New Zealand’s Simon Crafar will be leaving his job as a long-time pit reporter/commentator to now take over another key role within the MotoGP world.
Originally from Taihape and an apprentice mechanic at Phil Turnbull Suzuki in Palmerston North in the 1980s, Crafar has risen the ranks on the international motorcycling scene and can now be confirmed as the next chairman of the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel.
The now 55-year-old Crafar, a 500cc Grand Prix winner and long-time pit reporter for the MotoGP International Program feed, will take on the new role from 2025.
The New Zealander will take over from the outgoing Freddie Spencer as the MotoGP legend has taken the decision to step away from his position at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
American rider Spencer was considered one of the sport’s legends and he won three world championships, in 1983 and 1985 (500cc) and 250cc (also in 1985).
Crafar won the Malaysian Superbike Championships outright in 1991 and won the British 500cc GP world championship event at Donington Park in 1998.

Taihape native Simon Crafar (this photo from back in the 1980s) now accepting new role within the MotoGP community. Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com
Spencer’s tenure with the panel began in 2019, upon the creation of the position of chairman of the FIM MotoGP Stewards Panel as a stand-alone role.
The chairman of the panel is nominated by the teams’ association (IRTA), and their appointment then approved by the Permanent Bureau.
Alongside the chairman, the panel is completed by two other Stewards (currently Andrés Somolinos and Tamara Matko), both of whom are nominated by the FIM and approved by the Permanent Bureau.
The panel reviews all incidents and decide whether or not to apply a penalty and what that penalty should be, according to the FIM Grand Prix World Championship regulations.
Freddie Spencer: “It’s been a pleasure to have been the first chairman of the panel, and to have worked to put in place the incredible people and procedures we have now.
“When I was asked to be the chairman, I accepted as I wanted to contribute to the sport and I’m proud of my tenure.
“I’m looking forward to some exciting projects in the future, and I know the team will be in great hands with Simon.”
Simon Crafar: “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.”
© Photos by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com
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