Laverty talks setting up a future for UK talent

As the Petronas pyramid in MotoGP began to crumble in 2021, one ex-rider-turned-pundit saw an opportunity. Step up, Michael Laverty.

With UK representation on the MotoGP grid somewhat lacking after the retirement of Cal Crutchlow - although the Yamaha test rider did enjoy a brief reprise over the summer alongside a two-race promotion for Jake Dixon due to Franky Morbidelli’s knee injury - much has been discussed about the need for support and pathways for young British riders. Dorna themselves have created the ‘Road to MotoGP’ programme with the British Talent Cup running alongside its European, Asian and American counterparts, Red Bull Rookies and Junior World Championship, as well as the all-new Mini GP series. But it’s not championships that young riders lack, it’s support, funding and education of the sport and its lifestyle. That looks to be about to change, with Laverty setting up a Moto3 team - VisionTrack Honda - inside the world championship paddock as well as a plethora of additional opportunities from grass roots level for UK talent, all while maintaining his TV star status.

The outfit takes it’s first taste of action this week, joining a private Moto2/Moto3 test at Jerez Circuit- Angel Nieto with former BSB and GP racer Taylor Mackenzie at the helm.

“I’m going to continue in the media job with BT Sport,” Laverty explained when Bikesportnews.com caught up with him in the New Year to discuss his ambitious undertaking.

“That’s why I brought Taylor Mackenzie on board as team manager. He’s going to run the team in GP’s for me. I’ll be the team principal, team owner. My job is really to make sure the sponsors and everyone is on board and the finances are there. Taylor will run the team, the day-to-day running of