The 2024 MotoGP season continues to deliver heart-pounding action and unpredictable results. Last weekend’s French Grand Prix saw a thrilling battle between Jorge Martin, Francesco Bagnaia, and a resurgent Marc Marquez. Martin held his nerve to secure victory despite immense pressure, extending his championship lead to 38 points over Bagnaia. Marquez’s stunning ride from 13th to 2nd further proved the eight-time world champion is back to his brilliant best.
As the series heads to Barcelona for the Catalan Grand Prix, the stakes are higher than ever. Will Martin further solidify his grip on the title race? Can Bagnaia bounce back and close the gap? Might Marquez secure his first win of 2024 at a track he’s historically dominated? Let’s dive into the data, odds and expert analysis to find out.
The MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix takes place this weekend, May 24-26, at the iconic Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The 4.7 km track features a mix of fast straights, technical sections and elevation changes that challenge riders. Qualifying begins Saturday at 1:50am PDT with the race on Sunday at 5:00am PDT. 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.
Odds Subject to Change
Please note, the odds provided herein reflect the raw probability odds for this analysis and are based on the information available at the time of publishing. Different sportsbooks may adjust these odds based on market conditions, bettor behaviors, and other factors that could influence the betting landscape. For a deeper understanding of why odds for alternative sports betting change and how it might affect your betting strategy, we encourage you to read our detailed article:Why Do Alternative Sports Betting Odds Change?. Make informed decisions and always check the latest odds with your sportsbook before placing bets.
Best Bets and Picks for the French Grand Prix
Top Picks and Bets
Rider
Event Winner
Payout on $20
Podium
Payout on $20
Jorge Martin
+175
$55.00
-286
$26.99
Francesco Bagnaia
+250
$70.00
-225
$28.89
Marc Marquez
+450
$110.00
-118
$36.95
Jorge Martin (+175 Event Winner, -286 Podium): The rising MotoGP sensation has been tearing it up this season, showcasing blistering speed, tactical genius, and ice-cold composure. His scintillating rides, like the masterclass performance to claim his third win amid intense pressure in France, have marked Martin as the man to beat heading into Barcelona. Shrugging off relentless attacks from rivals like Bagnaia and late charges from Márquez, the Pramac Ducati rider has proven he can deliver under the most intense circumstances. Martin rolls into Barcelona with this scorching form, making him the overwhelming favorite across all sessions as he looks to tighten his grip on the championship lead. Adding fuel to the fire, the #89 has a podium in 2023 and a fourth-place result in 2022 at the Catalan circuit, evidence that he knows how to get the job done here. With red-hot current form and a proven track record in Barcelona, Martin shapes up as an exceptional bet to take the win this weekend.
Francesco Bagnaia (+250 Event Winner, -225 Podium): The reigning champion heads to Barcelona with a point to prove after narrowly missing out on victory in France. Bagnaia’s performance at Le Mans, where he led for 20 laps and pushed Martin to the absolute limit, underscored his never-say-die attitude and relentless consistency. The Ducati rider’s record at the Catalan GP is exceptional, with three podium finishes in the last four years, including a dominant win in 2022 where he showcased his unrivaled late-braking prowess. Bagnaia’s ability to extract the maximum from the Ducati GP24, particularly in the hard-braking zones and fast direction changes that characterize the Barcelona layout, will be crucial. While the 38-point deficit to Martin looms large, Bagnaia’s rock-solid consistency, mental fortitude, and sublime tire management skills make him a constant threat to the championship leader. Expect Pecco to be in the hunt for pole and the race win, as he aims to reignite his title defense and rekindle his rivalry with the in-form Martin.
Marc Márquez (+450 Event Winner, -118 Podium): The eight-time world champion’s resurgence continued apace in France, as he claimed his third consecutive podium finish with a brilliant second place. Márquez’s performance at Le Mans, where he scythed through the field from 13th on the grid and executed a stunning last-lap overtake on Bagnaia, evoked memories of his dominant years and served notice that the “Marquez Magic” is well and truly back. With a record-breaking six victories at the Catalan GP and a seamless click between his aggressive riding style and the demands of the Barcelona circuit, the eight-time world champion is a genuine contender for victory and a significant threat to the championship leaders.
