The roar of engines and the scent of burnt rubber at Buddh International Circuit are now behind us as the Grand Prix of India crowned Marco Bezzecchi the winner, in a race that heightened tensions in the title chase. Ducati reigned supreme with Bezzecchi and Jorge Martín claiming the top spots, while Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo secured third. A significant narrative was Pecco Bagnaia’s loss of vital championship points, narrowing the gap to a mere 13 points between him and the ever-persistent Martín.
Repsol Honda Team, traditionally strong contenders, faced a challenging weekend. Marc Márquez, despite his commendable grit after a crash, finished ninth. Meanwhile, Joan Mir showcased a surge of improvement, finishing fifth and setting an optimistic tone for Honda as they approach their home Grand Prix in Japan.
Now, we turn our sights to Japan. Mobility Resort Motegi awaits the riders, a circuit filled with its own unique challenges and stories. As the championship fight intensifies, the Grand Prix of Japan promises exhilarating racing and an intriguing contest for bettors. The question looms – can Ducati maintain their dominance, or will another team rise to challenge the Italian giants? Stay with us as we dive deep into odds, analyses, and the top picks for the Japanese showdown.
Place your wagers for the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan at our partner sportsbooks.
Schedule and How to Watch the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan
The Twin Ring Motegi is abuzz with anticipation, readying itself for a series of riveting MotoGP events from September 29th to October 1st. It’s all leading up to the crowning glory: the Grand Prix of Japan. For a detailed view of the weekend’s events, refer to the official schedule. For enthusiasts who can’t be at the venue in person, be sure to check the official MotoGP website for viewing options. (Note: While live broadcasts might be limited in certain regions, including the US, you can still catch comprehensive race highlights and updates on the website!) If betting is on your agenda, don’t forget to follow the live action and keep an eye on NXTbets for updates on odds and prices.
Best Bets and Picks for the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan
With a range of betting options available, from Event Winner to Head-to-Head bets, bettors are presented with a wide spectrum of wagering opportunities. Here are our top picks and dark horse selections for this event:
Top Picks and Bets
Driver
Event Winner Odds
Payout on $20
Francesco Bagnaia
+317
$83.40
Jorge Martin
+413
$102.60
Marco Bezzecchi
+525
$125.00
Brad Binder
+999
$219.80
Fabio Quartararo
+1063
$232.60
Leading the odds is Francesco Bagnaia, and rightly so. His consistent season and being the current championship leader place him in good stead, but the recent setback at the Indian GP could play on his mind, especially with teammate Jorge Martin snapping at his heels.
Jorge Martin, with odds of +413, has been a revelation this season. Having inched to within 13 points of Bagnaia’s standings lead with his 2nd place finish at the Indian GP, he showcases momentum and determination, proving that he is not just in the fight but a genuine threat to the championship.
Marco Bezzecchi, fresh from his victory lap in India, comes into Motegi with a shot of confidence. His odds reflect not just his recent win but also a season where he has consistently been a podium threat.
Brad Binder and Fabio Quartararo, both offering longer odds, are wild cards in this race. Binder’s consistency places him fourth in the general standings, while Quartararo, despite being further down the odds list, has shown he can clinch podium finishes. Both riders have the capability to upset the perceived hierarchy and throw in a twist at Motegi.
Outsider Picks
Driver
Event Winner Odds
Payout on $20
Marc Marquez
+1438
$307.60
Johann Zarco
+1438
$307.60
Aleix Espargaro
+1718
$363.60
Marc Marquez, with odds of +1438, may not have had his best season, but his reputation as a multi-time world champion precedes him. Motegi’s technical nature, combined with Marquez’s penchant for late braking and aggressive cornering, makes him a formidable contender. Despite his unfortunate slip in India, his ability to swiftly climb back and finish ninth demonstrates the Spaniard’s indomitable spirit and resilience.
Johann Zarco, possessing the same odds as Marquez, has had flashes of brilliance this season. Racing for Ducati, a machine that has been dominant throughout, there’s always the possibility that Zarco finds the sweet spot with the setup and emerges as a surprising frontrunner. His consistent performances and occasional podium finishes give weight to this speculation.
Aleix Espargaro‘s +1718 odds might make him the lengthiest shot of the trio, but the Aprilia rider has been in the form of his life. The bike’s notable performance improvements combined with Espargaro’s vast experience mean he could exploit any weaknesses in the favorites, especially if unpredictable conditions level the playing field. With the nature of MotoGP being as unpredictable as it is, dismissing any of these outsiders would be unwise.
