The roar of engines and the thrill of competition reached a crescendo at the Malaysian Grand Prix, where Ducati’s Enea Bastianini seized a triumphant victory, marking his first win of the season. This victory was not just a testament to Bastianini’s resilience and skill, having overcome physical setbacks earlier in the season, but also a pivotal moment in the MotoGP championship narrative. In a race that saw intense battles and strategic maneuvering, Gresini’s Álex Márquez secured a commendable second place, adding another layer of excitement to the already electrifying championship chase.
Amidst this high-octane drama, the focus was also on the championship leader, Francesco Bagnaia, who, starting from pole position, finished third. His performance, though not atop the podium, was crucial in maintaining his lead in the overall standings. However, Pramac Racing’s Jorge Martín, who had a chance to close in on Bagnaia, could only manage a distant fourth, leaving him trailing in the championship race.
As the MotoGP circus now moves to the Grand Prix of Qatar, the stakes are higher, and the anticipation is palpable. This next chapter promises to be a blend of high-speed chases, strategic prowess, and potentially, championship-defining moments. With just two races left in the season, every turn, every lap, and every second will count. Join us as we delve into an in-depth analysis of the betting odds, potential dark horses, and expert predictions, setting the stage for another adrenaline-fueled showdown in the world of MotoGP.
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Schedule and How to Watch the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar
The much-anticipated MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar is set to take the stage at the Lusail International Circuit, a venue renowned for its breathtaking night races and state-of-the-art facilities. This thrilling event is scheduled to unfold from November 16th to 19th, with the main event poised to captivate audiences on the evening of the 19th, from 5 pm to 9 pm. 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 Indonesian Grand Prix
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
Rider
Event Winner Odds
Payout on $20
Francesco Bagnaia
+256
$71.20
Jorge Martin
+426
$105.20
Marco Bezzecchi
+675
$155.00
As the engines cool from the Malaysian GP, the heat turns up for the upcoming Qatar showdown, with the odds favoring a select few who have demonstrated exceptional prowess on the track. Francesco Bagnaia, the championship leader, enters with favorable odds of +256. His performance in Malaysia, where he secured a podium despite intense competition, underscores his remarkable consistency and strategic acumen. With his eye firmly on the prize, Bagnaia is expected to leverage his blend of tactical racing and raw speed to extend his lead.
Jorge Martin, listed at +426, is a talent that cannot be overlooked. Despite a fourth-place finish at the Malaysian Grand Prix, Jorge Martin’s relentless aggression on the track and unwavering resolve keep him well within striking distance of the championship title, just 14 points shy of Bagnaia for the lead. This minor gap underscores Martin’s potent mix of ambition and skill, rendering him a formidable contender for the top step in Qatar. His knack for overcoming adversity and pushing his bike to the limits could see him turn the tables in this high-stakes race.
Marco Bezzecchi, the dark horse with odds of +675, continues to impress with his tenacity. Although he didn’t make the podium in Malaysia, his close pursuit of the frontrunners proved his mettle. Bezzecchi’s impressive season, which has seen him climb to 3rd in the standings, paints him as a potential disruptor. His ability to capitalize on the challenging conditions of the Lusail International Circuit could very well lead to a surprise victory in Qatar.
All eyes will be on these top contenders as they battle under the desert stars, with each rider’s unique strengths promising to make the Qatar GP an unforgettable chapter in this year’s MotoGP saga.
Outsider Picks
The outsider picks for the upcoming Grand Prix of Qatar present a tantalizing mix of talent, experience, and unpredictable flair that could potentially upset the established order.
Rider
Event Winner Odds
Payout on $20
Alex Marquez
+1135
$247.00
Brad Binder
+1329
$285.80
Fabio Quartararo
+1349
$289.80
The Outsider Picks for the Grand Prix of Qatar feature a trio of riders whose odds may belie their potential to disrupt the expected order. Álex Márquez, coming off a strong second-place finish in Malaysia, enters with odds of +1135. His sprint out of the gate in Sepang suggests he could very well convert his underdog status into a podium finish in Qatar.
