Why Are There No British Riders in MotoGP?

The United Kingdom has a rich motorsport heritage, producing legends in both two- and four-wheeled racing. From Formula 1 champions to Isle of Man TT icons, British motorsport is world-renowned.

Yet, one glaring question has emerged in recent years: why are there currently no British riders competing in MotoGP, the premier class of motorcycle racing?
 

A Brief History: British Riders in MotoGP

British riders were once a force in motorcycle Grand Prix racing. Notable names include:

• Barry Sheene – The last Brit to win the premier class world championship, taking titles in 1976 and 1977.
• Cal Crutchlow – A multiple MotoGP race winner and consistent top-ten finisher, known for his skill and tenacity.
• Scott Redding, Bradley Smith, and Sam Lowes – Competitive riders in MotoGP and Moto2, with Smith and Lowes also contributing as test and development riders in recent years.

These riders illustrate that the UK has long had a presence in top-level motorcycle racing. However, since Crutchlow’s retirement from full-time MotoGP competition in 2020, no British rider has held a permanent seat in the premier class.
 

So, Why the Absence Today?

1. Limited Seats, Global Talent Pool

MotoGP features only 22 full-time seats, shared among riders from countries with strong motorcycling infrastructures like Spain, Italy, France, and Japan. These countries invest heavily in developing young riders through national series and direct MotoGP feeder programs.

With fewer opportunities and fierce international competition, British riders face an uphill battle to secure one of these coveted spots.
 

2. Lack of a Strong Domestic Ladder

Unlike Spain’s CEV Championship or Italy’s CIV series, the UK lacks a national-level motorcycle racing program that feeds directly into MotoGP’s talent pipeline. While the British Superbike Championship (BSB) is highly respected, it's not always seen as a direct route to MotoGP. BSB riders often transition to World Superbikes (WSBK) instead.

That disconnect limits how many young British riders get noticed by MotoGP teams.

3. Funding and Sponsorship Challenges

MotoGP is an expensive sport. Young riders often need backing from:

• National federations
• Private sponsors
• Manufacturer-supported academies

In Spain and Italy, companies are more likely to invest in motorcycle racing talent, seeing high returns through MotoGP’s popularity. In the UK, motorsport sponsorship tends to lean toward car racing (like F1 or BTCC), leaving motorcycle hopefuls underfunded.
 

4. British Riders in the Wrong Categories

Many talented Brits have chosen (or been steered into) Superbike racing. The likes of:

• Jonathan Rea (six-time World Superbike Champion)
• Leon Haslam
• Alex Lowes

...have made their names in WSBK. While the talent is clear, this path rarely intersects with MotoGP anymore — the two series have diverged in terms of rider development and team priorities.
 

5. Crutchlow's Departure Left a Gap

Cal Crutchlow was the last full-time British rider in MotoGP. His success, including three wins, was significant — but his exit in 2020 (and current role as a Yamaha test rider) left a vacuum. With no obvious successor waiting in the wings, the UK’s representation in MotoGP disappeared.
 

Is the Future Any Brighter For UK Riders?

There is hope on the horizon, though progress is slow.

Rising Stars to Watch:

• Rory Skinner – Former BSB rider, now competing in Moto2. At just 22, he represents the UK’s best shot at a MotoGP future.
• Scott Ogden and Josh Whatley – Competing in Moto3, gaining valuable experience on the world stage.

These young riders need time, support, and results to move up the ranks — but they show promise.

Grassroots Efforts:
The British Talent Cup, a feeder series for riders aged 12–17, aims to unearth and nurture young British riders. While it’s a step in the right direction, it still lacks the depth and financial support of Spanish and Italian academies.
 

What Needs to Change?

To see a British rider back in MotoGP, several things need to align:

• More structured development programs, bridging junior racing to Moto3.
• Increased investment from British brands, manufacturers, and sponsors.
• Collaboration with MotoGP teams to get British talent into international junior categories early.
• Media coverage and fan support, to fuel interest and visibility.

The absence of British riders in MotoGP isn’t due to a lack of talent…it’s a result of infrastructure, funding, and opportunity gaps.

But the passion for motorsport remains strong in the UK, and with renewed focus on development and support, it’s only a matter of time before the Union Jack returns to the MotoGP grid.