Head-To-Head Picks
For the imminent duel at the Motegi’s Mobility Resort, anticipation is at fever pitch as numerous matchups are set to captivate and enthrall. Weighing in on recent performances, past records at this Japanese circuit, and its distinct challenges, we’ve spotlighted some of the most electrifying head-to-head confrontations poised to unfold at the Grand Prix of Japan:
Matchup
(Favorite in Bold)
Winner Odds
Joan Mir vs. Franco Morbidelli
-104
Fabio Quartararo vs. Marc Marquez
-122
Johann Zarco vs. Marc Marquez
-102
Miguel Oliveira vs. Jack Miller
-106
Maverick Vinales vs. Miguel Oliveira
-115
Jorge Martin vs. Brad Binder
-110
Augusto Fernandez vs. Takaaki Nakagami
-138
Expert Pick for the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan
After a stellar performance in India, Jorge Martín has showcased not only his race pace but also his ability to capitalize on others’ mistakes. Riding a Ducati, which has been dominant this season, Martín’s continuous closing of the points gap indicates his escalating form. With only a 13-point deficit to the leader, Bagnaia, Martín will be extra motivated to bridge this gap. Given his +413 odds, this pick offers a valuable combination of likelihood and return, making it an enticing choice for the Japan GP.
Where to Bet on the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan
Ready to stake your claim for the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan? Visit our affiliated sportsbooks and review the most up-to-date odds and special offers before making your selection.
The imminent race at the Mobility Resort Motegi is set to be an adrenaline-charged spectacle for MotoGP fans and bettors alike. Whether you’re supporting the established frontrunners or placing faith in the underdogs, prepare for an exhilarating blend of world-class racing and compelling betting opportunities.
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MotoGP, in coordination with the FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme), the promoter and Qatari authorities, has postponed the Qatar Grand Prix from its original April slot and rescheduled the Lusail round for Nov 8. MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta said the move was made with “great care,” with rider and public safety and wellbeing the priority. The Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit backed staging the race during the Nov 6–8 weekend, FIM president Jorge Viegas voiced support, and ticket holders will be able to transfer or roll over their tickets to the new date.
The rescheduling followed a recent escalation of regional hostilities, including reported Iranian drone strikes on Hamad International Airport and other buildings in Doha, which prompted several weeks of contingency planning and a review of the April dates. Organizers explored alternatives, including moving the race to early December or relocating the round, but concluded a December slot was impractical because F1 is scheduled to race at Lusail on Nov 27–29 and the tight turnaround, plus significant curb and gravel-trap work needed for F1, would not allow adequate time for circuit modifications.
As part of the late-season reshuffle, the Portuguese Grand Prix in Portimão was moved to Nov 22 and the season finale in Valencia to Nov 29; MotoGP said all other 2026 rounds remain unchanged. MotoGP and partners said the calendar adjustments aim to preserve the integrity and quality of the championship while responding to regional security concerns.
Fermín Aldeguer suffered a broken femur while training at the Aspar circuit in Valencia and has been ruled out of the Sepang preseason test (Feb 3–5). He joined Gresini’s Kuala Lumpur launch by video call to give a recovery update, saying his condition is improving “day by day” but that he must remain at home for rehabilitation and further medical checks. He will miss the Thailand season opener and does not expect to be back on the bike before the Brazil or Austin rounds in March, declining to set a firm comeback date until examinations show how his leg responds.
The injury has cost Aldeguer valuable preseason track time and disrupted his preparation for a second full MotoGP season after he won the 2025 Indonesian Grand Prix and was named Rookie of the Year. Gresini will lose the development and race miles he would have gained in Sepang and the early rounds, while Ducati test rider Michele Pirro is his likely substitute while medical clearance is pending. Aldeguer’s timeline also contrasts with an earlier, more optimistic comment from Ducati chief Davide Tardozzi that a return for the opener was realistic, highlighting uncertainty about his readiness for the early rounds.
The setback also affects Aldeguer’s longer-term Ducati pathway. He signed a four‑year deal with Ducati in 2025 and helped Gresini to second place in the teams’ championship, positioning the satellite outfit as a near‑factory development route. Media reports linking Ducati to Pedro Acosta as a potential 2027 target have been framed as relevant to Aldeguer’s prospects for a future factory seat. For now, Gresini and Aldeguer are treating any return as conditional on ongoing rehabilitation and the results of further medical examinations. His recovery pace will determine his availability in the early rounds and how his Ducati trajectory evolves.
Yamaha’s switch to a V4-powered M1 was tested under a difficult spotlight at the Sepang pre-season test, where engine failures, handling peculiarities, and a rider injury disrupted the program. The factory team sat out the second day on safety grounds after unspecified engine problems affected Fabio Quartararo and Toprak Razgatlioglu. Quartararo crashed on the opening day, fracturing a finger that required surgery and was ruled out of the remaining days. Reports from the test said both Quartararo and Razgatlioglu destroyed engines during the outing, while Alex Rins added that an unnamed rookie also broke an engine during the program. Yamaha paused running to investigate overnight in Japan and Italy, then resumed later with reduced mileage, using D-concession status to preserve options for further engine work and private tests.