Outsider Picks
Rider
Event Winner
Payout on $20
Podium
Payout on $20
Maverick Vinales
+500
$120.00
+100
$40.00
Aleix Espargaro
+800
$180.00
+150
$50.00
Enea Bastianini
+1800
$380.00
+400
$100.00
Maverick Viñales (+500 Event Winner, +100 Podium): Despite a subdued showing in France, Viñales’ smooth riding style, corner speed mastery, and tire conservation skills make him a serious podium contender in Barcelona. With multiple rostrum finishes at the Circuit de Catalunya, including a commanding victory in 2017, the Aprilia rider is an attractive proposition for bettors seeking value beyond the top three favorites.
Aleix Espargaró (+800 Event Winner, +150 Podium): The home hero will be chomping at the bit to repeat his stunning 2023 Catalan GP victory in front of his adoring fans. Espargaró’s aggressive cornering technique, late-braking expertise, and ability to exploit the RS-GP’s superior aerodynamics and braking stability make him a serious podium threat on the hard-braking Barcelona layout. At odds of +800 for the win and +150 for a podium, the Aprilia rider offers excellent value for bettors.
Enea Bastianini (+1800 Event Winner, +400 Podium): Bastianini’s impressive fourth-place finish in France, despite serving a long-lap penalty, underscored his growing confidence on the factory Ducati and his potential to consistently challenge for podiums. With a solid record at the Catalan GP, including a podium finish in the Moto2 class and a top-six result in his rookie MotoGP season, the Beast’s aggressive style, late-braking prowess, and intelligent tire management make him an intriguing long-shot option for risk-tolerant bettors.
Expert Pick for the French Grand Prix
Our money is on Jorge Martin to extend his championship lead with a victory in Barcelona. While we expect fierce challenges from the likes of Bagnaia, Márquez, and the Aprilia duo of Espargaró and Viñales, Martin’s unparalleled ability to string together consistently fast laps and his cool-headed approach under pressure give him the edge. A win for the #89 would not only bolster his title credentials but also send a resounding message to his rivals that he is the force to be reckoned with in 2024.
MotoGP Championship Futures Update
Rider
Champion Odds
Payout on $20
Jorge Martin
-125
$36.00
Marc Marquez
+250
$70.00
Francesco Bagnaia
+260
$72.00
Enea Bastianini
+1000
$220.00
Maverick Vinales
+1600
$340.00
As the season approaches its midpoint, the championship futures market is heating up, reflecting the shifting momentum and the emergence of new title contenders. Despite his commanding lead, Jorge Martin‘s odds of -125 still offer value for bettors confident in the Spaniard’s ability to maintain his form and consistency. Marc Márquez‘s resurgence sees him priced at an attractive +250, reflecting his growing momentum, undeniable class, and peerless record at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Francesco Bagnaia, the reigning champion, finds himself at +260, reflecting the significant ground he needs to make up to catch Martin, but his consistency and proven ability to mount a second-half charge make him an enticing option. Enea Bastianini (+1000) and Maverick Viñales (+1600) remain intriguing long-shot options for risk-tolerant bettors, with both riders showing flashes of speed and the potential for a surprise championship challenge.
Where to Bet on the 2024 MotoGP French Grand Prix
Gear up for the 2024 MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix! 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 Guidefor comprehensive insights and tips.
The French Grand Prix promises to be a critical juncture in the 2024 MotoGP championship. With the top riders separated by the smallest of margins, a strong result in Le Mans could provide a springboard for a title challenge. Can Bagnaia double down on his Jerez triumph, or will Martín and Márquez strike back? Will the likes of Viñales, Acosta, and Bastianini spring a surprise? Tune in this weekend to find out, and remember, in the unpredictable world of MotoGP, fortune favors the brave.
21+ Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Toprak Razgatlioglu delivered a downbeat assessment after the Sepang pre‑season MotoGP test, saying he expects to “probably struggle in the first five races” as he adapts from World Superbikes to MotoGP machinery. He completed the test with a best lap of 1:58.326, recorded around 18th–19th on the timesheets, well adrift of pacesetter Álex Márquez’s 1:56.402. After four-and-a-half days on track, he reported learning “something, but not a lot,” and said the five consecutive days left him physically tired, underlining how different the demands of a MotoGP race bike are compared with production‑based superbikes.
