MotoGP organisers fear weak turnout at Red Bull Ring

Ticket sales for this weekend’s MotoGP round at the Red Bull Ring racing circuit in Spielberg are below expectations, ORF reported on Wednesday. Preparations for the KTM home event are nearly complete, but organisers are still waiting for more fans.

The Red Bull Ring has recorded a strong season so far, with thousands attending the opening DTM event and more than 300,000 fans setting a record at the Formula 1 race. MotoGP, once one of the biggest crowd-pullers, appears to have lost some of its appeal.

Thomas Überall, managing director of the Red Bull Ring, said the championship may be missing prominent figures who could create stronger rivalries and add more emotion. He pointed to the past battles between Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez as stories that had excited fans.

Organisers are offering special services for visitors arriving by motorcycle, including dedicated parking and biker cloakrooms where riders can leave their helmets and heavy clothing. Bicycle parking will also be available.

Marc Marquez, a nine-time world champion, is among the leading favourites after demonstrating his title ambitions with a double victory in San Marino last weekend.

The factory team of the red-white-red motorcycle manufacturer will also be hoping for a strong performance from Spaniard Acosta, who is fifth in the world championship after securing his second consecutive podium finish.

The race weekend begins on Thursday afternoon with a pit-lane walk and the Moped Grand Prix.