MotoGP in 3D Screened for the First Time

Some two months ago we were reporting on the first ever HD 3D filming of a MotoGP event that happened at Laguna Seca. That was when the Fusion 3D camera system was tested for the first time at this kind of event, capturing track footage, pit action and interviews.

In fact, the same 3D camera technology was used to shoot James Cameron’s latest movie, Avatar. The test video footage shot at Laguna Seca was edited into a three-minute video loop, and was screened to a selected audience that included Dani Pedrosa and Jorge Lorenzo. Just as expected, the feedback was extremely positive.

"It was amazing," stated Pedrosa. "I saw a brief demonstration in Laguna, but this was more detailed today. When you see the images it's really impressive; it's like actually being there at the racetrack."

"Dorna already has a reputation for bringing the camera to the most demanding and entertaining position, as the racers speed around the track in excess of 300 km/h," said Vince Pace who, together James Cameron, developed the 3D Fusion system. "Together I am confident that we can use our 3D system to enhance this reputation further, putting the viewer onboard with the rider as they actually ride the race."

"It's imperative that, as the leading two-wheeled motorsports championship in the world, we keep abreast of all emerging video technologies, and how they may be used to enhance the service we provide to our broadcast partners," said Manel Arroyo, Managing Director of Dorna.

"Already we're working on introducing high definition coverage of MotoGP in 2010, and live, high definition 3D coverage could well be the next step if demand is there from our partner broadcasters."