Brad Binder, currently 4th in the standings and carrying odds of +1329, holds significant promise. His DNF in Malaysia belies his true capabilities and renowned tenacity. Known for his aggressive approach and adaptability to varying track conditions, Binder’s position in the standings and inherent racing qualities make him a wildcard worth watching in Qatar.
Lastly, Fabio Quartararo, with odds of +1349, is an intriguing pick. Despite a mid-pack finish in Malaysia, his proven track record of success and ability to extract performance when it counts render him a formidable competitor. Quartararo’s technical precision and racecraft offer him an opportunity to outperform expectations and deliver a surprise in the desert.
As the underdogs of Qatar, these riders encapsulate the unpredictable nature of MotoGP, where anything can happen once the visors go down and the lights go out.
Head-To-Head Picks
As the MotoGP contingent sets its sights on the luminous Lusail International Circuit for the Grand Prix of Qatar, the air is thick with anticipation for the head-to-head confrontations that have become a central narrative. The circuit’s combination of long straights and tight corners presents a unique challenge, weaving the fabric of what promises to be a series of riveting contests. These duels, set against the backdrop of the desert night, are not only a test of speed but of strategic mastery, with the latest performances in Malaysia shaping the odds and expectations. The stage is set for a spectacle where the underdogs and titans of the track will clash, offering bettors and fans alike a captivating display of motorsport excellence.
Matchup (Favorite in Bold)
Fabio Quartararo (-104) v. Jack Miller (+104)
Johann Zarco (+119) v. Marc Marquez (-119)
Miguel Oliveira (+102) v. Fabio Di Giannantonio (-102)
Fabio Di Giannantonio (-117) v. Franco Morbidelli (+117)
Raul Fernandez (+127) v. Augusto Fernandez (-127)
Enea Bastianini (+126) v. Fabio Quartararo (-126)
Francesco Bagnaia (-123) v. Jorge Martin (+123)
Maverick Vinales (-135) v. Aleix Espargaro (+135)
Marco Bezzecchi (-215) v. Brad Binder (+215)
Jorge Martin (-144) v. Brad Binder (+144)
Jack Miller (+138) v. Marc Marquez (-138)
Pol Espargaro (-104) v. Takaaki Nakagami (+104)
Expert Pick for the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar
Francesco Bagnaia (+256)
Francesco Bagnaia, carrying event winner odds of +256, is our Expert Pick for the Grand Prix of Qatar. Fresh off a podium finish at the Malaysian Grand Prix, Bagnaia’s form is indicative of a rider who is on top of his game. His ability to consistently challenge for the lead, coupled with the technical mastery required to navigate the Lusail International Circuit, positions him as a favorable bet for victory. Bettors seeking to back a proven performer with a solid chance of clinching the top spot would be wise to consider Bagnaia as their primary choice.
Where to Bet on the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar
Gear up for the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar! Get the latest odds and exclusive offers at our partnered sportsbooks to place your bets. Don’t forget to delve into NXTbets’ official MotoGP Betting Guide for comprehensive insights and tips.
As the MotoGP caravan advances to the scintillating Lusail International Circuit, bettors and fans alike are poised on the edge of their seats. This circuit, a fusion of cutting-edge technology and relentless spirit, calls for gamblers to make the pivotal choice: favor the formidable front-runners or venture a wager on the audacious outsiders. Each rider’s mastery over Lusail’s challenging bends and swift straights weaves a rich mosaic of betting possibilities. The thrill of the race echoes in the hearts of the onlookers and the pulses of the punters, making every strategic overtake and daring dash a spectacle of speed and speculation. Step into this arena where elite racing prowess meets the exhilarating risk of betting, promising an unforgettable chapter in the annals of MotoGP.
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VR46 was close to re-signing with Ducati for the 2027 season despite exploratory interest from Aprilia. At a recent presentation in Rome, team principal Alessio “Uccio” Salucci said, “I never considered leaving Ducati,” and described talks with Aprilia as cordial. Aprilia’s outreach over the winter was led by CEO Massimo Rivola; Salucci told Motorsport.com he spoke with Rivola “two or three times.” Valentino Rossi also signaled confidence in continuing with Ducati as VR46 begins work toward a 2027 bike.
