I’m troubled by the potential boycott of the Japanese Grand Prix at Motegi by MotoGP riders. They are not experts in nuclear radiation. That much, I think, is clear. Clear to everyone except the riders, it seems.

Dorna has commissioned an independent report into the potential dangers of going to Motegi. For riders – chiefly Jorge Lorenzo and Casey Stoner – to come out and declare that they will not go to Japan, irrespective of the conclusions of that report, is hugely disappointing.

I like to think of myself as a rationalist. It alarms me whenever ignorance, fear and hysteria threaten to triumph over science, logic and reason. But when those ignoring reason are high profile role models, it’s nothing short of irresponsible.

Ideally, the riders will reconsider their position on the matter. Otherwise it may come down to contracts.

Either way, I hope that the decision on whether or not to race is based on the report due in a matter of days. Not the fear and ignorance of a bunch of bike racers – which would be a disservice to Japan, the sport, science and the public.