FIM withdraws Fenati’s racing licence

Romano Fenati has had his racing licence withdrawn until the end of the year by world motorcycling’s governing body, the FIM.

Fenati was summoned to the FIM’s headquarters in Mies, Switzerland on September 18 after the incident during the San Marino Moto2 race when he grabbed Stefano Manzi’s brake lever at speed.

He had initially been banned for two races by MotoGP stewards before his contracts with current team Marinelli Snipers and also MV Agusta, which he was set to move to next year.

While Fenati had indicated that he would not race again anyway, the FIM has ensured that he is out for at least the rest of 2018.

“Mr Fenati was asked to explain in person his act on the track in Misano, which has given rise to many extreme reactions in the traditional media and on social media platforms,” read a statement from the FIM.

“During the meeting, the FIM representatives emphasised the Federation’s deep concern for the safety of all riders and other participants in motorcycling competitions.

“They also highlighted the importance it attaches to fair play in motorcycling sport.

“While acknowledging that riders, and in particular those who reach the highest level of the sport, are subject to many pressures both on and off the track, they reminded Mr Fenati of the profound influence high-level athletes can have on fans and young people and urged him to be mindful of his responsibility to set a positive example in future.

“Following the discussion with the rider and his (legal) representative, the FIM decided to withdraw Mr. Fenati’s FIM licence until the end of the current calendar year.

“A new FIM licence for the 2019 season may be granted to him subject to the conditions laid down in the FIM Regulations.”

Manzi, for his part in running Fenati off-track earlier in the race, which triggered Fenati’s retaliation, will serve a six-position grid penalty this weekend in Aragon.