The team said it was on the verge of finalizing a multi‑year supply deal taking effect in 2027, with one report saying a three‑year 2027–2029 contract was expected to be finalized soon. Salucci described the paperwork as “very close” with only a few “small details” remaining, but warned a public announcement could be delayed while Ducati, Aprilia, Yamaha, KTM and teams negotiate a new manufacturers’/constructors’ agreement and broader commercial terms with MotoGP. Observers said the timing and final form of any 2027 supply arrangement remained contingent on those wider manufacturer–MotoGP talks and planned technical changes for 2027, including the move to the 850cc/Pirelli era.
Background context stressed VR46’s long association with Ducati. The team entered the premier class with Luca Marini, though sources differ on whether that step came in 2021 or 2022, and it replaced Pramac as Ducati’s main satellite team in 2025. Sources also differ on when formal factory support began (reports cite 2024 or 2025), but it is reported that Fabio Di Giannantonio has received the latest Ducati machinery and been run on factory‑spec equipment, while Franco Morbidelli has used a year‑old machine within the VR46 operation. VR46 has recorded race wins on the Desmosedici (most recently Marco Bezzecchi in 2023). Di Giannantonio and Morbidelli are out of contract at the end of this season, and the team reportedly pursued Pedro Acosta before he joined the official Ducati Lenovo squad.
Austin first welcomed the world’s best riders in 2013 and the teams, competitors, and fans are back for the 12th edition this weekend. MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas pre-event odds heavily favor Marc Marquez. The series leader has dominated this event, winning seven of the previous 11 races. Maverick Viñales returns to defend his …
Toprak Razgatlioglu’s adaptation to the Yamaha M1 has been hampered by rear-tyre issues; he called the Michelin tyres the “real problem” slowing his switch from World Superbikes, highlighting rear grip and acceleration as his main challenges after Brazil. He said the M1’s greater power, aerodynamics and electronics make familiar tracks feel different. Razgatlioglu has improved since Thailand but is still searching for a narrow performance window on the rear tyre and warned that Michelin’s use of a stiffer carcass in Thailand and Brazil, and the planned reversion to the standard carcass for the US GP at COTA, will complicate his learning. Tyre management and suspension/setup choices will be central at Austin, where bumps and a physical first sector may require a softer setup to protect rear grip.
Results in the opening rounds underlined those difficulties: Razgatlioglu failed to score points in Thailand and Brazil, with best race finishes of 17th in both grands prix. He crashed in the Buriram sprint, finished 18th in the Goiânia sprint and was 17th in the Brazilian GP after reaching Q2 and qualifying 12th. He said the sequence of results left him “really down” after Saturday in Brazil. Razgatlioglu has prior experience at COTA — he first raced the circuit in the Red Bull Rookies Cup in 2013 and rode it last year on BMW’s M1000RR — but he said the M1 changes how the track feels.
Support staff and industry figures say the start is technically understandable and that he is improving. Coach Sylvain Guintoli said Razgatlioglu was “getting the hang of” the Yamaha M1 after pre-qualifying at COTA: Razgatlioglu posted a 2:02.373 lap to finish 18th overall and was the third-fastest Yamaha behind Fabio Quartararo and Jack Miller, while Ducati’s Marc Márquez topped the session with a 2:00.927. Guintoli pointed to Friday race simulations as evidence Razgatlioglu is learning to manage throttle inputs, “hook the bike up” and improve traction, while stressing that track temperature and overall tyre grip remain key variables. Ducati test rider Michele Pirro said Razgatlioglu’s difficult start “makes me smile,” noting the switch to the V4 YZR‑M1 requires learning ride‑height devices, increased aerodynamics and running Michelins instead of Pirellis. Pirro warned that being seven to eight tenths off the pace effectively places a rider at the back and that gains often come in small fractions — sometimes half a tenth per corner — but expressed confidence Razgatlioglu can improve as he gains experience with the bike, the Michelin tyres and MotoGP fine‑tuning.