The Sepang sessions also exposed technical and setup problems within Yamaha’s new V4 package. The factory briefly halted running when a Yamaha V4 stopped on track, before resolving the engine issue and returning to action. Razgatlioglu highlighted ergonomic and handling challenges that “you can’t turn with the throttle,” and he has had to ride the YZR‑V4 more like a Moto2 machine, explaining that suspension changes are planned to improve turning. He reported improved braking after trying a different seat and reattaching the rear wing (earlier runs had the wing removed because his original seat exceeded height limits), but remained uncertain about Michelin rear‑tire wear and said tire behavior still limited his ability to hit his target lap time.
Others outside Yamaha framed Sepang as a learning and diagnostic outing. Pedro Acosta publicly urged Toprak to be cautious and not to overload expectations during his rookie transition, while Carlos Checa called him a likely top‑five rider but flagged two main uncertainties. The first is how well Yamaha’s new package will perform, followed by whether Toprak can adapt quickly to Michelin tires in the premier class. Yamaha plans further setup work and new parts at the Buriram test in just over two weeks, including additional rear‑wing trials and a possible 12‑lap race simulation to evaluate tire behavior. Taken together, the Sepang test highlighted both rookie adaptation issues and early reliability/setup and tire concerns for Yamaha’s V4 prototype, leaving Toprak’s immediate race competitiveness cautious rather than assured as the season opener approaches.
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.
Missouri legalized sports betting recently. However, it has yet to roll out despite the state lifting the ban. Missouri motorsports enthusiasts and fans wishing to deepen their engagement with MotoGP races, athletes, and events should consider Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). Fortunately, Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks operate legally within the state, allowing residents to enjoy simple, …
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.
Best Bets: 2024 MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix Pre-Event Odds Analysis
The 2024 MotoGP season continues to deliver heart-pounding action and unpredictable results. Last weekend’s French Grand Prix saw a thrilling battle between Jorge Martin, Francesco Bagnaia, and a resurgent Marc Marquez. Martin held his nerve to secure victory despite immense pressure, extending his championship lead to 38 points over Bagnaia. Marquez’s stunning ride from 13th to 2nd further proved the eight-time world champion is back to his brilliant best.
As the series heads to Barcelona for the Catalan Grand Prix, the stakes are higher than ever. Will Martin further solidify his grip on the title race? Can Bagnaia bounce back and close the gap? Might Marquez secure his first win of 2024 at a track he’s historically dominated? Let’s dive into the data, odds and expert analysis to find out.
Place your wagers for the Catalan Grand Prix at our partner sportsbooks.
Schedule and How to Watch the Catalan Grand Prix
The MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix takes place this weekend, May 24-26, at the iconic Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The 4.7 km track features a mix of fast straights, technical sections and elevation changes that challenge riders. Qualifying begins Saturday at 1:50am PDT with the race on Sunday at 5:00am PDT. 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.
Odds Subject to Change
Please note, the odds provided herein reflect the raw probability odds for this analysis and are based on the information available at the time of publishing. Different sportsbooks may adjust these odds based on market conditions, bettor behaviors, and other factors that could influence the betting landscape. For a deeper understanding of why odds for alternative sports betting change and how it might affect your betting strategy, we encourage you to read our detailed article: Why Do Alternative Sports Betting Odds Change?. Make informed decisions and always check the latest odds with your sportsbook before placing bets.
