5 things we learnt about MotoGP esports from the finals in Valencia

During the final run of the MotoGP motor racing season, Esports News UK’s Craig Robinson attended the MotoGP Esport Championship event that coincided with the real life motorbike race in Valencia.
As a unique and niche esport, we list some of the elements that set MotoGP apart from other competitive titles.
 

1. The finals took place beside an actual race course

The MotoGP esports event was broadcast on the site of the Ricardo Tormo race course. Located in its own building, the players were sat less than 100 metres away from the live racing.

The final race of the actual real-life MotoGP season concluded at Valencia on the same weekend too.
The players also took part in two semi-final LAN events at the Misano and Aragon race courses.
 

2. It already has a two-time champion

This is the second event for MotoGP esports, and the final was won by the same person.
It was a bit of a shock this time around, as Italian player Trastevere73 failed to qualify in the first semi-final but qualified in the second semi stage. People thought it would be one of his rivals who would go on to win, but the Italian showed up to retain his championship nonetheless.
 

3. Real life racers are getting involved

Ducati MotoGP racer Jorge Lorenzo has helped produce content for the esport. In this video above, Jorge gets in the game to demonstrate how the pro riders tackle the Valencian track.
As well as this, he made a guest stage appearance. Jorge awarded the fastest racer during the pole position rounds (Trastevere73) with a limited-edition watch, as shown below.

In addition, Marc Marquez joined in on casting the event. It was a genuine surprise to most fans there and a nice addition for the broadcast.

4. MotoGP esports is broadcast on TV

Most esports these days are broadcast on Twitch, Youtube and other livestreaming websites. This MotoGP event aired on TV via broadcast deals with the likes of Eurosport and Movistar.
 

5. Businesses are taking it seriously

Dorna, the commercial rights holder for MotoGP, took an active role in promoting the virtual side of the sport.
Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta, as well as other business partners such as BWM, were in attendance on the night. It’s a sign of how big businesses are starting to take esports seriously, especially in the world of sport, what with the likes of F1 and the ePremier League getting involved in esports too.