Pedro Acosta was declared the winner of the opening Sprint at the Thailand GP in Buriram after race stewards penalized Marc Márquez one position for forcing Acosta wide at the final corner. Márquez accepted the one-place drop in parc fermé following steward Simon Crafar’s decision, promoting Acosta to victory on the official results — Acosta’s first MotoGP win in any format, achieved at the season opener of his third campaign.
Marco Bezzecchi had dominated the weekend, topping practice sessions and setting a practice lap record of 1:28.526 before taking pole with a 1:28.652 in qualifying. He suffered two crashes over the weekend, including a heavy Q2 tumble that deployed his airbag and left him sore, and he crashed from the lead in the Sprint while attempting to open a gap; that incident removed him from contention and left Acosta and Márquez to duel for victory.
Acosta executed a decisive pass on the penultimate lap and Márquez lunged back at the final corner; after a stewards’ review the late lunge was judged to have forced Acosta wide, triggering Márquez’s demotion. Raúl Fernández finished third on the road, roughly half a second behind the leading pair, while Ai Ogura recovered to fourth. Jorge Martín crossed fifth on the road but faced an eight-second sanction for a suspected tire-pressure infringement that could alter the official finishing order; that penalty remained under review at the time of reporting, and Ducati team boss Davide Tardozzi called the sanction “unfair.” The 13-lap Buriram Sprint produced a landmark early-season victory for Acosta after an eventful qualifying and sprint day.
Best Bets: 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar Pre-Event Odds
Schedule and How to Watch the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar
Best Bets and Picks for the 2023 MotoGP Indonesian Grand Prix
Top Picks and Bets
Outsider Picks
Head-To-Head Picks
Expert Pick for the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar
Where to Bet on the 2023 MotoGP Grand Prix of Qatar
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VR46 nears multi-year Ducati supply deal
VR46 was close to re-signing with Ducati for the 2027 season despite exploratory interest from Aprilia. At a recent presentation in Rome, team principal Alessio “Uccio” Salucci said, “I never considered leaving Ducati,” and described talks with Aprilia as cordial. Aprilia’s outreach over the winter was led by CEO Massimo Rivola; Salucci told Motorsport.com he spoke with Rivola “two or three times.” Valentino Rossi also signaled confidence in continuing with Ducati as VR46 begins work toward a 2027 bike.
The team said it was on the verge of finalizing a multi‑year supply deal taking effect in 2027, with one report saying a three‑year 2027–2029 contract was expected to be finalized soon. Salucci described the paperwork as “very close” with only a few “small details” remaining, but warned a public announcement could be delayed while Ducati, Aprilia, Yamaha, KTM and teams negotiate a new manufacturers’/constructors’ agreement and broader commercial terms with MotoGP. Observers said the timing and final form of any 2027 supply arrangement remained contingent on those wider manufacturer–MotoGP talks and planned technical changes for 2027, including the move to the 850cc/Pirelli era.
Background context stressed VR46’s long association with Ducati. The team entered the premier class with Luca Marini, though sources differ on whether that step came in 2021 or 2022, and it replaced Pramac as Ducati’s main satellite team in 2025. Sources also differ on when formal factory support began (reports cite 2024 or 2025), but it is reported that Fabio Di Giannantonio has received the latest Ducati machinery and been run on factory‑spec equipment, while Franco Morbidelli has used a year‑old machine within the VR46 operation. VR46 has recorded race wins on the Desmosedici (most recently Marco Bezzecchi in 2023). Di Giannantonio and Morbidelli are out of contract at the end of this season, and the team reportedly pursued Pedro Acosta before he joined the official Ducati Lenovo squad.
