ahead as rain threatens in Austria

There could be trouble ahead for MotoGP organisers at this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix, as heavy rain forecast for the weekend combined with dangerous track conditions last year at the Red Bull Ring could potentially be set to leave the track too unsafe to race on.

2017 saw only one wet session at the circuit, with rain falling during free practice one for the Moto2 class – but the low grip of the circuit resulted in a number of falls for riders under straight line braking at the track’s slow turns one and three.

Speaking after Monday’s test at Brno, a series of top riders refused to be drawn on their options if it rains at the track, only going as far to show their displeasure at no action being taken by organisers since last year’s race. The lack of grip and the closeness of some barriers and lack of runoff at the Austrian circuit already make it one of the most frequently discussed tracks at MotoGP’s weekly safety commission meetings – and could lead to a heated discussion on Friday night.

The area has already been hit by a series of lightning storms and heavy rain and hail since the MotoGP paddock moved from Brno after Sunday’s Czech Grand Prix, and while Sunday’s race day is forecast to be dry there are more storms currently being predicted for Friday and Saturday.