Watch the race or be part of it? The story behind the MotoGP™ chequered flag

The chequered flag is one of the most iconic symbols in motorsport, signalling the end of a race and the start of the celebrations for the podium finishers. In MotoGP™, it now also offers fans a unique opportunity to become part of the show themselves.

Every fan is glued to the race. As the showdown reaches its conclusion, the black and white chequered flag is waved to signal the end of the battle, with riders crossing the line often split by milliseconds after pushing themselves and their bikes to the limit. But look closely and you can see something extra special about the flag itself: the MotoGP chequered flag features names written directly onto the fabric. But who are these names and how are they chosen? 

MotoGP™ official licensee Memento Exclusives produces the chequered flags waved at the end of each race and gives fans around the world the opportunity to add their own name ahead of each Grand Prix. Before each race weekend, individual squares of the flag are made available for purchase through MotoGPAuthentics.com, allowing supporters to become a visible part of race day history before the lights even go out. 

The Chequered Flag - An Authentic MotoGP Memento
The Chequered Flag - An Authentic MotoGP Memento

 

MotoGP™ chequered flag squares are released to fans on a first-come basis. Once a square has been secured, fans submit the name they would like written onto the flag. That name is then permanently added to the chequered flag before it is taken trackside and waved at the finish of the race. 

After the Grand Prix, the flag is carefully cut into its individual squares, placed in an official display and sent to its new owner. From 2026, MotoGP™ fans will receive a newly designed acrylic presentation, offering a modern, elegant way to show off the flag piece while keeping it protected for years to come. 

Commemorating unforgettable races 

MotoGP™ is built from moments. Last lap passes, photo finishes, championship deciders and emotional victories all become part of the sport’s rich history, never to be repeated in quite the same way again. 

Adding a name to the chequered flag allows fans to connect directly to one of these moments. It is a tangible link to a specific race, whether you were watching trackside or following every lap from home. Rather than simply witnessing history, your name becomes part of it. It is a personalised way to remember these moments for all time.  

For some, a flag square marks a personal milestone. They have been bought to celebrate birthdays or anniversaries, to honour the memory of someone special, or as a popular gift for lifelong MotoGP™ fans.  

Waved by greatness  

One of the most exciting unknowns surrounding the chequered flag is discovering who might wave it at the end of the race. This is not always announced in advance and sometimes involves high-profile guests and VIPs from the world of sports and entertainment, or someone legendary in the history of MotoGP itself. 

Over the years, MotoGP™ chequered flags have been waved by the likes of Hollywood actor Keanu Reeves, tennis superstar Carlos Alcaraz, MotoGP Hall of Famer Jorge Lorenzo, football World Cup winner Carlos Puyol and more. 

With VIP guests regularly in attendance across the calendar, there is always an element of surprise. You never quite know who could end up waving your name as the race winner takes the victory! 

Keanu Reeves: "I love MotoGP"
Hollywood star & known bike fan Keanu Reeves tells us which MotoGP track he'd most like to ride during the #AmericasGP.
Keanu Reeves: "I love MotoGP"
Hollywood star & known bike fan Keanu Reeves tells us which MotoGP track he'd most like to ride during the #AmericasGP.

 

How to add YOUR NAME to MotoGP™ history? 

To add your name to an upcoming MotoGP™ chequered flag, visit MotoGPAuthentics.com and browse the races currently available for the season. 

Choose your preferred Grand Prix, secure your square and submit your name before the flag goes into production. 

Availability is limited and some races sell out quickly, so fans are encouraged to act fast to avoid missing the chance to become part of the 2026 season! 

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