Netflix MotoGP film: 1.90-m giant to play GP prodigy

MotoGP is set to make the leap to the big screen – or rather, to Netflix. As the industry magazine *Deadline* reports, the streaming service is working on a feature film in which the premier class of motorcycling will play a central role.

However, anyone expecting another documentary in the mould of the successful Formula 1 series ‘Drive to Survive’ is mistaken. Instead, the plan is to create an action film that combines elements of a heist thriller with the world of MotoGP, aiming more in the direction of ‘Fast & Furious’.

‘Reacher’ actor Alan Ritchson as a former MotoGP star

According to the report, the story centres on a group of motorbike thieves who steal valuable antiques from around the globe. Interpol then turns to a former MotoGP prodigy to help track down the gang. The story takes a personal turn when the protagonist realises that the gang’s leader may well be his younger brother, whom he had long believed to be dead.

Alan Ritchson is set to play the lead role. The American is best known as the lead actor in the action series ‘Reacher’. Whether he looks the part of a former MotoGP prodigy, however, is likely to spark debate amongst motorsport fans.

After all, Ritchson has little in common with the typical build of a MotoGP rider. The actor is around 1.90 m tall and is exceptionally muscular for his action roles. By way of comparison: in MotoGP, compact and lightweight riders have a clear advantage due to the enormous physical demands and the impact of height and weight on the motorbike. Even the tallest current MotoGP riders look comparatively slender next to Ritchson.

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His imposing appearance may work perfectly for an action film. However, when portraying a former MotoGP prodigy, it will be interesting to see how credible Ritchson looks on a Grand Prix motorbike. Especially as MotoGP itself is reportedly involved in the production and is therefore likely to place great importance on an authentic portrayal.

Liberty is backing the film

According to Deadline, the rights holders of the Motorcycle World Championship are officially backing the project. MotoGP has reportedly entered into an agreement to advise the filmmakers on the film’s development. It is not yet known what role real-life riders, teams or circuits will play.

This is not the first attempt by MotoGP to reach a new audience via a major streaming platform. In 2022, the documentary series ‘MotoGP Unlimited’ was released on Amazon Prime. However, it failed to have the hoped-for impact. The series was unable to generate a boost comparable to that of ‘Drive to Survive’.

The Netflix film now in the pipeline takes a completely different approach anyway. Instead of documenting real-life racing, MotoGP is to serve as the backdrop for a fictional action story. The racing series’ direct involvement could help to ensure that, at the very least, the sport is portrayed as authentically as possible.

When it comes to the lead actor, however, this challenge begins with his physical attributes: Ritchson undoubtedly has the build of an action hero – just not necessarily that of a MotoGP rider.