MotoGP Declines RNF’s 2024 Entry Due to “Repeated Violations and Contraventions”

The RNF MotoGP Team’s Uncertain Future

Amidst the Valencia Grand Prix weekend, the racing world was abuzz with rumors about the future of the CryptoDATA-backed team. Speculations suggesting financial troubles raised concerns over their place on the grid for the upcoming season.

In response to these reports, representatives of CryptoDATA held a press conference and vehemently denied any truth behind them. They dismissed such claims as nothing more than “fake news,” ensuring everyone that everything was under control within the team.

However, conflicting signals emerged when team principal Razlan Razali hinted at his potential departure through social media posts. Despite this uncertainty, it seemed like they were determined to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Surprisingly, on Monday, an announcement came from the MotoGP Selection Committee composed of members from FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme), IRTA (International Road Racing Teams Association), and Dorna Sports. The committee made a critical decision not to select the CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP Team for participation in next year’s championship.

A statement released by them revealed that repeated infractions and breaches of their Participation Agreement had left them with no choice but to exclude the team from competing in MotoGP in 2024. As a result, they would now consider applications from other independent teams interested in joining using Aprilia machinery.

An Unfortunate Journey for RNF:

This turn of events marks yet another chapter in RNF’s short-lived existence since its establishment at the end of 2021. The team came into being following Petronas and the Sepang Racing Team’s decision to withdraw from MotoGP after the conclusion of that season.

Under former SRT team boss Razlan Razali’s ownership, RNF initially raced with Yamaha bikes in 2022. However, for this year, they switched allegiances and formed a partnership with Aprilia.

In an attempt to secure stability and sponsorship, RNF entered into a title partnership agreement with Romanian firm CryptoDATA for the 2023 season. Concurrently, Razali sold a majority stake in his team to the company.

Unfortunately, despite their efforts and investments, RNF struggled to achieve satisfactory results on the track. They finished near the bottom of the standings in both previous seasons – placing 11th out of 12 teams in 2022 and eighth among 11 outfits this year.

The Future Awaits:

As fans and racing enthusiasts digest this surprising news about RNF’s exclusion from MotoGP next season, attention now turns towards finding potential replacements for their spot on the grid.

The Selection Committee has expressed its intention to review applications from independent teams interested in utilizing Aprilia machinery. This opportunity presents itself as a chance for new talent or existing teams looking for an entry point into top-level motorcycle racing.

While it is undoubtedly disappointing news for RNF supporters, these developments highlight how competitive motorsport can be both on and off-track. As uncertainties loom over what lies ahead for all parties involved, only time will reveal who gets chosen to fill that vacant slot as we eagerly await another thrilling MotoGP season.