Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports, to Miss MotoGP British Grand Prix Due to Surgery
Carmelo Ezpeleta, the head of Dorna Sports, the organization that manages the MotoGP world championship, will not be present at the upcoming British Grand Prix at Silverstone. This marks a significant moment, as it will be the first MotoGP event he has missed since Dorna took over the championship in 1992. Ezpeleta’s absence is due to a surgical procedure performed to address a long-standing spinal injury that has plagued him for many years.
Ezpeleta, who has been navigating the challenges posed by a spinal condition affecting two of his vertebrae, has experienced chronic pain as a result. Despite managing to continue his duties until now, he decided it was time to take a necessary step for his health and underwent surgery on Monday. He is hopeful that he will recuperate in time to return for the next round of the MotoGP series, which will take place in Aragon, Spain, just two weeks later.
At the age of 79, Ezpeleta has been a constant presence in the MotoGP paddock, having attended every grand prix since Dorna’s acquisition of the championship. His leadership has seen the sport grow significantly, with over 500 grand prix races conducted under his tenure. The upcoming race at Silverstone will be the 563rd event in the MotoGP calendar but will be notable as the first one without Ezpeleta in attendance.
In addition to his role as CEO, Ezpeleta holds the distinction of being the largest individual shareholder in MotoGP, representing the Spanish company Dorna Sports. Following an anticipated sale of MotoGP to the American entertainment powerhouse Liberty Media, he is expected to maintain around a 14% stake in the championship.
The sale to Liberty Media is expected to be finalized before the summer, likely in June, pending approval from the European Union’s antitrust regulatory body. During the subsequent transition, both Carmelo Ezpeleta and Carlos Ezpeleta, the current sporting director, are expected to retain their positions at Dorna at least until the end of 2026.
Looking ahead, significant changes are on the horizon for MotoGP. Starting in 2027, the championship will implement new technical regulations that include a shift to 850cc engines, the simplification of aerodynamics, adjustments to ride-height devices, and a new tire supplier. These changes are largely driven by the vision and initiative of Carmelo Ezpeleta himself, reflecting his ongoing influence in shaping the future of the sport.
Ezpeleta’s journey in MotoGP has been characterized by his commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the championship. His absence at Silverstone serves as a poignant reminder of his long-standing dedication to the sport and its community. As he focuses on recovery, the MotoGP family will undoubtedly rally around him, recognizing the vital role he has played in the evolution of motorcycle racing on a global scale.
In summary, the upcoming British Grand Prix at Silverstone will be a historical event not just for the race itself, but for the absence of its long-standing leader, Carmelo Ezpeleta. His health concerns have led him to make a difficult decision, but his legacy and contributions to MotoGP will continue to resonate as the championship moves forward into a new era.
