TIPS FOR FANS

How to meet the rider?

Unless you have a rare pass to the paddock, you have limited opportunities to meet your favourite rider, take a photo, or ask for an autograph. But it's not impossible, so don't give up. Here are our tips:

Fan zones
Some riders participate in the program in fan zones, as their advertising contracts prescribe. In particular, keep an eye on the social networks of the organiser, teams, riders and sponsors that support your favourite. There you will find out when and where you can catch your idol.

Hero Walk
The Hero Walk offers a distinctive opportunity for fans to engage with drivers. Throughout Saturday and Sunday, select riders from the MotoGP Moto2 and Moto3 supporting categories, participate in the 'Hero Walk.' During this event, a limited number of fans can interact directly with the riders, requesting autographs or selfies and enjoying a memorable experience.

In front of the circuit,
Some riders do not sleep on the circuit but in hotels. The parking lots near the main entrance are usually reserved for holders of the most prestigious parking passes, which include the riders. You can try to wait nearby; however, get there early. The riders usually arrive at the circuit before the start of the race programme each day to avoid congestion.

How to behave when you meet racers?

There are differences between racers and how they treat fans. Therefore, you should always follow a few basic guidelines. Firstly, never delay racers if they want to go somewhere. They are under a lot of pressure, and if they don't want to stop with you, don't demand it or get angry with them.

If you want an autograph, your chances increase when you have an official rider's merchandising to sign. Anonymous t-shirts, bras, paper or skin are the way to get a rider's "pass" on you, as more fans are waiting for his signature.

Do you want a photo with a racer? It's certainly not out of the question, but be considerate again. The better option is always to have someone else take your picture. If you want a selfie, always consider the racer's personal space. Not everyone likes to be hugged by strangers, especially when there are dozens of them.

How to enjoy the race as comfortably as possible?

One thing in MotoGP racing is that if you think of a great idea, tens of thousands of other people usually think of the same thing. Run to the bathroom on a short break? Have lunch? Everybody wants to do that. Try to tailor your schedule differently than everyone else. Be anticipatory with eating or peeing so you don't spend the best part of the day in a queue outside the toilets.

Where to watch the race from?

In our grandstand guide, you will always find tips on where to go and what you can see from a given grandstand. It's a good idea to know what you're interested in beforehand. If you want to be as close to the track as possible or are a keen amateur photographer and want the best shot, plan accordingly, what ticket you'll buy and how you'll move around. Seat tickets usually include general admission, so it's no problem to watch the Japanese MotoGP from multiple locations throughout the weekend. 

Another thing to watch out for when planning your circuit movements - distances on the circuit can be pretty long, and some transitions between stands can take tens of minutes, especially if many people are on the circuit. Instead, try to keep transitions as short as possible.

How to look at the track?

After the race,  the organisers open the track entrances for fans, who can watch the podium ceremony directly below the podium. In our guide to the fan zones and fan programme, you can always find whether this also applies to the race you are going to. If this experience is the highlight of your day, choose the stands closest to the podium so you won't miss it.