Best Bets and Picks for the French Grand Prix
Top Picks and Bets
Rider
Event Winner
Payout on $20
Podium
Payout on $20
Jorge Martin
+175
$55.00
-286
$26.99
Francesco Bagnaia
+250
$70.00
-225
$28.89
Marc Marquez
+450
$110.00
-118
$36.95
Jorge Martin (+175 Event Winner, -286 Podium): The rising MotoGP sensation has been tearing it up this season, showcasing blistering speed, tactical genius, and ice-cold composure. His scintillating rides, like the masterclass performance to claim his third win amid intense pressure in France, have marked Martin as the man to beat heading into Barcelona. Shrugging off relentless attacks from rivals like Bagnaia and late charges from Márquez, the Pramac Ducati rider has proven he can deliver under the most intense circumstances. Martin rolls into Barcelona with this scorching form, making him the overwhelming favorite across all sessions as he looks to tighten his grip on the championship lead. Adding fuel to the fire, the #89 has a podium in 2023 and a fourth-place result in 2022 at the Catalan circuit, evidence that he knows how to get the job done here. With red-hot current form and a proven track record in Barcelona, Martin shapes up as an exceptional bet to take the win this weekend.
Francesco Bagnaia (+250 Event Winner, -225 Podium): The reigning champion heads to Barcelona with a point to prove after narrowly missing out on victory in France. Bagnaia’s performance at Le Mans, where he led for 20 laps and pushed Martin to the absolute limit, underscored his never-say-die attitude and relentless consistency. The Ducati rider’s record at the Catalan GP is exceptional, with three podium finishes in the last four years, including a dominant win in 2022 where he showcased his unrivaled late-braking prowess. Bagnaia’s ability to extract the maximum from the Ducati GP24, particularly in the hard-braking zones and fast direction changes that characterize the Barcelona layout, will be crucial. While the 38-point deficit to Martin looms large, Bagnaia’s rock-solid consistency, mental fortitude, and sublime tire management skills make him a constant threat to the championship leader. Expect Pecco to be in the hunt for pole and the race win, as he aims to reignite his title defense and rekindle his rivalry with the in-form Martin.
Marc Márquez (+450 Event Winner, -118 Podium): The eight-time world champion’s resurgence continued apace in France, as he claimed his third consecutive podium finish with a brilliant second place. Márquez’s performance at Le Mans, where he scythed through the field from 13th on the grid and executed a stunning last-lap overtake on Bagnaia, evoked memories of his dominant years and served notice that the “Marquez Magic” is well and truly back. With a record-breaking six victories at the Catalan GP and a seamless click between his aggressive riding style and the demands of the Barcelona circuit, the eight-time world champion is a genuine contender for victory and a significant threat to the championship leaders.
Outsider Picks
Rider
Event Winner
Payout on $20
Podium
Payout on $20
Maverick Vinales
+500
$120.00
+100
$40.00
Aleix Espargaro
+800
$180.00
+150
$50.00
Enea Bastianini
+1800
$380.00
+400
$100.00
Maverick Viñales (+500 Event Winner, +100 Podium): Despite a subdued showing in France, Viñales’ smooth riding style, corner speed mastery, and tire conservation skills make him a serious podium contender in Barcelona. With multiple rostrum finishes at the Circuit de Catalunya, including a commanding victory in 2017, the Aprilia rider is an attractive proposition for bettors seeking value beyond the top three favorites.
Aleix Espargaró (+800 Event Winner, +150 Podium): The home hero will be chomping at the bit to repeat his stunning 2023 Catalan GP victory in front of his adoring fans. Espargaró’s aggressive cornering technique, late-braking expertise, and ability to exploit the RS-GP’s superior aerodynamics and braking stability make him a serious podium threat on the hard-braking Barcelona layout. At odds of +800 for the win and +150 for a podium, the Aprilia rider offers excellent value for bettors.
Enea Bastianini (+1800 Event Winner, +400 Podium): Bastianini’s impressive fourth-place finish in France, despite serving a long-lap penalty, underscored his growing confidence on the factory Ducati and his potential to consistently challenge for podiums. With a solid record at the Catalan GP, including a podium finish in the Moto2 class and a top-six result in his rookie MotoGP season, the Beast’s aggressive style, late-braking prowess, and intelligent tire management make him an intriguing long-shot option for risk-tolerant bettors.
Expert Pick for the French Grand Prix
Our money is on Jorge Martin to extend his championship lead with a victory in Barcelona. While we expect fierce challenges from the likes of Bagnaia, Márquez, and the Aprilia duo of Espargaró and Viñales, Martin’s unparalleled ability to string together consistently fast laps and his cool-headed approach under pressure give him the edge. A win for the #89 would not only bolster his title credentials but also send a resounding message to his rivals that he is the force to be reckoned with in 2024.
