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For the first time since 2010 there are no British riders in MotoGP. Three-time race winner Cal Crutchlow’s departure at the end of 2020 has left a void, with no obvious candidates waiting in the wings and a UK biking scene that seems unable to develop riders who can break into racing’s premier class.
It’s not down to a lack of talent or desire, more the result of a lack of longterm infrastructure to enable young riders to make it on the world stage. It’s also the harsh reality that other countries, namely Spain and Italy, are doing things so much better.
BYGONES: Spain s royals pay a visit to Slough WINDSOR ‘hailed’ the King and Queen of Spain as they arrived for their state visit in 1986, but the heavy rain and sleet did not dampen the spirits of the thousands that lined the streets. The historic visit by King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia included a horse-drawn carriage cavalcade, in front of thousands of excited children and keen royal watchers. King Juan Carlos had steered his royal family through troubled waters since the death of General Franco, making it clear during his visit that he wanted to overcome any perceived rifts between the two countries.