The crew chief in Moto2:
The man (or woman) in the pits
The crew chief in Moto2:
In Moto2, the crew chief is the most important man (or woman) in the pits. He or she is responsible for the rider's success and plays a crucial role in all areas of racing, from the technical preparation of the bike to looking after the rider during the race weekend.
In this blog article, we take a detailed look at the duties and responsibilities of the crew chief.
Technical preparation of the motorcycle
- Choosing the right setup: The crew chief selects the optimum setup for the motorcycle based on the telemetry data, the weather and temperature conditions, the rider-specific requirements and the condition of the motorcycle.
- Analysis of data: The crew chief analyzes telemetry data from previous races and practice sessions to improve the performance of the bike and the rider.
- Collaboration with the engineers: The crew chief works closely with the engineers to further develop the bike and adapt it to the rider's needs.
- Checking the bike: The crew chief monitors the condition of the bike and ensures that it is in perfect condition throughout the race weekend.
Support for the driver during the race weekend
- Communication with the driver: The crew chief communicates with the driver via pit boards during the race. He informs the driver about the position of the other drivers, the track conditions and the race tactics.
- Strategy development: The crew chief develops the race tactics together with the driver and the engineers.
- Driver motivation: The crew chief motivates the driver and supports him in reaching his full potential.
- Team management: The crew chief manages the team around the rider. He ensures that all tasks on the bike and on the pit wall are carried out efficiently and smoothly.
The crew chief's team
The crew chief is responsible for a team of five people:
- Racer: The driver is the star of the team and the one who ultimately drives to victory.
- Data engineer: The data recorder specialist is responsible for data acquisition and analysis.
- Two mechanics: The mechanics take care of implementing the set-up and repairing the motorcycle in the event of a crash. They also take care of the maintenance of the motorcycle and the correct filling of the tank.
- Tire technician: The tire technician prepares the tires for use. He keeps track of which tire has to be ready when.
The crew chief must work closely with all team members to form a successful team.
Characteristics of a good crew chief
- Technical competence: The crew chief must have an in-depth understanding of the motorcycle's technology.
- Analytical thinking: The crew chief must be able to analyze the data and draw the right conclusions from it.
- Communication skills: The crew chief must be able to communicate clearly and concisely with the rider and the team.
- Stress resistance: The crew chief's job is very stressful. The crew chief must be able to work under pressure and make quick decisions.
- Ability to work in a team: The crewchief must be a team player and be able to work with other people.
- Leadership skills: The crew chief must be able to lead and motivate the team on the bike and on the pit wall.
Moto2 rider Senna Agius watching a training session on a screen.
How do you become a crew chief in Moto2?
There is no official way to become a crew chief in Moto2. Most crew chiefs have many years of experience in motorsport before they take on this position.
Possible career paths to crew chief in Moto2
- Mechanics: Mechanics who have worked in motorsport can develop into crew chiefs. They can acquire the necessary technical skills and team processes over the years.
- Data analyst : Data analysts who have worked in motorsport can also become crew chiefs. They are able to interpret the data and draw the right conclusions from it.
- Race engineer: Race engineers have the technical know-how and experience to become crew chiefs.
- Drivers: Former drivers can become crew chiefs after their active driving career. They know the needs of the drivers and can provide them with optimum support.
