Bagnaia warns MotoGP 'DNA shouldn't be changed' after Liberty Media takeover

The US media group currently owns 100% of Formula 1 and has an 84% controlling stake in MotoGP, though not everyone has been happy with some of the changes they have introduced.

While the potential for growth is inarguable, the majority of fans, riders and commentators don't want to see this come at the expense of traditions which make the sport appealing in the first place.

The controversial decision to remove the Phillip Island circuit from the calendar, and replace it with street-race track in Adelaide, has already ruffled feathers with Pecco Bagnaia being no exception.

Speaking on the BSMT podcast with Gianluca Gazzoli, the former champion gave his thoughts around the direction and future of MotoGP:

"They managed to revolutionize Formula 1, and I hope they will do a great job here as well." He said.

"MotoGP is more authentic, operates at the absolute highest level, and is an adrenaline-fueled sport. It is accessible to everyone – and in my opinion, that's precisely the DNA that shouldn't be changed."

"A Formula 1 weekend is a festival – the race itself is almost just the icing on the cake. They've managed to create a huge party around the race. With us, on the other hand, it's primarily about the races."

Bagnaia, who had a difficult start to the year in the Thai Grand Prix, qualifying 13th and finishing in P9 on Sunday, has been linked with a potential switch to Aprilia at the end of the season as speculation mounts that Pedro Acosta might be taking his factory Ducati seat.