Welcome to the May 2023 roundup from NorthStar Motorsports Hub. In this archive we cover two stories that grab attention: the scary world of early auto racing and the puzzling exit of MotoGP from Laguna Seca. Both pieces give you a look at why safety matters in motorsports and how the sport keeps changing.
Back when the first cars roared down dirt tracks, safety was an afterthought. Drivers wore little more than leather caps and the brakes were basic at best. Speeds climbed quickly, but the tracks had trees, stones, and wooden fences right next to the racing line. When a car went off, the results were often lethal. Fatalities weren’t rare; entire fields could be wiped out in a single crash.
What made it even worse was the lack of medical support. A crash could send a driver flying into the crowd, and the nearest hospital might be miles away. Road crews didn’t have fire‑suppressants or rescue rigs, so fires spread fast. Yet, despite the danger, brave racers kept showing up. They loved the thrill and wanted to prove that a machine could beat the limits of speed.
Today, the sport benefits from over a century of safety tech—roll cages, fire‑retardant suits, and strict track regulations. The contrast is stark, and it reminds us why every safety rule matters. When you see a modern race, think of those early pioneers who risked everything to push the envelope.
Laguna Seca is a legendary circuit, famous for its “Corkscrew” turn. But MotoGP left the calendar after a few years, and the reasons go beyond rider preference. First, the track faced financial strain. Hosting a MotoGP weekend costs millions, and the local sponsors couldn’t keep up with the rising fees.
Second, the layout didn’t meet the evolving safety standards. The run‑off areas were narrow, and the curbs were hard on bike tires. As MotoGP introduced faster bikes with higher cornering speeds, the track needed upgrades that simply weren’t funded.
Lastly, scheduling conflicts made it tough. The global MotoGP calendar is packed, and Laguna Seca often clashed with other major events. Riders and teams prefer a smooth travel plan, so the race fell out of favor.
The loss was felt by fans who love the unique sound of the Corkscrew. Still, the decision highlights how motorsport venues must adapt financially and technically to stay on the world stage.
Both posts from May 2023 show a common thread: safety and economics shape where and how we race. Whether you’re a gearhead curious about history or a fan tracking modern series, these stories give you the facts you need without the fluff. Keep checking the archive for more quick, clear insights into the fast‑moving world of motorsports.
