NETFLIX SETS ALAN RITCHSON AS FORMER MOTOGP STAR IN ACTION FILM PROJECT

MotoGP is set to make a new leap toward mainstream streaming with a Netflix action feature that blends the motorcycle world with a heist-thriller style—an approach Deadline describes as closer to “Fast & Furious” than to the docu-series model.

According to the report, Netflix is developing a scripted film in which the premier class itself plays a central role. The story follows a group of motorcycle thieves who steal valuable antiques around the globe. Interpol becomes involved and turns to an “ex-MotoGP prodigy” to help track down the criminals.

The plot takes a personal turn when the protagonist realizes the leader of the gang may be his younger brother—someone he had long believed to be dead.

For the lead role, the production has lined up Alan Ritchson, best known in the US for starring as the title character in the action series “Reacher.” The casting choice has already raised questions among motorsport fans, largely because of the physical expectations of MotoGP riders. Ritchson is described as being around 1.90 meters tall and notably muscular for action roles, while MotoGP riders tend to be compact and lightweight due to the demands of the sport and the influence of size and weight on the motorcycle.

The Speedweek piece notes that even the biggest current MotoGP riders can appear relatively slim when compared with Ritchson’s build—an issue that could affect how believable he looks on a Grand Prix bike. Still, the report suggests the film’s credibility may be supported by MotoGP’s involvement in the production.

Deadline reports that the rights holders of the motorcycle world championship are backing the project. MotoGP has reportedly agreed to provide guidance to the filmmakers during development, with the aim of ensuring the sport is portrayed authentically. However, the article also states that it is not yet known what role—if any—real riders, teams, or circuits will play in the final production.

This would not be MotoGP’s first attempt to reach a broader audience through a major streaming platform. In 2022, Amazon Prime released “MotoGP Unlimited,” a documentary series that, according to the report, did not deliver the kind of breakthrough impact that “Drive to Survive” achieved for Formula 1.

The new Netflix film is therefore positioned as a different strategy: rather than documenting real racing, it uses MotoGP as the backdrop for a fictional action narrative. With the league’s reported advisory support, the project’s key challenge may come down to whether Ritchson can convincingly sell the role of a former MotoGP wunderkind—both on screen and in how he fits the visual and physical expectations of the sport.