What to do, what to expect, how to get organised when you receive a VIP Pass for the most beautiful Grand Prix in the world

MOTOGP AND THE VIP VILLAGE

If you are reading this, you are about to receive a VIP Pass for the MotoGP VIP Village. The VIP Village, widely regarded as one of the finest sports hospitality experiences in the world, is the flagship of MotoGP corporate services. At Mugello, it is a premium facility located at the top of the circuit’s main administrative building. In terms of services, it represents the most comprehensive and exclusive package in the Motorcycle Racing World Championship. Whether you are a passionate motorcycle fan or simply curious, spending two days immersed in the most exciting series in motorsport is an extraordinary experience. Prepare yourself — these will be two unforgettable days. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of them.

A PACKED SCHEDULE

The VIP Village is the perfect place to enjoy the full spectacle of MotoGP, go behind the scenes and relax in the comfort of a truly magical setting. To get an idea of what awaits you, take a look at the day’s schedule — packed with activities — which we recommend checking on the official Dorna Sports website. The schedule shows on-track activity times and the VIP Village programme. Some activities — such as the paddock tour — are flexible; others — like the pit lane walk — are not. We recommend arriving right at the opening of the VIP Village so you can enjoy all on-track activities before the morning pit lane walk. Pay attention to lunch times as well: you can savour the chefs’ creations whenever you like, as long as you don’t miss the key MotoGP sessions.

ROARING ENGINES

MotoGP bikes are feats of engineering capable of producing up to 300 horsepower and reaching 350 km/h on the straight. Their roar is music to any motorsport enthusiast — but even great music can become tiresome. Although the rooms in the VIP Village are soundproofed, we recommend you moderate your prolonged exposure to the sound of the two-wheelers. If you have a pair of earplugs handy, put them in: you will save yourself a night of headaches. Don’t worry about looking like a novice — riders, technicians, mechanics and engineers constantly use noise-cancelling headphones and earplugs themselves.

WEATHER

This is a simple but important tip. Motorsport takes place outdoors and has long since made peace with changeable weather: sunshine is welcome, and rain is accepted. The VIP Village is, of course, covered and air-conditioned (for both heat and cold), but activities such as the paddock tour and the pit lane walk take place outdoors regardless of the weather. Be aware that the pit lane walk, paddock tour and any associated experiences will go ahead “come rain or shine” — you are free to opt out, but they will not be rescheduled.

THE CROWD

“At Mugello, nobody sleeps” — so goes the saying that accompanies the Italian Grand Prix, and you will quickly understand why. Although the VIP Village is separate from all other circuit areas, you will inevitably encounter a festive and boisterous crowd, often dressed in yellow and full of colour. It is all part of the spectacle, and it never fails to surprise with its elaborate banners and playful antics.

THE RIDERS

During your walks through the paddock or pit lane, you are very likely to catch sight of MotoGP, Moto2 or Moto3 riders. Keep your camera and phone ready, but don’t be put off if someone doesn’t stop for an autograph or a selfie. Always remember that a race weekend is an extremely demanding time for riders and their schedules are tightly packed.

YOUR VIP PASS

You will receive a pass for each day of the Grand Prix, in different colours depending on whether it is for Saturday (silver) or Sunday (gold). Keep it safe: you may be asked to present it at any moment of the day, and it must be intact and clearly identifiable. Do not give it away, lend it, forget it or lose it: in the event of loss, no replacement will be issued as passes are issued in limited and controlled numbers.

During your time inside the circuit, keep the pass with you at all times in a visible location, and be ready to present it on request.

The pass must be electronically validated or checked by staff on entry and exit from all circuit areas. Service staff at the gates will guide you through the procedure every time. Do not enter or exit any area without having validated your pass.

Your pass grants access only to the areas designated as “VIP” and to the associated facilities. It does not grant access to specific areas such as the public enclosures or the paddock, for instance. Signs and notices at the entrance to each area will clearly indicate which passes are permitted. The staff around you are always available — do not hesitate to ask them anything.

VIP VILLAGE DRESS CODE

There is no formal dress code for the VIP Village. However, keep in mind that — even within a prestigious hospitality setting — you are in a sporting environment. We recommend smart casual attire without excessive formality: comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate to the season are advised, and you can leave the jacket and tie at home. That said, while not formally stated, overly casual looks such as shorts, flip-flops, sleeveless tops and similar beach attire are not appropriate.

ACCESSORIES

The VIP Village provides every comfort you could wish for, but the perfect Motorcycle World Championship traveller always packs a few tricks of the trade. These include: a portable battery charger for your camera or phone, a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and glare off the asphalt, a folding umbrella for the unpredictable Apennine weather, an indelible marker for any memorable paddock encounters, and a printed copy of the session schedule so you are in the right place at the right time.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE

Mugello is arguably the most beautiful circuit in the world, not least because of its stunning location in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. However, this magnificent setting comes at a price: the road network is far from northern European standards, and between Saturday and Sunday around 150,000 people pass through it. In short, there is no hiding it: Mugello traffic is always heavy. If you want to be in the circuit in time for the early sessions, set your alarm well in advance and don’t worry about arriving too early — the coffee and croissants at the VIP Village will be a very worthy reward.

As for leaving the circuit, you have a choice: you can leave a few laps before the end of the race (you may smile now reading this, but you will remember it clearly later) or wait two or three hours comfortably at the VIP Village and let the initial traffic flow subside. One thing must be avoided at all costs: getting in your car immediately after the MotoGP race ends. Journey times could exceed 8 hours.

WHEN IN DOUBT, DON’T

Finally, and as obvious as it may sound, avoid any reckless or impulsive behaviour of any kind: as stated in all communication materials, motorsport is dangerous. Under no circumstances should you climb over nets, fences or gates; throw anything onto the track or nearby areas; enter areas you are not permitted to access even if you find open passages or doors; or use lighters, cigarettes or electronic cigarettes where not permitted. Remember also that inside the paddock (and outside it too), riders, technicians and mechanics often travel by scooter and electric bike: always be alert.

Frequently asked questions about the MotoGP VIP Village at Mugello