Best Bets: 2025 MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas Pre-Event Odds Analysis
Austin first welcomed the world’s best riders in 2013 and the teams, competitors, and fans are back for the 12th edition this weekend. MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas pre-event odds heavily favor Marc Marquez. The series leader has dominated this event, winning seven of the previous 11 races. Maverick Viñales returns to defend his …
Michelin carcass switch hinders Razgatlioglu at COTA
Toprak Razgatlioglu’s adaptation to the Yamaha M1 has been hampered by rear-tyre issues; he called the Michelin tyres the “real problem” slowing his switch from World Superbikes, highlighting rear grip and acceleration as his main challenges after Brazil. He said the M1’s greater power, aerodynamics and electronics make familiar tracks feel different. Razgatlioglu has improved since Thailand but is still searching for a narrow performance window on the rear tyre and warned that Michelin’s use of a stiffer carcass in Thailand and Brazil, and the planned reversion to the standard carcass for the US GP at COTA, will complicate his learning. Tyre management and suspension/setup choices will be central at Austin, where bumps and a physical first sector may require a softer setup to protect rear grip.
Results in the opening rounds underlined those difficulties: Razgatlioglu failed to score points in Thailand and Brazil, with best race finishes of 17th in both grands prix. He crashed in the Buriram sprint, finished 18th in the Goiânia sprint and was 17th in the Brazilian GP after reaching Q2 and qualifying 12th. He said the sequence of results left him “really down” after Saturday in Brazil. Razgatlioglu has prior experience at COTA — he first raced the circuit in the Red Bull Rookies Cup in 2013 and rode it last year on BMW’s M1000RR — but he said the M1 changes how the track feels.
Support staff and industry figures say the start is technically understandable and that he is improving. Coach Sylvain Guintoli said Razgatlioglu was “getting the hang of” the Yamaha M1 after pre-qualifying at COTA: Razgatlioglu posted a 2:02.373 lap to finish 18th overall and was the third-fastest Yamaha behind Fabio Quartararo and Jack Miller, while Ducati’s Marc Márquez topped the session with a 2:00.927. Guintoli pointed to Friday race simulations as evidence Razgatlioglu is learning to manage throttle inputs, “hook the bike up” and improve traction, while stressing that track temperature and overall tyre grip remain key variables. Ducati test rider Michele Pirro said Razgatlioglu’s difficult start “makes me smile,” noting the switch to the V4 YZR‑M1 requires learning ride‑height devices, increased aerodynamics and running Michelins instead of Pirellis. Pirro warned that being seven to eight tenths off the pace effectively places a rider at the back and that gains often come in small fractions — sometimes half a tenth per corner — but expressed confidence Razgatlioglu can improve as he gains experience with the bike, the Michelin tyres and MotoGP fine‑tuning.
Stewards demote Marquez for forcing Acosta wide
Pedro Acosta was declared the winner of the opening Sprint at the Thailand GP in Buriram after race stewards penalized Marc Márquez one position for forcing Acosta wide at the final corner. Márquez accepted the one-place drop in parc fermé following steward Simon Crafar’s decision, promoting Acosta to victory on the official results — Acosta’s first MotoGP win in any format, achieved at the season opener of his third campaign.
Marco Bezzecchi had dominated the weekend, topping practice sessions and setting a practice lap record of 1:28.526 before taking pole with a 1:28.652 in qualifying. He suffered two crashes over the weekend, including a heavy Q2 tumble that deployed his airbag and left him sore, and he crashed from the lead in the Sprint while attempting to open a gap; that incident removed him from contention and left Acosta and Márquez to duel for victory.
Acosta executed a decisive pass on the penultimate lap and Márquez lunged back at the final corner; after a stewards’ review the late lunge was judged to have forced Acosta wide, triggering Márquez’s demotion. Raúl Fernández finished third on the road, roughly half a second behind the leading pair, while Ai Ogura recovered to fourth. Jorge Martín crossed fifth on the road but faced an eight-second sanction for a suspected tire-pressure infringement that could alter the official finishing order; that penalty remained under review at the time of reporting, and Ducati team boss Davide Tardozzi called the sanction “unfair.” The 13-lap Buriram Sprint produced a landmark early-season victory for Acosta after an eventful qualifying and sprint day.