In preparation for the MotoGP at Circuit of the Americas, Roadgrip Motorsport USA had the privilege of helping bring a special tribute to life ahead of the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas.
In honour of Nicky Hayden, we installed a giant “69” onto the grass on the hill near Turn 18 to create a striking visual that will be seen by fans at the circuit and audiences watching around the world.
For anyone familiar with MotoGP, the number 69 needs no explanation.
It became synonymous with Nicky Hayden throughout his career – a rider known not just for his talent, but for his character, determination and connection with fans. From his World Championship victory to his enduring legacy in the sport, Hayden remains one of the most respected figures in motorcycle racing.
Tributes like this ensure that his presence is still felt at race weekends, particularly at a circuit like COTA, where MotoGP continues to draw global attention.
Unlike traditional track markings, this tribute was installed directly onto the grass which requires a different approach to asphalt or concrete.
Watch the video of how we did it here: Grass Painting for MOTOGP
Using water-based paint specifically designed for turf, the team carefully applied the “69” to ensure strong visibility while remaining safe for the grass beneath. The paint sits on the blades rather than penetrating the soil, allowing the grass to continue growing naturally.
Over time, the marking will simply grow out and be cut away through routine maintenance, leaving no lasting impact on the surface.
Even for something that appears simple, achieving a clean, well-proportioned result at this scale requires careful planning.
The layout of the number was set out to ensure it reads clearly from distance, whether viewed from the grandstands, hillside vantage points or broadcast cameras.
Maintaining the correct proportions and alignment is key when working on such a large canvas.
At Roadgrip, much of our work focuses on performance, safety and precision. But moments like this are a reminder that motorsport is also about people, history and legacy.