MotoGP Championship Futures Update
Rider
Champion Odds
Payout on $20
Jorge Martin
-125
$36.00
Marc Marquez
+250
$70.00
Francesco Bagnaia
+260
$72.00
Enea Bastianini
+1000
$220.00
Maverick Vinales
+1600
$340.00
As the season approaches its midpoint, the championship futures market is heating up, reflecting the shifting momentum and the emergence of new title contenders. Despite his commanding lead, Jorge Martin‘s odds of -125 still offer value for bettors confident in the Spaniard’s ability to maintain his form and consistency. Marc Márquez‘s resurgence sees him priced at an attractive +250, reflecting his growing momentum, undeniable class, and peerless record at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Francesco Bagnaia, the reigning champion, finds himself at +260, reflecting the significant ground he needs to make up to catch Martin, but his consistency and proven ability to mount a second-half charge make him an enticing option. Enea Bastianini (+1000) and Maverick Viñales (+1600) remain intriguing long-shot options for risk-tolerant bettors, with both riders showing flashes of speed and the potential for a surprise championship challenge.
Where to Bet on the 2024 MotoGP French Grand Prix
Gear up for the 2024 MotoGP Catalan Grand Prix! 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.
The French Grand Prix promises to be a critical juncture in the 2024 MotoGP championship. With the top riders separated by the smallest of margins, a strong result in Le Mans could provide a springboard for a title challenge. Can Bagnaia double down on his Jerez triumph, or will Martín and Márquez strike back? Will the likes of Viñales, Acosta, and Bastianini spring a surprise? Tune in this weekend to find out, and remember, in the unpredictable world of MotoGP, fortune favors the brave.
21+ Please refer to Affiliated Operators’ T&C. Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Related Posts
Toprak: I’ll Probably Struggle First Five Races After Sepang
Toprak Razgatlioglu delivered a downbeat assessment after the Sepang pre‑season MotoGP test, saying he expects to “probably struggle in the first five races” as he adapts from World Superbikes to MotoGP machinery. He completed the test with a best lap of 1:58.326, recorded around 18th–19th on the timesheets, well adrift of pacesetter Álex Márquez’s 1:56.402. After four-and-a-half days on track, he reported learning “something, but not a lot,” and said the five consecutive days left him physically tired, underlining how different the demands of a MotoGP race bike are compared with production‑based superbikes.
The Sepang sessions also exposed technical and setup problems within Yamaha’s new V4 package. The factory briefly halted running when a Yamaha V4 stopped on track, before resolving the engine issue and returning to action. Razgatlioglu highlighted ergonomic and handling challenges that “you can’t turn with the throttle,” and he has had to ride the YZR‑V4 more like a Moto2 machine, explaining that suspension changes are planned to improve turning. He reported improved braking after trying a different seat and reattaching the rear wing (earlier runs had the wing removed because his original seat exceeded height limits), but remained uncertain about Michelin rear‑tire wear and said tire behavior still limited his ability to hit his target lap time.
Others outside Yamaha framed Sepang as a learning and diagnostic outing. Pedro Acosta publicly urged Toprak to be cautious and not to overload expectations during his rookie transition, while Carlos Checa called him a likely top‑five rider but flagged two main uncertainties. The first is how well Yamaha’s new package will perform, followed by whether Toprak can adapt quickly to Michelin tires in the premier class. Yamaha plans further setup work and new parts at the Buriram test in just over two weeks, including additional rear‑wing trials and a possible 12‑lap race simulation to evaluate tire behavior. Taken together, the Sepang test highlighted both rookie adaptation issues and early reliability/setup and tire concerns for Yamaha’s V4 prototype, leaving Toprak’s immediate race competitiveness cautious rather than assured as the season opener approaches.
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.
How to Play MotoGP DFS in Missouri
Missouri legalized sports betting recently. However, it has yet to roll out despite the state lifting the ban. Missouri motorsports enthusiasts and fans wishing to deepen their engagement with MotoGP races, athletes, and events should consider Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). Fortunately, Underdog Fantasy and PrizePicks operate legally within the state, allowing residents to enjoy simple, …
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.