As MotoGP™ gears up for a new season, there is important work to be done off-track and behind the scenes. One of the biggest priorities for every rider on the grid is health and fitness, and 2018 is the first time that the FIM, IRTA and Dorna will ensure each of the MotoGP™ riders in each class of competition are given a medical by Quirónsalud, MotoGP™ Medical Direction and the Clinica Mobile.
For riders in the premier class, these were carried out at the first Official Test of the year at Sepang International Circuit. For riders in Moto2™ and Moto3™, they will take place at their final preseason test at Jerez.
The medicals are overseen by MotoGP™ Medical Director Angel Charte, who is head of the Department of Internal Medicine at the Hospital Universitario Dexeus - Grupo Quirónsalud in Barcelona and has been named one of the best doctors in Spain. The FIM Medical Officer and Doctor Michele Zasa from the Clinica Mobile – also sponsored by Quirónsalud – form the team carrying out the examinations, which consist of the tests described in Appendix B of the FIM Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix Regulations. Riders will also have an electrocardiogram.
In addition, each rider will need to sign Annex B – detailing their medical history – and the anti-doping rider consent form.
These examinations not only ensure that each rider is in peak physical condition and healthy, but also form a database of important information that can then be used as a reference for officials. They are also a great opportunity for medical staff to touch base with the riders with whom they’ll be working throughout the season.