The FIM and Shell discuss MotoGP regulations

Shell technicians were on-site all weekend in the Sachsenring MotoGP paddock at the request of Ducati, to analyse samples of Casey Stoner and Nicky Hayden’s race oil and fuel. Shell were working next to Ducati’s pit garage and trailers to ensure not only the best possible race result, but also that future FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) regulations can be met and exploited to provide long term benefits to Ducati.

Working from a new mobile track lab in the paddock, Shell’s team of fuel and lubricant experts were on hand to generate valuable data as Ducati collects samples of race fuel and oil from each of Stoner and Hayden’s on-track sessions. The Shell V-Power race fuel analysis gives important performance insights, while the engine-protecting properties of the Shell Advance oil are examined in-depth to ensure constant reliability for the Desmosedici GP9.

Meanwhile, in a media discussion also attended by Dorna and Claude Danis, FIM Road Racing Commission President, Richard Karlstetter, Shell’s Global Racing Fuels Technology Manager, spoke of current challenges in MotoGP. Karlstetter said: “We always need to be prepared for championship rule changes. We have a strong ten-year-old technical partnership with Ducati, and by supporting the team on-site at the races, we can speed up the pace of development and really see the benefits of our close collaboration. Our constant aim is to find the best balance between power output and fuel consumption for the Ducati Team MotoGP machines. In light of the tough regulations we face, we must always be prepared to do the right thing at the right time.”

Claude Danis, FIM Road Racing Commission President added: “It’s good to talk to Shell about what they do in MotoGP, and to see the hard work going into meeting the championship regulations. When we make important changes to the MotoGP Championship regulations, for example the fuel tank size and the forthcoming multiple-race engine use, it’s important for us to know that the work is going on behind the scenes to make sure the rules work in the interest of a bright future for MotoGP.”

As the championship advances towards the age of restricted engine use, attention will be more focused than ever on the final seven races of the season. Shell’s team of 12 Ducati-dedicated technicians at its Hamburg-based laboratories will have an important role to play in prolonging the life of the Desmosedici GP9 engine. Shell Advance is vital in lubricating the engine and the gearbox, maintaining its protection properties over multiple races. Shell’s analysis both on-site at the track and in Hamburg will provide key developments to keep Ducati ahead of the pack in MotoGP.