F1 legend Ross Brawn makes surprise return to motorsport in new MotoGP role

Ross Brawn, the legendary engineer and strategist who helped define Formula 1's modern era with 22 world titles, is returning to motorsport — but this time on two wheels. He has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Pramac Racing in MotoGP, serving as an advisor to Team Principal Paolo Campinoti.

Why it matters:

Brawn's return signals a rare cross-pollination between F1 and MotoGP, bringing deep expertise from a career that shaped championship-winning teams at Ferrari and Mercedes. His move could accelerate Pramac's growth as the team eyes a more competitive future, leveraging Brawn's proven systems and winning mindset.

The details:

• Brawn, 71, takes a non-executive role on the board of Pramac Racing Limited.
• He will support Campinoti and the team with strategic advice, focusing on continuous improvement and teamwork.
• Campinoti highlighted their long-standing friendship and respect, calling Brawn's vision and knowledge a major asset.
• Brawn himself said motorsport is about people and teamwork, and he looks forward to contributing where his experience may be useful.

The big picture:

Brawn's career includes 11 constructors' and 11 drivers' championships — half with Ferrari during the Schumacher era, and the foundations for Mercedes' 2010s dominance. He retired from F1 after 2013 but briefly returned as F1's managing director from 2017 to 2022. Now, he enters a new arena, bringing decades of strategic insight to the high-stakes world of motorcycle racing.

What's next:

Pramac Racing has built a strong reputation in MotoGP. With Brawn's input, the team aims to further professionalize its operations and challenge for higher honors. His influence could be subtle but impactful, much like his behind-the-scenes work in F1.