Ezpeleta: Moto2 will give new life to the intermediate category

During the official presentation of the Gran Premio bwin.com de España, which was held in Madrid last week, motogp.com spoke to Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta about a range of current issues.

Mr Ezpeleta discussed the entry list for the new Moto2 category which is expected to be released in mid-February. He also welcomed the entry of new chassis manufacturers, a dynamic element not just for the intermediate category but for the World Championship on all levels.

"The entry list is likely to be made available in mid-February", explained Mr Ezpeleta. "We are in contact with all the teams who paid a deposit necessary for participation, and all are continuing. We have 39 and it seems this will be the final number. It could be that one withdraws, but there are others in reserve and so I think that it will begin with those 39 riders."

"I personally believe that it is too many, but this is the way it has worked. It's a new category and we had to give everyone the opportunity to participate", Mr Ezpeleta continued, before talking about the benefits this can bring to the new category.

"I think it gives new life to the intermediate category, which is one that has given us extraordinary races every year in the World Championship. But it needed a breath of fresh air, and I think this will permit many who did not participate in 250cc to consider Moto2 as a category in which to compete. I think it will be very interesting and the equality in engines, fuel and tyres are paramount to allowing the riders, teams and the chassis developers the best chance of winning. It's very important in allowing the riders to make the graduation to MotoGP."

Asked about the possibility that Moto2 could open the door for chassis manufacturers to move into the premier class, Mr Ezpeleta said: "It's possible. At the moment we're happy with MotoGP as it is. We believe that by 2012, with the new regulations for 1000cc, perhaps more can enter. I think there are 14 manufacturers who are making Moto2 chassis. That could serve well for the future, and using a motor provided by a factory, chassis builders could also manufacture for MotoGP."

Speaking about the recent rule changes in MotoGP which will come into effect in 2012, Mr Ezpeleta added: "After the meetings in Valencia (November) and Geneva (December) it was unanimously approved by the members of the Grand Prix Commission that in 2012 there would be a move to a maximum engine capacity of 1000cc, with four cylinders, and a maximum cylinder bore of 81mm. The MSMA will meet in Tokyo to decide on the rest of the parameters of the rules, and we will all meet in February to further define these rules."