CNN
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Coming from a background at the NBA, MotoGP’s chief commercial officer, Daniel Rossomondo, possesses valuable insights into the preferences of American sports audiences. As MotoGP gears up for its 75th-anniversary celebration with an anticipated season opener in the scorching Lusail desert of Qatar, Rossomondo is exploring innovative strategies to captivate a nation boasting a population exceeding 330 million.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Rossomondo envisions artificial intelligence (AI) as a pivotal asset for the sport’s future endeavors. Emphasizing the dynamic nature of MotoGP, he likened the riders and teams to modern-day gladiators constantly pushing boundaries. Safety measures, including real-time tracking of riders on the circuit and performance monitoring of the bikes, are areas where AI plays a crucial role. Additionally, AI-generated on-air graphics enhance the viewer experience, showcasing the sport’s commitment to technological advancements.
Rossomondo perceives MotoGP as an unparalleled platform for technological experimentation. He envisions a ripple effect where innovations tested in MotoGP eventually trickle down to everyday street applications. Moreover, he highlights the sport’s role in inspiring tech companies to adopt cutting-edge approaches in content delivery, thereby positioning AI at the forefront of MotoGP’s strategic initiatives to elevate its appeal.
New Broadcasting Landscape
On the racing front, the upcoming MotoGP season sets the stage for intense competition, with Francesco ‘Pecco’ Bagnaia aiming for a remarkable third consecutive title aboard his factory Ducati. Fans eagerly anticipate a fresh challenge from the seasoned six-time champion, Marc Márquez, who recently made a significant team switch to Gresini Ducati alongside his brother, Álex. The rivalry intensifies with Jorge Martín, the charismatic Spaniard and 2023 runner-up, poised to give Bagnaia a run for his money. Noteworthy is the debut of Moto2 champion Pedro Acosta, hailed as a prodigious talent making his MotoGP debut, drawing parallels to the early success of Márquez.
Off the track, MotoGP made waves with the announcement of a new broadcasting agreement in the United States with TNT Sports, a Warner Bros Discovery-owned entity. This groundbreaking deal ensures comprehensive coverage of all races and qualifying sessions throughout the season, catering to the discerning American audience. The 2024 season also marks the entry of Nashville’s Trackhouse Racing, co-owned by the renowned musician Pitbull, adding a unique flavor to the MotoGP landscape.
Rossomondo underscores the significance of the new TV deal, emphasizing MotoGP’s tailor-made appeal to the American viewership. Despite enjoying robust attendance globally in 2023, MotoGP faces a challenge in penetrating the US market dominated by the surging interest in Formula One. The strategic alliance with TNT Sports signifies a crucial step towards enhancing MotoGP’s visibility and engagement in the American market.
Pioneering Growth Opportunities
Transitioning from his NBA tenure to MotoGP, Rossomondo envisions a transformative trajectory for the sport, positioning it as a burgeoning entity ripe for expansion. With a focus on innovation, fan engagement, and product delivery, MotoGP aims to captivate both its existing loyal audience and cultivate a new generation of enthusiasts. The introduction of half-distance Sprint races in the previous season marked a pivotal shift in enhancing viewer engagement, resonating well with modern-day entertainment preferences.
The Sprint races, tailored to cater to evolving consumer preferences and shorter attention spans, have garnered significant traction among fans. Rossomondo views these races as a gateway to the main event, driving a substantial increase in global television viewership. Embraced by teams and riders alike, the Sprint races are slated to continue at each Grand Prix, fueling anticipation and excitement among fans.
Enthralling Fan Experience
The season kick-off in Qatar unfolds as a spectacular nocturnal affair, offering a visually captivating experience under the gleaming floodlights. The revamped Qatar circuit, hosting both MotoGP and Formula One events, stands out as a world-class facility, drawing admiration from participants and spectators alike. Rossomondo lauds the visionary concept of a night race, conceived over two decades ago, which has materialized into a thrilling spectacle embraced by fans worldwide.
The strategic partnership with TNT Sports, a division of Warner Bros. Discovery, marks a significant milestone for MotoGP, enhancing its reach and resonance in the American market. As MotoGP embarks on its 75th anniversary, Rossomondo’s vision for the sport encompasses a blend of innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences to its diverse audience base.
