You’ve wanted it, coveted it, hunted for it, and now have it; but is the MotoGP Paddock Pass worth it? The answer is, yes, “probably”. It’s time to shed some light on racing’s most discussed and most misunderstood object. And time for you to take a look at MotoGP’s most elite ticket.

There is in fact a lot of misinformation and poor communication about Paddock Passes. People think that they will be given access to garages and hospitality, that they will get the chance to chat with their MotoGP heroes and enjoy a truly spectacular view of the race. Unfortunately, this is far from the reality once you put on your plastic badge and enter the paddock.

View

First and foremost. If you think you can watch a race from the MotoGP paddock and that you’re going to get some incredible views and sit in the first row, then you’re sadly mistaken. In fact, the paddock might just be the worst place in the world to watch live track action because there are no screens, no reserved seating, no exclusive gaps in the fence, and no pit lane access. At all. You will be prevented from seeing all the information about the race from this position. If you want to catch a glimpse of the action, grab a VIP Village pass or a tribune ticket.

The only exception to this is if you have a Viewing Area Paddock Pass, which will be indicated by a black and white “VA” label on the back of your Paddock Pass. With that sticker, you will be allowed into the private grandstand that is close to the race track and located outside the paddock.

Our rating – MotoGP Paddock Passes are worth it: NOT

Ambience and glamor

If you’re looking for an atmosphere of luxury, adrenaline and excitement, this is the place to be. There’s no doubt that this is where the magic happens. Mechanics running back and forth, racers gliding on mopeds, celebrities coming out to watch, paddock girls smiling under umbrellas. The rich hang out here, so put on your best shirt and mingle. Our rating – MotoGP Paddock Passes are worth it: YES

Opportunities

Don’t assume that having a paddock pass around your neck means you’re free to go anywhere. However, access to hospitality buildings, motorhomes, garages and media centers will be restricted. Access to the dedicated Team Hospitality is limited to very select guests and team members, and the same goes for the garages and motorhomes. So, it’s either you have a team sticker on the back of your pass (meaning you can enter the team hospitality) or be prepared to heat up in the hot sun. Or get wet in the rain, and be prepared. Our rating – MotoGP Paddock Passes are worth it: NOT

Meet the racers

If you wander around the paddock all weekend, you’ll eventually catch a glimpse of most – if not all – of the MotoGP riders and stars. From Valentino Rossi to Marc Marquez, from Dovi to Italian TV legend Guido Meda, it’s easy to spot. And it’s real. Taking selfies and asking for autographs is another story. These youngsters won’t have enough time to stop and interact with their fans on the circuit during a race weekend. More likely, you’ll spend the entire weekend waiting in front of a Yamaha truck or Repsol Honda hospitality… Our rating – MotoGP Paddock Passes are worth it: YES

Facilities

Again, the paddock is not an amusement park. If you don’t have a Team sticker on your entry ticket, you’ll find it difficult to do anything other than walk around. Don’t expect to find bars, restaurants or even shade if it’s raining or the sun is beating down. The MotoGP paddock is just a parking lot full of high-tech trucks so there’s no place to sit around, wait, or relax. Our rating – MotoGP Paddock Passes are worth it: NOT

Our conclusion

Most MotoGPfans consider the Paddocks Pass to be themagic card of two-wheeled motorsports. While the paddock is certainly worth a visit, it is far from a perfect place for fans. In essence, the paddock pass offers nothing more than entering a confined area with scarce views, riders passing by endlessly, and you’ll even have trouble getting a bottle of water. Forget about visiting the garage or Pit Lane: after all, the paddock is a workplace for mechanics, technicians, engineers, managers and staff.

Sure: walking around the paddock is a great way to understand the sport, to witness the behind-the-scenes action, and to see some of the drivers and celebrities. But be aware: You’re unlikely to stay there for more than 2 hours. If you’re looking for the perfect MotoGP weekend and want to treat yourself, look no further than the MotoGP VIP Village. You’ll stroll through the paddock and Pit Lane, watch the race from strategic spots and enjoy special services and treatment.

For any Vip Village related needs, you can contact us at info@rtrsports.com

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