Simon Crafar “Honoured” by New Role as MotoGP Commentary Career Ends
Crafar’s insight and knowledge are to be put to use elsewhere on a MotoGP weekend, as he takes over the role held by another Grand Prix legend
New Zealand’s Simon Crafar is set to change roles at the end of the 2024 MotoGP season, as he will be leaving his job as a commentator and pundit and moving to a new role.
Crafar’s insight and innate knowledge of the MotoGP paddock, bikes and riders have made him a fan favourite in his MotoGP commentary role since taking on the job in 2018. He will be hanging up his roving microphone at the end of this season though, as he’ll be moving upstairs in the paddock and taking on the role of Chairman of FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel. The job he’ll be stepping into is being vacated by MotoGP legend Freddie Spencer, who is stepping down after five years in the role.
The Chairman of the panel is nominated by the teams’ association (IRTA), and their appointment is then approved by the Permanent Bureau. Crafar will be joined on a race weekend by current FIM MotoGP stewards Andrés Somolinos and Tamara Matko.
Speaking about his new role, Crafar said:
"I’m really looking forward to taking on this new challenge. I did not take the decision lightly to make this change and accept this appointment, as it means leaving a role I’ve enjoyed a lot, but after seven years in MotoGP commentary I am ready for something new. I will approach this new position utilising my experience on and off the bike as rider, technician, coach and journalist, but more importantly with my love for our sport and respect for its competitors. I feel honoured to be trusted with this responsibility and to have been nominated for the role."
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