On pace, the new V4 left Yamaha more than a second off the outright lap times and last among the five manufacturers. Sporting manager Maio Meregalli singled out power as the primary shortfall, even as he described the chassis and balance as satisfactory. Jack Miller, who began the official test 14th and finished the final day 17th, downplayed the fault while also saying he needed more consistent track time. He recorded an average top speed of 327.8 km/h, roughly 10 km/h down on Fabio di Giannantonio’s Ducati. The Australian was the only Yamaha rider to complete a ten-lap race simulation, leaving him 13.957 seconds shy of Alex Marquez’s best Sprint benchmark that afternoon. Alex Rins was the quickest Yamaha on pace in 12th, but limited running across the squad made it difficult to assess the package conclusively.
Beyond outright power, riders reported handling disturbances. Razgatlioglu experienced a recurring Michelin rear-tire behavior when lifting the bike to about 25 degrees that only calmed when the gearbox was shifted into fifth or sixth. Jack Miller declined to elaborate on the technical causes when questioned, and other riders gave similarly guarded responses, underscoring unresolved reliability and safety questions heading into the rest of the pre-season. Yamaha now shifts focus to the final pre-season test at Buriram on February 21–22, where early development work will concentrate on extracting more engine performance and resolving the issues uncovered at Sepang.
Fermín Aldeguer fractured his left femur in a training crash earlier this month and underwent surgery in Barcelona shortly after. The operation was described as successful, but Gresini called the fracture complex.
His long‑time physiotherapist, Aitor Tomas, said it is “impossible” for Aldeguer to be ready for the early‑February pre‑season tests at Sepang and Buriram. Tomas added the team will “fight” to have him available for the season opener and noted recoveries vary, citing Pedro Acosta’s quick return from a similar injury, but Gresini cautioned that such comparisons are imperfect.
With the season opener scheduled Feb 27–Mar 1 in Buriram, Aldeguer’s participation is uncertain. Multiple reports suggest a comeback may not come until the Qatar Grand Prix on April 10–12. If so, he would miss the first three rounds (Thailand, Argentina, USA) and all pre‑season running, further limiting bike setup and race‑trim work.
Gresini has not named a replacement; short‑term lineup decisions will depend on medical reassessment and rehabilitation progress. Separately, reports say Ducati has removed the Murcian from its 2027 rider shortlist, an unconfirmed development that could affect Aldeguer’s longer‑term prospects if his recovery or form are impacted. Updates from his medical team and Gresini will determine whether he can be fit for Buriram or will require an extended layoff into the early rounds of the MotoGP season.
Best Bets: 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan Pre-Event Odds
Schedule and How to Watch the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan
Best Bets and Picks for the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan
Top Picks and Bets
Outsider Picks
Head-To-Head Picks
Expert Pick for the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan
Where to Bet on the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Japan
Related Posts
MotoGP reschedules Qatar to Nov 8; Portimão, Valencia moved
MotoGP, in coordination with the FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme), the promoter and Qatari authorities, has postponed the Qatar Grand Prix from its original April slot and rescheduled the Lusail round for Nov 8. MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta said the move was made with “great care,” with rider and public safety and wellbeing the priority. The Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit backed staging the race during the Nov 6–8 weekend, FIM president Jorge Viegas voiced support, and ticket holders will be able to transfer or roll over their tickets to the new date.
The rescheduling followed a recent escalation of regional hostilities, including reported Iranian drone strikes on Hamad International Airport and other buildings in Doha, which prompted several weeks of contingency planning and a review of the April dates. Organizers explored alternatives, including moving the race to early December or relocating the round, but concluded a December slot was impractical because F1 is scheduled to race at Lusail on Nov 27–29 and the tight turnaround, plus significant curb and gravel-trap work needed for F1, would not allow adequate time for circuit modifications.
As part of the late-season reshuffle, the Portuguese Grand Prix in Portimão was moved to Nov 22 and the season finale in Valencia to Nov 29; MotoGP said all other 2026 rounds remain unchanged. MotoGP and partners said the calendar adjustments aim to preserve the integrity and quality of the championship while responding to regional security concerns.
Aldeguer’s Broken Femur Rules Him Out of Sepang Test
Fermín Aldeguer suffered a broken femur while training at the Aspar circuit in Valencia and has been ruled out of the Sepang preseason test (Feb 3–5). He joined Gresini’s Kuala Lumpur launch by video call to give a recovery update, saying his condition is improving “day by day” but that he must remain at home for rehabilitation and further medical checks. He will miss the Thailand season opener and does not expect to be back on the bike before the Brazil or Austin rounds in March, declining to set a firm comeback date until examinations show how his leg responds.
