The GP of Champions – the new format of MotoGP official charity Two Wheels for Life’s flagship fundraiser – raised a stunning €170,000 during the British GP. With a range of exciting and exclusive fundraising initiatives, fans came together to make a huge impact.
Kickstarting the weekend was the MotoGP Experience day on Thursday, where 500 fans rubbed shoulders with the stars of MotoGP™ as they got exclusive access to the paddock and a scheduled pitlane walk, before two auctions and a range of further events during the weekend.
As ever, the Two Wheels for Life memorabilia and experience auctions were a highlight – with the paddock coming together to offer an exclusive and exciting list of money-can’t-buy items and experiences. The most sought-after lot was a pair of racing boots put up for auction by MotoGP Championship leader Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team), which sold for an incredible €6,500 (£5,500) on Friday evening. Over €83,000 (£70,000) was raised over the two auctions, with signed memorabilia from riders across the MotoGP, Moto2™ and Moto3™ grids, as well as lots from sponsors Tissot, Triumph, Michelin and Pirelli.
Exclusive VIP experiences up for grabs included dinner with the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team and grid access across all three series, as well as a unique lot added in by CASTROL Honda LCR Team’s Johann Zarco. The French GP winner spontaneously offered up a demonstration of one of his famous backflips on Saturday evening, usually reserved for Grand Prix wins only, to the Silverstone crowd for €600 (£500). That was immediately snapped up.
Numerous stars from Moto2 and Moto3 also appeared, including home hero Jake Dixon, and fans were also able to meet their racing idols after the on-stage appearances, with riders happily posing for selfies and signing autographs. Other fundraising activities included the helmet park service, the MotoGP prize draw raffle and the Ducati MotoEX2 two-seater experience, where several lucky fans were able to experience the power of an electric Ducati with a pillion ride around Silverstone.
All funds raised go towards Two Wheels for Life’s work supporting the Riders for Health programmes, providing access to healthcare through the use of motorcycles in a number of countries in sub-saharan Africa. Find out more HERE!