The injury has cost Aldeguer valuable preseason track time and disrupted his preparation for a second full MotoGP season after he won the 2025 Indonesian Grand Prix and was named Rookie of the Year. Gresini will lose the development and race miles he would have gained in Sepang and the early rounds, while Ducati test rider Michele Pirro is his likely substitute while medical clearance is pending. Aldeguer’s timeline also contrasts with an earlier, more optimistic comment from Ducati chief Davide Tardozzi that a return for the opener was realistic, highlighting uncertainty about his readiness for the early rounds.
The setback also affects Aldeguer’s longer-term Ducati pathway. He signed a four‑year deal with Ducati in 2025 and helped Gresini to second place in the teams’ championship, positioning the satellite outfit as a near‑factory development route. Media reports linking Ducati to Pedro Acosta as a potential 2027 target have been framed as relevant to Aldeguer’s prospects for a future factory seat. For now, Gresini and Aldeguer are treating any return as conditional on ongoing rehabilitation and the results of further medical examinations. His recovery pace will determine his availability in the early rounds and how his Ducati trajectory evolves.
Engine Failures Force Yamaha to Pause Sepang Running
Yamaha’s switch to a V4-powered M1 was tested under a difficult spotlight at the Sepang pre-season test, where engine failures, handling peculiarities, and a rider injury disrupted the program. The factory team sat out the second day on safety grounds after unspecified engine problems affected Fabio Quartararo and Toprak Razgatlioglu. Quartararo crashed on the opening day, fracturing a finger that required surgery and was ruled out of the remaining days. Reports from the test said both Quartararo and Razgatlioglu destroyed engines during the outing, while Alex Rins added that an unnamed rookie also broke an engine during the program. Yamaha paused running to investigate overnight in Japan and Italy, then resumed later with reduced mileage, using D-concession status to preserve options for further engine work and private tests.
On pace, the new V4 left Yamaha more than a second off the outright lap times and last among the five manufacturers. Sporting manager Maio Meregalli singled out power as the primary shortfall, even as he described the chassis and balance as satisfactory. Jack Miller, who began the official test 14th and finished the final day 17th, downplayed the fault while also saying he needed more consistent track time. He recorded an average top speed of 327.8 km/h, roughly 10 km/h down on Fabio di Giannantonio’s Ducati. The Australian was the only Yamaha rider to complete a ten-lap race simulation, leaving him 13.957 seconds shy of Alex Marquez’s best Sprint benchmark that afternoon. Alex Rins was the quickest Yamaha on pace in 12th, but limited running across the squad made it difficult to assess the package conclusively.
Beyond outright power, riders reported handling disturbances. Razgatlioglu experienced a recurring Michelin rear-tire behavior when lifting the bike to about 25 degrees that only calmed when the gearbox was shifted into fifth or sixth. Jack Miller declined to elaborate on the technical causes when questioned, and other riders gave similarly guarded responses, underscoring unresolved reliability and safety questions heading into the rest of the pre-season. Yamaha now shifts focus to the final pre-season test at Buriram on February 21–22, where early development work will concentrate on extracting more engine performance and resolving the issues uncovered at Sepang.
Aldeguer Could Miss Three Rounds: Eyes Qatar Return
Fermín Aldeguer fractured his left femur in a training crash earlier this month and underwent surgery in Barcelona shortly after. The operation was described as successful, but Gresini called the fracture complex.
His long‑time physiotherapist, Aitor Tomas, said it is “impossible” for Aldeguer to be ready for the early‑February pre‑season tests at Sepang and Buriram. Tomas added the team will “fight” to have him available for the season opener and noted recoveries vary, citing Pedro Acosta’s quick return from a similar injury, but Gresini cautioned that such comparisons are imperfect.
With the season opener scheduled Feb 27–Mar 1 in Buriram, Aldeguer’s participation is uncertain. Multiple reports suggest a comeback may not come until the Qatar Grand Prix on April 10–12. If so, he would miss the first three rounds (Thailand, Argentina, USA) and all pre‑season running, further limiting bike setup and race‑trim work.
Gresini has not named a replacement; short‑term lineup decisions will depend on medical reassessment and rehabilitation progress. Separately, reports say Ducati has removed the Murcian from its 2027 rider shortlist, an unconfirmed development that could affect Aldeguer’s longer‑term prospects if his recovery or form are impacted. Updates from his medical team and Gresini will determine whether he can be fit for Buriram or will require an extended layoff into the early rounds of the MotoGP season.